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2023 Lenten Guide: First Sunday in Lent

By Sean Allen, Director of Finance and Administration

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Genesis 2:15-17, 3:1-7 The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it. And the Lord God commanded the man, “You may freely eat of every tree of […]

2023 Lenten Guide: First Sunday in Lent

by Sean Allen, Director of Finance and Administration

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Genesis 2:15-17, 3:1-7 The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it. And the Lord God commanded the man, “You may freely eat of every tree of […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Ash Wednesday

By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Matthew 6:1-6 Beware of practicing your righteousness before others in order to be seen by them, for then you have no reward from your Father in heaven. “So whenever you give alms, do […]

2023 Lenten Guide: Ash Wednesday

by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Excerpted from 2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal, a Lenten Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Matthew 6:1-6 Beware of practicing your righteousness before others in order to be seen by them, for then you have no reward from your Father in heaven. “So whenever you give alms, do […]

2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Years ago I preached for a friend in a “high church,” Lutheran Church in Washington, D.C.’s Capital District. As an aside, my students and I also were treated to a private tour of the House of Representatives because my friend was friends with the Chaplain to the House. Yes, that was me waving from the […]

2023 Lenten Guide: A Season of Renewal

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Years ago I preached for a friend in a “high church,” Lutheran Church in Washington, D.C.’s Capital District. As an aside, my students and I also were treated to a private tour of the House of Representatives because my friend was friends with the Chaplain to the House. Yes, that was me waving from the […]

Hours after Michigan shooting, North Carolina Republicans advance bills to loosen state gun laws

· NC Policy Watch

GOP lawmakers have passed similar legislation expanding gun access in past legislative sessions. This time, they might have the votes to override the governor’s veto. Hours after three students at Michigan State University were killed by a man who ultimately turned his gun on himself, North Carolina Republicans unveiled several bills Tuesday aimed at making it easier […]

Hours after Michigan shooting, North Carolina Republicans advance bills to loosen state gun laws

· NC Policy Watch

GOP lawmakers have passed similar legislation expanding gun access in past legislative sessions. This time, they might have the votes to override the governor’s veto. Hours after three students at Michigan State University were killed by a man who ultimately turned his gun on himself, North Carolina Republicans unveiled several bills Tuesday aimed at making it easier […]

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More North Carolinians died of opioid overdoses in 2022 than ever before

· North Carolina Public Radio

North Carolina saw record highs in opioid overdose hospitalizations and deaths in 2022. Some policies enacted in the middle of the last decade had helped to reverse trends from the opioid epidemic. But the pandemic wiped out those gains and contributed to a worsening crisis that continued through last year. “People were isolated. They weren’t […]

More North Carolinians died of opioid overdoses in 2022 than ever before

· North Carolina Public Radio

North Carolina saw record highs in opioid overdose hospitalizations and deaths in 2022. Some policies enacted in the middle of the last decade had helped to reverse trends from the opioid epidemic. But the pandemic wiped out those gains and contributed to a worsening crisis that continued through last year. “People were isolated. They weren’t […]

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Veto Showdowns and Voter ID

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The N.C. General Assembly gathered on Jan. 11 amid trappings of ceremony and good cheer to kick off its 2023 session. Then reality reared its head: At least in the state House, the majority party apparently intends to play rough. Democrats in the minority are left to wonder if their Republican counterparts see them not […]

Veto Showdowns and Voter ID

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The N.C. General Assembly gathered on Jan. 11 amid trappings of ceremony and good cheer to kick off its 2023 session. Then reality reared its head: At least in the state House, the majority party apparently intends to play rough. Democrats in the minority are left to wonder if their Republican counterparts see them not […]

Job Opening: WNC PHW Regional Associate Director

By North Carolina Council of Churches

North Carolina Council of ChurchesPartners in Health and Wholeness ProgramImmediate Position Opening: Western Regional Associate DirectorJanuary 2023 40 hr/wk; 3 weeks paid vacation; paid sick leave, HSA contributionLocation: Western North Carolina, Location in the Triad will be considered; Travel required within N.C.3-month probationary period Retirement benefits available when the probationary period concludesSalary commensurate with experienceMust have […]

Job Opening: WNC PHW Regional Associate Director

by North Carolina Council of Churches

North Carolina Council of ChurchesPartners in Health and Wholeness ProgramImmediate Position Opening: Western Regional Associate DirectorJanuary 2023 40 hr/wk; 3 weeks paid vacation; paid sick leave, HSA contributionLocation: Western North Carolina, Location in the Triad will be considered; Travel required within N.C.3-month probationary period Retirement benefits available when the probationary period concludesSalary commensurate with experienceMust have […]

North Carolina Council of Churches Announces Nicole Johnson as Program Director for Partners in Health and Wholeness

By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

RALEIGH, NC – On January 2, 2023, the North Carolina Council of Churches announced the next Program Director for their Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) initiative. Nicole Johnson, former Associate Program Director for PHW working specifically on denominational support within the program, was promoted to Program Director effective January 1, 2023. PHW is an […]

North Carolina Council of Churches Announces Nicole Johnson as Program Director for Partners in Health and Wholeness

by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

RALEIGH, NC – On January 2, 2023, the North Carolina Council of Churches announced the next Program Director for their Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) initiative. Nicole Johnson, former Associate Program Director for PHW working specifically on denominational support within the program, was promoted to Program Director effective January 1, 2023. PHW is an […]

Ecumenical Group Files Amicus Brief Supporting Fired Gay Church Worker’s Lawsuit

· New Ways Ministry

A group of Protestant churches in North Carolina has filed an amicus brief supporting a gay plaintiff’s Title VII claim against the Catholic school that fired him in 2014, according to Law360. Lonnie Billard, who taught drama and English at Charlotte Catholic High School for over fifteen years, and was the recipient of the teacher of the year award at […]

Ecumenical Group Files Amicus Brief Supporting Fired Gay Church Worker’s Lawsuit

· New Ways Ministry

A group of Protestant churches in North Carolina has filed an amicus brief supporting a gay plaintiff’s Title VII claim against the Catholic school that fired him in 2014, according to Law360. Lonnie Billard, who taught drama and English at Charlotte Catholic High School for over fifteen years, and was the recipient of the teacher of the year award at […]

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2022 Advent Guide: Epiphany of the Lord

By Ren Martin, Eco-Justice Connection Program Coordinator

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 60:1-6 Arise, shine, for your light has come,    and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.For darkness shall cover the earth    and thick darkness the peoples,but the Lord will arise upon you,    and his glory will appear over you.Nations shall come to […]

2022 Advent Guide: Epiphany of the Lord

by Ren Martin, Eco-Justice Connection Program Coordinator

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 60:1-6 Arise, shine, for your light has come,    and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.For darkness shall cover the earth    and thick darkness the peoples,but the Lord will arise upon you,    and his glory will appear over you.Nations shall come to […]

2022 Advent Guide: First Sunday after Christmas

By Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 148 Praise the Lord!Praise the Lord from the heavens;    praise him in the heights!Praise him, all his angels;    praise him, all his host! Praise him, sun and moon;    praise him, all you shining stars!Praise him, you highest heavens    and you waters above the heavens! […]

2022 Advent Guide: First Sunday after Christmas

by Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 148 Praise the Lord!Praise the Lord from the heavens;    praise him in the heights!Praise him, all his angels;    praise him, all his host! Praise him, sun and moon;    praise him, all you shining stars!Praise him, you highest heavens    and you waters above the heavens! […]

2022 Advent Guide: Christmas Day

By Rev. Dr. Arlecia Simmons, Partners in Health and Wholeness East Regional Associate Director

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 96 O sing to the Lord a new song;    sing to the Lord, all the earth.Sing to the Lord; bless his name;    tell of his salvation from day to day.Declare his glory among the nations,    his marvelous works among all the peoples.For great is […]

2022 Advent Guide: Christmas Day

by Rev. Dr. Arlecia Simmons, Partners in Health and Wholeness East Regional Associate Director

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 96 O sing to the Lord a new song;    sing to the Lord, all the earth.Sing to the Lord; bless his name;    tell of his salvation from day to day.Declare his glory among the nations,    his marvelous works among all the peoples.For great is […]

2022 Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday

By Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Matthew 1:18-25 Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be pregnant from the Holy Spirit. Her husband […]

2022 Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday

by Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Matthew 1:18-25 Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be pregnant from the Holy Spirit. Her husband […]

Friends don’t call 911 for overdoses for a reason — NC law is behind, advocates say

· The Charlotte Observer

A coalition of advocates, including parents who have lost children to overdose deaths, is calling on legislators to expand North Carolina’s Good Samaritan Law. One key change they want is for fentanyl — the biggest driver of fatal overdoses — to be listed alongside drugs like cocaine and heroin. These advocates say North Carolina’s law […]

Friends don’t call 911 for overdoses for a reason — NC law is behind, advocates say

· The Charlotte Observer

A coalition of advocates, including parents who have lost children to overdose deaths, is calling on legislators to expand North Carolina’s Good Samaritan Law. One key change they want is for fentanyl — the biggest driver of fatal overdoses — to be listed alongside drugs like cocaine and heroin. These advocates say North Carolina’s law […]

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NC Churches Back Gay Catholic School Teacher At 4th Circuit

· Law360

Law360 — A coalition of Christian organizations in North Carolina urged the Fourth Circuit to uphold a gay teacher’s Title VII victory against the Catholic high school that fired him after he announced his wedding on social media.  The North Carolina Council of Churches, the Charlotte Clergy Coalition for Justice and a Presbyterian church argued […]

NC Churches Back Gay Catholic School Teacher At 4th Circuit

· Law360

Law360 — A coalition of Christian organizations in North Carolina urged the Fourth Circuit to uphold a gay teacher’s Title VII victory against the Catholic high school that fired him after he announced his wedding on social media.  The North Carolina Council of Churches, the Charlotte Clergy Coalition for Justice and a Presbyterian church argued […]

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2022 Advent Guide: Third Sunday

By Sean Allen, Director of Finance and Administration

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 35:1-10 The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad;    the desert shall rejoice and blossom;like the crocus it shall blossom abundantly    and rejoice with joy and shouting.The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it,    the majesty of Carmel and […]

2022 Advent Guide: Third Sunday

by Sean Allen, Director of Finance and Administration

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 35:1-10 The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad;    the desert shall rejoice and blossom;like the crocus it shall blossom abundantly    and rejoice with joy and shouting.The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it,    the majesty of Carmel and […]

2022 Advent Guide: Second Sunday

By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 71: 1-17 Give the king your justice, O God,    and your righteousness to a king’s son.May he judge your people with righteousness    and your poor with justice.May the mountains yield prosperity for the people,    and the hills, in righteousness.May he […]

2022 Advent Guide: Second Sunday

by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Psalm 71: 1-17 Give the king your justice, O God,    and your righteousness to a king’s son.May he judge your people with righteousness    and your poor with justice.May the mountains yield prosperity for the people,    and the hills, in righteousness.May he […]

2022 Advent Guide: First Sunday

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 2:1-5 The word that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. In days to come    the mountain of the Lord’s houseshall be established as the highest of the mountains    and shall be raised above the hills;all the nations […]

2022 Advent Guide: First Sunday

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from Keep Awake, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Isaiah 2:1-5 The word that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. In days to come    the mountain of the Lord’s houseshall be established as the highest of the mountains    and shall be raised above the hills;all the nations […]

Judges not legislators: State Supreme Court’s legitimacy depends on continued respect for precedent

· NC Policy Watch

Maybe the change was an inevitable byproduct of our charged and contentious era. Maybe it was naïve to ever think that things were dramatically different in the past. Whichever the case, one thing for sure in 2022 is that public perceptions of the American judiciary as a neutral dispenser of blind justice ain’t what they […]

Judges not legislators: State Supreme Court’s legitimacy depends on continued respect for precedent

· NC Policy Watch

Maybe the change was an inevitable byproduct of our charged and contentious era. Maybe it was naïve to ever think that things were dramatically different in the past. Whichever the case, one thing for sure in 2022 is that public perceptions of the American judiciary as a neutral dispenser of blind justice ain’t what they […]

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High court faces school funds switcheroo

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The N.C. Supreme Court – or at least a slim majority of its members – invoked its solemn duty to uphold constitutional rights when it agreed in a Nov. 4 ruling that the state must spend more money to upgrade its system of public education. The N.C. General Assembly – or at least the Republicans […]

High court faces school funds switcheroo

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The N.C. Supreme Court – or at least a slim majority of its members – invoked its solemn duty to uphold constitutional rights when it agreed in a Nov. 4 ruling that the state must spend more money to upgrade its system of public education. The N.C. General Assembly – or at least the Republicans […]

2022 Advent Guide: Keep Awake

By Sean Allen, Director of Finance and Administration

The central calling of an Advent ethic is waiting. But this waiting is not a passive or idle activity. The root word for wait is the same root word for watch. Waiting means to watch, to pay attention to what God is doing around us. Waiting means to be alert, to keep awake. Keep awake […]

2022 Advent Guide: Keep Awake

by Sean Allen, Director of Finance and Administration

The central calling of an Advent ethic is waiting. But this waiting is not a passive or idle activity. The root word for wait is the same root word for watch. Waiting means to watch, to pay attention to what God is doing around us. Waiting means to be alert, to keep awake. Keep awake […]

‘Faithful Voter Reflection Guide’ Weighs Moral Issues for NC Voters

· Public News Service

Progressive faith leaders across the state say they’re encouraging congregations to educate themselves on candidates and issues. They are sharing an online Faithful Voter Reflection Guide, which offers a moral perspective for voters who plan to cast their ballot in Tuesday’s election. Rev. Marcus Fairly, program coordinator for the North Carolina Black Alliance, said there has […]

‘Faithful Voter Reflection Guide’ Weighs Moral Issues for NC Voters

· Public News Service

Progressive faith leaders across the state say they’re encouraging congregations to educate themselves on candidates and issues. They are sharing an online Faithful Voter Reflection Guide, which offers a moral perspective for voters who plan to cast their ballot in Tuesday’s election. Rev. Marcus Fairly, program coordinator for the North Carolina Black Alliance, said there has […]

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‘Think outside our walls’

· The Outer Banks Voice

Speaking to local faith leaders on Nov. 3, Reverend Jessica Stokes from the N.C. Council of Churches encouraged their organizations to “think outside our walls” and take pragmatic steps to address mental health and harm reduction in the community. “As children of God, we already have inherent dignity,” Stokes said. “All of our dignity is […]

‘Think outside our walls’

· The Outer Banks Voice

Speaking to local faith leaders on Nov. 3, Reverend Jessica Stokes from the N.C. Council of Churches encouraged their organizations to “think outside our walls” and take pragmatic steps to address mental health and harm reduction in the community. “As children of God, we already have inherent dignity,” Stokes said. “All of our dignity is […]

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Press Conference in Response to Raleigh Mass Shooting

By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

The following remarks were delivered by Eco-Justice Connection Director, Susannah Tuttle, during a gun violence prevention press conference on October 14, 2022, in response to the recent Raleigh mass shooting. Click here to view the recording of the press conference. My name is Susannah Tuttle and I am here on behalf of the North Carolina […]

Press Conference in Response to Raleigh Mass Shooting

by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

The following remarks were delivered by Eco-Justice Connection Director, Susannah Tuttle, during a gun violence prevention press conference on October 14, 2022, in response to the recent Raleigh mass shooting. Click here to view the recording of the press conference. My name is Susannah Tuttle and I am here on behalf of the North Carolina […]

NAACP, Council of Churches gather for prayer, call for end to gun violence

· WRAL News

Community partners are calling on gun owners to secure their firearms in response to Thursday’s mass shooting. Watch the press conference:

NAACP, Council of Churches gather for prayer, call for end to gun violence

· WRAL News

Community partners are calling on gun owners to secure their firearms in response to Thursday’s mass shooting. Watch the press conference:

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Critics Say Utilities Panel Not Doing Enough to Shape NC Carbon Plan

· Public News Service

Advocates are contending North Carolina state agencies are not doing enough to slow down the devastating impacts of climate change. Last year Gov. Roy Cooper signed an energy bill into law, which calls on the state’s utilities commission to develop a carbon plan for the state to reduce carbon dioxide emissions to 70% below 2005 levels by […]

Critics Say Utilities Panel Not Doing Enough to Shape NC Carbon Plan

· Public News Service

Advocates are contending North Carolina state agencies are not doing enough to slow down the devastating impacts of climate change. Last year Gov. Roy Cooper signed an energy bill into law, which calls on the state’s utilities commission to develop a carbon plan for the state to reduce carbon dioxide emissions to 70% below 2005 levels by […]

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Against George W. Bush’s CIA Torture Program: Roundtable

· The Protestant Libertarian Podcast

On the first ever Protestant Libertarian Podcast roundtable, my three guests are Reverend Doctor Jennifer Copeland, who is the director of the North Carolina Council of Churches, Doctor Christina Cowger, who is the facilitator of North Carolina Stop Torture Now, an organization that has been fighting against CIA torture programs that use North Carolina-based planes, […]

Against George W. Bush’s CIA Torture Program: Roundtable

· The Protestant Libertarian Podcast

On the first ever Protestant Libertarian Podcast roundtable, my three guests are Reverend Doctor Jennifer Copeland, who is the director of the North Carolina Council of Churches, Doctor Christina Cowger, who is the facilitator of North Carolina Stop Torture Now, an organization that has been fighting against CIA torture programs that use North Carolina-based planes, […]

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NC Council of Churches Reaffirms Resolution That Supports Abortion Rights

· INDY Week

The headline above a column published over the weekend in the Washington Post declared “I don’t want your god in charge of my health care.” Writer Kate Cohen, in the September 26 column, describes a scenario where a patient is considering tubal ligation after a planned Caesarean section because she doesn’t want to get pregnant again. Factors that […]

NC Council of Churches Reaffirms Resolution That Supports Abortion Rights

· INDY Week

The headline above a column published over the weekend in the Washington Post declared “I don’t want your god in charge of my health care.” Writer Kate Cohen, in the September 26 column, describes a scenario where a patient is considering tubal ligation after a planned Caesarean section because she doesn’t want to get pregnant again. Factors that […]

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North Carolina Council of Churches Passes a Resolution on Reproductive Health

By North Carolina Council of Churches

RALEIGH, NC – On September 13, 2022, the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches approved an updated resolution on Reproductive Health. The resolution references a 1970 Council resolution urging faith communities, faith leaders, physicians, and hospitals to support the right of a woman to end a “problem pregnancy” by “therapeutic abortion” (A […]

North Carolina Council of Churches Passes a Resolution on Reproductive Health

by North Carolina Council of Churches

RALEIGH, NC – On September 13, 2022, the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches approved an updated resolution on Reproductive Health. The resolution references a 1970 Council resolution urging faith communities, faith leaders, physicians, and hospitals to support the right of a woman to end a “problem pregnancy” by “therapeutic abortion” (A […]

North Carolina Council of Churches Passes a Resolution on Reproductive Health 

· Creative Loafing Charlotte

RALEIGH, NC – On September 13, 2022, the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches approved an updated resolution on Reproductive Health. The resolution references a 1970 Council resolution urging faith communities, faith leaders, physicians, and hospitals to support the right of a woman to end a “problem pregnancy” by “therapeutic abortion” (A Resolution […]

North Carolina Council of Churches Passes a Resolution on Reproductive Health 

· Creative Loafing Charlotte

RALEIGH, NC – On September 13, 2022, the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches approved an updated resolution on Reproductive Health. The resolution references a 1970 Council resolution urging faith communities, faith leaders, physicians, and hospitals to support the right of a woman to end a “problem pregnancy” by “therapeutic abortion” (A Resolution […]

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2022 Willona Stallings Award presented to local Broadway, N.C. church

By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

GREENSBORO, NC — More than two years after the the nation’s shutdown due to COVID-19 and five years since the previous Faith and Health Summit, Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW), an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, hosted their annual Faith and Health Summit event in-person in Greensboro, North Carolina at Holy […]

2022 Willona Stallings Award presented to local Broadway, N.C. church

by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

GREENSBORO, NC — More than two years after the the nation’s shutdown due to COVID-19 and five years since the previous Faith and Health Summit, Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW), an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, hosted their annual Faith and Health Summit event in-person in Greensboro, North Carolina at Holy […]

Resolution on Reproductive Health

By North Carolina Council of Churches

Approved unanimously on September 13, 2022 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches Whereas, in 1970, before the Supreme Court ruled in 1973 that the U.S. Constitution protects a pregnant woman’s liberty to obtain an abortion without excessive government restriction, the North Carolina Council of Churches had urged faith communities, faith leaders, physicians, and hospitals […]

Resolution on Reproductive Health

by North Carolina Council of Churches

Approved unanimously on September 13, 2022 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches Whereas, in 1970, before the Supreme Court ruled in 1973 that the U.S. Constitution protects a pregnant woman’s liberty to obtain an abortion without excessive government restriction, the North Carolina Council of Churches had urged faith communities, faith leaders, physicians, and hospitals […]

Dishonoring the Boy Scouts of America

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As the proud parent of an Eagle Scout (Occoneechee Council), the announcement that Boy Scout organizers have invited former president George W. Bush to address the Scouts in the Raleigh area next week was a grave disappointment. In addition to being the parent of an Eagle Scout, I am also deeply invested in raising public awareness about the […]

Dishonoring the Boy Scouts of America

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As the proud parent of an Eagle Scout (Occoneechee Council), the announcement that Boy Scout organizers have invited former president George W. Bush to address the Scouts in the Raleigh area next week was a grave disappointment. In addition to being the parent of an Eagle Scout, I am also deeply invested in raising public awareness about the […]

Faith & Health Event Spotlights Wellness for North Carolinians

· Public News Service

A faith-driven community event in Greensboro this Thursday offers a full day of free workshops on healthy eating, mental health, HIV prevention and more. Its organizers say they hope to raise awareness about inequities in the health care system. Jessica Stokes, associate director for Partners in Health and Wholeness, which is a program of the […]

Faith & Health Event Spotlights Wellness for North Carolinians

· Public News Service

A faith-driven community event in Greensboro this Thursday offers a full day of free workshops on healthy eating, mental health, HIV prevention and more. Its organizers say they hope to raise awareness about inequities in the health care system. Jessica Stokes, associate director for Partners in Health and Wholeness, which is a program of the […]

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Coalition visits Greenville to talk judicial reform

· Reflector

Advocates for voting rights took aim at partisanship in the North Carolina judicial system and criticized Chief Justice Paul Newby for actions they said has made the courts less fair. The N.C. Fair Courts Coalition gathered outside the Pitt County Courthouse Thursday morning as part of the coalition’s statewide tour. Representatives from the N.C. Council […]

Coalition visits Greenville to talk judicial reform

· Reflector

Advocates for voting rights took aim at partisanship in the North Carolina judicial system and criticized Chief Justice Paul Newby for actions they said has made the courts less fair. The N.C. Fair Courts Coalition gathered outside the Pitt County Courthouse Thursday morning as part of the coalition’s statewide tour. Representatives from the N.C. Council […]

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Group advocates for removal of judges from party affiliation

· WITN

GREENVILLE, N.C. (WITN) – A group by the name Fair Courts NC wants to stop judges from affiliating with a political party. They are driving around the east to speak in favor of this idea. WITN talked to them during their stop at Pitt County Courthouse. “We need fair, impartial and independent courts,” explained Melisa Price Kromm, […]

Group advocates for removal of judges from party affiliation

· WITN

GREENVILLE, N.C. (WITN) – A group by the name Fair Courts NC wants to stop judges from affiliating with a political party. They are driving around the east to speak in favor of this idea. WITN talked to them during their stop at Pitt County Courthouse. “We need fair, impartial and independent courts,” explained Melisa Price Kromm, […]

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Democracy Rooted in Imago Dei

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland at the #MapOurFuture: People Over Politics virtual town hall on Thursday, September 1, 2022. The event focused on Moore v. Harper, the latest North Carolina redistricting case to head to the U.S. Supreme Court. The recording of the event can be found here. Some of […]

Democracy Rooted in Imago Dei

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland at the #MapOurFuture: People Over Politics virtual town hall on Thursday, September 1, 2022. The event focused on Moore v. Harper, the latest North Carolina redistricting case to head to the U.S. Supreme Court. The recording of the event can be found here. Some of […]

Welcome Stephenie Sanders

By Stephenie Sanders, Partners in Health and Wholeness Program and Engagement Administrator

The Council is excited to introduce you to one of our newest staff members, Stephenie Sanders. Stephenie joined us earlier this month in the position of Program and Engagement Administrator for Partners in Health and Wholeness. Read more about Stephenie: I’m Stephenie Sanders, and I am thrilled to join the Partners in Health and Wholeness […]

Welcome Stephenie Sanders

by Stephenie Sanders, Partners in Health and Wholeness Program and Engagement Administrator

The Council is excited to introduce you to one of our newest staff members, Stephenie Sanders. Stephenie joined us earlier this month in the position of Program and Engagement Administrator for Partners in Health and Wholeness. Read more about Stephenie: I’m Stephenie Sanders, and I am thrilled to join the Partners in Health and Wholeness […]

Welcome Arlecia Simmons

By Rev. Dr. Arlecia Simmons, Partners in Health and Wholeness East Regional Associate Director

The Council is excited to introduce you to one of our newest staff members, Arlecia Simmons. Arlecia joined us earlier this month in the position of East Regional Associate Director for Partners in Health and Wholeness. Read more about Arlecia: My 94-year-old grandmother often looks at me and says, “People would never look at you […]

Welcome Arlecia Simmons

by Rev. Dr. Arlecia Simmons, Partners in Health and Wholeness East Regional Associate Director

The Council is excited to introduce you to one of our newest staff members, Arlecia Simmons. Arlecia joined us earlier this month in the position of East Regional Associate Director for Partners in Health and Wholeness. Read more about Arlecia: My 94-year-old grandmother often looks at me and says, “People would never look at you […]

Is North Carolina’s judicial system fair? This group says no way. Here is the reason why.

· News & Record

Are actions by the General Assembly threatening the impartiality of North Carolina’s judicial system? A coalition of left-leaning nonprofits under the umbrella of a group called Fair Courts NC thinks so and has launched a series of news conferences across the state calling for judicial reform. While in Greensboro on Thursday, the group highlighted that […]

Is North Carolina’s judicial system fair? This group says no way. Here is the reason why.

· News & Record

Are actions by the General Assembly threatening the impartiality of North Carolina’s judicial system? A coalition of left-leaning nonprofits under the umbrella of a group called Fair Courts NC thinks so and has launched a series of news conferences across the state calling for judicial reform. While in Greensboro on Thursday, the group highlighted that […]

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Fair Courts Press Conference

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The N.C. Council of Churches includes 18 denominations with churches large and small, urban and rural, black, brown, and white all across the state. One of the things we all have in common is the doctrine in Christianity known as the Holy Trinity. It claims that God is three in one. It can sometimes be […]

Fair Courts Press Conference

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The N.C. Council of Churches includes 18 denominations with churches large and small, urban and rural, black, brown, and white all across the state. One of the things we all have in common is the doctrine in Christianity known as the Holy Trinity. It claims that God is three in one. It can sometimes be […]

Fair, Safe and Secure Elections

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Prior to the 2020 elections, a representative from the Carter Center’s Conflict Resolution team reached out to the North Carolina Council of Churches. For the first time in its 40-year history of resolving international conflicts, their research showed the conflicts might come home. North Carolina, along with a few of other states, showed a high […]

Fair, Safe and Secure Elections

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Prior to the 2020 elections, a representative from the Carter Center’s Conflict Resolution team reached out to the North Carolina Council of Churches. For the first time in its 40-year history of resolving international conflicts, their research showed the conflicts might come home. North Carolina, along with a few of other states, showed a high […]

Who decides on ‘sound basic’ spending? Stay tuned

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Like it or not – and there are plenty of reasons to worry amid the familiar end-of-summer bursts of excitement – another school year will soon get under way. The pressures on our public schools are immense as kids’ setbacks during the pandemic come into focus, as teacher vacancies spike, and as the schools become […]

Who decides on ‘sound basic’ spending? Stay tuned

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Like it or not – and there are plenty of reasons to worry amid the familiar end-of-summer bursts of excitement – another school year will soon get under way. The pressures on our public schools are immense as kids’ setbacks during the pandemic come into focus, as teacher vacancies spike, and as the schools become […]

A Resolution to Change the Cash Bail Bond System

By North Carolina Council of Churches

Approved unanimously on June 7, 2022 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches. Updated September 12, 2023. Considerable empirical evidence demonstrates that the cash bail system is inequitable and ineffective. The cash bail system requires pretrial defendants to pay hundreds to thousands of dollars in nonrefundable fees to for-profit bail agents, typically resulting in low-income individuals […]

A Resolution to Change the Cash Bail Bond System

by North Carolina Council of Churches

Approved unanimously on June 7, 2022 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches. Updated September 12, 2023. Considerable empirical evidence demonstrates that the cash bail system is inequitable and ineffective. The cash bail system requires pretrial defendants to pay hundreds to thousands of dollars in nonrefundable fees to for-profit bail agents, typically resulting in low-income individuals […]

Tribute to the Life of the Reverend Dr. T. Anthony Spearman

By North Carolina Council of Churches

A tribute written by Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, North Carolina Council of Churches, and Isaac Villegas, Governing Board President, North Carolina Council of Churches. By now most of us have heard the hard news that the Rev. Dr. T. Anthony Spearman died Tuesday evening. Our hearts are breaking for his family, his friends, and his […]

Tribute to the Life of the Reverend Dr. T. Anthony Spearman

by North Carolina Council of Churches

A tribute written by Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, North Carolina Council of Churches, and Isaac Villegas, Governing Board President, North Carolina Council of Churches. By now most of us have heard the hard news that the Rev. Dr. T. Anthony Spearman died Tuesday evening. Our hearts are breaking for his family, his friends, and his […]

Duke carbon plan headed for public hearing

· Smoky Mountain News

The North Carolina Utilities Commission is hosting a series of hearings this summer to take public input on the draft carbon plan that Duke Energy filed May 16. Hearing opportunities include an in-person hearing at 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 27, at the Buncombe County Courthouse in Asheville, and virtual hearings at 1:30 p.m. and 6:30 […]

Duke carbon plan headed for public hearing

· Smoky Mountain News

The North Carolina Utilities Commission is hosting a series of hearings this summer to take public input on the draft carbon plan that Duke Energy filed May 16. Hearing opportunities include an in-person hearing at 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 27, at the Buncombe County Courthouse in Asheville, and virtual hearings at 1:30 p.m. and 6:30 […]

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Supreme Court ruling on West Virginia vs. The EPA

By Hannah Klein, Eco-Justice Youth Leadership Fellow

What it is, why it happened, and what it means for clean energy. The Supreme Court finished its session by ruling against the EPA in a case against West Virginia, delimiting the agency’s power to regulate carbon emissions on power plants.  Writing for the 6-3 conservative majority opinion, Justice John Roberts argued “that under what […]

Supreme Court ruling on West Virginia vs. The EPA

by Hannah Klein, Eco-Justice Youth Leadership Fellow

What it is, why it happened, and what it means for clean energy. The Supreme Court finished its session by ruling against the EPA in a case against West Virginia, delimiting the agency’s power to regulate carbon emissions on power plants.  Writing for the 6-3 conservative majority opinion, Justice John Roberts argued “that under what […]

‘Independent’ legislature: Fair elections at risk

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The U.S. Supreme Court, as if rushing to settle old grievances, in recent weeks has thrashed about in a virtual frenzy of “originalism” – never mind the consequences for America’s civic well-being. Our federal Constitution neglects to confer a woman’s explicit right to have an abortion? Then states must be free to impose abortion bans […]

‘Independent’ legislature: Fair elections at risk

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The U.S. Supreme Court, as if rushing to settle old grievances, in recent weeks has thrashed about in a virtual frenzy of “originalism” – never mind the consequences for America’s civic well-being. Our federal Constitution neglects to confer a woman’s explicit right to have an abortion? Then states must be free to impose abortion bans […]

Opioid settlement money coming to NC. How faith leaders want to see it spent.

· The News & Observer

North Carolina faith leaders started hearing from their parishioners several years ago that the opioid crisis was hitting home. They didn’t always know how to help. For many families and individuals, clergy can be a first contact during a crisis, said Elizabeth Brewington, an associate director of the NC Council of Churches. But in the […]

Opioid settlement money coming to NC. How faith leaders want to see it spent.

· The News & Observer

North Carolina faith leaders started hearing from their parishioners several years ago that the opioid crisis was hitting home. They didn’t always know how to help. For many families and individuals, clergy can be a first contact during a crisis, said Elizabeth Brewington, an associate director of the NC Council of Churches. But in the […]

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Job Opening: PHW Regional Associate Director

By North Carolina Council of Churches

North Carolina Council of ChurchesPartners in Health and Wholeness ProgramImmediate Position Opening: Regional Associate DirectorJuly 2022 40 hr/wk; 3 weeks paid vacation; paid sick leave, HSA contributionHybrid Position, Travel required within North Carolina3-month probationary period Retirement benefits available when the probationary period concludesSalary commensurate with experienceMust have proof of COVID-19 vaccination and first booster by the […]

Job Opening: PHW Regional Associate Director

by North Carolina Council of Churches

North Carolina Council of ChurchesPartners in Health and Wholeness ProgramImmediate Position Opening: Regional Associate DirectorJuly 2022 40 hr/wk; 3 weeks paid vacation; paid sick leave, HSA contributionHybrid Position, Travel required within North Carolina3-month probationary period Retirement benefits available when the probationary period concludesSalary commensurate with experienceMust have proof of COVID-19 vaccination and first booster by the […]

Job Opening: PHW Program and Engagement Administrator

By North Carolina Council of Churches

North Carolina Council of ChurchesPartners in Health and Wholeness ProgramImmediate Position Opening: Program and Engagement AdministratorJuly 2022 40 hr/wk; 3 weeks paid vacation; paid sick leave, HSA contribution,Hybrid Position: 2-3 days in Raleigh office (subject to change)3-month probationary period with option to extend an additional 3-month Retirement benefits available when the probationary period concludesOccasional travel required […]

Job Opening: PHW Program and Engagement Administrator

by North Carolina Council of Churches

North Carolina Council of ChurchesPartners in Health and Wholeness ProgramImmediate Position Opening: Program and Engagement AdministratorJuly 2022 40 hr/wk; 3 weeks paid vacation; paid sick leave, HSA contribution,Hybrid Position: 2-3 days in Raleigh office (subject to change)3-month probationary period with option to extend an additional 3-month Retirement benefits available when the probationary period concludesOccasional travel required […]

Triangle faith leaders, community organizers react to end of Roe v. Wade

· The News & Observer

Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade Friday morning, people and groups across North Carolina spoke out in reaction to the end of federal protection of abortion as a constitutional right. Here’s how people have reacted so far: The North Carolina Council of Churches, a collection of statewide faith leaders from […]

Triangle faith leaders, community organizers react to end of Roe v. Wade

· The News & Observer

Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade Friday morning, people and groups across North Carolina spoke out in reaction to the end of federal protection of abortion as a constitutional right. Here’s how people have reacted so far: The North Carolina Council of Churches, a collection of statewide faith leaders from […]

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NC Faith Leaders Call on U.S. to Pay ‘Fair Share’ for Climate-Related Loss

· Public News Service

Faith and climate leaders convene in Charlotte this week, as the Southeast Climate and Energy Network and US Climate Action Network join forces. They’re asking the nation to pay its fair share to help communities feeling the worst effects of climate change. Rev. Michael Malcom is the executive director of the Birmingham, Alabama-based People’s Justice Council. He pointed out […]

NC Faith Leaders Call on U.S. to Pay ‘Fair Share’ for Climate-Related Loss

· Public News Service

Faith and climate leaders convene in Charlotte this week, as the Southeast Climate and Energy Network and US Climate Action Network join forces. They’re asking the nation to pay its fair share to help communities feeling the worst effects of climate change. Rev. Michael Malcom is the executive director of the Birmingham, Alabama-based People’s Justice Council. He pointed out […]

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NC Faith Groups Raise Awareness on Election Integrity

· Public News Service

As redistricting processes wrap up across the country, faith groups in North Carolina are working to raise awareness and educate residents on issues related to election integrity. Jennifer Copeland, executive director of the North Carolina Council of Churches, said many residents are unclear or unaware of how district map drawing and gerrymandering impact their local […]

NC Faith Groups Raise Awareness on Election Integrity

· Public News Service

As redistricting processes wrap up across the country, faith groups in North Carolina are working to raise awareness and educate residents on issues related to election integrity. Jennifer Copeland, executive director of the North Carolina Council of Churches, said many residents are unclear or unaware of how district map drawing and gerrymandering impact their local […]

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Farmworker Advocacy Network Coordinator

By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Farmworker Advocacy Network Coordinator (Bilingual – Spanish/English) The Coalition Coordinator will be an employee of the North Carolina Council of Churches, which is a member of FAN and the fiscal agent for the coalition. FARMWORKER ADVOCACY NETWORK DESCRIPTION The Farmworker Advocacy Network (FAN) is a statewide network of approximately 20 organizations that works to improve living and […]

Farmworker Advocacy Network Coordinator

by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Farmworker Advocacy Network Coordinator (Bilingual – Spanish/English) The Coalition Coordinator will be an employee of the North Carolina Council of Churches, which is a member of FAN and the fiscal agent for the coalition. FARMWORKER ADVOCACY NETWORK DESCRIPTION The Farmworker Advocacy Network (FAN) is a statewide network of approximately 20 organizations that works to improve living and […]

Faithful Voter Reflection Guide

By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Today Interfaith Power & Light (IPL) released a faithful voter reflection guide in advance of the upcoming election season. The guide discusses many of the defining moral issues that are on the ballot, including faltering democratic institutions, too much wealth in the hands of a few, damage to the climate, and threats to global public […]

Faithful Voter Reflection Guide

by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Today Interfaith Power & Light (IPL) released a faithful voter reflection guide in advance of the upcoming election season. The guide discusses many of the defining moral issues that are on the ballot, including faltering democratic institutions, too much wealth in the hands of a few, damage to the climate, and threats to global public […]

Clergy urge opioid money to go toward harm reduction

· Spectrum News 1

Fifty clergy members signed a letter, urging that opioid settlement money go toward harm reduction efforts. Watch Live on Spectrum News 1.

Clergy urge opioid money to go toward harm reduction

· Spectrum News 1

Fifty clergy members signed a letter, urging that opioid settlement money go toward harm reduction efforts. Watch Live on Spectrum News 1.

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50 faith-based organizations petition for effective drug treatment funding

· WFFD

As overdose deaths in North Carolina continue to soar, a group of more than 50 statewide faith-based organizations is calling on city and county officials to act. In a letter sent Monday, they’re urging them to support what they call proven methods to reduce overdose fatalities.  The group wants county commissioners and city council members across […]

50 faith-based organizations petition for effective drug treatment funding

· WFFD

As overdose deaths in North Carolina continue to soar, a group of more than 50 statewide faith-based organizations is calling on city and county officials to act. In a letter sent Monday, they’re urging them to support what they call proven methods to reduce overdose fatalities.  The group wants county commissioners and city council members across […]

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NC faith leaders say opioid funds should be used for harm reduction

· North Carolina Public Radio

North Carolina will receive $750 million from a settlement with opioid makers and distributors. A group of faith leaders is calling on local governments to use that money with compassion. Counties and cities will have lots of flexibility in how they spend the funds. More than 50 clergy members have issued an open letter, asking […]

NC faith leaders say opioid funds should be used for harm reduction

· North Carolina Public Radio

North Carolina will receive $750 million from a settlement with opioid makers and distributors. A group of faith leaders is calling on local governments to use that money with compassion. Counties and cities will have lots of flexibility in how they spend the funds. More than 50 clergy members have issued an open letter, asking […]

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Health officials & faith leaders hope settlement money makes big difference in opioid crisis

· WITN

JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (WITN) – North Carolina will soon receive $750 million in settlement funding for substance abuse resources and treatment. The state Department of Health and Human Services reported an average of nine deaths a day in 2020 from a drug overdose. That was a 40% increase from 2019. Faith-based organizations are optimistic that the […]

Health officials & faith leaders hope settlement money makes big difference in opioid crisis

· WITN

JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (WITN) – North Carolina will soon receive $750 million in settlement funding for substance abuse resources and treatment. The state Department of Health and Human Services reported an average of nine deaths a day in 2020 from a drug overdose. That was a 40% increase from 2019. Faith-based organizations are optimistic that the […]

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2022 Critical Issues Seminar: The Ties that Bind Our Democracy

By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Our week-long 2022 Critical Issues Seminar: The Ties that Bind Our Democracy was a huge success! The entire week of presentations has been profoundly impactful as we do our shared work to educate, inspire, and mobilize people of faith and conscience to commit to building a more just and equitable future for all.  During our Critical Issues Seminar, we heard from the […]

2022 Critical Issues Seminar: The Ties that Bind Our Democracy

by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Our week-long 2022 Critical Issues Seminar: The Ties that Bind Our Democracy was a huge success! The entire week of presentations has been profoundly impactful as we do our shared work to educate, inspire, and mobilize people of faith and conscience to commit to building a more just and equitable future for all.  During our Critical Issues Seminar, we heard from the […]

1 in 6 North Carolina counties have more gun dealers than mental health providers

· ABC 11

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) — While the country recovers from two mass shootings in 10 days, the national conversation is turning to two topics: gun access and mental health. In a news conference Wednesday, Texas governor Greg Abbott placed the blame for the shooting at an elementary school in his state on mental health issues. “We as a […]

1 in 6 North Carolina counties have more gun dealers than mental health providers

· ABC 11

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) — While the country recovers from two mass shootings in 10 days, the national conversation is turning to two topics: gun access and mental health. In a news conference Wednesday, Texas governor Greg Abbott placed the blame for the shooting at an elementary school in his state on mental health issues. “We as a […]

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Beyond stigma and shame to recovery and hope in addressing substance-use disorder

· Faith and Leadership

The North Carolina Council of Churches began addressing the issue of substance-use disorder and overdose response before its Oklahoma counterpart. Elizabeth Brewington joined the council in 2018 specifically to work in this area of ministry, focusing on the overdose response component for the organization’s Partners in Health and Wholeness program. She said the council is working to […]

Beyond stigma and shame to recovery and hope in addressing substance-use disorder

· Faith and Leadership

The North Carolina Council of Churches began addressing the issue of substance-use disorder and overdose response before its Oklahoma counterpart. Elizabeth Brewington joined the council in 2018 specifically to work in this area of ministry, focusing on the overdose response component for the organization’s Partners in Health and Wholeness program. She said the council is working to […]

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A Statement on the Tops Supermarket Shooting in Buffalo, New York

By North Carolina Council of Churches

by The Rev. Dr. Conrad Pridgen, Governing Board President-elect, Presiding Elder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2nd Episcopal District and The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, North Carolina Council of Churches Words make a world and the world our words are making in this nation these days is pretty ugly. The Tops Supermarket […]

A Statement on the Tops Supermarket Shooting in Buffalo, New York

by North Carolina Council of Churches

by The Rev. Dr. Conrad Pridgen, Governing Board President-elect, Presiding Elder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2nd Episcopal District and The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, North Carolina Council of Churches Words make a world and the world our words are making in this nation these days is pretty ugly. The Tops Supermarket […]

LGBTQ Faith Leader and HIV Advocate from WFU of Divinity to Appear at GLAAD Media Awards in NY

· YES! Weekly

At the GLAAD Awards, Rev. Dr. Jones will explain her work as a faith leader in the fight against HIV: “Ours is just one of many faith communities working to tell a new story about HIV. This is particularly important to me as both a faith leader in the South, and a member of the LGBTQ […]

LGBTQ Faith Leader and HIV Advocate from WFU of Divinity to Appear at GLAAD Media Awards in NY

· YES! Weekly

At the GLAAD Awards, Rev. Dr. Jones will explain her work as a faith leader in the fight against HIV: “Ours is just one of many faith communities working to tell a new story about HIV. This is particularly important to me as both a faith leader in the South, and a member of the LGBTQ […]

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A Season of Renewal

By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

As I look out my window, I see azaleas in full bloom and the glorious bright green leaves of the trees have leafed out all across North Carolina. I am a big fan of all the seasons, and Springtime especially as it brings renewal to the natural world, and it can also bring about a […]

A Season of Renewal

by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

As I look out my window, I see azaleas in full bloom and the glorious bright green leaves of the trees have leafed out all across North Carolina. I am a big fan of all the seasons, and Springtime especially as it brings renewal to the natural world, and it can also bring about a […]

Do Justice. Love Kindness. Walk Humbly

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, during a memorial service and press conference at the North Carolina State Capitol in Raleigh commemorating Workers Memorial Day. Click here to view the entire live stream. In a sea of regressive policies and depressing news, we have to count our successes. Small though they may seem, they […]

Do Justice. Love Kindness. Walk Humbly

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, during a memorial service and press conference at the North Carolina State Capitol in Raleigh commemorating Workers Memorial Day. Click here to view the entire live stream. In a sea of regressive policies and depressing news, we have to count our successes. Small though they may seem, they […]

Churches urged to utilize solar rebates

· Wilkes Journal-Patriot

Faith groups such as the N.C. Council of Churches and Interfaith Power and Light are urging churches across the state to take advantage of Duke Energy’s solar panel rebate program, which expires this year. This is being done as part of National Faith Climate Action Week, a 10-day observance that began April 25. This year’s […]

Churches urged to utilize solar rebates

· Wilkes Journal-Patriot

Faith groups such as the N.C. Council of Churches and Interfaith Power and Light are urging churches across the state to take advantage of Duke Energy’s solar panel rebate program, which expires this year. This is being done as part of National Faith Climate Action Week, a 10-day observance that began April 25. This year’s […]

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NC Churches Highlight Solar Panels During Faith Climate Action Week

· Public News Service

Duke Energy’s solar panel rebate program expires this year, and faith groups such as the North Carolina Council of Churches and Interfaith Power and Light are urging churches across the state to take advantage of the program during National Faith Climate Action Week, which begins today. Anne Hodges-Copple, bishop suffragan of the Diocese of North Carolina, said dozens […]

NC Churches Highlight Solar Panels During Faith Climate Action Week

· Public News Service

Duke Energy’s solar panel rebate program expires this year, and faith groups such as the North Carolina Council of Churches and Interfaith Power and Light are urging churches across the state to take advantage of the program during National Faith Climate Action Week, which begins today. Anne Hodges-Copple, bishop suffragan of the Diocese of North Carolina, said dozens […]

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You Shall Not Make an Idol

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, during one of the four gun violence prevention vigils that occurred across North Carolina on April 24, 2022. The following vigil took place at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Raleigh, NC. God knows we are violent people. It’s been this way since Cain killed Abel […]

You Shall Not Make an Idol

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, during one of the four gun violence prevention vigils that occurred across North Carolina on April 24, 2022. The following vigil took place at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Raleigh, NC. God knows we are violent people. It’s been this way since Cain killed Abel […]

School Spending, Quality at Stake

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The colossal dispute over the proper financing of North Carolina’s public schools that has played out over 28 years is heading to a showdown before the state Supreme Court – yes, again. Sometime after April 18, the high court will decide whether the General Assembly is fulfilling its duty to ensure that the state’s public […]

School Spending, Quality at Stake

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The colossal dispute over the proper financing of North Carolina’s public schools that has played out over 28 years is heading to a showdown before the state Supreme Court – yes, again. Sometime after April 18, the high court will decide whether the General Assembly is fulfilling its duty to ensure that the state’s public […]

How fentanyl is poisoning the drug supply in NC

· Queen City News

NORTH CAROLINA (QUEEN CITY NEWS) – One drug is responsible for thousands of overdose deaths in North Carolina, according to state health officials. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl, often combined with other substances, was involved in more than 70% of overdose deaths in N.C. in 2020, the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services said in a […]

How fentanyl is poisoning the drug supply in NC

· Queen City News

NORTH CAROLINA (QUEEN CITY NEWS) – One drug is responsible for thousands of overdose deaths in North Carolina, according to state health officials. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl, often combined with other substances, was involved in more than 70% of overdose deaths in N.C. in 2020, the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services said in a […]

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Community Superstar: Louise Vincent

By North Carolina Council of Churches

This March, during Women’s History Month, we are highlighting four Community Superstars. These incredible women are local leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities and with the North Carolina Council of Churches. For this final week of Women’s History Month, we want to lift up our fourth Community Superstar: […]

Community Superstar: Louise Vincent

by North Carolina Council of Churches

This March, during Women’s History Month, we are highlighting four Community Superstars. These incredible women are local leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities and with the North Carolina Council of Churches. For this final week of Women’s History Month, we want to lift up our fourth Community Superstar: […]

Overdose deaths on the rise in North Carolina

· Queen City News

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — As the world begins to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re learning more about the collateral damage. This week, NCDHHS leaders announced 2020 saw a rapid increase, 40%, of drug overdose deaths in North Carolina. According to the NCDHHS, nine North Carolinians died every day in 2020 from […]

Overdose deaths on the rise in North Carolina

· Queen City News

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — As the world begins to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re learning more about the collateral damage. This week, NCDHHS leaders announced 2020 saw a rapid increase, 40%, of drug overdose deaths in North Carolina. According to the NCDHHS, nine North Carolinians died every day in 2020 from […]

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Community Superstar: Sandy Irving

By North Carolina Council of Churches

This March, during Women’s History Month, we are highlighting four Community Superstars. These incredible women are local leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities and with the North Carolina Council of Churches. Our next Community Superstar this Women’s History Month is Sandy Irving, most recently a Volunteer Program Associate […]

Community Superstar: Sandy Irving

by North Carolina Council of Churches

This March, during Women’s History Month, we are highlighting four Community Superstars. These incredible women are local leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities and with the North Carolina Council of Churches. Our next Community Superstar this Women’s History Month is Sandy Irving, most recently a Volunteer Program Associate […]

Community Superstar: Penny Hooper

By North Carolina Council of Churches

This March, during Women’s History Month, we are highlighting four Community Superstars. These incredible women are local leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities and with the North Carolina Council of Churches. Our second Community Superstar during Women’s History Month is Penny Hooper, Leadership Council Chair of NC Interfaith Power […]

Community Superstar: Penny Hooper

by North Carolina Council of Churches

This March, during Women’s History Month, we are highlighting four Community Superstars. These incredible women are local leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities and with the North Carolina Council of Churches. Our second Community Superstar during Women’s History Month is Penny Hooper, Leadership Council Chair of NC Interfaith Power […]

Faith Groups Work to Reduce Stigma Around HIV Testing

· Public News Service

Today is National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, and one in nine women with HIV are unaware they have it. Faith leaders in North Carolina are working to reduce stigma around HIV prevention and testing, especially among Black and Hispanic women. According to 2018 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black […]

Faith Groups Work to Reduce Stigma Around HIV Testing

· Public News Service

Today is National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, and one in nine women with HIV are unaware they have it. Faith leaders in North Carolina are working to reduce stigma around HIV prevention and testing, especially among Black and Hispanic women. According to 2018 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black […]

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Paid Leave Can Help Make Us Well

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

This Raleigh Report was written by Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, in collaboration with Matt Rossi, Duke Divinity School intern. The past two years have revealed not only how vulnerable we are to illness, but have also put front and center the economic precarity that sickness can cause. As a result, the spotlight is shining on […]

Paid Leave Can Help Make Us Well

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

This Raleigh Report was written by Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, in collaboration with Matt Rossi, Duke Divinity School intern. The past two years have revealed not only how vulnerable we are to illness, but have also put front and center the economic precarity that sickness can cause. As a result, the spotlight is shining on […]

Community Superstar: Alberta Hairston

By North Carolina Council of Churches

This March, during Women’s History Month, we are highlighting four Community Superstars. These incredible women are local leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities and with the North Carolina Council of Churches. Our first Community Superstar is Alberta Hairston, former Council Governing Board President and lifelong advocate for justice […]

Community Superstar: Alberta Hairston

by North Carolina Council of Churches

This March, during Women’s History Month, we are highlighting four Community Superstars. These incredible women are local leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities and with the North Carolina Council of Churches. Our first Community Superstar is Alberta Hairston, former Council Governing Board President and lifelong advocate for justice […]

Map Showdown: Rights on the Line

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Four months after the N.C. General Assembly enacted a new alignment of the districts in which our state’s congressional representatives are chosen, the gavel has come down: That district map was so skewed to benefit the Republican Party that it violated voters’ rights under the state constitution. So declared the state Supreme Court in its […]

Map Showdown: Rights on the Line

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Four months after the N.C. General Assembly enacted a new alignment of the districts in which our state’s congressional representatives are chosen, the gavel has come down: That district map was so skewed to benefit the Republican Party that it violated voters’ rights under the state constitution. So declared the state Supreme Court in its […]

Community Superstar: Margaret D. Bordeaux

By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

This February, during Black History Month, we are highlighting 4 amazing Community Superstars. These incredible people are local Black leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities! This final week of February, our Community Superstar is Margaret D. Bordeaux. Margaret is an inspiring and committed activist, who has been serving […]

Community Superstar: Margaret D. Bordeaux

by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

This February, during Black History Month, we are highlighting 4 amazing Community Superstars. These incredible people are local Black leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities! This final week of February, our Community Superstar is Margaret D. Bordeaux. Margaret is an inspiring and committed activist, who has been serving […]

‘Tragedy beyond words’: 1st payments from national opioid settlement coming to NC soon

· The News & Observer

The settlement comes as North Carolina is seeing potentially record opioid deaths. A total of 3,961 people died of suspected overdoses in 2021, a 26% increase from 2020, when 3,132 suspected overdose deaths were recorded, according to data from the N.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. “It is a tragedy beyond words that last […]

‘Tragedy beyond words’: 1st payments from national opioid settlement coming to NC soon

· The News & Observer

The settlement comes as North Carolina is seeing potentially record opioid deaths. A total of 3,961 people died of suspected overdoses in 2021, a 26% increase from 2020, when 3,132 suspected overdose deaths were recorded, according to data from the N.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. “It is a tragedy beyond words that last […]

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Community Superstar: Josh McClenney

By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

This February, during Black History Month, we are highlighting 4 amazing Community Superstars. These incredible people are local Black leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities! This week our Community Superstar is Josh McClenney. Josh is a committed activist serving his community and advocating for climate justice. He believes […]

Community Superstar: Josh McClenney

by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

This February, during Black History Month, we are highlighting 4 amazing Community Superstars. These incredible people are local Black leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities! This week our Community Superstar is Josh McClenney. Josh is a committed activist serving his community and advocating for climate justice. He believes […]

Community Superstar: Rev. Dr. T. Anthony Spearman

By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

This February, during Black History Month, we are highlighting 4 amazing Community Superstars. These incredible people are local Black leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities! This week our Community Superstar is the Reverend Dr. T. Anthony Spearman! He has been an activist for most of his life and […]

Community Superstar: Rev. Dr. T. Anthony Spearman

by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

This February, during Black History Month, we are highlighting 4 amazing Community Superstars. These incredible people are local Black leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities! This week our Community Superstar is the Reverend Dr. T. Anthony Spearman! He has been an activist for most of his life and […]

2022 Lenten Guide: 40 Days of Positive Change

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Christians often use the season of Lent to focus on the basics. Some of us practice denial of certain luxuries and others practice the addition of spiritual disciplines. The point is to use these 40 days for intentional focus on the broken places in the world around us. We confess when we have been complicit […]

2022 Lenten Guide: 40 Days of Positive Change

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Christians often use the season of Lent to focus on the basics. Some of us practice denial of certain luxuries and others practice the addition of spiritual disciplines. The point is to use these 40 days for intentional focus on the broken places in the world around us. We confess when we have been complicit […]

Community Superstar: Dr. Dawn Baldwin Gibson

By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

This February, during Black History Month, we are highlighting 4 amazing Community Superstars. These incredible people are local Black leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities! This week our Community Superstar is Dr. Dawn Baldwin Gibson! Dr. Dawn has served her community in amazing ways, especially around health and […]

Community Superstar: Dr. Dawn Baldwin Gibson

by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

This February, during Black History Month, we are highlighting 4 amazing Community Superstars. These incredible people are local Black leaders in North Carolina who have been doing amazing work in their communities! This week our Community Superstar is Dr. Dawn Baldwin Gibson! Dr. Dawn has served her community in amazing ways, especially around health and […]

Calling for Courage: A Response to the Bomb Threats on our Historically Black Colleges and Universities

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Cowards perpetrate fear and sow discord. Such cowards are hard at work this week creating havoc on our nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities. As an organization founded in 1935 to work, among other things, toward racial equity, the North Carolina Council of Churches will not remain silent in the face of such cowardice. The […]

Calling for Courage: A Response to the Bomb Threats on our Historically Black Colleges and Universities

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Cowards perpetrate fear and sow discord. Such cowards are hard at work this week creating havoc on our nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities. As an organization founded in 1935 to work, among other things, toward racial equity, the North Carolina Council of Churches will not remain silent in the face of such cowardice. The […]

Opioid Settlement with Scott Briggaman

· Triangle Morning News

Radio Interview with Elizabeth Brewington, Partners in Health and Wholeness Associate Director, Overdose Response and HIV Advocacy.

Opioid Settlement with Scott Briggaman

· Triangle Morning News

Radio Interview with Elizabeth Brewington, Partners in Health and Wholeness Associate Director, Overdose Response and HIV Advocacy.

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Ahead of midterm elections, interfaith ‘revival’ links voting rights, climate

· Earthbeat

With the 2022 midterm elections looming 10 months away, faith leaders in the South are preparing a “revival” effort to reinvigorate voters around what they see as two crucial issues: climate change and voting rights. The Southeast Faith Leaders Network kicked off its first-ever “climate revival” on Jan. 20. The yearlong campaign is targeted on […]

Ahead of midterm elections, interfaith ‘revival’ links voting rights, climate

· Earthbeat

With the 2022 midterm elections looming 10 months away, faith leaders in the South are preparing a “revival” effort to reinvigorate voters around what they see as two crucial issues: climate change and voting rights. The Southeast Faith Leaders Network kicked off its first-ever “climate revival” on Jan. 20. The yearlong campaign is targeted on […]

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2021 Saw Record Number of NC Overdose Deaths

· Public News Story

Advocates and faith groups are calling for more investments in harm reduction across the state, as new provisional data shows overdose deaths have increased statewide by 26%. It is estimated more than 3,900 people lost their lives to drug overdoses last year. Elizabeth Brewington, associate director for partners in health and wholeness overdose response at the North […]

2021 Saw Record Number of NC Overdose Deaths

· Public News Story

Advocates and faith groups are calling for more investments in harm reduction across the state, as new provisional data shows overdose deaths have increased statewide by 26%. It is estimated more than 3,900 people lost their lives to drug overdoses last year. Elizabeth Brewington, associate director for partners in health and wholeness overdose response at the North […]

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Decision points on districts, schools

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Among all the issues and challenges confronting North Carolina as 2022 gets under way – overcoming the pandemic, easing rural poverty, alleviating environmental threats, improving access to health care, on and on down the sobering list – it’s fair to say none is more urgent than shoring up our beleaguered public schools and strengthening citizens’ […]

Decision points on districts, schools

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Among all the issues and challenges confronting North Carolina as 2022 gets under way – overcoming the pandemic, easing rural poverty, alleviating environmental threats, improving access to health care, on and on down the sobering list – it’s fair to say none is more urgent than shoring up our beleaguered public schools and strengthening citizens’ […]

Statement Condemning Violence Against our Jewish Neighbors

By North Carolina Council of Churches

The North Carolina Council of Churches represents 18 denominations statewide among which are congregations large and small, urban and rural, multicultural and multi-ethnic. Today we stand in solidarity with our Jewish neighbors.  The recent increase in violence against our Jewish neighbors is antithetical to the freedom guaranteed to each person in this country. We value […]

Statement Condemning Violence Against our Jewish Neighbors

by North Carolina Council of Churches

The North Carolina Council of Churches represents 18 denominations statewide among which are congregations large and small, urban and rural, multicultural and multi-ethnic. Today we stand in solidarity with our Jewish neighbors.  The recent increase in violence against our Jewish neighbors is antithetical to the freedom guaranteed to each person in this country. We value […]

Truth, Justice and Reconciliation

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive, Jennifer Copeland, during the public launch of the North Carolina — Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission (NC-TJRC) on January 20, 2022. To watch the entire launch, click here. To learn more about the commission, click here. The North Carolina Council of Churches affirms the work of this commission […]

Truth, Justice and Reconciliation

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive, Jennifer Copeland, during the public launch of the North Carolina — Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission (NC-TJRC) on January 20, 2022. To watch the entire launch, click here. To learn more about the commission, click here. The North Carolina Council of Churches affirms the work of this commission […]

The Sins of Guantanamo Bay

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, during a vigil on January 11, 2022 calling on the Biden administration to close the Guantanamo Bay Prison. Did you know, all the people still in prison in Guantanamo Bay are Muslims? And all the people previously imprisoned and tortured there were […]

The Sins of Guantanamo Bay

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director, during a vigil on January 11, 2022 calling on the Biden administration to close the Guantanamo Bay Prison. Did you know, all the people still in prison in Guantanamo Bay are Muslims? And all the people previously imprisoned and tortured there were […]

Democracy in distress? Check the maps

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Americans this first week of January are recalling how close to the brink of disaster our nation’s democratic system came one year ago, when a violent mob seeking to keep Donald Trump in office despite his election loss to Joe Biden invaded the U.S. Capitol. Whether that assault was the capstone of a desperate strategy […]

Democracy in distress? Check the maps

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Americans this first week of January are recalling how close to the brink of disaster our nation’s democratic system came one year ago, when a violent mob seeking to keep Donald Trump in office despite his election loss to Joe Biden invaded the U.S. Capitol. Whether that assault was the capstone of a desperate strategy […]

No to SB 43

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, on January 5, 2021 at a Gun Violence Prevention press conference. View the live stream here. When individual rights are at odds with community safety, my faith tradition dictates that we lean toward community safety. Biblically speaking, individual rights are seldom privileged. Instead, the Bible privileges […]

No to SB 43

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director, Jennifer Copeland, on January 5, 2021 at a Gun Violence Prevention press conference. View the live stream here. When individual rights are at odds with community safety, my faith tradition dictates that we lean toward community safety. Biblically speaking, individual rights are seldom privileged. Instead, the Bible privileges […]

2021 Advent Guide: Epiphany of the Lord

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Isaiah 43:1-7 But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel:Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;when […]

2021 Advent Guide: Epiphany of the Lord

by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Isaiah 43:1-7 But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel:Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;when […]

2021 Advent Guide: Second Sunday after Christmas

By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

John 1:(1-9), 10-18 He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children […]

2021 Advent Guide: Second Sunday after Christmas

by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

John 1:(1-9), 10-18 He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children […]

2021 Advent Guide: First Sunday after Christmas

By Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26 Samuel was ministering before the Lord, a boy wearing a linen ephod. His mother used to make for him a little robe and take it to him each year, when she went up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice. Then Eli would bless Elkanah and his wife, and say, […]

2021 Advent Guide: First Sunday after Christmas

by Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26 Samuel was ministering before the Lord, a boy wearing a linen ephod. His mother used to make for him a little robe and take it to him each year, when she went up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice. Then Eli would bless Elkanah and his wife, and say, […]