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Council Voices

Paris Agreement a Breakthrough for Creation Care

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

The world has witnessed a breakthrough with the release of the proposed final text of the Paris Agreement at COP 21. All participating countries have acknowledged that climate change is a common concern of humankind requiring immediate action. The Rev. Sally Bingham, IPL founder and president, said: This is a historic moment. For the first […]

Paris Agreement a Breakthrough for Creation Care

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

The world has witnessed a breakthrough with the release of the proposed final text of the Paris Agreement at COP 21. All participating countries have acknowledged that climate change is a common concern of humankind requiring immediate action. The Rev. Sally Bingham, IPL founder and president, said: This is a historic moment. For the first […]

Congregations Provide Great Feedback for PHW Certification Improvements

By Monica Motley, Former Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

A big thank you to the 33 congregational participants in the PHW Certification Survey. Valuable feedback and suggestions were offered to better ensure that we are able to provide congregations with a certification program that provides the support and resources needed.  Overall, we learned that congregations really enjoy our certification program. We also learned that congregations would like to […]

Congregations Provide Great Feedback for PHW Certification Improvements

by Monica Motley, Former Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

A big thank you to the 33 congregational participants in the PHW Certification Survey. Valuable feedback and suggestions were offered to better ensure that we are able to provide congregations with a certification program that provides the support and resources needed.  Overall, we learned that congregations really enjoy our certification program. We also learned that congregations would like to […]

Trump’s Anti-Muslim Bluster

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

In the game of bridge, when a trump card is played to win a trick, that’s known as a ruff. In the game of politics, when Donald Trump uses tricks to try to win votes, he plays rough. Pursuing the Republican nomination for president, the bumptious Trump has been on a roll. His tough-guy rhetoric […]

Trump’s Anti-Muslim Bluster

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

In the game of bridge, when a trump card is played to win a trick, that’s known as a ruff. In the game of politics, when Donald Trump uses tricks to try to win votes, he plays rough. Pursuing the Republican nomination for president, the bumptious Trump has been on a roll. His tough-guy rhetoric […]

Advent Guide on Refugees — Third Sunday

By Ashley Yohman, Program Associate for Finance and Development

Excerpted from In Those Days and In These, an Advent Devotional Guide from the NC Council of Churches John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say […]

Advent Guide on Refugees — Third Sunday

by Ashley Yohman, Program Associate for Finance and Development

Excerpted from In Those Days and In These, an Advent Devotional Guide from the NC Council of Churches John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say […]

Candlelight Vigil Marks Losses to Gun Violence

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Candlelight Vigil Marks Losses to Gun Violence

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

United Church of Chapel Hill’s Solar Journey

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

On November 6, the latest photovoltaic array on a North Carolina house of worship went online. The 84.76 kW, 326-panel system will generate 60% of the annual electricity needs at United Church of Chapel Hill (UCCH) and reduce the church’s overall carbon footprint by a minimum of 44% next year and for years to come. The project […]

United Church of Chapel Hill’s Solar Journey

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

On November 6, the latest photovoltaic array on a North Carolina house of worship went online. The 84.76 kW, 326-panel system will generate 60% of the annual electricity needs at United Church of Chapel Hill (UCCH) and reduce the church’s overall carbon footprint by a minimum of 44% next year and for years to come. The project […]

Vigil Against Gun Violence, December 10 in Durham

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As Rob Schofield at NC Policy Watch pointed out earlier this week, the situation around gun violence in this country may feel hopeless, but it’s not. Rob writes: ….there is reason to believe that the current spasm of gun madness is more likely to be the last loud and prolonged gasp of a dying culture of […]

Vigil Against Gun Violence, December 10 in Durham

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As Rob Schofield at NC Policy Watch pointed out earlier this week, the situation around gun violence in this country may feel hopeless, but it’s not. Rob writes: ….there is reason to believe that the current spasm of gun madness is more likely to be the last loud and prolonged gasp of a dying culture of […]

What Your Support Helps Us Do

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are working for Medicaid expansion and a state that welcomes immigrants and refugees. More importantly, we’re working for people to be healthier and for a more peaceful planet where fewer of our sisters and brothers are displaced by factors beyond their control. We are working for voter access, for fair, livable wages, and for […]

What Your Support Helps Us Do

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are working for Medicaid expansion and a state that welcomes immigrants and refugees. More importantly, we’re working for people to be healthier and for a more peaceful planet where fewer of our sisters and brothers are displaced by factors beyond their control. We are working for voter access, for fair, livable wages, and for […]

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

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

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

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

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

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

PHW Intern Reflections

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

By Brian Hollingsworth, PHW Intern, Wake Forest University School of Divinity A few years ago, my faith needed a breath of new life. Despite having grown up in church, being heavily involved in youth group and college ministry, and even finding a wonderful job in full-time camp ministry after college, somehow I still felt something […]

PHW Intern Reflections

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

By Brian Hollingsworth, PHW Intern, Wake Forest University School of Divinity A few years ago, my faith needed a breath of new life. Despite having grown up in church, being heavily involved in youth group and college ministry, and even finding a wonderful job in full-time camp ministry after college, somehow I still felt something […]

Advent Guide on Refugees — Second Sunday

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Excerpted from In Those Days and In These, an Advent Devotional Guide from the NC Council of Churches In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler of Galilee, and his brother Philip ruler of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias […]

Advent Guide on Refugees — Second Sunday

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Excerpted from In Those Days and In These, an Advent Devotional Guide from the NC Council of Churches In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler of Galilee, and his brother Philip ruler of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias […]

Testifying to Hope for Refugees — Join Us for Dinner

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

As I sat down to Thanksgiving dinner with my family last week, I was reminded, as I am every year, of the contributions of immigrants to our communities. I always give thanks for the hands that picked the food that I eat and recognize that the overwhelming majority of the hands that harvest our food […]

Testifying to Hope for Refugees — Join Us for Dinner

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

As I sat down to Thanksgiving dinner with my family last week, I was reminded, as I am every year, of the contributions of immigrants to our communities. I always give thanks for the hands that picked the food that I eat and recognize that the overwhelming majority of the hands that harvest our food […]

Eighty-Day Voter Registration Drive Kicks Off

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The following are remarks offered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference announcing a collaborative voter registration drive that will extend into February. Eighty years ago, faith leaders of NC stood up and cried out against the injustice of segregation and racial discrimination. The NC Council of Churches was born. Sixty years ago, Rosa Parks […]

Eighty-Day Voter Registration Drive Kicks Off

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The following are remarks offered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference announcing a collaborative voter registration drive that will extend into February. Eighty years ago, faith leaders of NC stood up and cried out against the injustice of segregation and racial discrimination. The NC Council of Churches was born. Sixty years ago, Rosa Parks […]

Advent Guide on Refugees — First Sunday

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from In Those Days and In These, an Advent Devotional Guide from the NC Council of Churches Jesus said, “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will faint from fear and […]

Advent Guide on Refugees — First Sunday

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from In Those Days and In These, an Advent Devotional Guide from the NC Council of Churches Jesus said, “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will faint from fear and […]

A Living Wage in Wake County

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Last week brought the welcome news that Wake County’s commissioners had voted unanimously to raise the county’s lowest-paid workers up to what commissioners calculate to be a living wage for the county — $13.50 per hour. There are, of course, various ways to calculate what that amount should be, […]

A Living Wage in Wake County

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Last week brought the welcome news that Wake County’s commissioners had voted unanimously to raise the county’s lowest-paid workers up to what commissioners calculate to be a living wage for the county — $13.50 per hour. There are, of course, various ways to calculate what that amount should be, […]

Blessings of Thanksgiving

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For the wonder of each hour of the day and of the night, hill and vale and tree and flower, sun and moon and stars of light, Christ, our Lord, to you we raise this, our hymn of grateful praise. For the joy of human love, brother, sister, parent, child, friends on earth, and friends […]

Blessings of Thanksgiving

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For the wonder of each hour of the day and of the night, hill and vale and tree and flower, sun and moon and stars of light, Christ, our Lord, to you we raise this, our hymn of grateful praise. For the joy of human love, brother, sister, parent, child, friends on earth, and friends […]

Shopping with Meaning

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Pope Francis has offered us a message encouraging us to actions that reflects a commitment to dignity and respect for all workers. As the Advent season approaches, gift giving becomes a priority for those of us in the Christian community. There are many ways to shop with a conscience supporting values we hold dear. There are […]

Shopping with Meaning

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Pope Francis has offered us a message encouraging us to actions that reflects a commitment to dignity and respect for all workers. As the Advent season approaches, gift giving becomes a priority for those of us in the Christian community. There are many ways to shop with a conscience supporting values we hold dear. There are […]

Interfaith Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath Weekend, December 10-14

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Interfaith Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath Weekend, December 10-14

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Doing Right by Syria’s Refugees

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Photo by I. Prickett, UNHCR Against the toxic brew of fear and political opportunism that has enveloped America’s response to the Syrian refugee crisis stand principles of compassion and common sense. The N.C. Council of Churches is proud to embrace those principles and to support a clear-eyed yet generous policy toward the resettlement of refugees […]

Doing Right by Syria’s Refugees

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Photo by I. Prickett, UNHCR Against the toxic brew of fear and political opportunism that has enveloped America’s response to the Syrian refugee crisis stand principles of compassion and common sense. The N.C. Council of Churches is proud to embrace those principles and to support a clear-eyed yet generous policy toward the resettlement of refugees […]

CNN Honors Rev. Richard Joyner of Conetoe Family Life Center

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

The garden at Conetoe Family Life Center in Conetoe, NC  is more than just about growing food; it’s about changing mindsets, bodies, and redefining food equity power structures. In response to the racialized history that keeps many blacks from farming and the health crisis experienced by many folks there, Reverend Richard Joyner says,  “When I […]

CNN Honors Rev. Richard Joyner of Conetoe Family Life Center

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

The garden at Conetoe Family Life Center in Conetoe, NC  is more than just about growing food; it’s about changing mindsets, bodies, and redefining food equity power structures. In response to the racialized history that keeps many blacks from farming and the health crisis experienced by many folks there, Reverend Richard Joyner says,  “When I […]

Immigration in Three Minutes: Terrorist Attacks and Blaming Refugees

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

At the Council, we are adding to the ways we connect with you. And so today, we offer the short video below on the Christian response to both terrorism and refugees. As you will see in the video, the Council joins with those who believe we must continue to welcome our refugee sisters and brothers who are fleeing […]

Immigration in Three Minutes: Terrorist Attacks and Blaming Refugees

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

At the Council, we are adding to the ways we connect with you. And so today, we offer the short video below on the Christian response to both terrorism and refugees. As you will see in the video, the Council joins with those who believe we must continue to welcome our refugee sisters and brothers who are fleeing […]

Learning to Grieve, Part 2

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Grieving is a healthy response to life’s brokenness. When we grieve we allow our emotions to catch up with our minds. It allows us to think more clearly, make better choices, and we might be able to avoid the “comfort” foods that can mask our pain or negatively affect our own health. I noticed that […]

Learning to Grieve, Part 2

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Grieving is a healthy response to life’s brokenness. When we grieve we allow our emotions to catch up with our minds. It allows us to think more clearly, make better choices, and we might be able to avoid the “comfort” foods that can mask our pain or negatively affect our own health. I noticed that […]

Job Opening — Application Deadline November 30

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council is hiring a full-time position for our Partners in Health and Wholeness program. Responsibilities for the Project Manager role include:| Administrative oversight for the Certification Programs and Mini-Grant Program. Specifically: disseminate information, oversee application process, solicit renewals, maintain databases, and organize files. Organize, prioritize, and respond to electronic and regular mail correspondence. Conduct outreach for regional […]

Job Opening — Application Deadline November 30

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council is hiring a full-time position for our Partners in Health and Wholeness program. Responsibilities for the Project Manager role include:| Administrative oversight for the Certification Programs and Mini-Grant Program. Specifically: disseminate information, oversee application process, solicit renewals, maintain databases, and organize files. Organize, prioritize, and respond to electronic and regular mail correspondence. Conduct outreach for regional […]

2015 Advent Devotional Guide Focuses on Refugees

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

How desperate would your life need to be for you to leave everyone and everything you knew in pursuit of a better one? To venture into a new place where you were a vilified stranger? To risk death? For the immigrants and refugees making their way out of crisis, what lies ahead of them may […]

2015 Advent Devotional Guide Focuses on Refugees

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

How desperate would your life need to be for you to leave everyone and everything you knew in pursuit of a better one? To venture into a new place where you were a vilified stranger? To risk death? For the immigrants and refugees making their way out of crisis, what lies ahead of them may […]

2015 Fall Appeal Underway

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As the Council’s 2015 fall appeal gets underway, we recognize the importance of individual giving to our work for compassion, justice, and peace. Our donors help us keep the lights on, provide print and online resources, support programming and staff, and otherwise extend the work of the Council as the only statewide prophetic voice for people of […]

2015 Fall Appeal Underway

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As the Council’s 2015 fall appeal gets underway, we recognize the importance of individual giving to our work for compassion, justice, and peace. Our donors help us keep the lights on, provide print and online resources, support programming and staff, and otherwise extend the work of the Council as the only statewide prophetic voice for people of […]

Learning to Grieve, Part I

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I love the dark mornings, the tints of grey in the sky foreshadowing the brightness to come.  I especially love it when I wake at the fourth or fifth hour and get to just meditate, looking out my window into the mellow early day. This particular morning, I woke to a text. It was my […]

Learning to Grieve, Part I

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I love the dark mornings, the tints of grey in the sky foreshadowing the brightness to come.  I especially love it when I wake at the fourth or fifth hour and get to just meditate, looking out my window into the mellow early day. This particular morning, I woke to a text. It was my […]

Coffee Cups and Jesus

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Jesus does not care about your latte. Your frappuccino, cappuccino, or mocha, either. At least, he doesn’t care about the cup it is served in and whether it’s branded to praise him. What Jesus would care about, based on his many preachings, teachings, and living out of the word, is the justice of that coffee. […]

Coffee Cups and Jesus

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Jesus does not care about your latte. Your frappuccino, cappuccino, or mocha, either. At least, he doesn’t care about the cup it is served in and whether it’s branded to praise him. What Jesus would care about, based on his many preachings, teachings, and living out of the word, is the justice of that coffee. […]

Shop Ten Thousand Villages in Greensboro and Cary; Support the Council

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Two of North Carolina’s Ten Thousand Villages stores are offering shoppers the chance to give twice this holiday season. The stores in Greensboro and Cary are holding Shop for a Cause events to benefit the NC Council of Churches. A portion of the proceeds raised during designated shopping periods at each store will be donated […]

Shop Ten Thousand Villages in Greensboro and Cary; Support the Council

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Two of North Carolina’s Ten Thousand Villages stores are offering shoppers the chance to give twice this holiday season. The stores in Greensboro and Cary are holding Shop for a Cause events to benefit the NC Council of Churches. A portion of the proceeds raised during designated shopping periods at each store will be donated […]

Family Values for All God’s Family

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Here we go again. The intersection between faith and politics has been a complicated one all the way back to the passage of the First Amendment, which prohibited laws “respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” It seems to have gotten only more complicated in […]

Family Values for All God’s Family

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Here we go again. The intersection between faith and politics has been a complicated one all the way back to the passage of the First Amendment, which prohibited laws “respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” It seems to have gotten only more complicated in […]

UNC System’s New Sheriff

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The notably dapper Thom Goolsby, member of the University of North Carolina Board of Governors, made a mark of sorts with his put-down of the NAACP-led Moral Monday protest movement – the movement that called the conservative-controlled General Assembly to account for a range of policies harmful to the state’s disadvantaged and its overall well-being. Goolsby, […]

UNC System’s New Sheriff

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The notably dapper Thom Goolsby, member of the University of North Carolina Board of Governors, made a mark of sorts with his put-down of the NAACP-led Moral Monday protest movement – the movement that called the conservative-controlled General Assembly to account for a range of policies harmful to the state’s disadvantaged and its overall well-being. Goolsby, […]

Grant to Help HCFANC & Council Work on Medicaid Expansion

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Health Care for All NC and the NC Council of Churches have received a grant from the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust. The $25,000 grant from the Trust will allow HCFANC and the Council to educate 26 faith-based organizations in communities across North Carolina about the health and economic benefits of Medicaid Expansion. The project […]

Grant to Help HCFANC & Council Work on Medicaid Expansion

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Health Care for All NC and the NC Council of Churches have received a grant from the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust. The $25,000 grant from the Trust will allow HCFANC and the Council to educate 26 faith-based organizations in communities across North Carolina about the health and economic benefits of Medicaid Expansion. The project […]

Updated ACA and Medicaid Expansion Resources Available

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The open enrollment period for the Healthcare Marketplace will open on November 1, and the Council’s Affordable Care Act resource page has been updated to provide helpful information. It is important to look at what the 2016 health care plans have to offer and to be certain that you are enrolled in the best plan to meet […]

Updated ACA and Medicaid Expansion Resources Available

by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The open enrollment period for the Healthcare Marketplace will open on November 1, and the Council’s Affordable Care Act resource page has been updated to provide helpful information. It is important to look at what the 2016 health care plans have to offer and to be certain that you are enrolled in the best plan to meet […]

Update: Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference Details

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Wednesday-Friday, November 4-6 Hilton Charlotte University Place 8629 Jim Keynes Drive, Charlotte Experience a world-class faculty convened to provide tools for sustainable health interventions. If you are a pastor or a person responsible for the health ministry, annual health fair, kitchen ministry, nurse’s ministry or other aspects of health education, promotion and compassion within your […]

Update: Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference Details

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Wednesday-Friday, November 4-6 Hilton Charlotte University Place 8629 Jim Keynes Drive, Charlotte Experience a world-class faculty convened to provide tools for sustainable health interventions. If you are a pastor or a person responsible for the health ministry, annual health fair, kitchen ministry, nurse’s ministry or other aspects of health education, promotion and compassion within your […]

The Theology of a Moral Agenda in Pursuit of Justice

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following was originally presented as part of an NAACP panel discussion on October 8. The givens in the title are: We are pursuing justice. We want to pursue justice morally, the right way—the means justify the ends. Morality requires a framework. “Right” does not occur in a vacuum. Who tells us what is right? […]

The Theology of a Moral Agenda in Pursuit of Justice

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following was originally presented as part of an NAACP panel discussion on October 8. The givens in the title are: We are pursuing justice. We want to pursue justice morally, the right way—the means justify the ends. Morality requires a framework. “Right” does not occur in a vacuum. Who tells us what is right? […]

Ways to Help in S.C.

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Hana Suckstorff, Duke Divinity School Intern Our brothers and sisters in South Carolina are dealing with the aftermath of what meteorologists are calling a 1,000-year rainfall event. As of this morning, thirteen people have died, and more than a dozen dams have been breached. Here are some ways you can help: •The American Red Cross is […]

Ways to Help in S.C.

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Hana Suckstorff, Duke Divinity School Intern Our brothers and sisters in South Carolina are dealing with the aftermath of what meteorologists are calling a 1,000-year rainfall event. As of this morning, thirteen people have died, and more than a dozen dams have been breached. Here are some ways you can help: •The American Red Cross is […]

Breastfeeding Collaborative Update

By Monica Motley, Former Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The Breastfeeding Collaborative (BFC) mini-grant, certification, and training program will not continue at this time. The Partners in Health and Wholeness program is still fully committed to promoting and supporting breastfeeding education, resources, services, practices, trainings, cultural competency, etc. within faith communities. Congregations can still support breastfeeding by signing the “Breastfeeding Friendly Congregation Statement.” Additionally, some […]

Breastfeeding Collaborative Update

by Monica Motley, Former Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The Breastfeeding Collaborative (BFC) mini-grant, certification, and training program will not continue at this time. The Partners in Health and Wholeness program is still fully committed to promoting and supporting breastfeeding education, resources, services, practices, trainings, cultural competency, etc. within faith communities. Congregations can still support breastfeeding by signing the “Breastfeeding Friendly Congregation Statement.” Additionally, some […]

Being Tobacco-Free and Healthier

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

This week is Race to Quit, a campaign to inspire, encourage, and bring awareness to the importance of being tobacco free. As I was considering what to write, I thought about a conversation I had over the weekend in one of the churches I was attending. I was talking with my dear sister in the […]

Being Tobacco-Free and Healthier

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

This week is Race to Quit, a campaign to inspire, encourage, and bring awareness to the importance of being tobacco free. As I was considering what to write, I thought about a conversation I had over the weekend in one of the churches I was attending. I was talking with my dear sister in the […]

‘We stand adjourned’ – finally!

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The senators and representatives who make up North Carolina’s General Assembly let their 2015 session run on far longer than it should have. Let’s be glad that the curtain has come down. There’s been enough damage. But as if our illustrious lawmakers wanted to give us the worst of both worlds, the session’s climactic phase […]

‘We stand adjourned’ – finally!

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The senators and representatives who make up North Carolina’s General Assembly let their 2015 session run on far longer than it should have. Let’s be glad that the curtain has come down. There’s been enough damage. But as if our illustrious lawmakers wanted to give us the worst of both worlds, the session’s climactic phase […]

Gov. McCrory Should Veto H.B. 318

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

In the final hours of the 2015 legislative session, the NC House of Representatives passed House Bill 318, a measure that would prohibit communities from being so-called “sanctuaries” for people living in this country illegally and would limit the forms of acceptable personal identification people are able to use. The bill, which was approved by the […]

Gov. McCrory Should Veto H.B. 318

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

In the final hours of the 2015 legislative session, the NC House of Representatives passed House Bill 318, a measure that would prohibit communities from being so-called “sanctuaries” for people living in this country illegally and would limit the forms of acceptable personal identification people are able to use. The bill, which was approved by the […]

The Path Beyond Gun Violence

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

The Path Beyond Gun Violence

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Pope Francis in the US

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

For faith-based environmental activists, Pope Francis’s visit to the United States had a major effect even before he set foot on American soil. Now they hope his trip’s influence on their cause will reverberate long after he’s gone. The Pope’s visit to America took place just months after issuing his encyclical on the environment. “To […]

Pope Francis in the US

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

For faith-based environmental activists, Pope Francis’s visit to the United States had a major effect even before he set foot on American soil. Now they hope his trip’s influence on their cause will reverberate long after he’s gone. The Pope’s visit to America took place just months after issuing his encyclical on the environment. “To […]

Join the Race to Quit, NC

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Smoking is the most preventable cause of disease, disability, and death. One out of every five North Carolinians is a smoker and may be unaware of the support that exists to help them quit. Tobacco users and non-tobacco users can work together to help prevent and end this dangerous addiction. Jesus taught us about the need […]

Join the Race to Quit, NC

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Smoking is the most preventable cause of disease, disability, and death. One out of every five North Carolinians is a smoker and may be unaware of the support that exists to help them quit. Tobacco users and non-tobacco users can work together to help prevent and end this dangerous addiction. Jesus taught us about the need […]

Clergy Breakfasts​ Come at a Crucial Time

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

Clergy Breakfasts​ Come at a Crucial Time

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

Power Plays, Surprises at Session’s End

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

These closing weeks, or days, of the General Assembly’s session are sometimes known as the silly season, when weirdness is the watchword at the maze-like Legislative Building on Raleigh’s Jones Street. But all too often, the results are more scary than funny. OK, scary is a loaded term that has to be viewed within the […]

Power Plays, Surprises at Session’s End

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

These closing weeks, or days, of the General Assembly’s session are sometimes known as the silly season, when weirdness is the watchword at the maze-like Legislative Building on Raleigh’s Jones Street. But all too often, the results are more scary than funny. OK, scary is a loaded term that has to be viewed within the […]

Love God, Love Creation

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The following, based on Psalm 148, was offered by Rev. Jennifer Copeland at Raleigh’s Church of the Nativity on September 23 as part of an ecumenical prayer service on the eve of the Pope’s address to Congress. The composer of this Psalm obviously had a copy of the first chapter of Genesis in front of […]

Love God, Love Creation

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The following, based on Psalm 148, was offered by Rev. Jennifer Copeland at Raleigh’s Church of the Nativity on September 23 as part of an ecumenical prayer service on the eve of the Pope’s address to Congress. The composer of this Psalm obviously had a copy of the first chapter of Genesis in front of […]

Binkley Certified as Paying a Living Wage

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director, NC Council of Churches Olin T. Binkley Memorial Baptist Church in Chapel Hill, one of the Council’s eight member congregations, has become the first church in Orange County to be certified as paying a living wage (the amount a worker must earn per hour to afford basic necessities). Orange […]

Binkley Certified as Paying a Living Wage

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director, NC Council of Churches Olin T. Binkley Memorial Baptist Church in Chapel Hill, one of the Council’s eight member congregations, has become the first church in Orange County to be certified as paying a living wage (the amount a worker must earn per hour to afford basic necessities). Orange […]

FAQs About Clergy Breakfasts

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

This fall, the Council is continuing its successful annual Clergy Breakfast series on immigration with events as far east as Wrightsville Beach and as far west as Weaverville. As we continue to plan these six events, I want to invite everyone in these areas to attend. Here are the answers to some questions that people may have. 1. […]

FAQs About Clergy Breakfasts

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

This fall, the Council is continuing its successful annual Clergy Breakfast series on immigration with events as far east as Wrightsville Beach and as far west as Weaverville. As we continue to plan these six events, I want to invite everyone in these areas to attend. Here are the answers to some questions that people may have. 1. […]

Budget Struggle’s Bitter End

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The proverbial elephant labored and, against all hopeful expectations, brought forth a mouse. The “elephants” who run the Republican-controlled General Assembly labored and now have brought forth, if not a mouse, then a state budget that is completely underwhelming as a vehicle for making North Carolina a better place for all of its residents to […]

Budget Struggle’s Bitter End

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The proverbial elephant labored and, against all hopeful expectations, brought forth a mouse. The “elephants” who run the Republican-controlled General Assembly labored and now have brought forth, if not a mouse, then a state budget that is completely underwhelming as a vehicle for making North Carolina a better place for all of its residents to […]

Lamenting the Syrian Refugee Crisis

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

Lamenting the Syrian Refugee Crisis

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

The Odor Around the Lottery

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

When North Carolina legislators by the narrowest of margins 10 years ago approved a state lottery, capping a long debate over the wisdom of state-sponsored gaming, they set aside warnings of a slippery slope. Supporters maintained that our lottery would be, in effect, a lottery-lite. Advertising would be soft-pedaled so as not to pose irresistible […]

The Odor Around the Lottery

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

When North Carolina legislators by the narrowest of margins 10 years ago approved a state lottery, capping a long debate over the wisdom of state-sponsored gaming, they set aside warnings of a slippery slope. Supporters maintained that our lottery would be, in effect, a lottery-lite. Advertising would be soft-pedaled so as not to pose irresistible […]

Workers Deserve Dignity and Respect

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

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

Workers Deserve Dignity and Respect

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

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

Healthy Alternatives for Youth Groups

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I was talking with colleagues, friends, and co-laborers who strive for better health on a population level and discovered that many of us had the same problem within our faith community. We saw that our children, our beloved future leaders, were being fed high-calorie, low-nutrient foods, such as hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, soda, and sweets. […]

Healthy Alternatives for Youth Groups

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I was talking with colleagues, friends, and co-laborers who strive for better health on a population level and discovered that many of us had the same problem within our faith community. We saw that our children, our beloved future leaders, were being fed high-calorie, low-nutrient foods, such as hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, soda, and sweets. […]

Bombing Survivor, Priest, and Community Healer Fr. Michael Lapsley Visits NC

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Rev. Michael Lapsley, survivor of a bombing by South African apartheid agents, will visit North Carolina this September to speak with university students, congregations, and members of the general public. Framed by the perspective that “all persons are capable of being perpetrators or victims – and sometimes both,” Fr. Lapsley will discuss the need for […]

Bombing Survivor, Priest, and Community Healer Fr. Michael Lapsley Visits NC

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Rev. Michael Lapsley, survivor of a bombing by South African apartheid agents, will visit North Carolina this September to speak with university students, congregations, and members of the general public. Framed by the perspective that “all persons are capable of being perpetrators or victims – and sometimes both,” Fr. Lapsley will discuss the need for […]

The Rotten Fruit of Hatred

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The past few weeks and months have been filled with a lot of hatred. Innocent people have been killed while trying to go about their daily lives, whether that be on the job or worshipping in church. It’s hard to understand how senseless these acts of violence are. Sometimes it seems like God is not […]

The Rotten Fruit of Hatred

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The past few weeks and months have been filled with a lot of hatred. Innocent people have been killed while trying to go about their daily lives, whether that be on the job or worshipping in church. It’s hard to understand how senseless these acts of violence are. Sometimes it seems like God is not […]

Congregations Need NC’s Solar Tax Credits Extended

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

NC Interfaith Power & Light Director Susannah Tuttle delivered this statement at a press conference held at United Church of Chapel Hill on August 25. Every faith tradition mandates care of creation and the moral call to address the issues and impacts of our changing climate. If we fail to address the most significant environmental […]

Congregations Need NC’s Solar Tax Credits Extended

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

NC Interfaith Power & Light Director Susannah Tuttle delivered this statement at a press conference held at United Church of Chapel Hill on August 25. Every faith tradition mandates care of creation and the moral call to address the issues and impacts of our changing climate. If we fail to address the most significant environmental […]

Rule to Harass, or Punish, the Jobless

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Even while North Carolina was still in the grips of the Great Recession, with thousands of residents suffering the slings and arrows of joblessness because they were caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, Republican legislators moved to make it harder to receive unemployment benefits. The train of thought seemed to be: Unemployment […]

Rule to Harass, or Punish, the Jobless

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Even while North Carolina was still in the grips of the Great Recession, with thousands of residents suffering the slings and arrows of joblessness because they were caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, Republican legislators moved to make it harder to receive unemployment benefits. The train of thought seemed to be: Unemployment […]

Complicated Answers to Different Questions

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The offices for the NC Council of Churches sit half a block from Hillsborough Street—the street that automatically conjures up images of NC State, as well it should since the campus looms large along Hillsborough for about 10 blocks. These weeks, as the media have consistently reminded us, are the days of orientation and the […]

Complicated Answers to Different Questions

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The offices for the NC Council of Churches sit half a block from Hillsborough Street—the street that automatically conjures up images of NC State, as well it should since the campus looms large along Hillsborough for about 10 blocks. These weeks, as the media have consistently reminded us, are the days of orientation and the […]

Tale of Two Chambers Amid Budget Conflict

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina has two legislative bodies, the 120-member House of Representatives and the 50-member Senate. They’re set up to be equal in power, although it could be said that the larger House is designed to be more reflective of the public will. Senators typically have more room to operate. And operating in a smaller group, […]

Tale of Two Chambers Amid Budget Conflict

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina has two legislative bodies, the 120-member House of Representatives and the 50-member Senate. They’re set up to be equal in power, although it could be said that the larger House is designed to be more reflective of the public will. Senators typically have more room to operate. And operating in a smaller group, […]

PHW Honors Dr. Robert W. Herron

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We would like to recognize and honor the life of Dr. Bob Herron, who passed away on August 1. An engaged advocate for Bread for the World, he spent much of his time and energy fighting hunger. He presented at our 2014 Faith and Health Summit in a session designed to train attendees on how to […]

PHW Honors Dr. Robert W. Herron

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We would like to recognize and honor the life of Dr. Bob Herron, who passed away on August 1. An engaged advocate for Bread for the World, he spent much of his time and energy fighting hunger. He presented at our 2014 Faith and Health Summit in a session designed to train attendees on how to […]

Pope Francis Calls for World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

“I wish to inform you that I have decided to institute in the Catholic Church the ‘World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation’ which, beginning this year, is to be celebrated on September 1st,” Pope Francis said in a letter released by the Vatican. The Pope said he had been inspired by Ecumenical […]

Pope Francis Calls for World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

“I wish to inform you that I have decided to institute in the Catholic Church the ‘World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation’ which, beginning this year, is to be celebrated on September 1st,” Pope Francis said in a letter released by the Vatican. The Pope said he had been inspired by Ecumenical […]

Observe Labor Sunday

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The Sunday of Labor Day weekend is Labor Sunday, a day to celebrate workers and their contributions and to support their struggles. It is also a day to commit ourselves to improving conditions for workers and to lament that workers often confront unjust situations such as low wages, unsafe conditions, racism, sexism and other abuses. […]

Observe Labor Sunday

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The Sunday of Labor Day weekend is Labor Sunday, a day to celebrate workers and their contributions and to support their struggles. It is also a day to commit ourselves to improving conditions for workers and to lament that workers often confront unjust situations such as low wages, unsafe conditions, racism, sexism and other abuses. […]

Three Tips for Beginners to Get Your Congregation Healthier

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I love being in the North Carolina country. There is nothing better than riding with your windows down, smelling the fresh air (sometimes loaded with smells of farm animals), the wind blowing your lips into a smile, and just looking at open land. I love it! Small towns like Star, Pendleton, or Pembroke are just […]

Three Tips for Beginners to Get Your Congregation Healthier

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I love being in the North Carolina country. There is nothing better than riding with your windows down, smelling the fresh air (sometimes loaded with smells of farm animals), the wind blowing your lips into a smile, and just looking at open land. I love it! Small towns like Star, Pendleton, or Pembroke are just […]

Protect Us from the ‘Protection Act’

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

With its misguided “Taxpayer Protection Act” scheme, the state Senate looks to put a crowning touch on its efforts to turn North Carolina into a veritable Promised Land for conservatives, where taxes are always low, the government is always small, and public services are always below average. Will enough members of the House muster the […]

Protect Us from the ‘Protection Act’

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

With its misguided “Taxpayer Protection Act” scheme, the state Senate looks to put a crowning touch on its efforts to turn North Carolina into a veritable Promised Land for conservatives, where taxes are always low, the government is always small, and public services are always below average. Will enough members of the House muster the […]

First Days on the New Job

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Jennifer is pictured on a spring break trip with students to Nome, Alaska. Monday, August 3, was my first day at work. The staff laughed with me when hearing that announcement since I’ve been having “first” days since the first week of June. The most important first was spending invaluable time with George Reed, who ranks among […]

First Days on the New Job

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Jennifer is pictured on a spring break trip with students to Nome, Alaska. Monday, August 3, was my first day at work. The staff laughed with me when hearing that announcement since I’ve been having “first” days since the first week of June. The most important first was spending invaluable time with George Reed, who ranks among […]

Clean Power Plan: Right and Moral

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

New federal safeguards to reduce carbon emissions from existing power plants are necessary not just because they help the environment, but because they are the right and moral thing to do, North Carolina faith leaders say. NC Interfaith Power & Light supports the Clean Power Plan released August 3, by the US Environmental Protection Agency, […]

Clean Power Plan: Right and Moral

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

New federal safeguards to reduce carbon emissions from existing power plants are necessary not just because they help the environment, but because they are the right and moral thing to do, North Carolina faith leaders say. NC Interfaith Power & Light supports the Clean Power Plan released August 3, by the US Environmental Protection Agency, […]

Week of Action to End Immigration Detention Quotas

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

Week of Action to End Immigration Detention Quotas

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

PHW Featured in June Magazine Article

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Earlier this summer, Partners in Health and Wholeness was featured in an Atlanta-based magazine article on faith and health. The June feature appeared in “Upscale” magazine and shared information about PHW’s work including its highly successful mini-grant program. Read page 1 here, page 2 here, and page 3 here.

PHW Featured in June Magazine Article

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Earlier this summer, Partners in Health and Wholeness was featured in an Atlanta-based magazine article on faith and health. The June feature appeared in “Upscale” magazine and shared information about PHW’s work including its highly successful mini-grant program. Read page 1 here, page 2 here, and page 3 here.

Foundations of Faith Community Nursing — Register by 8/14

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Have you ever met a faith community nurse? My guess is that if you have, you know it. They are go-getters. They know how to take an idea and make it happen.  Not only do they have the practical knowledge to care for the health of their congregations (like checking blood pressures after church on Sundays), they […]

Foundations of Faith Community Nursing — Register by 8/14

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Have you ever met a faith community nurse? My guess is that if you have, you know it. They are go-getters. They know how to take an idea and make it happen.  Not only do they have the practical knowledge to care for the health of their congregations (like checking blood pressures after church on Sundays), they […]

Lessons Learned from the Millennial Leaders Program

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last month, I had the opportunity to be one of 50 young leaders from across the country to take part in the 2015 Millennial Leaders Program at Union Theological Seminary in New York​ City. The purpose of the conference is to gather together these millennial leaders to foster engagement around the intersection of their experiences​ of spirituality, […]

Lessons Learned from the Millennial Leaders Program

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last month, I had the opportunity to be one of 50 young leaders from across the country to take part in the 2015 Millennial Leaders Program at Union Theological Seminary in New York​ City. The purpose of the conference is to gather together these millennial leaders to foster engagement around the intersection of their experiences​ of spirituality, […]

Private School Vouchers, Lax Standards

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The principle of judicial restraint is a wonderful thing. It helps keep judges – as they go about their business of determining whether laws are constitutional – from horning in on the role of legislators, whose task is to make policy choices and then to enact laws reflecting those choices. Proper restraint makes judges’ rulings […]

Private School Vouchers, Lax Standards

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The principle of judicial restraint is a wonderful thing. It helps keep judges – as they go about their business of determining whether laws are constitutional – from horning in on the role of legislators, whose task is to make policy choices and then to enact laws reflecting those choices. Proper restraint makes judges’ rulings […]

Voting Rights Trial Winding Down

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

National attention has been focused on North Carolina during the federal voting rights trial going on in Winston-Salem. Closing arguments began today. For those who may have missed it, Council Executive Director Jennifer Copeland offered a powerful statement during a pre-trial press conference on why people of faith care about voting rights. And this week, […]

Voting Rights Trial Winding Down

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

National attention has been focused on North Carolina during the federal voting rights trial going on in Winston-Salem. Closing arguments began today. For those who may have missed it, Council Executive Director Jennifer Copeland offered a powerful statement during a pre-trial press conference on why people of faith care about voting rights. And this week, […]

Vocation, Profession, and Divestment

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern Being a student in a divinity school with graduates heading to careers in parishes, academia, nonprofits, and many other fields, I hear a lot of talk about finding my “vocation.” Being a student of a professional school within a large research university, I also hear a lot of […]

Vocation, Profession, and Divestment

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern Being a student in a divinity school with graduates heading to careers in parishes, academia, nonprofits, and many other fields, I hear a lot of talk about finding my “vocation.” Being a student of a professional school within a large research university, I also hear a lot of […]

Priorities and the Jet that Ate the Budget

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

A recent article in Raleigh’s News and Observer focused on the F-35 jet. The American Friends Service Committee calls this weapon system the “plane that ate the budget” and puts the lifetime cost at $1.5 trillion. Over the same period of years that Lockheed Martin has encouraged Congress to continue funding the most expensive weapon […]

Priorities and the Jet that Ate the Budget

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

A recent article in Raleigh’s News and Observer focused on the F-35 jet. The American Friends Service Committee calls this weapon system the “plane that ate the budget” and puts the lifetime cost at $1.5 trillion. Over the same period of years that Lockheed Martin has encouraged Congress to continue funding the most expensive weapon […]

Tax Cuts, Tax Shifts, Budget Battles

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Don’t be surprised if, during the General Assembly’s closed-door negotiations to craft a new state budget, enterprising reporters manage to pry loose some of the juicy (or gory) details. Keeping tight security on a process that involves 114 legislators – fully two-thirds of the combined House and Senate roster – won’t be easy. Not to […]

Tax Cuts, Tax Shifts, Budget Battles

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Don’t be surprised if, during the General Assembly’s closed-door negotiations to craft a new state budget, enterprising reporters manage to pry loose some of the juicy (or gory) details. Keeping tight security on a process that involves 114 legislators – fully two-thirds of the combined House and Senate roster – won’t be easy. Not to […]

Calling for Freedom

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

Calling for Freedom

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

Courtroom March for Voting Rights

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Republican legislators can hardly get around the fact that their 2013 overhaul of North Carolina election laws is likely to inconvenience some groups of voters more than others. For example: People working two jobs to make ends meet will tend to feel the impact of a shorter early voting period more than will retirees with […]

Courtroom March for Voting Rights

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Republican legislators can hardly get around the fact that their 2013 overhaul of North Carolina election laws is likely to inconvenience some groups of voters more than others. For example: People working two jobs to make ends meet will tend to feel the impact of a shorter early voting period more than will retirees with […]

A New Heaven

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

“Joy, can you still dance. Now that I just heard about the Charleston shooting, can you dance a prayer as well as dancing to demonstrate that we offer our whole bodies to God?” This was Nurya, the minister-in-residence during this week long food and faith intensive sponsored by the Wake Forest University Divinity School in […]

A New Heaven

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

“Joy, can you still dance. Now that I just heard about the Charleston shooting, can you dance a prayer as well as dancing to demonstrate that we offer our whole bodies to God?” This was Nurya, the minister-in-residence during this week long food and faith intensive sponsored by the Wake Forest University Divinity School in […]

Conflicts over Policies, Power, Pride

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Regarding the state of affairs within the N.C. General Assembly these days, one little set of numbers tells a big story: 112-0. That was the margin by which the House on June 23 rejected the Senate’s version of the annual budget bill. No, not exactly a cliff-hanger. House members – majority Republicans as well as […]

Conflicts over Policies, Power, Pride

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Regarding the state of affairs within the N.C. General Assembly these days, one little set of numbers tells a big story: 112-0. That was the margin by which the House on June 23 rejected the Senate’s version of the annual budget bill. No, not exactly a cliff-hanger. House members – majority Republicans as well as […]

An Encyclical for Summer Reading

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Summertime has always been considered the best season for reading and this year we are blessed with what arguably could be considered some of the best reading material ever written! The Vatican has officially released the encyclical: Laudato Si’ of the Holy Father Francis On Care for Our Common Home.  It is a 184-page document intended […]

An Encyclical for Summer Reading

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Summertime has always been considered the best season for reading and this year we are blessed with what arguably could be considered some of the best reading material ever written! The Vatican has officially released the encyclical: Laudato Si’ of the Holy Father Francis On Care for Our Common Home.  It is a 184-page document intended […]

Voting Rights Sense, in a New Light

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Over and over, we heard North Carolina’s stringent voter identification law, enacted by the Republican-controlled legislature in 2013 over the protests of voting rights advocates, described as simply a “commonsense” measure to deter ballot fraud. We were supposed to ignore the fact that the kind of fraud by impersonation that a voter ID law might […]

Voting Rights Sense, in a New Light

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Over and over, we heard North Carolina’s stringent voter identification law, enacted by the Republican-controlled legislature in 2013 over the protests of voting rights advocates, described as simply a “commonsense” measure to deter ballot fraud. We were supposed to ignore the fact that the kind of fraud by impersonation that a voter ID law might […]

The Rt. Rev. Michael Curry Elected Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Photo credit: Episcopal News Service We join with our Episcopal brothers and sisters in celebrating the election of the Rt. Rev. Michael Curry as their 27th Presiding Bishop. Those of us in North Carolina have benefited from Michael’s deep faith, his leadership, and his extraordinary skills as a preacher and advocate in his role as Bishop of […]

The Rt. Rev. Michael Curry Elected Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Photo credit: Episcopal News Service We join with our Episcopal brothers and sisters in celebrating the election of the Rt. Rev. Michael Curry as their 27th Presiding Bishop. Those of us in North Carolina have benefited from Michael’s deep faith, his leadership, and his extraordinary skills as a preacher and advocate in his role as Bishop of […]

Statement on the Supreme Court’s Same-Gender Marriage Decision

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

We celebrate today’s Supreme Court ruling with our gay brothers and sisters who wish to marry and have their marriages recognized nationwide, with denominations and congregations that have authorized and now are affirmed in continuing to perform same-gender marriages, and with the clergy who have sought to officiate these weddings as a matter of faith. […]

Statement on the Supreme Court’s Same-Gender Marriage Decision

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

We celebrate today’s Supreme Court ruling with our gay brothers and sisters who wish to marry and have their marriages recognized nationwide, with denominations and congregations that have authorized and now are affirmed in continuing to perform same-gender marriages, and with the clergy who have sought to officiate these weddings as a matter of faith. […]

The Leadership of Pope Francis

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern “[Pope] Francis almost makes me want to convert to Catholicism.” This is the sentiment generally expressed by many of my colleagues at Duke Divinity School. Many of us who are not Catholic find refreshing a Pope who is faithfully in touch with so many social justice concerns in […]

The Leadership of Pope Francis

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern “[Pope] Francis almost makes me want to convert to Catholicism.” This is the sentiment generally expressed by many of my colleagues at Duke Divinity School. Many of us who are not Catholic find refreshing a Pope who is faithfully in touch with so many social justice concerns in […]

Standin’ in the Need of Prayer

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Standin’ in the Need of Prayer

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Statement on the Supreme Court’s ACA Decision

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Statement on the Supreme Court’s ACA Decision

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Scrutiny for Gun Laws, Post-Charleston

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

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

Scrutiny for Gun Laws, Post-Charleston

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

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

Undocugraduation: Hope to Replace Fear

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern On my way to work one day last week, I listened to WUNC as I usually do. I heard a lot about the state legislature during my drive to Raleigh – about how the Senate budget will cut up to 8,500 teaching assistants jobs and the stories of […]

Undocugraduation: Hope to Replace Fear

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern On my way to work one day last week, I listened to WUNC as I usually do. I heard a lot about the state legislature during my drive to Raleigh – about how the Senate budget will cut up to 8,500 teaching assistants jobs and the stories of […]

Racism and Islamophobia — Local and Global

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Racism and Islamophobia — Local and Global

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Evelyn and the Encyclical

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I strongly suspect Sister Evelyn Mattern would have liked Pope Francis. She’d have appreciated his focus on compassion and justice and his unwillingness to be distracted from those issues that defined Jesus’ ministry. She’d have approved of his outreach to the masses of people who suffer in horrible poverty but remain among the most faithful. […]

Evelyn and the Encyclical

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I strongly suspect Sister Evelyn Mattern would have liked Pope Francis. She’d have appreciated his focus on compassion and justice and his unwillingness to be distracted from those issues that defined Jesus’ ministry. She’d have approved of his outreach to the masses of people who suffer in horrible poverty but remain among the most faithful. […]

Statement on the Shootings in Charleston

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Statement on the Shootings in Charleston

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Refugees Find Hope in Meeting With Each Other

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Refugees Find Hope in Meeting With Each Other

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Sad Signals on Tolerance, Rule of Law

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

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

Sad Signals on Tolerance, Rule of Law

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

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

The Pope and Ecology: Shouts from the Highest Steeple

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

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

The Pope and Ecology: Shouts from the Highest Steeple

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

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

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

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

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

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

George’s Retirement Luncheon — Thanks to All~

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

There were so many hands, heads, and hearts that made the retirement luncheon for George Reed a joyful event, that it’s impossible to thank all involved. The short list of those deserving of appreciation includes: The staff of Highland United Methodist Church in Raleigh, especially Tom Lamb The catering team at the Irregardless Café The […]

George’s Retirement Luncheon — Thanks to All~

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

There were so many hands, heads, and hearts that made the retirement luncheon for George Reed a joyful event, that it’s impossible to thank all involved. The short list of those deserving of appreciation includes: The staff of Highland United Methodist Church in Raleigh, especially Tom Lamb The catering team at the Irregardless Café The […]

Congratulations to Harriette Thompson

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Photo via Telesport.al In my decades in North Carolina, first with the NC Baptist State Convention and then with the NC Council of Churches, I’ve known and worked with lots of remarkable and newsworthy people. But probably nobody more so than Harriette Thompson. I came to know Harriette through her spouse, Sydnor Thompson, himself no […]

Congratulations to Harriette Thompson

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Photo via Telesport.al In my decades in North Carolina, first with the NC Baptist State Convention and then with the NC Council of Churches, I’ve known and worked with lots of remarkable and newsworthy people. But probably nobody more so than Harriette Thompson. I came to know Harriette through her spouse, Sydnor Thompson, himself no […]

Veto Overriders Flex Their Muscles

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

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

Veto Overriders Flex Their Muscles

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

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

Leadership and Hope at the Margins

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern This past Tuesday, more than 200 people celebrated the career of NC Council of Churches Executive Director George Reed before his retirement at the end of this month. While I have only known George for about two weeks, I have seen the positive impact he has had on […]

Leadership and Hope at the Margins

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern This past Tuesday, more than 200 people celebrated the career of NC Council of Churches Executive Director George Reed before his retirement at the end of this month. While I have only known George for about two weeks, I have seen the positive impact he has had on […]