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NC Council of Churches

Strength in Unity, Peace through Justice

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Council Voices

Farmworkers Address Reynolds American: Do More to Protect Workers

By chris

Last week, members of the Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC) joined allies and activists from across the state in protesting Reynolds American Inc.'s treatment of farmworkers. Last year, Reynolds earned $1.3 billion in profits, but the company has hesitated to take proactive steps in guaranteeing good housing and fair pay to the workers at the very heart of its supply chain. Here at the NC Council of Churches, we have long supported farmworkers' rights to living wages and dignity on the job. No one should have to work in slave-like conditions to provide for their family. Corporations should take responsibility for their supply chains, and the people whose labor makes possible their profits.

Farmworkers Address Reynolds American: Do More to Protect Workers

by chris

Last week, members of the Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC) joined allies and activists from across the state in protesting Reynolds American Inc.’s treatment of farmworkers. Last year, Reynolds earned $1.3 billion in profits, but the company has hesitated to take proactive steps in guaranteeing good housing and fair pay to the workers at the very heart of its supply chain. Here at the NC Council of Churches, we have long supported farmworkers’ rights to living wages and dignity on the job. No one should have to work in slave-like conditions to provide for their family. Corporations should take responsibility for their supply chains, and the people whose labor makes possible their profits.

PHW Success Story – Pathway to Peace Ministries, Peachland

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

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYQamYonCoc Pathway to Peace Ministries, under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Cary Rodgers and located in Anson County, received a PHW mini-grant for their efforts to improve the health of their members and wider community. Pathway to Peace used the funds provided by PHW to purchase a plow and disk harrow to expand their church […]

PHW Success Story – Pathway to Peace Ministries, Peachland

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

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYQamYonCoc Pathway to Peace Ministries, under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Cary Rodgers and located in Anson County, received a PHW mini-grant for their efforts to improve the health of their members and wider community. Pathway to Peace used the funds provided by PHW to purchase a plow and disk harrow to expand their church […]

Gardeners: Make the Climate Connection

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

One thing that almost every congregation does is eat together. Coffee hour after worship, Wednesday dinners, pancake breakfasts—where there is a congregation, there is food. Over the past years, many congregations’ food ministries have inspired community gardens, in which people of faith are growing some of the food that they and their neighbors eat. Some […]

Gardeners: Make the Climate Connection

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

One thing that almost every congregation does is eat together. Coffee hour after worship, Wednesday dinners, pancake breakfasts—where there is a congregation, there is food. Over the past years, many congregations’ food ministries have inspired community gardens, in which people of faith are growing some of the food that they and their neighbors eat. Some […]

Three NCIPL Volunteers Receive Governor’s Award

By Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

Three people active with NCIPL are being honored with a 2013 Governor’s Volunteer Service Award: Penny Hooper of Morehead City, Carl Sigel of Raleigh, and Jean Larson of Asheville. Each recipient is more than deserving of the award, and we are delighted that they are being recognized. Read about their work with NCIPL here. –Allison Reeves […]

Three NCIPL Volunteers Receive Governor’s Award

by Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

Three people active with NCIPL are being honored with a 2013 Governor’s Volunteer Service Award: Penny Hooper of Morehead City, Carl Sigel of Raleigh, and Jean Larson of Asheville. Each recipient is more than deserving of the award, and we are delighted that they are being recognized. Read about their work with NCIPL here. –Allison Reeves […]

Rethink What You Eat

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

Who said change is easy? Or that it can only come as a result of well-meaning adults’ efforts? Well, a youth group in New Orleans, called the “Rethinkers”, would beg to differ. They saw a problem (unhealthy foods served in school) and made a difference

Rethink What You Eat

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

Who said change is easy? Or that it can only come as a result of well-meaning adults’ efforts? Well, a youth group in New Orleans, called the “Rethinkers”, would beg to differ. They saw a problem (unhealthy foods served in school) and made a difference

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Daniel Plan, Session 4

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is from the free Saddleback Church Daniel Plan Curriculum. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Daniel Plan, Session 4

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is from the free Saddleback Church Daniel Plan Curriculum. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook […]

Legislative Process and Advocacy: Legislative Seminar Workshop

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Tune in as George Reed, our Executive Director here at the NC Council of Churches, explains the legislative process in North Carolina. How can "ordinary citizens" get involved? What strategies can we use to be as effective as possible? Listen as George crams 25 years of experience into one jam-packed hour.

Legislative Process and Advocacy: Legislative Seminar Workshop

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Tune in as George Reed, our Executive Director here at the NC Council of Churches, explains the legislative process in North Carolina. How can “ordinary citizens” get involved? What strategies can we use to be as effective as possible? Listen as George crams 25 years of experience into one jam-packed hour.

Come to the Table 2013

Come to the Table Comes to Your Home

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Everyone gets so hyped about attending conferences. You go there, you collect as many business cards as you can, you write down notes, quotes, and things to follow-up with. You instantly get empowered and invigorated with the amount of energy and ideas that flood your mind and new-found relationships. You struggle over which break-out session to […]

Come to the Table Comes to Your Home

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Everyone gets so hyped about attending conferences. You go there, you collect as many business cards as you can, you write down notes, quotes, and things to follow-up with. You instantly get empowered and invigorated with the amount of energy and ideas that flood your mind and new-found relationships. You struggle over which break-out session to […]

NCUC Challenges Duke Energy

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

The North Carolina Utilities Commission issued an order on Friday challenging Duke Energy to back up its Integrated Resource Plan – its long-term business plan – with more facts. The order questioned whether Duke is overestimating the amount of electricity it must generate and whether it is adequately pursuing energy efficiency and renewable energy that […]

NCUC Challenges Duke Energy

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

The North Carolina Utilities Commission issued an order on Friday challenging Duke Energy to back up its Integrated Resource Plan – its long-term business plan – with more facts. The order questioned whether Duke is overestimating the amount of electricity it must generate and whether it is adequately pursuing energy efficiency and renewable energy that […]

NC Legislators Can Reconsider and Expand Medicaid

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Early in the 2013 legislative session for North Carolina, our legislators decided not to expand Medicaid as allowed by the Affordable Care Act (ACA). In declining to accept this expansion, which would have been totally paid for with federal funds for three years, they have declined health insurance for 500,000 North Carolinians. There is nothing […]

NC Legislators Can Reconsider and Expand Medicaid

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Early in the 2013 legislative session for North Carolina, our legislators decided not to expand Medicaid as allowed by the Affordable Care Act (ACA). In declining to accept this expansion, which would have been totally paid for with federal funds for three years, they have declined health insurance for 500,000 North Carolinians. There is nothing […]

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

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

House Bills Senate Bills Notable Quotes Arizona-like Immigration Bill Introduced In the wake of failed attempts by Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform, states and localities have increased their own efforts to enforce current immigration laws and to implement new programs designed to reduce immigration. Many of these efforts have created a more hostile environment […]

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

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

House Bills Senate Bills Notable Quotes Arizona-like Immigration Bill Introduced In the wake of failed attempts by Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform, states and localities have increased their own efforts to enforce current immigration laws and to implement new programs designed to reduce immigration. Many of these efforts have created a more hostile environment […]

New Videos: Legislative Seminar Awards

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A leader against economic injustice and two longtime advocates on the Council’s board have received the North Carolina Council of Churches’ highest honors. Gene Nichol received the Faith Active in Public Life Award. Barbara Volk and Sydnor Thompson II were recognized with Distinguished Service awards. All three were presented at the Council’s 2013 Legislative Seminar which took place April 11 at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Raleigh.

New Videos: Legislative Seminar Awards

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A leader against economic injustice and two longtime advocates on the Council’s board have received the North Carolina Council of Churches’ highest honors.

Gene Nichol received the Faith Active in Public Life Award. Barbara Volk and Sydnor Thompson II were recognized with Distinguished Service awards. All three were presented at the Council’s 2013 Legislative Seminar which took place April 11 at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Raleigh.

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Daniel Plan, Session 3

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our next choice of reading is from the free Saddleback Church Daniel Plan Curriculum. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Daniel Plan, Session 3

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our next choice of reading is from the free Saddleback Church Daniel Plan Curriculum. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook […]

Tax Reform: Legislative Seminar Workshop

By chris

Alexandra Forter Sirota (Director) and Cedric Johnson (Policy Analyst) from the NC Budget and Tax Center explain the debate about North Carolina's tax system and offer a vision of a more progressive tax structure for the state. You can download and listen to the podcast above.

Tax Reform: Legislative Seminar Workshop

by chris

Alexandra Forter Sirota (Director) and Cedric Johnson (Policy Analyst) from the NC Budget and Tax Center explain the debate about North Carolina’s tax system and offer a vision of a more progressive tax structure for the state. You can download and listen to the podcast above.

PHW Success Story – Ward Street Mission UMC, High Point

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

Since 2010, beginning with the spring growing season, Ward Street Mission United Methodist Church has implemented a concept called, “House Gardens Greening Project”. The concept is simple. Instead of having a “community garden” at one site at the church, we have created a “community of gardens” at individual homes around the Ward Street Mission Community. […]

PHW Success Story – Ward Street Mission UMC, High Point

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

Since 2010, beginning with the spring growing season, Ward Street Mission United Methodist Church has implemented a concept called, “House Gardens Greening Project”. The concept is simple. Instead of having a “community garden” at one site at the church, we have created a “community of gardens” at individual homes around the Ward Street Mission Community. […]

New Video: Gene Nichol Delivers Powerful Speech at Legislative Seminar

By chris

Speaking to 200 social justice advocates, Gene Nichol delivered a powerful luncheon address at the Council’s 2013 Legislative Seminar held April 11 at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Raleigh. He received the Council’s Faith Active in Public Life Award at the Seminar for his “courageous, dedicated, humane and compassionate witness in the political arena.” […]

New Video: Gene Nichol Delivers Powerful Speech at Legislative Seminar

by chris

Speaking to 200 social justice advocates, Gene Nichol delivered a powerful luncheon address at the Council’s 2013 Legislative Seminar held April 11 at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Raleigh. He received the Council’s Faith Active in Public Life Award at the Seminar for his “courageous, dedicated, humane and compassionate witness in the political arena.” […]

Ruth’s Journey: What Immigration Reform Means for Women

By chris

Last week about 150 women gathered from across the Triangle to hear the stories of "Ruth's Journey: Building Communi-TEA." This one of a kind interfaith tea and dialogue focused on conversation about the impact of immigration on women and their families.

Ruth’s Journey: What Immigration Reform Means for Women

by chris

Last week about 150 women gathered from across the Triangle to hear the stories of “Ruth’s Journey: Building Communi-TEA.” This one of a kind interfaith tea and dialogue focused on conversation about the impact of immigration on women and their families.

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Daniel Plan, Session 2

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our next choice of reading is from the free Saddleback Church Daniel Plan Curriculum. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Daniel Plan, Session 2

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our next choice of reading is from the free Saddleback Church Daniel Plan Curriculum. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

Implementing the Affordable Care Act: Legislative Seminar Workshop

By chris

Rev. Linda Walling, Executive Director at Faithful Reform in Health Care and Nicole Dozier, Assistant Project Director at the NC Health Access Coalition offered this compelling and insightful workshop on the Affordable Care Act (aka “Obamacare”) at our 2013 Legislative Seminar. You can download and listent the podcast above.

Implementing the Affordable Care Act: Legislative Seminar Workshop

by chris

Rev. Linda Walling, Executive Director at Faithful Reform in Health Care and Nicole Dozier, Assistant Project Director at the NC Health Access Coalition offered this compelling and insightful workshop on the Affordable Care Act (aka “Obamacare”) at our 2013 Legislative Seminar. You can download and listent the podcast above.

PHW Success Story – First Baptist, Lumberton

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

First Baptist Church in Lumberton – under the leadership of Dr. TR Murray and PHW Liaison Jay Leggette – is participating in the Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program, demonstrating their commitment to health as a practice of their faith. They serve healthier food and beverage options at church meetings and events, maintain tobacco-free […]

PHW Success Story – First Baptist, Lumberton

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

First Baptist Church in Lumberton – under the leadership of Dr. TR Murray and PHW Liaison Jay Leggette – is participating in the Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program, demonstrating their commitment to health as a practice of their faith. They serve healthier food and beverage options at church meetings and events, maintain tobacco-free […]

Voting Rights NC: Legislative Seminar Workshop

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The Council’s 2013 Legislative Seminar on April 11 featured a workshop about voting rights. It was provided by Bob Hall, executive director of Democracy North Carolina, a group that advocates for voting rights and for proper safeguards against the influence of self-serving special interests in the political system. The debate over whether voters should have to show a photo ID has raged from state to state, with backers saying such IDs are needed to combat voter fraud. Nobody wants to see even one vote cast illegally, and it’s true that most voters already have photo IDs. However, those who don’t have them tend to be among society’s vulnerable.

Voting Rights NC: Legislative Seminar Workshop

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The Council’s 2013 Legislative Seminar on April 11 featured a workshop about voting rights. It was provided by Bob Hall, executive director of Democracy North Carolina, a group that advocates for voting rights and for proper safeguards against the influence of self-serving special interests in the political system.

The debate over whether voters should have to show a photo ID has raged from state to state, with backers saying such IDs are needed to combat voter fraud.

Nobody wants to see even one vote cast illegally, and it’s true that most voters already have photo IDs. However, those who don’t have them tend to be among society’s vulnerable.

The Ecumenical Journey

By chris

Rev. Michael Kinnamon (School of Theology and Ministry, Seattle University)

Where does this leave us today? How can the ecumenical impulse be revitalized in such an era as ours? The answer to this may be suggested in the distinction between optimism and hope. Optimism involves the expectation of a better future based on a reading of present circumstances; hope involves the trustful anticipation of genuine newness, perhaps beyond our imagining, based on the promises of God.

The Ecumenical Journey

by chris

Rev. Michael Kinnamon (School of Theology and Ministry, Seattle University)

Where does this leave us today? How can the ecumenical impulse be revitalized in such an era as ours? The answer to this may be suggested in the distinction between optimism and hope. Optimism involves the expectation of a better future based on a reading of present circumstances; hope involves the trustful anticipation of genuine newness, perhaps beyond our imagining, based on the promises of God.

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

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

In keeping with its mission of supporting peace, unity and social justice, the Council recently has signed on to three letters involving issues being addressed at the federal level. We have spoken out for a faithful budget, for preserving low-income tax credits, and for gun violence prevention and school safety. The call for a faithful […]

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

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

In keeping with its mission of supporting peace, unity and social justice, the Council recently has signed on to three letters involving issues being addressed at the federal level. We have spoken out for a faithful budget, for preserving low-income tax credits, and for gun violence prevention and school safety. The call for a faithful […]

North Carolina Says: Reform Immigration Now

By chris

With the introduction of the landmark immigration legislation by the Senate, the immigration debate continues to heat up. And North Carolina is paying attention. From faith leaders to business leaders to the state's leading newspapers, we are seeing very strong support for the bill. Now is the time for our elected officials to step up and help make humane immigration reform a reality. Below is a summary of recent perspectives on the bill.

North Carolina Says: Reform Immigration Now

by chris

With the introduction of the landmark immigration legislation by the Senate, the immigration debate continues to heat up. And North Carolina is paying attention. From faith leaders to business leaders to the state’s leading newspapers, we are seeing very strong support for the bill. Now is the time for our elected officials to step up and help make humane immigration reform a reality. Below is a summary of recent perspectives on the bill.

Deadlines Pass – Raleigh Report April 22, 2013

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

With the passage of deadlines for the introduction of most bills, there’s been a flurry of new legislation. This issue of Raleigh Report will cover some of these new bills, with others to come in the next issue.

Deadlines Pass – Raleigh Report April 22, 2013

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

With the passage of deadlines for the introduction of most bills, there’s been a flurry of new legislation. This issue of Raleigh Report will cover some of these new bills, with others to come in the next issue.

Lectionary: Peace (Pentecost Sunday)

By chris

From Acts of Faith: Free Lectionary Resources for Prophetic Worship

Date: Pentecost - May 19, 2013
Topic: Peace
Focus Text: John 14:8-17, 25-27

From the personal vignette: “After returning from Iraq, we moved to Durham, North Carolina to start a house of hospitality in the summer of 2003. We said we wanted to try to practice in our daily lives the love we had seen in Iraq. So we called our little experiment the Rutba House. What we do here day in and day out is hardly as dramatic as rescuing enemies from a roadside while bombs are falling. We’ve tried to find ways to shape our community life together around receiving and sharing God’s love."

Lectionary: Peace (Pentecost Sunday)

by chris

From Acts of Faith: Free Lectionary Resources for Prophetic Worship

Date: Pentecost – May 19, 2013
Topic: Peace
Focus Text: John 14:8-17, 25-27

From the personal vignette: “After returning from Iraq, we moved to Durham, North Carolina to start a house of hospitality in the summer of 2003. We said we wanted to try to practice in our daily lives the love we had seen in Iraq. So we called our little experiment the Rutba House. What we do here day in and day out is hardly as dramatic as rescuing enemies from a roadside while bombs are falling. We’ve tried to find ways to shape our community life together around receiving and sharing God’s love.”

Believing in Goodness and Mercy After a Very Hard Week

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

It has been a difficult week for anyone who lives from a place of compassion. For people of faith who believe in a kind and loving God and who may recently have celebrated the resurrection of the Prince of Peace, the tragedies have seemed endless. Horror in Boston, devastation in Texas, decisions around gun violence […]

Believing in Goodness and Mercy After a Very Hard Week

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

It has been a difficult week for anyone who lives from a place of compassion. For people of faith who believe in a kind and loving God and who may recently have celebrated the resurrection of the Prince of Peace, the tragedies have seemed endless. Horror in Boston, devastation in Texas, decisions around gun violence […]

Ruth’s Journey: Building Communi-TEA

By chris

Join fellow women of faith at "Ruth's Journey" as we discuss how relationships transcend barriers and the need for immigration reform.

When: 3:00pm on April, 26 2013
Where: Duke Memorial United Methodist Church 504 W. Chapel Hill Street, Durham NC
RSVP & for more information: mblickman@faithinpubliclife.org

Ruth’s Journey: Building Communi-TEA

by chris

Join fellow women of faith at “Ruth’s Journey” as we discuss how relationships transcend barriers and the need for immigration reform.

When: 3:00pm on April, 26 2013
Where: Duke Memorial United Methodist Church 504 W. Chapel Hill Street, Durham NC
RSVP & for more information: mblickman@faithinpubliclife.org

A Healthier NC: It’s All Up to Us!

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

Today marks the beginning of a very important journey for our state – a journey toward better health for all North Carolinians. A Healthier NC is a statewide campaign/challenge to engage 1 million North Carolinians in 15 hours of activity, to transform lives and to lose 10 million pounds. Congregations are already showing their commitment […]

A Healthier NC: It’s All Up to Us!

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

Today marks the beginning of a very important journey for our state – a journey toward better health for all North Carolinians. A Healthier NC is a statewide campaign/challenge to engage 1 million North Carolinians in 15 hours of activity, to transform lives and to lose 10 million pounds. Congregations are already showing their commitment […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Daniel Plan, Session 1

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our next choice of reading is from the free Saddleback Church Daniel Plan Curriculum. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Daniel Plan, Session 1

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our next choice of reading is from the free Saddleback Church Daniel Plan Curriculum. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

End Child Labor in NC: A Public Service Announcement

By chris

Growing up working on the family farm is an important tradition that should be preserved, but employing young children in hazardous work should not be a tradition any longer. Child labor laws should be the same for every industry. All children in North Carolina deserve a safe, healthy and bright future.

End Child Labor in NC: A Public Service Announcement

by chris

Growing up working on the family farm is an important tradition that should be preserved, but employing young children in hazardous work should not be a tradition any longer. Child labor laws should be the same for every industry. All children in North Carolina deserve a safe, healthy and bright future.

Prayers for Boston

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our prayers go out to our sisters and brothers in Boston and to all those affected by the horror of Monday’s bombing. Let us continue to work toward a path for peace.

Prayers for Boston

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our prayers go out to our sisters and brothers in Boston and to all those affected by the horror of Monday’s bombing. Let us continue to work toward a path for peace.

Legislative Seminar Page Features Podcasts, Pictures and More

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Many of you who attended the 2013 Legislative Seminar expressed an interest in having portions of the day available online, and we have started that process. Audio from the Rev. Joe Brown’s opening worship, the Rev. Fletcher Harper’s plenary “Communicating the Values We Believe,” and Gene Nichol’s luncheon address are now available on our seminar […]

Legislative Seminar Page Features Podcasts, Pictures and More

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Many of you who attended the 2013 Legislative Seminar expressed an interest in having portions of the day available online, and we have started that process. Audio from the Rev. Joe Brown’s opening worship, the Rev. Fletcher Harper’s plenary “Communicating the Values We Believe,” and Gene Nichol’s luncheon address are now available on our seminar […]

Rev. Fletcher Harper: Communicating the Values We Believe

By chris

The Rev. Fletcher Harper is Executive Director of GreenFaith, a New Jersey-based non-profit committed to building environmental leadership among people of faith. He is also an Episcopal priest. Download his presentation slides here. [powerpress]

Rev. Fletcher Harper: Communicating the Values We Believe

by chris

The Rev. Fletcher Harper is Executive Director of GreenFaith, a New Jersey-based non-profit committed to building environmental leadership among people of faith. He is also an Episcopal priest. Download his presentation slides here. [powerpress]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Daniel Plan

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our next choice of reading will come from the free Saddleback Church Daniel Plan Curriculum. The Daniel Plan is a six-week Bible study curriculum […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: The Daniel Plan

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our next choice of reading will come from the free Saddleback Church Daniel Plan Curriculum. The Daniel Plan is a six-week Bible study curriculum […]

Tax Reform Cookies

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

There’s no telling how the tax cookies will crumble by the time the 2013 General Assembly closes shop. But chief bakers in both the House and Senate seem intent on some manner of “reform.” In sync with Gov. Pat McCrory, they’ve signaled their desire to cut income tax rates, and hopefully to replace lost revenue […]

Tax Reform Cookies

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

There’s no telling how the tax cookies will crumble by the time the 2013 General Assembly closes shop. But chief bakers in both the House and Senate seem intent on some manner of “reform.” In sync with Gov. Pat McCrory, they’ve signaled their desire to cut income tax rates, and hopefully to replace lost revenue […]

Gene Nichol: It’s Better Not to Be Poor in North Carolina

By chris

Speaking to 200 social justice advocates, Gene Nichol delivered a powerful luncheon address at the Council's 2013 Legislative Seminar held April 11 at St. Mark's United Methodist Church in Raleigh. He received the Council's Faith Active in Public Life Award at the Seminar for his "courageous, dedicated, humane and compassionate witness in the political arena." Rev. George Reed, the Council's Executive Director, introduced Nichol by saying in part, "To know Gene is to see the embodiment of Catholic social teaching about social justice and the common good."

Gene Nichol: It’s Better Not to Be Poor in North Carolina

by chris

Speaking to 200 social justice advocates, Gene Nichol delivered a powerful luncheon address at the Council’s 2013 Legislative Seminar held April 11 at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Raleigh. He received the Council’s Faith Active in Public Life Award at the Seminar for his “courageous, dedicated, humane and compassionate witness in the political arena.” Rev. George Reed, the Council’s Executive Director, introduced Nichol by saying in part, “To know Gene is to see the embodiment of Catholic social teaching about social justice and the common good.”

Free lectionary materials - Public Accountability

Execution Foes at Legislature

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Execution Foes at Legislature

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

NCIPL LeadershipTransition

By Kathy Shea, Former Senior Advisor - NCIPL

As I gaze out of my study window at the bright spring birds and budding trees, I am at peace with and excited about the changes unfolding at NCIPL. As some of you already know, after two years as paid staff, I made the transition to volunteer status on January 1, 2013. For the first quarter […]

NCIPL LeadershipTransition

by Kathy Shea, Former Senior Advisor - NCIPL

As I gaze out of my study window at the bright spring birds and budding trees, I am at peace with and excited about the changes unfolding at NCIPL. As some of you already know, after two years as paid staff, I made the transition to volunteer status on January 1, 2013. For the first quarter […]

Interfaith Call-in Day to Prevent Gun Violence April 9

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The National Council of Churches, Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, and others are sponsoring an Interfaith Call-in Day to ensure that the voices of faithful Americans are heard throughout the halls of Congress on April 9. You can call NC Senators Hagan and Burr at 1-888-897-0174 and urge them to act to prevent gun violence. As […]

Interfaith Call-in Day to Prevent Gun Violence April 9

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The National Council of Churches, Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, and others are sponsoring an Interfaith Call-in Day to ensure that the voices of faithful Americans are heard throughout the halls of Congress on April 9. You can call NC Senators Hagan and Burr at 1-888-897-0174 and urge them to act to prevent gun violence. As […]

Rush to the Right Continues (Raleigh Report, April 5, 2013)

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

        Voter Suppression & Campaign Finance Other New Bills Commentary Tax Fairness Public Education Voting Rights Death Penalty Rush to the Right Continues From the first days of this legislative session, we’ve seen challenges to many advances our state has made in recent decades. It’s frustrating to watch the Council’s work for […]

Rush to the Right Continues (Raleigh Report, April 5, 2013)

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

        Voter Suppression & Campaign Finance Other New Bills Commentary Tax Fairness Public Education Voting Rights Death Penalty Rush to the Right Continues From the first days of this legislative session, we’ve seen challenges to many advances our state has made in recent decades. It’s frustrating to watch the Council’s work for […]

Free AEDs and CPR Training for Select Counties

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

The NC Council of Churches, American Red Cross and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC are partnering together to provide more Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and CPR training to places of worship in select counties. To date, 183 congregations have received an award. To learn more or to complete an application, please click here. The deadline to apply is Friday, May 24.

Free AEDs and CPR Training for Select Counties

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

The NC Council of Churches, American Red Cross and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC are partnering together to provide more Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and CPR training to places of worship in select counties. To date, 183 congregations have received an award.

To learn more or to complete an application, please click here. The deadline to apply is Friday, May 24.

Keep Telling Congress the Sequester is Immoral

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

At the Child Poverty Summit in Durham earlier this year, we were reminded that 25% of North Carolina children live in poverty. The National Council of Churches is reminding us that federal cuts caused by the sequester are increasing these rates. It is shameful in the wealthiest nation ever that children are hungry and at-risk […]

Keep Telling Congress the Sequester is Immoral

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

At the Child Poverty Summit in Durham earlier this year, we were reminded that 25% of North Carolina children live in poverty. The National Council of Churches is reminding us that federal cuts caused by the sequester are increasing these rates. It is shameful in the wealthiest nation ever that children are hungry and at-risk […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Eating Well Week 7 (Reflection)

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. We will be posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, but our PHW blog page will have the discussion posts in full with […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Eating Well Week 7 (Reflection)

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. We will be posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, but our PHW blog page will have the discussion posts in full with […]

U.S. Senate Expected to Take Up Gun Legislation

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Next week, the United States Senate is expected to take up legislation intended to curb gun violence. Given recent mass atrocities at the hands of gunmen along with the daily loss of life by those who turn to guns as a surrogate for civil disagreement, progress on the issue should be inevitable. But it’s not. Lobbying by groups like […]

U.S. Senate Expected to Take Up Gun Legislation

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Next week, the United States Senate is expected to take up legislation intended to curb gun violence. Given recent mass atrocities at the hands of gunmen along with the daily loss of life by those who turn to guns as a surrogate for civil disagreement, progress on the issue should be inevitable. But it’s not. Lobbying by groups like […]

comprehensive immigration reform

NC Bishops: “Immigration Laws Need Reform”

By chris

On Maundy Thursday of Holy Week, the Raleigh News & Observer published a powerful full-length editorial in support of humane immigration reform by two of North Carolina’s leading religious figures, Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Raleigh and Bishop Michael Curry of the Episcopal Diocese of NC. Together, the bishops specifically called on […]

NC Bishops: “Immigration Laws Need Reform”

by chris

On Maundy Thursday of Holy Week, the Raleigh News & Observer published a powerful full-length editorial in support of humane immigration reform by two of North Carolina’s leading religious figures, Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Raleigh and Bishop Michael Curry of the Episcopal Diocese of NC. Together, the bishops specifically called on […]

Peace is Not Placidity

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friend and Consultant for Peace, David LaMotte, will spend part of his Easter weekend in Memphis, where he will stand in the light with others against the darkness of a planned Ku Klux Klan rally. Not exactly an egg hunt, is it? And yet it is highly appropriate in this season that people of faith, […]

Peace is Not Placidity

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friend and Consultant for Peace, David LaMotte, will spend part of his Easter weekend in Memphis, where he will stand in the light with others against the darkness of a planned Ku Klux Klan rally. Not exactly an egg hunt, is it? And yet it is highly appropriate in this season that people of faith, […]

Blessings of the Easter Season

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

From the Staff of the North Carolina Council of Churches All who live in love are Thine; Teach us how to love each other, Lift us to the joy divine. –From Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee; Lyrics by Henry J. van Dyke

Blessings of the Easter Season

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

From the Staff of the North Carolina Council of Churches All who live in love are Thine; Teach us how to love each other, Lift us to the joy divine. –From Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee; Lyrics by Henry J. van Dyke

Shane Claiborne’s Challenge to Christians

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

In 2008, the Council co-sponsored an event called Jesus for President, which took place at First Baptist Church on Wilmington Street in downtown Raleigh. About 500 twenty-somethings came together to talk about the social justice and environmental issues that are defining their generation. At its core, the national movement called for Christians to reconsider their […]

Shane Claiborne’s Challenge to Christians

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

In 2008, the Council co-sponsored an event called Jesus for President, which took place at First Baptist Church on Wilmington Street in downtown Raleigh. About 500 twenty-somethings came together to talk about the social justice and environmental issues that are defining their generation. At its core, the national movement called for Christians to reconsider their […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Eating Well Week 6 (Peace)

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. We will be posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, but our PHW blog page will have the discussion posts in full with […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Eating Well Week 6 (Peace)

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. We will be posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, but our PHW blog page will have the discussion posts in full with […]

2013 Faith & Immigration Statewide Summit

By chris

SAVE THE DATE:
Saturday, October 12, 2013, 10am - 2pm
Primera Iglesia Bautista (First Baptist Church)
2840 Cemetery Road
Sanford, NC 27332
Cost: FREE

Workshops and additional details coming soon.

2013 Faith & Immigration Statewide Summit

by chris

SAVE THE DATE:
Saturday, October 12, 2013, 10am – 2pm
Primera Iglesia Bautista (First Baptist Church)
2840 Cemetery Road
Sanford, NC 27332
Cost: FREE

Workshops and additional details coming soon.

Council Awards to Be Presented at Legislative Seminar

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A leader against economic injustice and two longtime advocates on the Council’s board have been chosen to receive the North Carolina Council of Churches’ highest honors. Gene Nichol will receive the Faith Active in Public Life Award. Barbara Volk and Sydnor Thompson II will be recognized with Distinguished Service awards. All three will be presented at the […]

Council Awards to Be Presented at Legislative Seminar

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A leader against economic injustice and two longtime advocates on the Council’s board have been chosen to receive the North Carolina Council of Churches’ highest honors. Gene Nichol will receive the Faith Active in Public Life Award. Barbara Volk and Sydnor Thompson II will be recognized with Distinguished Service awards. All three will be presented at the […]

Preparing the Way: Blessed are the Peacemakers

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Sojo.net

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

Preparing the Way: Blessed are the Peacemakers

Sojo.net

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

Lectionary: Care for HIV/AIDS Patients (4th Sunday after Easter)

By chris

From Acts of Faith: Free Lectionary Resources for Prophetic Worship

Date: 4th Sunday after Easter - April 21, 2013
Topic: Care for HIV/AIDS Patients
Focus Text: Acts 9:36-43

From the pastoral reflection: “Today, the reality is that HIV looks like all of us – regardless of race, gender, age, sexual orientation, or faith tradition. The epidemic is growing most rapidly, however, among minorities who have historically experienced a higher risk for poverty, lack of health insurance, co-morbidity, and disenfranchisement from the health care system. The result is a growing number of individuals living with HIV disease who are living at or below the federal poverty level and who have limited or no access to life-saving, life-extending medications."

Lectionary: Care for HIV/AIDS Patients (4th Sunday after Easter)

by chris

From Acts of Faith: Free Lectionary Resources for Prophetic Worship

Date: 4th Sunday after Easter – April 21, 2013
Topic: Care for HIV/AIDS Patients
Focus Text: Acts 9:36-43

From the pastoral reflection: “Today, the reality is that HIV looks like all of us – regardless of race, gender, age, sexual orientation, or faith tradition. The epidemic is growing most rapidly, however, among minorities who have historically experienced a higher risk for poverty, lack of health insurance, co-morbidity, and disenfranchisement from the health care system. The result is a growing number of individuals living with HIV disease who are living at or below the federal poverty level and who have limited or no access to life-saving, life-extending medications.”

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

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On March 23, the Affordable Care Act celebrated its third anniversary. The North Carolina Council of Churches has long supported universal health care, and we remain committed to that goal and to celebrating the progress made through ACA. Our friends at Faithful Reform in Health Care have offered a number of ways to recognize this […]

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

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On March 23, the Affordable Care Act celebrated its third anniversary. The North Carolina Council of Churches has long supported universal health care, and we remain committed to that goal and to celebrating the progress made through ACA. Our friends at Faithful Reform in Health Care have offered a number of ways to recognize this […]

A Step in the Right Direction: NC Drops Offensive Pink Driver’s License Stripe

By chris

Facing mounting criticism both statewide and nationally, the NC Department of Transportation has backed off from the now-infamous "pink stripe" design for driver's licenses that will be issued to young immigrants. The original pink design, which was an administrative decision made behind closed doors, ended up receiving national media coverage, including major outlets like USA Today, Reuters and the NY Times. The redesigned licenses will retain the problematic wording: "Legal Presence / No Lawful Status."

Dozens of faith communities and religious leaders from across theological traditions weighed in against the controversial license.

A Step in the Right Direction: NC Drops Offensive Pink Driver’s License Stripe

by chris

Facing mounting criticism both statewide and nationally, the NC Department of Transportation has backed off from the now-infamous “pink stripe” design for driver’s licenses that will be issued to young immigrants. The original pink design, which was an administrative decision made behind closed doors, ended up receiving national media coverage, including major outlets like USA Today, Reuters and the NY Times. The redesigned licenses will retain the problematic wording: “Legal Presence / No Lawful Status.”

Dozens of faith communities and religious leaders from across theological traditions weighed in against the controversial license.

Preparing the Way: Blessed Are the Peacemakers

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

From the Easter Sunday chapter of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Matthew 5:9-12 (NRSV) “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. “Blessed are […]

Preparing the Way: Blessed Are the Peacemakers

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

From the Easter Sunday chapter of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Matthew 5:9-12 (NRSV) “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. “Blessed are […]

Got Food? Thank a Farmworker During Holy Week

By chris

Holy Week this year is also National Farmworker Awareness Week (March 24-31). It seems like no accident that the week in which we celebrate Jesus’ service and sacrifice for humanity is the same week that we celebrate the extraordinary gifts that farmworkers offer to our communities. As we prepare to celebrate Holy Week, we invite you to celebrate the many vital contributions that farmworkers make to our state. Join with faith communities, student groups, community organizations and many others who are taking this opportunity to lift up those who do some of the hardest work for the lowest pay.

Got Food? Thank a Farmworker During Holy Week

by chris

Holy Week this year is also National Farmworker Awareness Week (March 24-31). It seems like no accident that the week in which we celebrate Jesus’ service and sacrifice for humanity is the same week that we celebrate the extraordinary gifts that farmworkers offer to our communities. As we prepare to celebrate Holy Week, we invite you to celebrate the many vital contributions that farmworkers make to our state. Join with faith communities, student groups, community organizations and many others who are taking this opportunity to lift up those who do some of the hardest work for the lowest pay.

PHW Book Club Discussion: Eating Well Week 5 (Diversity)

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. We will be posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, but our PHW blog page will have the discussion posts in full with […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Eating Well Week 5 (Diversity)

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. We will be posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, but our PHW blog page will have the discussion posts in full with […]

Raleigh Report-Gun Bills Flood In

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Raleigh Report-Gun Bills Flood In

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Earth Day Weekend: Events and Resources for Congregations

By Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

Earth Day weekend is the perfect time to direct attention, prayer, and action to Caring for Creation. This year, Earth Day is Monday, April 22. Visit NCIPL’s Earth Day webpage for resources your congregation can use to honor Earth Day, events occurring across the state, and details on how you can share your plans.

Earth Day Weekend: Events and Resources for Congregations

by Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

Earth Day weekend is the perfect time to direct attention, prayer, and action to Caring for Creation. This year, Earth Day is Monday, April 22. Visit NCIPL’s Earth Day webpage for resources your congregation can use to honor Earth Day, events occurring across the state, and details on how you can share your plans.

NCIPL Energy Audit “How To” Webinar Recording Online

By Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

NCIPL hosted a webinar on how your congregation can obtain a free energy savings analysis (also known as an energy audit) on March 12. The recording of the webinar is now online. This service is offered to all North Carolina congregations at no charge. Share the webinar with others at your congregation and contact us at info@ncipl.org to schedule your congregation’s audit today.

NCIPL Energy Audit “How To” Webinar Recording Online

by Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

NCIPL hosted a webinar on how your congregation can obtain a free energy savings analysis (also known as an energy audit) on March 12. The recording of the webinar is now online. This service is offered to all North Carolina congregations at no charge. Share the webinar with others at your congregation and contact us at info@ncipl.org to schedule your congregation’s audit today.

Resource on Tax Fairness

By Justin Hubbard, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

From Jerusalem to Jericho: Christian Witness on the Tax-Sustained Road Click here to download. This compelling 13-page document draws current tax policies into conversation with Scripture passages, Church theologians, and denominational statements. From the Introduction Few of us, I imagine, like to pay taxes, whether it’s income tax withheld from your paycheck or a sales […]

Resource on Tax Fairness

by Justin Hubbard, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

From Jerusalem to Jericho: Christian Witness on the Tax-Sustained Road Click here to download. This compelling 13-page document draws current tax policies into conversation with Scripture passages, Church theologians, and denominational statements. From the Introduction Few of us, I imagine, like to pay taxes, whether it’s income tax withheld from your paycheck or a sales […]

Putting a Face on Legislation

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Our state and nation are in a time of civil discord. My own preacher, the Rev. Betty Connette, challenged us a few weeks ago to be Citizens of Heaven and to live out a different set of values patterned after Jesus not Caesar…to serve others rather than lord it over them. Our voices are sorely needed […]

Putting a Face on Legislation

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Our state and nation are in a time of civil discord. My own preacher, the Rev. Betty Connette, challenged us a few weeks ago to be Citizens of Heaven and to live out a different set of values patterned after Jesus not Caesar…to serve others rather than lord it over them. Our voices are sorely needed […]

Guns in Bars and Restaurants Before Subcommittee on March 20

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The folks at North Carolinians Against Gun Violence have called House Bill 17 a “Recipe for Disaster.” That about sums it up. This is the bill that would allow anyone with a concealed carry permit for a handgun to take that weapon into eating establishments, including those serving alcohol. That’s a boost for drinkers and diners who enjoy […]

Guns in Bars and Restaurants Before Subcommittee on March 20

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The folks at North Carolinians Against Gun Violence have called House Bill 17 a “Recipe for Disaster.” That about sums it up. This is the bill that would allow anyone with a concealed carry permit for a handgun to take that weapon into eating establishments, including those serving alcohol. That’s a boost for drinkers and diners who enjoy […]

Preparing the Way: The Price of Faithfulness

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

From the Palm Sunday chapter of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Matthew 21:1-11 (NRSV) And when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount […]

Preparing the Way: The Price of Faithfulness

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

From the Palm Sunday chapter of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Matthew 21:1-11 (NRSV) And when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Eating Well Week 4 (Honoring Neighbors)

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. We will be posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, but our PHW blog page will have the discussion posts in full with […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Eating Well Week 4 (Honoring Neighbors)

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. We will be posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, but our PHW blog page will have the discussion posts in full with […]

National Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath — March 15-17

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

If ending gun violence were easy, nightmares like Sandy Hook would never happen. Young lives would not end on urban streets in a hail of bullets. We wouldn’t need to parse the difference between automatic and semi-automatic. Just as taking away guns does not inherently make us safe from harm, we need to move beyond the lie […]

National Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath — March 15-17

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

If ending gun violence were easy, nightmares like Sandy Hook would never happen. Young lives would not end on urban streets in a hail of bullets. We wouldn’t need to parse the difference between automatic and semi-automatic. Just as taking away guns does not inherently make us safe from harm, we need to move beyond the lie […]

Preparing the Way: Let the Oppressed Go Free

By chris

From Chapter 5 of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Deuteronomy 24:14-15 (NRSV) You shall not withhold the wages of poor and needy laborers, whether other Israelites or aliens who […]

Preparing the Way: Let the Oppressed Go Free

by chris

From Chapter 5 of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Deuteronomy 24:14-15 (NRSV) You shall not withhold the wages of poor and needy laborers, whether other Israelites or aliens who […]

Resources for Voting Rights Sunday

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

As you probably know, the Voting Rights Act is being challenged in the US Supreme Court, and General Assembly leaders in Raleigh are renewing their push to pass laws that will make voting harder, especially for African Americans, seniors who no longer drive, people who don’t own a car, and other low-income voters. These legislators […]

Resources for Voting Rights Sunday

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

As you probably know, the Voting Rights Act is being challenged in the US Supreme Court, and General Assembly leaders in Raleigh are renewing their push to pass laws that will make voting harder, especially for African Americans, seniors who no longer drive, people who don’t own a car, and other low-income voters. These legislators […]

Online Community for Faithful Climate-Change Activists

By Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

Are you interested in what other faith-based communities are doing in terms of climate change? Do you want to invite them to your events? Do you have questions that others might be able to answer, such as how they started their congregational garden or what they do in terms of recycling? NCIPL is creating a […]

Online Community for Faithful Climate-Change Activists

by Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

Are you interested in what other faith-based communities are doing in terms of climate change? Do you want to invite them to your events? Do you have questions that others might be able to answer, such as how they started their congregational garden or what they do in terms of recycling? NCIPL is creating a […]

Faith and Fair Taxation Expert at WFU

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

There will be no more important and overarching issue before the General Assembly this year than tax reform. Proposals being floated by legislative leaders would reduce or eliminate personal and corporate income taxes and replace lost revenues by increasing the sales tax, eliminating exemptions, and/or making further cuts in funding to crucial state programs. This would mean a […]

Faith and Fair Taxation Expert at WFU

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

There will be no more important and overarching issue before the General Assembly this year than tax reform. Proposals being floated by legislative leaders would reduce or eliminate personal and corporate income taxes and replace lost revenues by increasing the sales tax, eliminating exemptions, and/or making further cuts in funding to crucial state programs. This would mean a […]

Join the “Pink Tape Protest” Against Discriminatory Licenses

By chris

Young immigrants are about to be singled out by a radical new pink driver's license with the words "NO LAWFUL STATUS" on it. Learn more, sign the statement, and fight discrimination here.

Join the “Pink Tape Protest” Against Discriminatory Licenses

by chris

Young immigrants are about to be singled out by a radical new pink driver’s license with the words “NO LAWFUL STATUS” on it. Learn more, sign the statement, and fight discrimination here.

Preparing the Way: Nourishing God’s Children, Body and Soul

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

From Chapter 4 of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Matthew 7:9-10 (NRSV) “Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for bread, will give him a […]

Preparing the Way: Nourishing God’s Children, Body and Soul

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

From Chapter 4 of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Matthew 7:9-10 (NRSV) “Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for bread, will give him a […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Eating Well Week 3 (Enough)

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. We will be posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, but our PHW blog page will have the discussion posts in full with […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Eating Well Week 3 (Enough)

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. We will be posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, but our PHW blog page will have the discussion posts in full with […]

The Table Was Packed

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

It is awesome how many people spend their days thinking of ways to make this world better. I was reminded of this during the latest Come to the Table Conferences. Both Kinston and Greensboro, the two locations for the Eastern NC and the Piedmont conferences respectively, brought together people of faith who love seeking justice. Both […]

The Table Was Packed

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

It is awesome how many people spend their days thinking of ways to make this world better. I was reminded of this during the latest Come to the Table Conferences. Both Kinston and Greensboro, the two locations for the Eastern NC and the Piedmont conferences respectively, brought together people of faith who love seeking justice. Both […]

Letter to the Editor: On Pink Licenses

By chris

Raleigh News & Observer

There’s no shortage of solutions in search of problems these days in Raleigh. One classic example is the proposed pink licenses for young immigrants who are granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. The special licenses, approved by Gov. Pat McCrory, were neither requested by law enforcement nor designed to follow what other states have done.

Letter to the Editor: On Pink Licenses

Raleigh News & Observer

There’s no shortage of solutions in search of problems these days in Raleigh. One classic example is the proposed pink licenses for young immigrants who are granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. The special licenses, approved by Gov. Pat McCrory, were neither requested by law enforcement nor designed to follow what other states have done.

Conference Explores Dimensions Of Food Justice

By chris

By Eric Ginsburg, YES Weekly

Dozens of organizations and hundreds of people from throughout the area came together in Greensboro last week to talk about an issue central in everyone’s lives: food. The Come to the Table conference, held at UNCG, was designed to assemble people who are working on and concerned with food issues to learn, network and organize around food access and justice.

Conference Explores Dimensions Of Food Justice

By Eric Ginsburg, YES Weekly

Dozens of organizations and hundreds of people from throughout the area came together in Greensboro last week to talk about an issue central in everyone’s lives: food. The Come to the Table conference, held at UNCG, was designed to assemble people who are working on and concerned with food issues to learn, network and organize around food access and justice.

Preparing the Way: Who Is Our Neighbor?

By chris

From Chapter 3 of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Luke 10:25-37 (NRSV) Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus… [And] wanting to justify himself, he asked […]

Preparing the Way: Who Is Our Neighbor?

by chris

From Chapter 3 of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Luke 10:25-37 (NRSV) Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus… [And] wanting to justify himself, he asked […]

Healthy Eating Equipment Grants

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

The NC Council of Churches is partnering with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC Foundation to offer healthy eating equipment grants for places of worship in Anson, Bladen, Columbus, Cumberland, Davidson, Davie, Forsyth, Guilford, Montgomery, Randolph, Richmond, Robeson, Rockingham, Scotland, Stokes, and Surry counties. Places of worship that have a 501 (c)(3) public […]

Healthy Eating Equipment Grants

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

The NC Council of Churches is partnering with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC Foundation to offer healthy eating equipment grants for places of worship in Anson, Bladen, Columbus, Cumberland, Davidson, Davie, Forsyth, Guilford, Montgomery, Randolph, Richmond, Robeson, Rockingham, Scotland, Stokes, and Surry counties. Places of worship that have a 501 (c)(3) public […]

Sí, se puede: Celebrating Holy Week & National Farmworker Awareness Week

By chris

Holy Week this year is also National Farmworker Awareness Week (March 24-31). It seems like no accident that the week in which we celebrate Jesus’ service and sacrifice for humanity is the same week that we celebrate the extraordinary gifts that farmworkers offer to our communities. It’s a time when we both remember and look for hope […]

Sí, se puede: Celebrating Holy Week & National Farmworker Awareness Week

by chris

Holy Week this year is also National Farmworker Awareness Week (March 24-31). It seems like no accident that the week in which we celebrate Jesus’ service and sacrifice for humanity is the same week that we celebrate the extraordinary gifts that farmworkers offer to our communities. It’s a time when we both remember and look for hope […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Eating Well Week 2 (Creation)

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining us for week 2 of the PHW Book Club! We hope you enjoyed reading week 2 of the Eating Well Curriculum! We are going to focus on reading these well-known Biblical passages through the lens of the food that we eat. Scripture: Genesis 1:1-2:4 The story of creation is beloved and familiar. […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Eating Well Week 2 (Creation)

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining us for week 2 of the PHW Book Club! We hope you enjoyed reading week 2 of the Eating Well Curriculum! We are going to focus on reading these well-known Biblical passages through the lens of the food that we eat. Scripture: Genesis 1:1-2:4 The story of creation is beloved and familiar. […]

New Movie Series Comes to Charlotte

By Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

Monthly climate change action and education movie series have been popping up all over the state. NCIPL is pleased to announce that another movie series begins this month in Charlotte. “Speaking Truth to Power: The Justice Series” is co-sponsored by the Spiritual Activist Group at Unity of Charlotte, Charlotte Energy Solutions, and NCIPL. Discussion, with a […]

New Movie Series Comes to Charlotte

by Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

Monthly climate change action and education movie series have been popping up all over the state. NCIPL is pleased to announce that another movie series begins this month in Charlotte. “Speaking Truth to Power: The Justice Series” is co-sponsored by the Spiritual Activist Group at Unity of Charlotte, Charlotte Energy Solutions, and NCIPL. Discussion, with a […]

PHW Funding Opportunity – Webinar Posted

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness, in partnership with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC Foundation, recently conducted a webinar for places of worship interested in the new Healthy Eating Equipment grants. Please click here to access the webinar slides, audio and application forms. These grants are designed to support congregations in your efforts to […]

PHW Funding Opportunity – Webinar Posted

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness, in partnership with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC Foundation, recently conducted a webinar for places of worship interested in the new Healthy Eating Equipment grants. Please click here to access the webinar slides, audio and application forms. These grants are designed to support congregations in your efforts to […]

Upcoming Webinar- Congregational Energy Savings Analyses

By Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

If you are interested in reducing your congregation’s utility bills, increasing your congregation’s efforts to care for creation, and taking a positive action in response to climate change, we invite you to participate in NCIPL’s upcoming webinar, How to Obtain a Free NCIPL Energy Savings Analysis for your Congregation. The webinar will be on Tuesday, […]

Upcoming Webinar- Congregational Energy Savings Analyses

by Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

If you are interested in reducing your congregation’s utility bills, increasing your congregation’s efforts to care for creation, and taking a positive action in response to climate change, we invite you to participate in NCIPL’s upcoming webinar, How to Obtain a Free NCIPL Energy Savings Analysis for your Congregation. The webinar will be on Tuesday, […]

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

By Scott Schomburg, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

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

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

by Scott Schomburg, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

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

Raleigh Report – February 25, 2013

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Attacks on Struggling North Carolinians Advance Medicaid Coverage Unemployment Insurance Earned Income Tax Credit Fracking Moratorium Gun Violence Raise the Age Refusing to Extend Medicaid Coverage SB 4, which would deny Medicaid coverage to more than a half million North Carolinians under the Affordable Care Act and also would put the state under a federal […]

Raleigh Report – February 25, 2013

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Attacks on Struggling North Carolinians Advance Medicaid Coverage Unemployment Insurance Earned Income Tax Credit Fracking Moratorium Gun Violence Raise the Age Refusing to Extend Medicaid Coverage SB 4, which would deny Medicaid coverage to more than a half million North Carolinians under the Affordable Care Act and also would put the state under a federal […]

Protect the Vulnerable Against Federal Cuts

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

On March 1, new federal cuts will begin to take effect. If nothing is done, many hundreds of thousands of people will be hurt by across-the-board cuts to education, job training, home heating assistance, public health, and social services, to name only a few areas. In NC, 18,300 children and mothers would lose WIC nutrition aid […]

Protect the Vulnerable Against Federal Cuts

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

On March 1, new federal cuts will begin to take effect. If nothing is done, many hundreds of thousands of people will be hurt by across-the-board cuts to education, job training, home heating assistance, public health, and social services, to name only a few areas. In NC, 18,300 children and mothers would lose WIC nutrition aid […]

Raleigh Report – February 21, 2013

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

    Payday Lending What It Is, How It Harms People, Why We Don’t Need It Back Payday lending, sadly, could be coming back to North Carolina. It was banned by the General Assembly in 2001, and strong enforcement by Attorney General Roy Cooper has led to its disappearance from NC. If payday lending returns, […]

Raleigh Report – February 21, 2013

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

    Payday Lending What It Is, How It Harms People, Why We Don’t Need It Back Payday lending, sadly, could be coming back to North Carolina. It was banned by the General Assembly in 2001, and strong enforcement by Attorney General Roy Cooper has led to its disappearance from NC. If payday lending returns, […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Eating Well Week 1 (Overview)

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. We will be posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, but our PHW blog page will have the discussion posts in full with responses from staff. Just look for […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Eating Well Week 1 (Overview)

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. We will be posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, but our PHW blog page will have the discussion posts in full with responses from staff. Just look for […]

Bulletin Insert from PFADP

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friends at People of Faith Against the Death Penalty have provided a bulletin insert for churches interested in helping work to repeal the death penalty. PFADP, which began as a program of the Council, has been a leader in this movement. There has not been an execution in North Carolina since 2006, and leadership by […]

Bulletin Insert from PFADP

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friends at People of Faith Against the Death Penalty have provided a bulletin insert for churches interested in helping work to repeal the death penalty. PFADP, which began as a program of the Council, has been a leader in this movement. There has not been an execution in North Carolina since 2006, and leadership by […]

Preparing the Way: Caring for Creation – A Lenten “Carbon Fast”

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

From Chapter 2 of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Psalm 103: 8-14 (NAB) Merciful and gracious is the Lord, slow to anger, abounding in kindness. God does not […]

Preparing the Way: Caring for Creation – A Lenten “Carbon Fast”

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

From Chapter 2 of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Psalm 103: 8-14 (NAB) Merciful and gracious is the Lord, slow to anger, abounding in kindness. God does not […]

The NRA Takes Aim at Latinos

By chris

In a recent column for the Daily Caller, Wayne LaPierre – the official spokesman for the NRA and a recent witness in Congress – urges his readers to buy more guns to protect themselves from Latinos. Without citing any sources, he launches into this fear-mongering tirade: During the second Obama term, however, additional threats are […]

The NRA Takes Aim at Latinos

by chris

In a recent column for the Daily Caller, Wayne LaPierre – the official spokesman for the NRA and a recent witness in Congress – urges his readers to buy more guns to protect themselves from Latinos. Without citing any sources, he launches into this fear-mongering tirade: During the second Obama term, however, additional threats are […]

Program and Registration for 2013 Legislative Seminar

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

If you are interested in attending, but have not pre-registered, you may call our office at 919-828-6501 on Tuesday, April 9 until 5:00 p.m. Gene Nichol, Director of the Center on Poverty, Work and Opportunity at the UNC-CH School of Law will be the lunch speaker at this year’s Legislative Seminar.The day’s topic for Nichol, who […]

Program and Registration for 2013 Legislative Seminar

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

If you are interested in attending, but have not pre-registered, you may call our office at 919-828-6501 on Tuesday, April 9 until 5:00 p.m. Gene Nichol, Director of the Center on Poverty, Work and Opportunity at the UNC-CH School of Law will be the lunch speaker at this year’s Legislative Seminar.The day’s topic for Nichol, who […]

The Green Bible is a Must Read

By Kathy Shea, Former Senior Advisor - NCIPL

If you haven’t discovered The Green Bible yet, you are in for a joyous surprise. This 2008 edition of the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible is made unique by its emphasis on ecological and environmental themes. Using the technique we all remember from the red letter versions of the King James translation, The […]

The Green Bible is a Must Read

by Kathy Shea, Former Senior Advisor - NCIPL

If you haven’t discovered The Green Bible yet, you are in for a joyous surprise. This 2008 edition of the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible is made unique by its emphasis on ecological and environmental themes. Using the technique we all remember from the red letter versions of the King James translation, The […]

Lectionary: Celebrating Abrahamic Faiths (4th Sunday in Lent)

By chris

From Acts of Faith: Free Lectionary Resources for Prophetic Worship

Date: 4th Sunday in Lent - March 10, 2013
Topic: Celebrating Abrahamic Faiths
Focus Text: 2 Corinthians 5:16-21

From the pastoral reflection: “Nadia dramatically called us into the reality of her life and away from our being disengaged onlookers. Angrily, she described the early morning hours onslaught as she, her husband, and three little children huddled on their bedroom floor, bullets ricocheting around the room for half an hour. They assumed they would die in the hail of gunfire. But surviving the experience, the family began cleaning up their devastated home and quickly recognized the telltale imprint of American military hardware: spent shells that they knew came from American-made equipment."

Lectionary: Celebrating Abrahamic Faiths (4th Sunday in Lent)

by chris

From Acts of Faith: Free Lectionary Resources for Prophetic Worship

Date: 4th Sunday in Lent – March 10, 2013
Topic: Celebrating Abrahamic Faiths
Focus Text: 2 Corinthians 5:16-21

From the pastoral reflection: “Nadia dramatically called us into the reality of her life and away from our being disengaged onlookers. Angrily, she described the early morning hours onslaught as she, her husband, and three little children huddled on their bedroom floor, bullets ricocheting around the room for half an hour. They assumed they would die in the hail of gunfire. But surviving the experience, the family began cleaning up their devastated home and quickly recognized the telltale imprint of American military hardware: spent shells that they knew came from American-made equipment.”

PHW Update: New Funding Opportunity for Congregations

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

The NC Council of Churches is happy to announce a new partnership with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC Foundation to increase access to healthy, local food through the distribution of Healthy Eating Equipment grants in select parts of the state. The grants can be used to support any work around food access, […]

PHW Update: New Funding Opportunity for Congregations

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

The NC Council of Churches is happy to announce a new partnership with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC Foundation to increase access to healthy, local food through the distribution of Healthy Eating Equipment grants in select parts of the state. The grants can be used to support any work around food access, […]

PHW Launches Book Club

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters.  Our first choice of reading will come from the free “Eating Well” NC Council of Churches Food Curriculum.  We will be posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

PHW Launches Book Club

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters.  Our first choice of reading will come from the free “Eating Well” NC Council of Churches Food Curriculum.  We will be posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

Preparing the Way: The Abundance of Enough

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

From Chapter 1 of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Exodus 16:4-8; 13-18 (NRSV) Then the LORD said to Moses, “I am going to rain bread from heaven for […]

Preparing the Way: The Abundance of Enough

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

From Chapter 1 of Preparing the Way: A Social Justice Study for Lent. We’re offering this free resource to you and your congregation as we walk through the season of Lent together. Download the full PDF here. Scripture: Exodus 16:4-8; 13-18 (NRSV) Then the LORD said to Moses, “I am going to rain bread from heaven for […]