Dive Deep into our 90 Year History!

NC Council of Churches

Strength in Unity, Peace through Justice

Get Involved Donate

Council Voices

The Politics of Immigration: Updates from Washington, DC

By chris

Tuesday, September 18 10am-11am Register now You’re invited to join the NC Council of Churches and Church World Service for a free one-hour webinar focusing on immigration at the federal level. Between the recent Supreme Court ruling on Arizona’s SB1070 and the Obama Administration’s announcement of deferred action, Congress has been engaged in a lively […]

The Politics of Immigration: Updates from Washington, DC

by chris

Tuesday, September 18 10am-11am Register now You’re invited to join the NC Council of Churches and Church World Service for a free one-hour webinar focusing on immigration at the federal level. Between the recent Supreme Court ruling on Arizona’s SB1070 and the Obama Administration’s announcement of deferred action, Congress has been engaged in a lively […]

Manage the Unavoidable and Avoid the Unmanageable

By Kathy Shea, Former Senior Advisor - NCIPL

NCIPL is all about helping faith communities find positive responses to climate change. It’s a big mission dealing with an extremely complex and rapidly changing problem. Science tells us that the climate has already changed and is extremely unlikely to change back to the stable conditions I was born into in the middle of the 20th […]

Manage the Unavoidable and Avoid the Unmanageable

by Kathy Shea, Former Senior Advisor - NCIPL

NCIPL is all about helping faith communities find positive responses to climate change. It’s a big mission dealing with an extremely complex and rapidly changing problem. Science tells us that the climate has already changed and is extremely unlikely to change back to the stable conditions I was born into in the middle of the 20th […]

Any Solutions to Farm Labor Shortages?

By Daryn Lane, Former Student Action with Farmworkers Intern

While the July 26 article “N.C. wary of possible farm labor shortage,” in the Raleigh News & Observer, included statistics and testimonies detailing our allegedly pending shortage of farm laborers, it left unstated the obvious conclusion: we can’t have our cake and eat it too. Or in this case, we can’t have our fresh produce and eat it too.

Any Solutions to Farm Labor Shortages?

by Daryn Lane, Former Student Action with Farmworkers Intern

While the July 26 article “N.C. wary of possible farm labor shortage,” in the Raleigh News & Observer, included statistics and testimonies detailing our allegedly pending shortage of farm laborers, it left unstated the obvious conclusion: we can’t have our cake and eat it too. Or in this case, we can’t have our fresh produce and eat it too.

Blue Cross Giving Churches the Tools to Treat Heart Attacks

By Trinh Le, Former Strive to Revive Assistant - Partners in Health and Wholeness

Winston-Salem Journal

Placing defibrillators in houses of worship — including eight in Winston-Salem — is part of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of N.C.'s strategy for extending the reach of health care into community gathering places. The insurer and churches hope there will be a pay-it-forward element from the free CPR training that goes along with the automated external defibrillators. "Most people don't want to be in a helpless place when they see someone having a cardiac arrest," said Bruce Hayes, associate pastor at Reynolda Church.

Blue Cross Giving Churches the Tools to Treat Heart Attacks

Winston-Salem Journal

Placing defibrillators in houses of worship — including eight in Winston-Salem — is part of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of N.C.’s strategy for extending the reach of health care into community gathering places.

The insurer and churches hope there will be a pay-it-forward element from the free CPR training that goes along with the automated external defibrillators.

“Most people don’t want to be in a helpless place when they see someone having a cardiac arrest,” said Bruce Hayes, associate pastor at Reynolda Church.

The Food We Waste

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

You may have seen news yesterday about a just-released report from the Natural Resources Defense Council on food waste. I read the full report – only 26 pages, and eminently readable. Here’s a taste (!) of it: “Food is simply too good to waste. Even the most sustainably farmed food does us no good if […]

The Food We Waste

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

You may have seen news yesterday about a just-released report from the Natural Resources Defense Council on food waste. I read the full report – only 26 pages, and eminently readable. Here’s a taste (!) of it: “Food is simply too good to waste. Even the most sustainably farmed food does us no good if […]

Urge Congress to Promote the Common Good, Protect the Vulnerable

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Laypeople, clergy and organizational leaders can urge Congress to protect programs vital to vulnerable people as well as to protect the country’s economic security by e-mailing their elected leaders or signing on to a letter prepared by the Coalition on Human Needs. The letter calls upon Congress to promote the common good, protect those in need, and […]

Urge Congress to Promote the Common Good, Protect the Vulnerable

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Laypeople, clergy and organizational leaders can urge Congress to protect programs vital to vulnerable people as well as to protect the country’s economic security by e-mailing their elected leaders or signing on to a letter prepared by the Coalition on Human Needs. The letter calls upon Congress to promote the common good, protect those in need, and […]

BCBSNC Grant Funds Defibrillators, Training for Churches

By Trinh Le, Former Strive to Revive Assistant - Partners in Health and Wholeness

Durham-Herald Sun

DURHAM – Over the next three years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina will fund 150 Automated External Defibrillators and training for places of worship across the state, with 33 already lined up. BCBSNC President and CEO J. Bradley Wilson made the announcement Tuesday at First Calvary Baptist Church in Durham along with Strive to Revive partners the American Red Cross, the North Carolina Council of Churches and N.C. Rep. Becky Carney (D-Mecklenburg).

BCBSNC Grant Funds Defibrillators, Training for Churches

Durham-Herald Sun

DURHAM – Over the next three years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina will fund 150 Automated External Defibrillators and training for places of worship across the state, with 33 already lined up. BCBSNC President and CEO J. Bradley Wilson made the announcement Tuesday at First Calvary Baptist Church in Durham along with Strive to Revive partners the American Red Cross, the North Carolina Council of Churches and N.C. Rep. Becky Carney (D-Mecklenburg).

Program Aims To Put Defibrillators In Churches

By Trinh Le, Former Strive to Revive Assistant - Partners in Health and Wholeness

WUNC 91.5 North Carolina Public Radio

Eric Hodge: Several state organizations are banding together give churches the tools to save lives. Gurnal Scott reports. Gurnal Scott: State Representative Becky Carney of Charlotte will never forget April 2nd, 2009..the day a portable defibrillator revived her after a near-fatal heart attack at the General Assembly Rep. Becky Carney: One story can propel a great movement within a community.

Program Aims To Put Defibrillators In Churches

WUNC 91.5 North Carolina Public Radio

Eric Hodge: Several state organizations are banding together give churches the tools to save lives. Gurnal Scott reports.
Gurnal Scott: State Representative Becky Carney of Charlotte will never forget April 2nd, 2009..the day a portable defibrillator revived her after a near-fatal heart attack at the General Assembly
Rep. Becky Carney: One story can propel a great movement within a community.

Warming Climate and Melting Glacier Lead Vatican to Change Ritual

By Kathy Shea, Former Senior Advisor - NCIPL

This piece in National Geographic Daily News is a wake-up call from local mountain dwellers in Europe. The Aletsch glacier is the source of the Rhone River system, and it is melting fast.  In 1674, at the peak of the Little Ice Age, the glacier was growing rapidly and threatening villages. The Catholic Church began an […]

Warming Climate and Melting Glacier Lead Vatican to Change Ritual

by Kathy Shea, Former Senior Advisor - NCIPL

This piece in National Geographic Daily News is a wake-up call from local mountain dwellers in Europe. The Aletsch glacier is the source of the Rhone River system, and it is melting fast.  In 1674, at the peak of the Little Ice Age, the glacier was growing rapidly and threatening villages. The Catholic Church began an […]

Remarks from Strive to Revive

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

The following are some of Executive Director George Reed’s remarks at the statewide launch of the Strive to Revive campaign on August 7: We see preserving health as an issue of faith. We who are Christians follow a religious leader whom we still call “The Great Physician”. Forty percent of the stories in the gospels […]

Remarks from Strive to Revive

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

The following are some of Executive Director George Reed’s remarks at the statewide launch of the Strive to Revive campaign on August 7: We see preserving health as an issue of faith. We who are Christians follow a religious leader whom we still call “The Great Physician”. Forty percent of the stories in the gospels […]

Dynamic Pastor and Determined Teens Lead Together

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Most people don’t think of flying basketballs, high rebounds, and tough competition when you say “I’m meeting with the pastor.” But Dave Halloway, pastor at Godwin Heights Baptist Church in Robeson County, is running some tough b-ball games. Usually, when I meet with pastors, I am dressed up in some fancy outfit with heels. But […]

Dynamic Pastor and Determined Teens Lead Together

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Most people don’t think of flying basketballs, high rebounds, and tough competition when you say “I’m meeting with the pastor.” But Dave Halloway, pastor at Godwin Heights Baptist Church in Robeson County, is running some tough b-ball games. Usually, when I meet with pastors, I am dressed up in some fancy outfit with heels. But […]

Strive to Revive: All Places of Worship Invited to Apply

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Places of worship across North Carolina are invited to apply for a free Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and CPR training through a program called Strive to Revive (STR). STR is a three-year partnership between the North Carolina Council of Churches, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, the American Red Cross and Representative Becky […]

Strive to Revive: All Places of Worship Invited to Apply

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Places of worship across North Carolina are invited to apply for a free Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and CPR training through a program called Strive to Revive (STR). STR is a three-year partnership between the North Carolina Council of Churches, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, the American Red Cross and Representative Becky […]

Registration for PHW Faith and Health Summit

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

Friday, October 10, 2014; 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. Ardmore Baptist Church 501 Miller Street, Winston-Salem Please use the scroll bar to complete entire form and click submit button. Loading…

Registration for PHW Faith and Health Summit

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

Friday, October 10, 2014; 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. Ardmore Baptist Church 501 Miller Street, Winston-Salem Please use the scroll bar to complete entire form and click submit button. Loading…

Drop Everything and Go

By Kathy Shea, Former Senior Advisor - NCIPL

I had a scare last month. My husband and I returned home on our 31st anniversary date to a telephone message from my older sister – my father had been taken to the emergency room with symptoms of stroke. Of course I called immediately and spent the next 14 hours on the phone and internet […]

Drop Everything and Go

by Kathy Shea, Former Senior Advisor - NCIPL

I had a scare last month. My husband and I returned home on our 31st anniversary date to a telephone message from my older sister – my father had been taken to the emergency room with symptoms of stroke. Of course I called immediately and spent the next 14 hours on the phone and internet […]

Prayers for Our Sisters and Brothers in Wisconsin

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches joins with our sisters and brothers in Wisconsin to mourn Sunday’s horrific actions against a Sikh faith community peacefully gathered in their house of worship. We join with them in prayer for those injured and killed, for their families and loved ones, for peace and respect of all God’s […]

Prayers for Our Sisters and Brothers in Wisconsin

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches joins with our sisters and brothers in Wisconsin to mourn Sunday’s horrific actions against a Sikh faith community peacefully gathered in their house of worship. We join with them in prayer for those injured and killed, for their families and loved ones, for peace and respect of all God’s […]

Win Your Own Olympic Gold

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Are you following the Olympics? I am just amazed at the beauty and grace of the swimmers, the gymnasts, the volleyball players and so many others. I dreamily imagine myself being the one in those races trying to beat the Olympic record and going for the gold. And on Monday, July 30, the third day […]

Win Your Own Olympic Gold

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Are you following the Olympics? I am just amazed at the beauty and grace of the swimmers, the gymnasts, the volleyball players and so many others. I dreamily imagine myself being the one in those races trying to beat the Olympic record and going for the gold. And on Monday, July 30, the third day […]

Immigrants Are People (despite what the news tells you)

By Tim Hetzel, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

“So God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them…God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good” (Genesis 1:27, 31) “But our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Savior, the Lord […]

Immigrants Are People (despite what the news tells you)

by Tim Hetzel, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

“So God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them…God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good” (Genesis 1:27, 31) “But our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Savior, the Lord […]

PHW Collaborates to Promote Good Health in Troy

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Cindy Taylor and Sheila Menendez of Troy, NC planned a spectacular day of taste testing and health pledge signing. Their respective organizations, Bodies for Christ United and Montgomery County Farmers Market Association,  worked with Partners in Health and Wholeness to promote health among people of faith on July 19 in Troy. PHW led a children’s ‘Be […]

PHW Collaborates to Promote Good Health in Troy

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Cindy Taylor and Sheila Menendez of Troy, NC planned a spectacular day of taste testing and health pledge signing. Their respective organizations, Bodies for Christ United and Montgomery County Farmers Market Association,  worked with Partners in Health and Wholeness to promote health among people of faith on July 19 in Troy. PHW led a children’s ‘Be […]

The Affordable Care Act’s Prognosis for Farmworkers

By Daryn Lane, Former Student Action with Farmworkers Intern

Every day, about 243 agricultural workers suffer injuries that cost them work time; about five percent of these injuries result in permanent impairment. Agriculture consistently ranks among the three most hazardous industries in the United States. In 2008, the National Safety Council ranked it as the most dangerous industry, and the U.S. Department of Labor […]

The Affordable Care Act’s Prognosis for Farmworkers

by Daryn Lane, Former Student Action with Farmworkers Intern

Every day, about 243 agricultural workers suffer injuries that cost them work time; about five percent of these injuries result in permanent impairment. Agriculture consistently ranks among the three most hazardous industries in the United States. In 2008, the National Safety Council ranked it as the most dangerous industry, and the U.S. Department of Labor […]

PHW ‘Be A Star’ Children’s Event On July 19 in Troy

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Sizzling pans and laughing children will fill the Troy Farmers Market on July 19. Tomato Day at the market will feature local tomato-recipe tastings.  And Partners in Health and Wholeness will co-sponsor a free children’s Be A Star event where children can place stars on a Montgomery County map of places where healthy eating or physical activity is […]

PHW ‘Be A Star’ Children’s Event On July 19 in Troy

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Sizzling pans and laughing children will fill the Troy Farmers Market on July 19. Tomato Day at the market will feature local tomato-recipe tastings.  And Partners in Health and Wholeness will co-sponsor a free children’s Be A Star event where children can place stars on a Montgomery County map of places where healthy eating or physical activity is […]

Local Farmers Supported by People of Faith

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

What do you think of when I say ‘faith and health’? Maybe a congregation exercising together or changing their diet? How about members of a faith community visiting a Farmers Market and supporting local farmers? That’s what Partners in Health and Wholeness is encouraging through its most recent outreach. On June 28, PHW set up […]

Local Farmers Supported by People of Faith

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

What do you think of when I say ‘faith and health’? Maybe a congregation exercising together or changing their diet? How about members of a faith community visiting a Farmers Market and supporting local farmers? That’s what Partners in Health and Wholeness is encouraging through its most recent outreach. On June 28, PHW set up […]

A Bad Day for Veto Overrides

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The General Assembly on Monday overrode Governor Perdue’s vetoes of three bills. By doing so they gutted the Racial Justice Act, revised the budget for 2012-13, and moved ahead with fracking. The outcome was not in doubt in the Senate. In fact, several Senate Democrats had excused absences and didn’t even show up for the votes. The drama was in the House.

A Bad Day for Veto Overrides

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The General Assembly on Monday overrode Governor Perdue’s vetoes of three bills. By doing so they gutted the Racial Justice Act, revised the budget for 2012-13, and moved ahead with fracking. The outcome was not in doubt in the Senate. In fact, several Senate Democrats had excused absences and didn’t even show up for the votes. The drama was in the House.

Racial Justice Act Supporters Push to Sustain Veto of New Bill

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The News & Observer

Death penalty opponents and advocates of the state’s Racial Justice Act have embarked on an intense petition drive, letter-writing and email campaign, targeting five Democrats in the state House of Representatives. The goal is to persuade the representatives to sustain the governor’s Thursday veto of the legislature’s overhaul of the Racial Justice Act.

Racial Justice Act Supporters Push to Sustain Veto of New Bill

The News & Observer

Death penalty opponents and advocates of the state’s Racial Justice Act have embarked on an intense petition drive, letter-writing and email campaign, targeting five Democrats in the state House of Representatives.

The goal is to persuade the representatives to sustain the governor’s Thursday veto of the legislature’s overhaul of the Racial Justice Act.

Health On Earth

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The News & Observer

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

Health On Earth

The News & Observer

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

Help Sustain the Governor’s Veto of the Gutted Racial Justice Act

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We applaud Governor Beverly Perdue for her veto of a rewritten Racial Justice Act that had been gutted of key provisions. The Council has long worked for fairness in our criminal justice system and the RJA currently in effect is a much-needed step in that direction. Racial bias has no place in our judicial system, […]

Help Sustain the Governor’s Veto of the Gutted Racial Justice Act

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We applaud Governor Beverly Perdue for her veto of a rewritten Racial Justice Act that had been gutted of key provisions. The Council has long worked for fairness in our criminal justice system and the RJA currently in effect is a much-needed step in that direction. Racial bias has no place in our judicial system, […]

North Carolina: Don’t Follow Arizona

By chris

Sojourners | God's Politics

The recent ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court should put to rest any notion of North Carolina trying to enact an Arizona- or Alabama-style immigration bill. While we remain concerned that the ruling could leave the door open for legalized racial profiling, the Court has made clear that immigration policy and enforcement should be left up to the federal government.

North Carolina: Don’t Follow Arizona

Sojourners | God’s Politics

The recent ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court should put to rest any notion of North Carolina trying to enact an Arizona- or Alabama-style immigration bill. While we remain concerned that the ruling could leave the door open for legalized racial profiling, the Court has made clear that immigration policy and enforcement should be left up to the federal government.

Health Care for All God’s Children — ACA Upheld

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches rejoices in today’s ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding the Affordable Care Act (ACA) which affirms the decades-long work and concerns of the NCCC for those without health care. This decision means that millions who had no health insurance and thus restricted health care will have their needs met. […]

Health Care for All God’s Children — ACA Upheld

The NC Council of Churches rejoices in today’s ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding the Affordable Care Act (ACA) which affirms the decades-long work and concerns of the NCCC for those without health care. This decision means that millions who had no health insurance and thus restricted health care will have their needs met. […]

For Young Farmworkers, No Time for Homework

By Daryn Lane, Former Student Action with Farmworkers Intern

At a farmworker camp this past week, sitting on the ground with a plate of rice and tortillas in my lap, I glanced around at the faces of my dinner companions. We were about to begin our theater group’s inaugural performance as a part of Student Action With Farmworkers’ Into The Fields summer internship. During […]

For Young Farmworkers, No Time for Homework

by Daryn Lane, Former Student Action with Farmworkers Intern

At a farmworker camp this past week, sitting on the ground with a plate of rice and tortillas in my lap, I glanced around at the faces of my dinner companions. We were about to begin our theater group’s inaugural performance as a part of Student Action With Farmworkers’ Into The Fields summer internship. During […]

Rally at the Governor’s Mansion for a Fracking Veto

By Richard Fireman, Former NCIPL Public Policy Advisor

Please join a broad coalition of concerned citizens, business leaders, local elected officials and people of faith Wednesday, June 27, at 6:15 pm, across the street from the Governor’s Mansion, 200 North Blount Street in Raleigh for a rally and press conference. Many will speak to the technical, safety, regulatory, environmental, health, and economic reasons that the […]

Rally at the Governor’s Mansion for a Fracking Veto

by Richard Fireman, Former NCIPL Public Policy Advisor

Please join a broad coalition of concerned citizens, business leaders, local elected officials and people of faith Wednesday, June 27, at 6:15 pm, across the street from the Governor’s Mansion, 200 North Blount Street in Raleigh for a rally and press conference. Many will speak to the technical, safety, regulatory, environmental, health, and economic reasons that the […]

Help Needed to Fight Repeal of the Racial Justice Act

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The following is from the NC Coalition for a Moratorium and the Carolina Justice Policy Center. The fate of the Racial Justice Act probably rests with the three representatives listed below. The Governor’s veto could come at any time and the override vote could happen shortly thereafter, so please don’t delay in making these contacts, […]

Help Needed to Fight Repeal of the Racial Justice Act

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The following is from the NC Coalition for a Moratorium and the Carolina Justice Policy Center. The fate of the Racial Justice Act probably rests with the three representatives listed below. The Governor’s veto could come at any time and the override vote could happen shortly thereafter, so please don’t delay in making these contacts, […]

Ask the Governor to Veto Fracking Bill

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The General Assembly has passed S 820 and sent it to the Governor. This is the bill that would move North Carolina farther down the road toward extraction of natural gas by hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling, a technique which has had serious impact on health, environment, and safety in other states.  Suggested Action: Call […]

Ask the Governor to Veto Fracking Bill

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The General Assembly has passed S 820 and sent it to the Governor. This is the bill that would move North Carolina farther down the road toward extraction of natural gas by hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling, a technique which has had serious impact on health, environment, and safety in other states.  Suggested Action: Call […]

Our Response to the Supreme Court Ruling on Immigration

By chris

Today’s ruling by the Supreme Court should put to rest any notion of North Carolina trying to enact an Arizona- or Alabama-style immigration bill. While we remain concerned that the ruling could leave the door open for legalized racial profiling, the Court has made clear that immigration policy and enforcement should be left up to the federal government.

Here at the NC Council of Churches we see how faith communities are putting their faith into action every day, ministering at the front lines of the immigration debate by offering English courses, meals, job training, and pastoral care to people facing very challenging situations.

Our Response to the Supreme Court Ruling on Immigration

by chris

Today’s ruling by the Supreme Court should put to rest any notion of North Carolina trying to enact an Arizona- or Alabama-style immigration bill. While we remain concerned that the ruling could leave the door open for legalized racial profiling, the Court has made clear that immigration policy and enforcement should be left up to the federal government.

Here at the NC Council of Churches we see how faith communities are putting their faith into action every day, ministering at the front lines of the immigration debate by offering English courses, meals, job training, and pastoral care to people facing very challenging situations.

Stop Hunger Now Meals Packaged with Help from Council Supporters

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Young people from Charlotte had the opportunity to pack meals with Stop Hunger Now thanks to Council supporters. A meal-packaging event originally scheduled after the Council’s April Critical Issues Seminar in Winston-Salem had to be cancelled, but a number of those who had paid to participate allowed SHN to keep their registration fee and use it […]

Stop Hunger Now Meals Packaged with Help from Council Supporters

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Young people from Charlotte had the opportunity to pack meals with Stop Hunger Now thanks to Council supporters. A meal-packaging event originally scheduled after the Council’s April Critical Issues Seminar in Winston-Salem had to be cancelled, but a number of those who had paid to participate allowed SHN to keep their registration fee and use it […]

Seven Risk Factors to Monitor Your Health

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Did you know that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for Americans? In fact, more than 800,000 people die a year (one in three overall deaths).  The American Heart Association (AHA) lists ‘Life Simple 7’ which are risk factors to help monitor cardiovascular health.  These seven risk factors are not smoking; being physically active; having normal blood pressure, […]

Seven Risk Factors to Monitor Your Health

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Did you know that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for Americans? In fact, more than 800,000 people die a year (one in three overall deaths).  The American Heart Association (AHA) lists ‘Life Simple 7’ which are risk factors to help monitor cardiovascular health.  These seven risk factors are not smoking; being physically active; having normal blood pressure, […]

Rio+20 and The Climate is Changed!

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

One of my friends just posted this amazing YouTube video of Severn Suzuki who, at age 12, addressed the United Nations at the first Earth Summit in Rio twenty years ago.  Her words ring out with perfect clarity now as they did then, except that the world has done little to heed her child-heart call. […]

Rio+20 and The Climate is Changed!

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

One of my friends just posted this amazing YouTube video of Severn Suzuki who, at age 12, addressed the United Nations at the first Earth Summit in Rio twenty years ago.  Her words ring out with perfect clarity now as they did then, except that the world has done little to heed her child-heart call. […]

Raleigh Report — House Votes to Gut Racial Justice Act

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The House of Representatives has voted 73-47 to gut the Racial Justice Act. The vote was on S 416, a bill originally about using tire retreads on school buses. The House stripped out the original content and replaced it with language limiting the use of statistical evidence to show racial bias in the death penalty. […]

Raleigh Report — House Votes to Gut Racial Justice Act

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The House of Representatives has voted 73-47 to gut the Racial Justice Act. The vote was on S 416, a bill originally about using tire retreads on school buses. The House stripped out the original content and replaced it with language limiting the use of statistical evidence to show racial bias in the death penalty. […]

More than 400 Voices Against Anti-Gay Rhetoric

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Thank you. Since last month, more than 400 of you have signed onto a statement rejecting toxic and offensive words being preached against gays and lesbians. You said that that pastors responsible for anti-gay rhetoric did not represent you or your faith. In the words of  Martin Luther King Jr., “Our lives begin to end the […]

More than 400 Voices Against Anti-Gay Rhetoric

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Thank you. Since last month, more than 400 of you have signed onto a statement rejecting toxic and offensive words being preached against gays and lesbians. You said that that pastors responsible for anti-gay rhetoric did not represent you or your faith. In the words of  Martin Luther King Jr., “Our lives begin to end the […]

Farm Bill Amendments Would Cut SNAP; Disproportionately Impact Latino Children

By Daryn Lane, Former Student Action with Farmworkers Intern

Last week, while senators in Washington indicated their overwhelming support for the Farm Bill through a preliminary floor vote, farmworker families throughout the Southeastern U.S. toiled long hours in the summer heat. After 14-hour days in the fields, many farmworkers return home pesticide-ridden, underpaid and empty-handed -- financially unable to provide adequate food for themselves and the hungry mouths that await them.

Farm Bill Amendments Would Cut SNAP; Disproportionately Impact Latino Children

by Daryn Lane, Former Student Action with Farmworkers Intern

Last week, while senators in Washington indicated their overwhelming support for the Farm Bill through a preliminary floor vote, farmworker families throughout the Southeastern U.S. toiled long hours in the summer heat. After 14-hour days in the fields, many farmworkers return home pesticide-ridden, underpaid and empty-handed — financially unable to provide adequate food for themselves and the hungry mouths that await them.

Council Welcomes Interns for the Summer

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Once again this summer, the Council will benefit from the talents of outstanding young people who come to us as interns. In prior years, interns have made a lasting contribution to the mission and work of the Council, and we expect no less from this group. A bit of information about each intern is below […]

Council Welcomes Interns for the Summer

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Once again this summer, the Council will benefit from the talents of outstanding young people who come to us as interns. In prior years, interns have made a lasting contribution to the mission and work of the Council, and we expect no less from this group. A bit of information about each intern is below […]

Praise Dancing Reaps Benefits

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Mary Swann and Yvonne McGraw have taken an active leadership role in forming the Pee Dee Baptist Association Health Coalition. They have been gathering at least once a month since December 2011 to talk about health and faith. During their most recent gathering in May, members of the coalition did something different. They praised dance for […]

Praise Dancing Reaps Benefits

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Mary Swann and Yvonne McGraw have taken an active leadership role in forming the Pee Dee Baptist Association Health Coalition. They have been gathering at least once a month since December 2011 to talk about health and faith. During their most recent gathering in May, members of the coalition did something different. They praised dance for […]

Raleigh Report June 12 Update

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

George Reed, Editor Robert L. Mason, Intern Associate Fracking Clean Energy and Economic Security Act Domestic Energy Policy Underground Injection Ban Fracking Contracts/Against Public Policy Sale of Children Senate’s Budget Fracking Hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking,” is a natural gas extraction process that uses high-pressure fluids to open up fractures in gas-bearing rock formations.[1] This extraction […]

Raleigh Report June 12 Update

by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

George Reed, Editor Robert L. Mason, Intern Associate Fracking Clean Energy and Economic Security Act Domestic Energy Policy Underground Injection Ban Fracking Contracts/Against Public Policy Sale of Children Senate’s Budget Fracking Hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking,” is a natural gas extraction process that uses high-pressure fluids to open up fractures in gas-bearing rock formations.[1] This extraction […]

Who is My Neighbor?

By Tim Hetzel, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

When our three-year-old runs off to another part of the house to play and suddenly becomes quiet, you know that she is either very focused on whatever she is playing with or has done something she shouldn’t have. In either case, something is going on. Well, here in the office of the North Carolina Council […]

Who is My Neighbor?

by Tim Hetzel, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

When our three-year-old runs off to another part of the house to play and suddenly becomes quiet, you know that she is either very focused on whatever she is playing with or has done something she shouldn’t have. In either case, something is going on. Well, here in the office of the North Carolina Council […]

Affirming Principles of Concern for the Poor and Vulnerable

By North Carolina Council of Churches

Statement Affirming the Principles of Concern for the Poor and the Vulnerable as Made More Visible by the “Occupy” and Other Movements Approved June 5, 2012 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches In recent months, there have been numerous stories in the media about groups in this country and around […]

Affirming Principles of Concern for the Poor and Vulnerable

by North Carolina Council of Churches

Statement Affirming the Principles of Concern for the Poor and the Vulnerable as Made More Visible by the “Occupy” and Other Movements Approved June 5, 2012 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches In recent months, there have been numerous stories in the media about groups in this country and around […]

On the Importance of the State’s Public Health System

By North Carolina Council of Churches

Adopted by the Governing Board, June 5, 2012 The Issue For more than four decades now, the North Carolina Council of Churches has been fighting to protect the health of people of faith and all North Carolinians by advocating for universal health care; quality long-term care for the elderly; sustained funding for mental health, developmental […]

On the Importance of the State’s Public Health System

by North Carolina Council of Churches

Adopted by the Governing Board, June 5, 2012 The Issue For more than four decades now, the North Carolina Council of Churches has been fighting to protect the health of people of faith and all North Carolinians by advocating for universal health care; quality long-term care for the elderly; sustained funding for mental health, developmental […]

Raleigh Report: Racial Justice Act Veto Override and Lobby Day to Stop Fracking Bill

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Two time-sensitive issues for advocates: 1) A vote to override the Governor’s veto of the Racial Justice Act could come up any time. 2) There is a lobby day tomorrow in opposition to fracking. We will send more information on fracking, including other related bills, later in the week. If you cannot attend the lobby […]

Raleigh Report: Racial Justice Act Veto Override and Lobby Day to Stop Fracking Bill

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Two time-sensitive issues for advocates: 1) A vote to override the Governor’s veto of the Racial Justice Act could come up any time. 2) There is a lobby day tomorrow in opposition to fracking. We will send more information on fracking, including other related bills, later in the week. If you cannot attend the lobby […]

Spring Appeal Is Underway

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Intern and Duke Divinity School student Lisa Talbott learned a lot in her year working on social justice issues with the Council. It was a physical journey, from Alaska to North Carolina, and a spiritual one, as well. Lisa agreed to write the Council’s spring appeal letter because she felt so strongly about her work […]

Spring Appeal Is Underway

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Intern and Duke Divinity School student Lisa Talbott learned a lot in her year working on social justice issues with the Council. It was a physical journey, from Alaska to North Carolina, and a spiritual one, as well. Lisa agreed to write the Council’s spring appeal letter because she felt so strongly about her work […]

Raleigh Report – June 1, 2012

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The General Assembly leadership is committed to having this short session truly be short, and there’s talk of adjourning by early July. In fact, an adjournment resolution was introduced yesterday with a target date of June 19. This session, which starts in May of even-numbered years, is primarily to tweak the second year of the budget adopted the year before. In addition, certain bills which were introduced last year (mostly ones which passed in one house) can be considered. For a new bill to be introduced this year, it must fit into one of a few specific categories, with most new bills having to do with budgetary matters or coming from a study commission which met during the interim. Finally, pending veto overrides are also thought by the House and Senate leadership to be eligible for consideration.

Also in this Raleigh Report: Guns in Church, Gambling, Death Penalty, Boards and Commissions and more.

Raleigh Report – June 1, 2012

by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The General Assembly leadership is committed to having this short session truly be short, and there’s talk of adjourning by early July. In fact, an adjournment resolution was introduced yesterday with a target date of June 19. This session, which starts in May of even-numbered years, is primarily to tweak the second year of the budget adopted the year before. In addition, certain bills which were introduced last year (mostly ones which passed in one house) can be considered. For a new bill to be introduced this year, it must fit into one of a few specific categories, with most new bills having to do with budgetary matters or coming from a study commission which met during the interim. Finally, pending veto overrides are also thought by the House and Senate leadership to be eligible for consideration.


Also in this Raleigh Report: Guns in Church, Gambling, Death Penalty, Boards and Commissions and more.

County clergy meet, talk immigration

By chris

Goldsboro News-Argus

Immigration is not just a political issue — it is about life and death, an advocate who works with churches told Wayne County clergy Tuesday. Chris Liu-Beers, program associate with the North Carolina Council of Churches, met with 17 local religious leaders during a special breakfast designed to encourage conversations about the topic and how churches can play a role.

One of those sharing his experiences with the immigrant community was the Rev. John Richardson, a regional minister with the Christian Church, Disciples of Christ. He equated the immigration issue to the story of the Good Samaritan in the Bible.

County clergy meet, talk immigration

Goldsboro News-Argus

Immigration is not just a political issue — it is about life and death, an advocate who works with churches told Wayne County clergy Tuesday. Chris Liu-Beers, program associate with the North Carolina Council of Churches, met with 17 local religious leaders during a special breakfast designed to encourage conversations about the topic and how churches can play a role.

One of those sharing his experiences with the immigrant community was the Rev. John Richardson, a regional minister with the Christian Church, Disciples of Christ. He equated the immigration issue to the story of the Good Samaritan in the Bible.

Legislative Advocacy Toolkit Now Available

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A Legislative Advocacy Toolkit is now available from the Council. The toolkit provides a wealth of information for people of faith who want to be effective as grass-roots lobbyists, especially with the state’s General Assembly. Information includes how to register and vote, how to get information on a bill, how to contact your legislators (and […]

Legislative Advocacy Toolkit Now Available

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A Legislative Advocacy Toolkit is now available from the Council. The toolkit provides a wealth of information for people of faith who want to be effective as grass-roots lobbyists, especially with the state’s General Assembly. Information includes how to register and vote, how to get information on a bill, how to contact your legislators (and […]

Church Council Bulletin, Spring 2012

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Spring 2012 Church Council Bulletin includes photographs from the Council’s recent Critical Issues Seminar, an update on items of interest in the General Assembly’s short session, a statement on the passage of Amendment One, the Council’s spring appeal, and more.

Church Council Bulletin, Spring 2012

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Spring 2012 Church Council Bulletin includes photographs from the Council’s recent Critical Issues Seminar, an update on items of interest in the General Assembly’s short session, a statement on the passage of Amendment One, the Council’s spring appeal, and more.

Lifelong Commitments

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A couple of weeks ago, Steve Ford, editor of the editorial page of the Raleigh News & Observer, wrote an excellent piece about Amendment One. As I commented to him, I was really impressed with his column even before I saw that he had affirmed the NC Council of Churches and quoted me! You can […]

Lifelong Commitments

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A couple of weeks ago, Steve Ford, editor of the editorial page of the Raleigh News & Observer, wrote an excellent piece about Amendment One. As I commented to him, I was really impressed with his column even before I saw that he had affirmed the NC Council of Churches and quoted me! You can […]

Speak Out Against Anti-Gay Rhetoric

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

In light of this week’s news of a North Carolina pastor calling for people who are gay or lesbian to be rounded up and fenced in – concentration-camp-like – along with other toxic anti-gay statements attributed to some pastors during the recent Amendment One campaign, the NC Council of Churches is reiterating a critical point. […]

Speak Out Against Anti-Gay Rhetoric

by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

In light of this week’s news of a North Carolina pastor calling for people who are gay or lesbian to be rounded up and fenced in – concentration-camp-like – along with other toxic anti-gay statements attributed to some pastors during the recent Amendment One campaign, the NC Council of Churches is reiterating a critical point. […]

Raleigh Report — May 18 Update

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The General Assembly convened this past Wednesday for its regular “short session.” As always, the primary purpose of the short session is to tweak the budget for the fiscal year that starts on July 1, but there are several other important issues either still rattling around from last year or being newly introduced. Because we […]

Raleigh Report — May 18 Update

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The General Assembly convened this past Wednesday for its regular “short session.” As always, the primary purpose of the short session is to tweak the budget for the fiscal year that starts on July 1, but there are several other important issues either still rattling around from last year or being newly introduced. Because we […]

How Much Do You Know About Farmworkers?

By chris

Farmworkers feed the world, but too often their contributions to our society go unnoticed. How much do you know about the people behind the food we eat? Take our interactive quiz and see how you score!

How Much Do You Know About Farmworkers?

by chris

Farmworkers feed the world, but too often their contributions to our society go unnoticed. How much do you know about the people behind the food we eat? Take our interactive quiz and see how you score!

The Fierce Urgency of Now

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Martin Luther King Jr.’s phrase “the fierce urgency of now,” articulated in his 1967 sermon, “Beyond Vietnam: A Time to Break Silence”, is more relevant now than ever. Although the context is different (in 1967 King spoke of violence towards races and nations, now we recognize that our violence extents to the earth itself), the […]

The Fierce Urgency of Now

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Martin Luther King Jr.’s phrase “the fierce urgency of now,” articulated in his 1967 sermon, “Beyond Vietnam: A Time to Break Silence”, is more relevant now than ever. Although the context is different (in 1967 King spoke of violence towards races and nations, now we recognize that our violence extents to the earth itself), the […]

2012 Faith & Immigration Statewide Summit

By chris

Click here to register now | Regístrate Ahora Presented in partnership with Cooperative Baptist Fellowship – NC. This is a fully bilingual event (English & Spanish). Details in English are below. Download the bilingual event flyer here. Event Details: Friday, October 12 8:30am-4pm United Church of Chapel Hill 1321 Martin Luther King Junior Blvd Chapel Hill, […]

2012 Faith & Immigration Statewide Summit

by chris

Click here to register now | Regístrate Ahora Presented in partnership with Cooperative Baptist Fellowship – NC. This is a fully bilingual event (English & Spanish). Details in English are below. Download the bilingual event flyer here. Event Details: Friday, October 12 8:30am-4pm United Church of Chapel Hill 1321 Martin Luther King Junior Blvd Chapel Hill, […]

Upcoming Legislative Days and a Revenue Plan

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Several additional legislative days have been announced. Among them are: HKonJ, People of Color Justice and Unity Legislative Day is Wednesday, May 23. The opening session will be at Raleigh’s First Baptist Church on Wilmington Street at 9:00. The group will then march to the General Assembly Building, where there will be a press conference […]

Upcoming Legislative Days and a Revenue Plan

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Several additional legislative days have been announced. Among them are: HKonJ, People of Color Justice and Unity Legislative Day is Wednesday, May 23. The opening session will be at Raleigh’s First Baptist Church on Wilmington Street at 9:00. The group will then march to the General Assembly Building, where there will be a press conference […]

Statement on Passage of Amendment One

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In light of yesterday’s vote to add a discriminatory amendment about marriage to our state’s constitution, it is important to consider what was accomplished through this campaign and what it tells us about progress. First, the fine work of a committed group of people has resulted in alliances and coalitions that hadn’t existed before. People […]

Statement on Passage of Amendment One

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In light of yesterday’s vote to add a discriminatory amendment about marriage to our state’s constitution, it is important to consider what was accomplished through this campaign and what it tells us about progress. First, the fine work of a committed group of people has resulted in alliances and coalitions that hadn’t existed before. People […]

Care of Creation Faith Message Has Legs on Capitol Hill

By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Susannah Tuttle and I had the privilege of representing NCIPL at the annual meeting of Interfaith Power & Light last week in Washington, DC. We spent two days immersed in heady discussions with other state leaders about our mutual work with congregations all across the nation – finding ways to respond positively to the theological […]

Care of Creation Faith Message Has Legs on Capitol Hill

by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Susannah Tuttle and I had the privilege of representing NCIPL at the annual meeting of Interfaith Power & Light last week in Washington, DC. We spent two days immersed in heady discussions with other state leaders about our mutual work with congregations all across the nation – finding ways to respond positively to the theological […]

Reed’s Full Radio Interview Against Amendment One

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Executive Director George Reed’s full interview with NC Policy Watch from Sunday is now available here.  In it, Reed explains the Council’s opposition to Amendment One. People of faith who have not yet voted can make their voices heard on May 8 and prevent this discriminatory amendment from becoming part of the North Carolina Constitution. — […]

Reed’s Full Radio Interview Against Amendment One

Executive Director George Reed’s full interview with NC Policy Watch from Sunday is now available here.  In it, Reed explains the Council’s opposition to Amendment One. People of faith who have not yet voted can make their voices heard on May 8 and prevent this discriminatory amendment from becoming part of the North Carolina Constitution. — […]

Reed Explains Council’s Opposition to Amendment One on Sunday Radio Show

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Hear George Reed explain the Council’s opposition to Amendment One on Sunday morning’s News & Views hosted by Chris Fitzsimon of NC Policy Watch. The program airs at 7 a.m. on WRAL 101.5 and at 7:30 a.m. on WCMC 99.9. For those who miss it, check the Council website on Monday for an MP3 of […]

Reed Explains Council’s Opposition to Amendment One on Sunday Radio Show

Hear George Reed explain the Council’s opposition to Amendment One on Sunday morning’s News & Views hosted by Chris Fitzsimon of NC Policy Watch. The program airs at 7 a.m. on WRAL 101.5 and at 7:30 a.m. on WCMC 99.9. For those who miss it, check the Council website on Monday for an MP3 of […]

Keep Discrimination Out of the NC Constitution — Vote May 8

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Council Friends— I am writing you with a last-minute appeal to get to the polls for next Tuesday’s election, when voters decide whether to amend the state constitution, defining marriage between a man and a woman as “the only domestic legal union” inNorth Carolina. In addition to inserting discrimination based on sexual orientation into our […]

Keep Discrimination Out of the NC Constitution — Vote May 8

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Council Friends— I am writing you with a last-minute appeal to get to the polls for next Tuesday’s election, when voters decide whether to amend the state constitution, defining marriage between a man and a woman as “the only domestic legal union” inNorth Carolina. In addition to inserting discrimination based on sexual orientation into our […]

Exciting Updates from PHW

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are happy to announce that the North Carolina Council of Churches’ Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Initiative has received continued support from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation. This enables PHW’s continued work to improve the health of clergy and congregants through faith-based health promotion over the next three […]

Exciting Updates from PHW

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are happy to announce that the North Carolina Council of Churches’ Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Initiative has received continued support from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation. This enables PHW’s continued work to improve the health of clergy and congregants through faith-based health promotion over the next three […]

“Eating Well” at the Critical Issues Seminar

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I have helped to make the arrangements for the food served at Council meetings for ten years. But the 2012 Critical Issues Seminar was different. In staff meetings leading up to the recent Eating Well: For Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet Critical Issues Seminar, one remark kept coming up. “We have to be […]

“Eating Well” at the Critical Issues Seminar

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I have helped to make the arrangements for the food served at Council meetings for ten years. But the 2012 Critical Issues Seminar was different. In staff meetings leading up to the recent Eating Well: For Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet Critical Issues Seminar, one remark kept coming up. “We have to be […]

Being Crazy Christians

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

It was a beautiful day spent at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winston-Salem on April 19.  I was there for the annual NC Council of Churches Critical Issues Seminar; this year’s theme was, Eating Well for Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet.  The Right Rev. Michael Curry, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, […]

Being Crazy Christians

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

It was a beautiful day spent at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winston-Salem on April 19.  I was there for the annual NC Council of Churches Critical Issues Seminar; this year’s theme was, Eating Well for Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet.  The Right Rev. Michael Curry, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, […]

“You don’t have to take my word for it.”

By Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

The Critical Issues Seminar has come and gone, and with it goes the end of my internship with the NC Council of Churches. The Council was not the sort of place I was expecting to end up in a social work internship. I have been researching and writing instead of assessing and treating. Despite this […]

“You don’t have to take my word for it.”

by Leslie Ware, Anti-Torture Project Coordinator

The Critical Issues Seminar has come and gone, and with it goes the end of my internship with the NC Council of Churches. The Council was not the sort of place I was expecting to end up in a social work internship. I have been researching and writing instead of assessing and treating. Despite this […]

Father Joe Vetter Receives the 2012 Distinguished Service Award

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On April 19, Father Joe Vetter received the Council’s Distinguished Service Award during lunchtime ceremonies at the 2012 Critical Issues Seminar.  After Council President Stan Kimer offered the following remarks in presenting the award, Father Joe was greeted with a standing ovation for his years of service. Every year, the North Carolina Council of Churches presents […]

Father Joe Vetter Receives the 2012 Distinguished Service Award

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On April 19, Father Joe Vetter received the Council’s Distinguished Service Award during lunchtime ceremonies at the 2012 Critical Issues Seminar.  After Council President Stan Kimer offered the following remarks in presenting the award, Father Joe was greeted with a standing ovation for his years of service. Every year, the North Carolina Council of Churches presents […]

Clergy Engage Constitutional Amendment Debate

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Durham Herald-Sun

The ballot referendum that could cement the definition of marriage as “the only domestic legal union” into the state Constitution has turned a political debate into a religious one — and is mustering people of faith across North Carolina to the polls.

Clergy Engage Constitutional Amendment Debate

Durham Herald-Sun

The ballot referendum that could cement the definition of marriage as “the only domestic legal union” into the state Constitution has turned a political debate into a religious one — and is mustering people of faith across North Carolina to the polls.

Early Voting and Amendment One

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Early voting is now under way for North Carolina’s May 8 primary. Between now and May 5, you can vote if you are already registered, and you can register and vote at the same time (one-stop voting) if you are not already registered. To find out the places and hours for early voting in your […]

Early Voting and Amendment One

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Early voting is now under way for North Carolina’s May 8 primary. Between now and May 5, you can vote if you are already registered, and you can register and vote at the same time (one-stop voting) if you are not already registered. To find out the places and hours for early voting in your […]

Ruling on Lead NC Racial Justice Act Case

By chris

The lead case applying the historic and ground-breaking NC Racial Justice Act (RJA) concluded today with a judicial finding of race discrimination in the operation of the death penalty in North Carolina. North Carolina Superior Court Judge Gregory Weeks found that prosecutors deliberately excluded qualified black jurors from jury service in death row inmate Marcus […]

Ruling on Lead NC Racial Justice Act Case

by chris

The lead case applying the historic and ground-breaking NC Racial Justice Act (RJA) concluded today with a judicial finding of race discrimination in the operation of the death penalty in North Carolina. North Carolina Superior Court Judge Gregory Weeks found that prosecutors deliberately excluded qualified black jurors from jury service in death row inmate Marcus […]

Lectionary: Interfaith Connections (4th Sunday of Easter)

By chris

From Acts of Faith: Free Lectionary Resources for Prophetic Worship
Date: 4th Sunday after Easter, April 29, 2012
Topic: Interfaith Connections
Focus Text: John 10:11-18
From the pastoral reflection: In 21st century North Carolina we have many and various ways to come into contact with “other sheep.” Will we stick to our own kind, work to create a Christian enclave where we feel safe and secure, free from any risk? Or, will we be the welcoming face, the open hands, the purposeful feet, and the compassionate voice of Christ in the world so that all may know the love of God?

Lectionary: Interfaith Connections (4th Sunday of Easter)

by chris

From Acts of Faith: Free Lectionary Resources for Prophetic Worship
Date: 4th Sunday after Easter, April 29, 2012
Topic: Interfaith Connections
Focus Text: John 10:11-18
From the pastoral reflection: In 21st century North Carolina we have many and various ways to come into contact with “other sheep.” Will we stick to our own kind, work to create a Christian enclave where we feel safe and secure, free from any risk? Or, will we be the welcoming face, the open hands, the purposeful feet, and the compassionate voice of Christ in the world so that all may know the love of God?

New Curriculum: Eating Well

By chris

This comprehensive, intergenerational curriculum focuses on the food we eat and why it matters. Featuring 7 lessons with Scripture, prayers, resources, and activities for young children through adults, "Eating Well" will challenge and inspire your church or community group. Download your copy today.

New Curriculum: Eating Well

by chris

This comprehensive, intergenerational curriculum focuses on the food we eat and why it matters. Featuring 7 lessons with Scripture, prayers, resources, and activities for young children through adults, “Eating Well” will challenge and inspire your church or community group. Download your copy today.

$9.94 Billion Spent to Market Cigarettes

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

In 2008, Big Tobacco spent $9.94 billion to market cigarettes, and sadly, that amount corresponds to ‘new customers’ despite public health efforts to stop the destruction caused by tobacco. Part of the harm is caused by hidden substances within tobacco products which are not labeled, including radiation, and marketing designed to appeal to young people. Dr. Cheryl G. […]

$9.94 Billion Spent to Market Cigarettes

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

In 2008, Big Tobacco spent $9.94 billion to market cigarettes, and sadly, that amount corresponds to ‘new customers’ despite public health efforts to stop the destruction caused by tobacco. Part of the harm is caused by hidden substances within tobacco products which are not labeled, including radiation, and marketing designed to appeal to young people. Dr. Cheryl G. […]

Celebrating With My Community

By Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

It’s funny when strangers strike you as family. That is what happens, for me at least, each time I attend another Earth Sabbath Celebration. After a few months of travelling what feels like “out of town”  from Durham to the monthly Celebration in Raleigh, on April 2,  I found myself with the newly formed Durham Earth […]

Celebrating With My Community

by Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

It’s funny when strangers strike you as family. That is what happens, for me at least, each time I attend another Earth Sabbath Celebration. After a few months of travelling what feels like “out of town”  from Durham to the monthly Celebration in Raleigh, on April 2,  I found myself with the newly formed Durham Earth […]

A Personal Story of Faith and Health

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

BCBSNC Foundation

My faith journey began at an early age and in a somewhat nontraditional way. I fondly remember attending weekly prayer meetings and Bible studies at my grandmother’s house in rural North Carolina. Community members would come from all around to worship together in a small, weather-beaten house at the end of a long dirt path. They would read scriptures, sing songs and tell stories of how they were able to overcome various obstacles throughout the week.

A Personal Story of Faith and Health

BCBSNC Foundation

My faith journey began at an early age and in a somewhat nontraditional way. I fondly remember attending weekly prayer meetings and Bible studies at my grandmother’s house in rural North Carolina. Community members would come from all around to worship together in a small, weather-beaten house at the end of a long dirt path. They would read scriptures, sing songs and tell stories of how they were able to overcome various obstacles throughout the week.

New County Health Rankings Point to Disparities in Health

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

The 2012 County Health Rankings report, recently released by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, points to major disparities in health by geographic location – with urban areas like Wake, Durham, Mecklenburg and Guilford counties experiencing overall better health than many rural parts of the state like Columbus, […]

New County Health Rankings Point to Disparities in Health

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

The 2012 County Health Rankings report, recently released by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, points to major disparities in health by geographic location – with urban areas like Wake, Durham, Mecklenburg and Guilford counties experiencing overall better health than many rural parts of the state like Columbus, […]

Faith Leaders Ask Legislature for Fair Immigration Laws

By chris

For the first time since its creation, a special committee reviewing North Carolina’s immigration policy heard from the public on Wednesday, March 28th. To a hearing room packed with advocates on both sides of the immigration debate, speakers told their stories to North Carolina lawmakers charged with considering the state's role in immigration. Reverend Villegas presented the co-chairs of the committee with over 175 written comments from clergy and people of faith from across the State urging the committee to carefully consider the negative impact that new tough, anti-immigration laws would have on North Carolina.

Faith Leaders Ask Legislature for Fair Immigration Laws

by chris

For the first time since its creation, a special committee reviewing North Carolina’s immigration policy heard from the public on Wednesday, March 28th. To a hearing room packed with advocates on both sides of the immigration debate, speakers told their stories to North Carolina lawmakers charged with considering the state’s role in immigration. Reverend Villegas presented the co-chairs of the committee with over 175 written comments from clergy and people of faith from across the State urging the committee to carefully consider the negative impact that new tough, anti-immigration laws would have on North Carolina.

Springtime on Eaarth

By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Spring is a favorite time for all of us who love to be in the garden. I cherish this season and plan my weeks so that I can begin and end each day with sacred moments outside.  Spring is a time to dig in the earth, to plant seeds and to cultivate flowers. It’s a […]

Springtime on Eaarth

by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Spring is a favorite time for all of us who love to be in the garden. I cherish this season and plan my weeks so that I can begin and end each day with sacred moments outside.  Spring is a time to dig in the earth, to plant seeds and to cultivate flowers. It’s a […]

Join Us to Package Meals with Stop Hunger Now

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join us on April 19 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winston-Salem as we package meals with Stop Hunger Now, the Raleigh-based non-profit that provides nutritious dehydrated meals which are shipped to support school feeding and crisis-relief programs around the world. The meal packaging takes place from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m., and a $25 fee per […]

Join Us to Package Meals with Stop Hunger Now

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join us on April 19 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winston-Salem as we package meals with Stop Hunger Now, the Raleigh-based non-profit that provides nutritious dehydrated meals which are shipped to support school feeding and crisis-relief programs around the world. The meal packaging takes place from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m., and a $25 fee per […]

Deadline for Critical Issues Seminar Extended; Eva Clayton to Speak at Lunch

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The deadline to guarantee lunch at the 2012 Critical Issues Seminar has been extended to April 12. This year’s seminar, Eating Well for Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet, takes place on April 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winston-Salem. The event offers a series of workshops focused […]

Deadline for Critical Issues Seminar Extended; Eva Clayton to Speak at Lunch

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The deadline to guarantee lunch at the 2012 Critical Issues Seminar has been extended to April 12. This year’s seminar, Eating Well for Ourselves, For Our Neighbors, For Our Planet, takes place on April 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winston-Salem. The event offers a series of workshops focused […]

Economic Justice Way of the Cross

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On April 6, state religious leaders and activists will remember Jesus Christ’s suffering and death and the suffering and death of immigrants coming to this country in an “Economic Justice Way of the Cross.” The North Carolina Council of Churches is a co-sponsor of the event which takes place from noon to 2 p.m. at the N.C. State Capitol.

The Good Friday commemoration of Jesus’ suffering and death will be linked with the need for justice, immigration reform, a change in US trade policies, and an end to US support for the war in Afghanistan and Colombia. Money needs to be spent on food and economic development instead of war, according to Gail Phares, director of Witness for Peace Southeast, the event’s primary organizer.

Economic Justice Way of the Cross

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On April 6, state religious leaders and activists will remember Jesus Christ’s suffering and death and the suffering and death of immigrants coming to this country in an “Economic Justice Way of the Cross.” The North Carolina Council of Churches is a co-sponsor of the event which takes place from noon to 2 p.m. at the N.C. State Capitol.

The Good Friday commemoration of Jesus’ suffering and death will be linked with the need for justice, immigration reform, a change in US trade policies, and an end to US support for the war in Afghanistan and Colombia. Money needs to be spent on food and economic development instead of war, according to Gail Phares, director of Witness for Peace Southeast, the event’s primary organizer.

The Story of Two Sons

By chris

Rev. Jill Edens, United Church of Chapel Hill

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

The Story of Two Sons

by chris

Rev. Jill Edens, United Church of Chapel Hill

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

Pee Dee Baptist Association Health Coalition Meeting

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Pee Dee Baptist Association Health Coalition, a joint effort of the Association along with Partners in Health and Wholeness, takes place April 3 at 7 p.m at St. Paul’s Missionary Baptist Church, 198 Gaines St., Aberdeen (Jackson Hamlet). Snacks will be provided, and the event is free and open to the public. There are […]

Pee Dee Baptist Association Health Coalition Meeting

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Pee Dee Baptist Association Health Coalition, a joint effort of the Association along with Partners in Health and Wholeness, takes place April 3 at 7 p.m at St. Paul’s Missionary Baptist Church, 198 Gaines St., Aberdeen (Jackson Hamlet). Snacks will be provided, and the event is free and open to the public. There are […]

Keynoter and Distinguished Service Award Recipient Announced for Critical Issues

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Alexia Kelley will deliver the keynote address for the North Carolina Council of Churches’ 2012 Critical Issues Seminar, and Father Joe Vetter will receive the Council’s Distinguished Service Award at the April 19 event. Kelley, who is Catholic,  is the Director of the Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships Center with the Department of Health and Human Services in Washington D.C. […]

Keynoter and Distinguished Service Award Recipient Announced for Critical Issues

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Alexia Kelley will deliver the keynote address for the North Carolina Council of Churches’ 2012 Critical Issues Seminar, and Father Joe Vetter will receive the Council’s Distinguished Service Award at the April 19 event. Kelley, who is Catholic,  is the Director of the Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships Center with the Department of Health and Human Services in Washington D.C. […]

Champions of Change

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Congratulations to two of the Council’s friends and colleagues on being designated Champions of Change by the White House. Linda Walling, Executive Director, of Faithful Reform in Health Care (and soon to be a NC resident) and native North Carolinian Adam Searing, Director of the Health Access Coalition for the North Carolina Justice Center, were honored […]

Champions of Change

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Congratulations to two of the Council’s friends and colleagues on being designated Champions of Change by the White House. Linda Walling, Executive Director, of Faithful Reform in Health Care (and soon to be a NC resident) and native North Carolinian Adam Searing, Director of the Health Access Coalition for the North Carolina Justice Center, were honored […]

2nd Sunday after Easter – Living Wages

By chris

From Acts of Faith: Free Lectionary Resources for Prophetic Worship
Date: 2nd Sunday after Easter, April 15, 2012
Topic: Living Wages
Focus Text: Acts 4:32-35
From the pastoral reflection: "As Christians, we attempt to recapture the vision of work as related to the creating, sustaining, and transforming work of God. Our vocation is not defined simply by our paid employment. What we do at home, in churches, in our volunteer and political activities, all contribute to the “work” that embraces the whole of our lives."

2nd Sunday after Easter – Living Wages

by chris

From Acts of Faith: Free Lectionary Resources for Prophetic Worship
Date: 2nd Sunday after Easter, April 15, 2012
Topic: Living Wages
Focus Text: Acts 4:32-35
From the pastoral reflection: “As Christians, we attempt to recapture the vision of work as related to the creating, sustaining, and transforming work of God. Our vocation is not defined simply by our paid employment. What we do at home, in churches, in our volunteer and political activities, all contribute to the “work” that embraces the whole of our lives.”

Say No to Anti-Immigrant Legislation in North Carolina

By chris

Tell NC legislators that we don’t want to follow Arizona and Alabama – say NO to harmful anti-immigrant legislation that could be introduced here in North Carolina.

A special committee of the NC House has been meeting to determine whether to introduce an Arizona-style “Papers, please” bill. This is your chance to hold lawmakers accountable for making NC a welcoming state that is competitive in the global economy instead of enacting costly measures that will separate families and threaten our economy.

Say No to Anti-Immigrant Legislation in North Carolina

by chris

Tell NC legislators that we don’t want to follow Arizona and Alabama – say NO to harmful anti-immigrant legislation that could be introduced here in North Carolina.

A special committee of the NC House has been meeting to determine whether to introduce an Arizona-style “Papers, please” bill. This is your chance to hold lawmakers accountable for making NC a welcoming state that is competitive in the global economy instead of enacting costly measures that will separate families and threaten our economy.

Affordable Care Act (ACA) Celebrates its Second Anniversary

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Affordable Care Act was approved two years ago. Join the virtual second-anniversary celebration through a conference call with Surgeon General Dr. Regina Benjamin on Thursday, March 22 at 2 p.m. Hear all the benefits already in place and what is to come. An RSVP in advance is required through this link. Additionally, as the Supreme Court takes […]

Affordable Care Act (ACA) Celebrates its Second Anniversary

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Affordable Care Act was approved two years ago. Join the virtual second-anniversary celebration through a conference call with Surgeon General Dr. Regina Benjamin on Thursday, March 22 at 2 p.m. Hear all the benefits already in place and what is to come. An RSVP in advance is required through this link. Additionally, as the Supreme Court takes […]

Annual Christian Educational Institute to be held in Dobbins Heights

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

Richmond County Daily Journal

The Pee Dee Baptist Educational Congress, an auxiliary to the Pee Dee Baptist Educational Association, will conduct the Annual Christian Educational Institute from March 19 to 23, 2012, at the Pee Dee Educational Building in Dobbin Heights. There will be classes for church officers and each department in the church.

Annual Christian Educational Institute to be held in Dobbins Heights

Richmond County Daily Journal

The Pee Dee Baptist Educational Congress, an auxiliary to the Pee Dee Baptist Educational Association, will conduct the Annual Christian Educational Institute from March 19 to 23, 2012, at the Pee Dee Educational Building in Dobbin Heights.

There will be classes for church officers and each department in the church.

Places of Worship Addressing Youth Health

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

A recent report by the U.S. Surgeon General revealed that a large number of America’s youth – 600,000 middle school students and three million high school students – smoke cigarettes.  At best, this information is disturbing, not only because it shows that progress made over the last decade to reduce youth smoking rates is slowing […]

Places of Worship Addressing Youth Health

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

A recent report by the U.S. Surgeon General revealed that a large number of America’s youth – 600,000 middle school students and three million high school students – smoke cigarettes.  At best, this information is disturbing, not only because it shows that progress made over the last decade to reduce youth smoking rates is slowing […]

An End to Hunger

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Ending world hunger is a pretty big goal, but the folks at Stop Hunger Now have set it for themselves and have been working toward it for 13 years. With the help of volunteers, the Raleigh-based non-profit packages nutritious dehydrated meals which are shipped to support school feeding and crisis-relief programs around the world. As […]

An End to Hunger

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Ending world hunger is a pretty big goal, but the folks at Stop Hunger Now have set it for themselves and have been working toward it for 13 years. With the help of volunteers, the Raleigh-based non-profit packages nutritious dehydrated meals which are shipped to support school feeding and crisis-relief programs around the world. As […]

Statement on Accusations about Candidates’ Faith

By North Carolina Council of Churches

Adopted by the Governing Board, NC Council of Churches, March 6, 2012 In 1998, the NC Council of Churches issued a statement entitled With All Due Respect. It decried the “scarcity of decency and respect” seen most clearly in political campaigns. “Political rhetoric appears to be less courteous and more coarse; personal attacks are uglier.” […]

Statement on Accusations about Candidates’ Faith

by North Carolina Council of Churches

Adopted by the Governing Board, NC Council of Churches, March 6, 2012 In 1998, the NC Council of Churches issued a statement entitled With All Due Respect. It decried the “scarcity of decency and respect” seen most clearly in political campaigns. “Political rhetoric appears to be less courteous and more coarse; personal attacks are uglier.” […]

In Thanksgiving for the Life of Lynice Williams

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Lynice Williams died this weekend. Too soon by any measure. She was one of this state’s great advocates for and organizers of people of low income and low wealth. Among other things, she was executive director of North Carolina Fair Share for 24 years and was a member of the Governing Board of the North […]

In Thanksgiving for the Life of Lynice Williams

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Lynice Williams died this weekend. Too soon by any measure. She was one of this state’s great advocates for and organizers of people of low income and low wealth. Among other things, she was executive director of North Carolina Fair Share for 24 years and was a member of the Governing Board of the North […]

Pilgrim UCC hosting series on Amendment 1

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Durham Herald-Sun

Pilgrim United Church of Christ will host a community series this month on “Faith and the Marriage Amendment,” about the proposed North Carolina Amendment 1. If the ballot measure passes May 8, the only valid domestic union recognized by the state will be marriage of a man and a woman. Read more: The Herald-Sun - Pilgrim UCC hosting series on Amendment 1

Pilgrim UCC hosting series on Amendment 1

Durham Herald-Sun

Pilgrim United Church of Christ will host a community series this month on “Faith and the Marriage Amendment,” about the proposed North Carolina Amendment 1. If the ballot measure passes May 8, the only valid domestic union recognized by the state will be marriage of a man and a woman.

Read more: The Herald-Sun – Pilgrim UCC hosting series on Amendment 1

Jack Crum Conference on Prophetic Ministry Focuses on Amendment One

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We hope you’ll join us on April 14 for the Fourth Annual Jack Crum Conference on Prophetic Ministry. This annual ecumenical event takes place at Raleigh’s Fairmont United Methodist Church from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and focuses on Amendment One with the theme “For Such a Time As This: Embracing God’s Call To Protect […]

Jack Crum Conference on Prophetic Ministry Focuses on Amendment One

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We hope you’ll join us on April 14 for the Fourth Annual Jack Crum Conference on Prophetic Ministry. This annual ecumenical event takes place at Raleigh’s Fairmont United Methodist Church from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and focuses on Amendment One with the theme “For Such a Time As This: Embracing God’s Call To Protect […]

Earth Sabbath Celebrated in Asheville

By Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

“My heart is moved by all that I cannot save.” Fifty-three enthralled participants at the Earth Sabbath Celebration at Asheville’s St. Mary’s Church sang those words in February. Our hearts were opened, and many were moved to tears. Sandra Smith, founder of Holy Ground, led a remarkable celebration of interfaith spirituality that included silence, music, […]

Earth Sabbath Celebrated in Asheville

by Allison Reeves Jolley, Former Outreach Coordinator - NCIPL

“My heart is moved by all that I cannot save.” Fifty-three enthralled participants at the Earth Sabbath Celebration at Asheville’s St. Mary’s Church sang those words in February. Our hearts were opened, and many were moved to tears. Sandra Smith, founder of Holy Ground, led a remarkable celebration of interfaith spirituality that included silence, music, […]