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Council Voices

Building Up Our Schools

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

“Build a Church, then Build a School.” Chief among the instructions for John Wesley’s itinerant ministers was this directive about education. Methodists are not the only faith group to grasp the importance of education for the flourishing of God’s people. Nearly all unite an emphasis on faith formation with a call for quality education. This […]

Building Up Our Schools

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

“Build a Church, then Build a School.” Chief among the instructions for John Wesley’s itinerant ministers was this directive about education. Methodists are not the only faith group to grasp the importance of education for the flourishing of God’s people. Nearly all unite an emphasis on faith formation with a call for quality education. This […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Mini-Grant Cycle Now Open

By Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

The Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Summer Mini-Grant Cycle is now open. Mini-grants are a great way to support programs in your health ministry that engage church congregants and fulfill a health need in the church and surrounding community. Mini-grants are open to any worshipping community that has applied for or renewed membership to […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Mini-Grant Cycle Now Open

by Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

The Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Summer Mini-Grant Cycle is now open. Mini-grants are a great way to support programs in your health ministry that engage church congregants and fulfill a health need in the church and surrounding community. Mini-grants are open to any worshipping community that has applied for or renewed membership to […]

Doing the School-money Shuffle

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

When the N.C. General Assembly convenes on May 16, legislators will be “welcomed” by a throng of advocates for high-quality public schools – teachers prominent among them. More power to these noble loud-mouths, and may they make headway in their against-the-tide quest for better pay and working conditions, more school resources and (gasp!) more respect. […]

Doing the School-money Shuffle

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

When the N.C. General Assembly convenes on May 16, legislators will be “welcomed” by a throng of advocates for high-quality public schools – teachers prominent among them. More power to these noble loud-mouths, and may they make headway in their against-the-tide quest for better pay and working conditions, more school resources and (gasp!) more respect. […]

Wise Folks Build Their House on the Rock

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness, and his upper rooms by injustice; who makes his neighbors work for nothing and does not give them their wages. Jeremiah 22:13 Everytime you shop it is important to keep in mind the way that your purchasing decisions affect workers. Even if you are not the […]

Wise Folks Build Their House on the Rock

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness, and his upper rooms by injustice; who makes his neighbors work for nothing and does not give them their wages. Jeremiah 22:13 Everytime you shop it is important to keep in mind the way that your purchasing decisions affect workers. Even if you are not the […]

Politics of Eating

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon originally delivered at the Jack Crum Conference at Highlands United Methodist Church in Raleigh on Saturday, April 21. The primary text was Isaiah 55:1-9. My parents have an amazing garden. Besides the fact that it’s huge, it’s also bountiful. Its bounty comes from the gardeners who know how to get the most from their […]

Politics of Eating

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon originally delivered at the Jack Crum Conference at Highlands United Methodist Church in Raleigh on Saturday, April 21. The primary text was Isaiah 55:1-9. My parents have an amazing garden. Besides the fact that it’s huge, it’s also bountiful. Its bounty comes from the gardeners who know how to get the most from their […]

Sustainability Goals Delay Duke University Plans for Power Plant

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Duke University officials have announced the indefinite delay of plans to build a freestanding Combined Heat and Power (CHP) plant and will instead focus its attention on expanding opportunities to use biogas and other environmentally friendly fuels for its growing energy needs. “Duke has an aggressive goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2024 while ensuring […]

Sustainability Goals Delay Duke University Plans for Power Plant

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Duke University officials have announced the indefinite delay of plans to build a freestanding Combined Heat and Power (CHP) plant and will instead focus its attention on expanding opportunities to use biogas and other environmentally friendly fuels for its growing energy needs. “Duke has an aggressive goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2024 while ensuring […]

Pray and Vote

By Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

The North Carolina Council of Churches believes that participating in our democracy is one critical component of our call to be the hands and feet of Jesus in this world. We also believe that local and state elections provide significant opportunities to impact policy that affects our neighbors, our children, our elderly, our infirmed, our […]

Pray and Vote

by Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

The North Carolina Council of Churches believes that participating in our democracy is one critical component of our call to be the hands and feet of Jesus in this world. We also believe that local and state elections provide significant opportunities to impact policy that affects our neighbors, our children, our elderly, our infirmed, our […]

Partner Congregations Provide Sanctuary for Woman in Chapel Hill

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a March 17 press conference in Chapel Hill on the Sanctuary Movement. At the North Carolina Council of Churches, we don’t pretend to be objective; we don’t pretend to represent a variety of opinions. We refract the issues of the day through the lens of faith, the […]

Partner Congregations Provide Sanctuary for Woman in Chapel Hill

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a March 17 press conference in Chapel Hill on the Sanctuary Movement. At the North Carolina Council of Churches, we don’t pretend to be objective; we don’t pretend to represent a variety of opinions. We refract the issues of the day through the lens of faith, the […]

The Second Commandment

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

When the news broke about the North Carolina Council of Churches billboard suggesting a connection between guns and idolatry, responses ran from, “Thank you for naming the truth,” to “How dare you claim owning a gun means worshiping an idol.” And everything in between, not always in language you would print where children might see […]

The Second Commandment

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

When the news broke about the North Carolina Council of Churches billboard suggesting a connection between guns and idolatry, responses ran from, “Thank you for naming the truth,” to “How dare you claim owning a gun means worshiping an idol.” And everything in between, not always in language you would print where children might see […]

School Districts: Keeping It Together

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Public education in North Carolina has its share of challenges, not the least of which has been the state’s ongoing failure to make sure that school systems in poorer communities receive the financial support they need. But in one major respect, the pattern by which most of our school districts are organized helps them serve […]

School Districts: Keeping It Together

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Public education in North Carolina has its share of challenges, not the least of which has been the state’s ongoing failure to make sure that school systems in poorer communities receive the financial support they need. But in one major respect, the pattern by which most of our school districts are organized helps them serve […]

Council Posts Billboard about Gun Violence

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

On your drive along I-85/40 outside of Mebane, look for our billboard on the side of the road. It will go up this week and stay in place for the next four weeks, another crucial message for all of us while gun violence continues to erupt all around. While amendments and policies related to gun […]

Council Posts Billboard about Gun Violence

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

On your drive along I-85/40 outside of Mebane, look for our billboard on the side of the road. It will go up this week and stay in place for the next four weeks, another crucial message for all of us while gun violence continues to erupt all around. While amendments and policies related to gun […]

Children and a Healthy Start to Life: Understanding Stress and Trauma’s Impact

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

As I work with various communities, a returning issue I hear about is the first 2000 days of a person’s life. I first learned about this number, 2000, at the Smart Start of New Hanover County’s 2000 Days Community Summit. It was here that parents, teachers, clergy, social workers, police officers, and physicians gathered to […]

Children and a Healthy Start to Life: Understanding Stress and Trauma’s Impact

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

As I work with various communities, a returning issue I hear about is the first 2000 days of a person’s life. I first learned about this number, 2000, at the Smart Start of New Hanover County’s 2000 Days Community Summit. It was here that parents, teachers, clergy, social workers, police officers, and physicians gathered to […]

Public Schools’ Call to Quality – For All

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

It was perhaps the N.C. Supreme Court’s finest hour. In 1997, the high court held unanimously that North Carolina public school students are entitled under the state constitution to the “opportunity to receive a sound basic education.” In other words, it’s the state’s responsibility to make sure that all children – even those living in […]

Public Schools’ Call to Quality – For All

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

It was perhaps the N.C. Supreme Court’s finest hour. In 1997, the high court held unanimously that North Carolina public school students are entitled under the state constitution to the “opportunity to receive a sound basic education.” In other words, it’s the state’s responsibility to make sure that all children – even those living in […]

Lenten Reflection Guide: Easter Sunday

By Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice”  When the sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him. And very early on the first day of the week, when the sun had risen, they went to the […]

Lenten Reflection Guide: Easter Sunday

by Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice”  When the sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him. And very early on the first day of the week, when the sun had risen, they went to the […]

Lenten Reflection Guide: Good Friday

By Yolanda Santiago-Correa, Duke Divinity School Intern

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice”  My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning? O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer; and by night, but find no rest. Yet you […]

Lenten Reflection Guide: Good Friday

by Yolanda Santiago-Correa, Duke Divinity School Intern

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice”  My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning? O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer; and by night, but find no rest. Yet you […]

Soul of Appalachia

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks originally delivered March 23 at The State of the Soul of Appalachia conference in Pipestem State Park in West Virginia. The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; […]

Soul of Appalachia

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks originally delivered March 23 at The State of the Soul of Appalachia conference in Pipestem State Park in West Virginia. The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; […]

Lenten Reflection Guide: Maundy Thursday

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice.” Reflection written by Sabrina Rosario, NC Interfaith Power & Light intern. Now before the festival of the Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart from this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, […]

Lenten Reflection Guide: Maundy Thursday

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice.” Reflection written by Sabrina Rosario, NC Interfaith Power & Light intern. Now before the festival of the Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart from this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, […]

Spotlight: Brown’s Chapel UMC

By Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW), an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, is designed to bridge issues of faith, health, and justice. We partner with faith communities to provide the necessary tools for healthy, whole, and abundant living. Through these spotlights, we will be sharing an overview of the programs and initiatives […]

Spotlight: Brown’s Chapel UMC

by Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW), an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, is designed to bridge issues of faith, health, and justice. We partner with faith communities to provide the necessary tools for healthy, whole, and abundant living. Through these spotlights, we will be sharing an overview of the programs and initiatives […]

Lenten Reflection Guide: Palm Sunday

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” Be gracious to me, O Lord, for I am in distress; my eye wastes away from grief, my soul and body also. For my life is spent with sorrow, and my years with sighing; my strength fails because of my misery, and my bones waste […]

Lenten Reflection Guide: Palm Sunday

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” Be gracious to me, O Lord, for I am in distress; my eye wastes away from grief, my soul and body also. For my life is spent with sorrow, and my years with sighing; my strength fails because of my misery, and my bones waste […]

Council hires new Program Coordinator for Immigration Advocacy

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

The North Carolina Council of Churches must replace our veteran Immigration Program Director, Jennie Belle, who will become the Faith Community Organizer for the national organization, Church World Service. Over the past year and a half, Belle has become a leading voice for the burgeoning Sanctuary Movement, offering webinars, workshops, and guidance to local congregations […]

Council hires new Program Coordinator for Immigration Advocacy

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

The North Carolina Council of Churches must replace our veteran Immigration Program Director, Jennie Belle, who will become the Faith Community Organizer for the national organization, Church World Service. Over the past year and a half, Belle has become a leading voice for the burgeoning Sanctuary Movement, offering webinars, workshops, and guidance to local congregations […]

Critical Issues Seminar: The Wisdom of Women

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

2018 is shaping up to the be the Year of the Woman. From the halls of government to stages and theaters from coast to coast, from marches and protest to industry strikes and the leadership of young students: Women are raising their voices and telling all of us about the world as they see it […]

Critical Issues Seminar: The Wisdom of Women

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

2018 is shaping up to the be the Year of the Woman. From the halls of government to stages and theaters from coast to coast, from marches and protest to industry strikes and the leadership of young students: Women are raising their voices and telling all of us about the world as they see it […]

On the Hot Seat, Where She Belongs

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Ordinary Americans – those of us not allowed to know the secrets of high-level espionage work – at this point find it hard to judge accurately the accomplishments of Gina Haspel as she climbed through the ranks of the Central Intelligence Agency. President Trump, in nominating Haspel to head the agency where she now is […]

On the Hot Seat, Where She Belongs

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Ordinary Americans – those of us not allowed to know the secrets of high-level espionage work – at this point find it hard to judge accurately the accomplishments of Gina Haspel as she climbed through the ranks of the Central Intelligence Agency. President Trump, in nominating Haspel to head the agency where she now is […]

Lenten Reflection Guide: Fifth Sunday in Lent

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

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” Now among those who went up to worship at the festival were some Greeks. They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and said to him, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” Philip went and told Andrew; then Andrew and Philip went […]

Lenten Reflection Guide: Fifth Sunday in Lent

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

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” Now among those who went up to worship at the festival were some Greeks. They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and said to him, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” Philip went and told Andrew; then Andrew and Philip went […]

Critical Issues Seminar: Wisdom of Women

By Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

The NC Council of Churches’ 2018 Critical Issues Seminar will focus on women. The theme for this daylong event is “The Wisdom of Women” and will cover topics such as the the Equal Rights Amendments, sexual harassment and work place policy, elected office, health care, and public education. This conference is for people of all […]

Critical Issues Seminar: Wisdom of Women

by Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

The NC Council of Churches’ 2018 Critical Issues Seminar will focus on women. The theme for this daylong event is “The Wisdom of Women” and will cover topics such as the the Equal Rights Amendments, sexual harassment and work place policy, elected office, health care, and public education. This conference is for people of all […]

NC Religious Leaders’ Letter Opposing Offshore Oil Drilling Delivered to DC

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

In response to President Donald Trump and Secretary of Interior Ryan Zinke’s proposal to auction off nearly every piece of America’s coastline to private oil companies, 34 religious leaders in North Carolina urged the Administration to invest in renewable energy instead of expanded fossil fuel exploration. The joint letter from the religious leaders comes at […]

NC Religious Leaders’ Letter Opposing Offshore Oil Drilling Delivered to DC

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

In response to President Donald Trump and Secretary of Interior Ryan Zinke’s proposal to auction off nearly every piece of America’s coastline to private oil companies, 34 religious leaders in North Carolina urged the Administration to invest in renewable energy instead of expanded fossil fuel exploration. The joint letter from the religious leaders comes at […]

Lenten Guide: Fourth Sunday in Lent

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” You were dead through the trespasses and sins in which you once lived, following the course of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work among those who are disobedient. All of us once […]

Lenten Guide: Fourth Sunday in Lent

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” You were dead through the trespasses and sins in which you once lived, following the course of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work among those who are disobedient. All of us once […]

PHW Expands and Welcomes New Staff

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The staff of the NC Council of Churches is delighted to welcome Josie Walker and Karen Richardson-Dunn to the Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) team. Josie Walker is the PHW regional coordinator serving the northeastern counties. Josie is a native of Eastern North Carolina who returned to her roots after obtaining a degree in […]

PHW Expands and Welcomes New Staff

by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The staff of the NC Council of Churches is delighted to welcome Josie Walker and Karen Richardson-Dunn to the Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) team. Josie Walker is the PHW regional coordinator serving the northeastern counties. Josie is a native of Eastern North Carolina who returned to her roots after obtaining a degree in […]

Statement Affirming the Ministry of Sanctuary by Congregations

By chris

Statement Affirming the Ministry of Sanctuary by Congregations Approved March 6, 2018 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches The North Carolina Council of Churches: Reaffirms the NC Council of Churches Statement on Immigration, “Support for Comprehensive Immigration Reform” (Dec 5, 2006), a portion of which states: As people of faith […]

Statement Affirming the Ministry of Sanctuary by Congregations

by chris

Statement Affirming the Ministry of Sanctuary by Congregations Approved March 6, 2018 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches The North Carolina Council of Churches: Reaffirms the NC Council of Churches Statement on Immigration, “Support for Comprehensive Immigration Reform” (Dec 5, 2006), a portion of which states: As people of faith […]

Lenten Guide: Third Sunday in Lent

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” Then God spoke all these words: I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery; you shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an idol, whether in […]

Lenten Guide: Third Sunday in Lent

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” Then God spoke all these words: I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery; you shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an idol, whether in […]

Spotlight: St. John AME

By Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW), an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, is designed to bridge issues of faith, health, and justice. We partner with faith communities to provide the necessary tools for healthy, whole, and abundant living. Through these spotlights, we will be sharing an overview of the programs and initiatives […]

Spotlight: St. John AME

by Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW), an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, is designed to bridge issues of faith, health, and justice. We partner with faith communities to provide the necessary tools for healthy, whole, and abundant living. Through these spotlights, we will be sharing an overview of the programs and initiatives […]

Lenten Guide: Second Sunday in Lent

By Rev. Karen Richardson Dunn, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Healthy Aging

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” You who fear the Lord, praise him! All you offspring of Jacob, glorify him; stand in awe of him, all you offspring of Israel! For he did not despise or abhor the affliction of the afflicted; he did not hide his face from me, […]

Lenten Guide: Second Sunday in Lent

by Rev. Karen Richardson Dunn, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Healthy Aging

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” You who fear the Lord, praise him! All you offspring of Jacob, glorify him; stand in awe of him, all you offspring of Israel! For he did not despise or abhor the affliction of the afflicted; he did not hide his face from me, […]

It’s Only 40 Days

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon delivered by Jennifer Copeland yesterday, Sunday, February 18 at Millford Hills United Methodist Church in Salisbury, NC. The lectionary texts were Genesis 9:8-17 and Mark 1:9-15. 40 days–rain! 40 days–wilderness! Noah and rainbows; Jesus and temptation. 40 is an important number in our faith tradition. There were 40 years in the wilderness for Moses […]

It’s Only 40 Days

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon delivered by Jennifer Copeland yesterday, Sunday, February 18 at Millford Hills United Methodist Church in Salisbury, NC. The lectionary texts were Genesis 9:8-17 and Mark 1:9-15. 40 days–rain! 40 days–wilderness! Noah and rainbows; Jesus and temptation. 40 is an important number in our faith tradition. There were 40 years in the wilderness for Moses […]

What More Can Be Said?

By Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

Powerful voices have long narrated the story of guns in America. The media. The NRA. Outraged, livid, grief-stricken mothers and fathers. When it comes to the horror of mass shootings, the stories are told with images and words that sear into our brains: limp bodies, the cries of parents, eulogies, and an NRA Valentine’s advertisement […]

What More Can Be Said?

by Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

Powerful voices have long narrated the story of guns in America. The media. The NRA. Outraged, livid, grief-stricken mothers and fathers. When it comes to the horror of mass shootings, the stories are told with images and words that sear into our brains: limp bodies, the cries of parents, eulogies, and an NRA Valentine’s advertisement […]

Lenten Guide: First Sunday in Lent

By Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” Then God said to Noah and to his sons with him, “As for me, I am establishing my covenant with you and your descendants after you, and with every living creature that is with you, the birds, the domestic animals, and every animal of the […]

Lenten Guide: First Sunday in Lent

by Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” Then God said to Noah and to his sons with him, “As for me, I am establishing my covenant with you and your descendants after you, and with every living creature that is with you, the birds, the domestic animals, and every animal of the […]

Class Sizes and More: An Awkward Finale

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As the General Assembly wraps up its weirdly timed and generally ill-conceived winter session, it would be nice to think that the grand dispute over class sizes in North Carolina’s public schools had been resolved in a way that met valid objections to legislators’ smaller-classes mandate. Alas, no such luck. Those objections may have been […]

Class Sizes and More: An Awkward Finale

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As the General Assembly wraps up its weirdly timed and generally ill-conceived winter session, it would be nice to think that the grand dispute over class sizes in North Carolina’s public schools had been resolved in a way that met valid objections to legislators’ smaller-classes mandate. Alas, no such luck. Those objections may have been […]

Lenten Guide: Ash Wednesday

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” We entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. As we work together with him, we urge […]

Lenten Guide: Ash Wednesday

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” We entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. As we work together with him, we urge […]

Apply Today for a PHW Mini-Grant

By Katie Withers, NC State MSW Intern

There are less than two weeks remaining to apply for a Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Mini-Grant. Congregations that are members of the PHW Collaborative are able to request up to $1,000 for a mini-grant. Eligible congregations must have been accepted into the PHW Collaborative or renewed their membership in the past 12 months. They […]

Apply Today for a PHW Mini-Grant

by Katie Withers, NC State MSW Intern

There are less than two weeks remaining to apply for a Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Mini-Grant. Congregations that are members of the PHW Collaborative are able to request up to $1,000 for a mini-grant. Eligible congregations must have been accepted into the PHW Collaborative or renewed their membership in the past 12 months. They […]

The Commission Came to Town

By Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

Only rarely does the United States Commission on Civil Rights hold hearings outside of Washington D.C.  In February they came to town, convening in Raleigh to hear testimony about obstacles to voter access.  Notably, former NC Supreme Court Justice Patricia Timmons-Goodson serves as Vice Chair of this commission.  Experts from all over the country gathered […]

The Commission Came to Town

by Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

Only rarely does the United States Commission on Civil Rights hold hearings outside of Washington D.C.  In February they came to town, convening in Raleigh to hear testimony about obstacles to voter access.  Notably, former NC Supreme Court Justice Patricia Timmons-Goodson serves as Vice Chair of this commission.  Experts from all over the country gathered […]

Be Reconciled

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Black History month is North Carolina Council of Churches’ history starting in 1935 because our history is founded on the black experience as seen through the eyes of the white church. Fortunately, those white church leaders early on recognized their need to ground black history in the black experience and not merely on black history […]

Be Reconciled

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Black History month is North Carolina Council of Churches’ history starting in 1935 because our history is founded on the black experience as seen through the eyes of the white church. Fortunately, those white church leaders early on recognized their need to ground black history in the black experience and not merely on black history […]

Job Opening: Program Coordinator for Sanctuary Sites and Immigration Advocacy

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Update: This position has now been filled. The Council is hiring a part-time program coordinator for Sanctuary sites and Immigration Advocacy. The full job description is posted below and at this link. To guarantee consideration, your application must be received by the end of the day on Friday, February 23. The Council’s Partners in Health […]

Job Opening: Program Coordinator for Sanctuary Sites and Immigration Advocacy

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Update: This position has now been filled. The Council is hiring a part-time program coordinator for Sanctuary sites and Immigration Advocacy. The full job description is posted below and at this link. To guarantee consideration, your application must be received by the end of the day on Friday, February 23. The Council’s Partners in Health […]

Job Opening: Opioid Response Program Coordinator

By North Carolina Council of Churches

The Council’s Partners in Health and Wholeness initiative is hiring a full-time program coordinator to enhance the faith communities’ awareness and response to the opioid crisis in the state of North Carolina. The full job description is posted below and at this link. To guarantee consideration, your application must be received by the end of […]

Job Opening: Opioid Response Program Coordinator

by North Carolina Council of Churches

The Council’s Partners in Health and Wholeness initiative is hiring a full-time program coordinator to enhance the faith communities’ awareness and response to the opioid crisis in the state of North Carolina. The full job description is posted below and at this link. To guarantee consideration, your application must be received by the end of […]

With Rights at Stake, Judges Stand Tall

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The pattern has become familiar – and a welcome pattern it is, even if brought about by the Republican-controlled General Assembly’s relentless abuses of our democratic system. Call it, “Judges to the rescue!” Legislators have moved to make voting more difficult, to gerrymander election districts so as to insulate themselves from meaningful competition, and to […]

With Rights at Stake, Judges Stand Tall

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The pattern has become familiar – and a welcome pattern it is, even if brought about by the Republican-controlled General Assembly’s relentless abuses of our democratic system. Call it, “Judges to the rescue!” Legislators have moved to make voting more difficult, to gerrymander election districts so as to insulate themselves from meaningful competition, and to […]

The Severity of the Flu

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

This flu season is notably harsh and even deadly in some circumstances. According to North Carolina Health Officials, as of January 25, there have been 21 flu deaths in our state and 67 total for the nation. Even though we benefit from more advancements in medicine and technology than any other era, the flu still […]

The Severity of the Flu

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

This flu season is notably harsh and even deadly in some circumstances. According to North Carolina Health Officials, as of January 25, there have been 21 flu deaths in our state and 67 total for the nation. Even though we benefit from more advancements in medicine and technology than any other era, the flu still […]

Looking for Help?

By Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

The Federal Government of the United States of America shut down at midnight on Friday. It reopened yesterday, but may shut down again in February.  Uncertainty and disorientation abound.             I lift my eyes up to the mountains. At stake are protections for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients which […]

Looking for Help?

by Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

The Federal Government of the United States of America shut down at midnight on Friday. It reopened yesterday, but may shut down again in February.  Uncertainty and disorientation abound.             I lift my eyes up to the mountains. At stake are protections for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients which […]

Thumbs-up to Fairer Districts

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Progress in rooting out North Carolina’s gerrymandered voting districts hasn’t always occurred in a straight line. But the trend – thanks to federal judges honoring their duty to uphold the Constitution – bodes well for giving all voters an equal chance to help choose their leaders. That’s the essence of a democratic system in which […]

Thumbs-up to Fairer Districts

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Progress in rooting out North Carolina’s gerrymandered voting districts hasn’t always occurred in a straight line. But the trend – thanks to federal judges honoring their duty to uphold the Constitution – bodes well for giving all voters an equal chance to help choose their leaders. That’s the essence of a democratic system in which […]

Medicare for All

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks originally delivered at the Medicare for All Rally held in Durham on Saturday, January 13. We are the fortunate ones. We are here. We are able to be here. It is safe for us to be here.  Many people are not here because they are not well, they are not safe, and they are […]

Medicare for All

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks originally delivered at the Medicare for All Rally held in Durham on Saturday, January 13. We are the fortunate ones. We are here. We are able to be here. It is safe for us to be here.  Many people are not here because they are not well, they are not safe, and they are […]

Jesus, Martin, and Gilles

By Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

A reflection on Jesus of Nazareth (out of which nothing good comes)¹, the life and death of Martin Luther King Jr., and the detention of Gilles Bikindou. Jesus. Martin. Gilles. These men have been with me in recent days – days in which immigration reform has been at the forefront of our national conversation; days […]

Jesus, Martin, and Gilles

by Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

A reflection on Jesus of Nazareth (out of which nothing good comes)¹, the life and death of Martin Luther King Jr., and the detention of Gilles Bikindou. Jesus. Martin. Gilles. These men have been with me in recent days – days in which immigration reform has been at the forefront of our national conversation; days […]

Spotlight: Bethel Christian Assembly

By Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW), an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, is designed to bridge issues of faith, health, and justice. We partner with faith communities to provide the necessary tools for healthy, whole, abundant living. Through these spotlights, we will be sharing an overview of the programs and initiatives of […]

Spotlight: Bethel Christian Assembly

by Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW), an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, is designed to bridge issues of faith, health, and justice. We partner with faith communities to provide the necessary tools for healthy, whole, abundant living. Through these spotlights, we will be sharing an overview of the programs and initiatives of […]

Words Make a World

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The words we hear form what we think. The words we say form what we do. And when powerful people use words, the words have even more power. And so it is that the person who holds the highest office in the land, an office that has been described as the “leader of the free […]

Words Make a World

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The words we hear form what we think. The words we say form what we do. And when powerful people use words, the words have even more power. And so it is that the person who holds the highest office in the land, an office that has been described as the “leader of the free […]

U.S. Court: Those Districts Won’t Fly

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Grand constitutional questions in this country aren’t settled until the Supreme Court has its say, either by affirming or reversing the rulings of lower-court judges or simply by declining to hear challenges to those rulings. So it’s too early to conclude definitively that North Carolina’s Republican-controlled General Assembly has set a sorry standard leading to […]

U.S. Court: Those Districts Won’t Fly

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Grand constitutional questions in this country aren’t settled until the Supreme Court has its say, either by affirming or reversing the rulings of lower-court judges or simply by declining to hear challenges to those rulings. So it’s too early to conclude definitively that North Carolina’s Republican-controlled General Assembly has set a sorry standard leading to […]

Defending Temporary Protected Status

By Yolanda Santiago-Correa, Duke Divinity School Intern

On Monday, the Department of Homeland Security announced the decision to terminate the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for El Salvador. This temporary immigration status allows people from certain countries to live and work in the United States during a humanitarian crisis in their home countries. With the decision by the current administration, over 250,000 […]

Defending Temporary Protected Status

by Yolanda Santiago-Correa, Duke Divinity School Intern

On Monday, the Department of Homeland Security announced the decision to terminate the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for El Salvador. This temporary immigration status allows people from certain countries to live and work in the United States during a humanitarian crisis in their home countries. With the decision by the current administration, over 250,000 […]

Advent Guide: Baptism of the Lord

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their […]

Advent Guide: Baptism of the Lord

by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their […]

Advent Guide: Epiphany

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? […]

Advent Guide: Epiphany

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? […]

New Tax Law Will Harm Environment

By Michelle Peedin, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The final version of the tax bill, passed in late December, will now open the pristine Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) to oil drilling while maintaining a 14% cut in the corporate tax rate. This will allow oil and gas companies to gain and additional $1 billion in profits. In addition, oil and gas companies […]

New Tax Law Will Harm Environment

by Michelle Peedin, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The final version of the tax bill, passed in late December, will now open the pristine Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) to oil drilling while maintaining a 14% cut in the corporate tax rate. This will allow oil and gas companies to gain and additional $1 billion in profits. In addition, oil and gas companies […]

Council Offers Updated Sanctuary E-course

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

A growing movement of immigrant and faith communities have committed to doing what Congress and the Administration refuse to do: protect and stand with immigrants facing deportation. However, many congregations have questions. Who is seeking sanctuary? Who leads sanctuary? How do faith communities declare sanctuary? To answer these questions, the NC Religious Coalition for Justice […]

Council Offers Updated Sanctuary E-course

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

A growing movement of immigrant and faith communities have committed to doing what Congress and the Administration refuse to do: protect and stand with immigrants facing deportation. However, many congregations have questions. Who is seeking sanctuary? Who leads sanctuary? How do faith communities declare sanctuary? To answer these questions, the NC Religious Coalition for Justice […]

N.C. Judges on Trial

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Well, here we go again. If the Republican-led General Assembly in 2017 focused on trying to exert its dominance over a freshly installed Democratic governor, then 2018 could bring the climax of legislative efforts to “reform” the courts. Translated, that means efforts to stack the state’s judicial deck in favor of Republican goals and priorities. […]

N.C. Judges on Trial

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Well, here we go again. If the Republican-led General Assembly in 2017 focused on trying to exert its dominance over a freshly installed Democratic governor, then 2018 could bring the climax of legislative efforts to “reform” the courts. Translated, that means efforts to stack the state’s judicial deck in favor of Republican goals and priorities. […]

That Resolution

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

We all do it and well we should–start the new year resolving to do better. Maybe it’s eat better, exercise more, or work less. The resolution itself quickly takes a back seat to the resolve it takes from us to follow it through. This might happen because our resolutions are too ambitious. For instance, few […]

That Resolution

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

We all do it and well we should–start the new year resolving to do better. Maybe it’s eat better, exercise more, or work less. The resolution itself quickly takes a back seat to the resolve it takes from us to follow it through. This might happen because our resolutions are too ambitious. For instance, few […]

Advent Guide: First Sunday After Christmas Day

By Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Praise the LORD. Praise the LORD from the heavens; praise him in the heights above. Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his heavenly hosts. Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, all you […]

Advent Guide: First Sunday After Christmas Day

by Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Praise the LORD. Praise the LORD from the heavens; praise him in the heights above. Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his heavenly hosts. Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, all you […]

On the Fourth Day of Christmas

By Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

It has been a rough year for creche sets at our house. For our family, as for many, the Holiday Season is cluttered by rehearsals, recitals, school performances, pageants, holiday parties, classroom volunteering, shopping, shattered light bulbs from window candles that get caught up in the blinds, light strands on which only half of the […]

On the Fourth Day of Christmas

by Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

It has been a rough year for creche sets at our house. For our family, as for many, the Holiday Season is cluttered by rehearsals, recitals, school performances, pageants, holiday parties, classroom volunteering, shopping, shattered light bulbs from window candles that get caught up in the blinds, light strands on which only half of the […]

Christ’s Mass

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. …And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of an only child, full of grace and truth (John 1:1, 14). ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ For centuries, Christians have heard these words […]

Christ’s Mass

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. …And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of an only child, full of grace and truth (John 1:1, 14). ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ For centuries, Christians have heard these words […]

Advent Guide: Christmas Eve and Day

By Josie Walker, PHW Regional Coordinator

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present […]

Advent Guide: Christmas Eve and Day

by Josie Walker, PHW Regional Coordinator

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present […]

Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday, December 24

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The […]

Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday, December 24

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The […]

Welcome Mary Elizabeth

By Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

My name is Mary Elizabeth Hanchey and I joined the staff of the NC Council of Churches as Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach on November 1. I have long been committed to the work of the Council and the spirit with which it is accomplished. Soon after I graduated from law school […]

Welcome Mary Elizabeth

by Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

My name is Mary Elizabeth Hanchey and I joined the staff of the NC Council of Churches as Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach on November 1. I have long been committed to the work of the Council and the spirit with which it is accomplished. Soon after I graduated from law school […]

Congress: Hands Off New Rule Protecting Families from Payday Lenders

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Originally appeared in the Durham Herald and signed by both Larry Hall, Secretary of the NC Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, and Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director of the NC Council of Churches. Ignoring the voices of families and communities who have worked for many years for relief from the harms of predatory payday lending, […]

Congress: Hands Off New Rule Protecting Families from Payday Lenders

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Originally appeared in the Durham Herald and signed by both Larry Hall, Secretary of the NC Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, and Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director of the NC Council of Churches. Ignoring the voices of families and communities who have worked for many years for relief from the harms of predatory payday lending, […]

Supporting our Mental Health in the Holidays

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

The holiday season is a high-pressured time. The season’s greetings can bring unrealistic expectations, societal pressure, and busyness from Thanksgiving until New Year’s Day. If you do not feel well emotionally and mentally in other times of the year, the holidays can be even more overwhelming. It is taught that the holidays are about others […]

Supporting our Mental Health in the Holidays

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

The holiday season is a high-pressured time. The season’s greetings can bring unrealistic expectations, societal pressure, and busyness from Thanksgiving until New Year’s Day. If you do not feel well emotionally and mentally in other times of the year, the holidays can be even more overwhelming. It is taught that the holidays are about others […]

Advent Guide: Third Sunday, December 17

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed.Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The LORD has […]

Advent Guide: Third Sunday, December 17

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed.Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The LORD has […]

Policy Statement on the Public Schools

By North Carolina Council of Churches

Statement on the Public Schools Approved December 5, 2017 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches Because the past decade has brought a new era of school segregation in North Carolina rivaling pre Civil Rights Act (1964) segregation rates and because the North Carolina Council of Churches has a long history […]

Policy Statement on the Public Schools

by North Carolina Council of Churches

Statement on the Public Schools Approved December 5, 2017 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches Because the past decade has brought a new era of school segregation in North Carolina rivaling pre Civil Rights Act (1964) segregation rates and because the North Carolina Council of Churches has a long history […]

Vigil to End Gun Violence

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

This is my favorite time of the year. I’m a sap about all of it. I love decorating the house, seeing the lights downtown, the music, getting cozy with a blanket and a good book, and spending extra time with the people I care about the most. As the old Christmas song goes, “it’s the […]

Vigil to End Gun Violence

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

This is my favorite time of the year. I’m a sap about all of it. I love decorating the house, seeing the lights downtown, the music, getting cozy with a blanket and a good book, and spending extra time with the people I care about the most. As the old Christmas song goes, “it’s the […]

Executive Director Jennifer Copeland Receives Award from North Carolinians Against Gun Violence

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director of the North Carolina Council of Churches, and Beth Messersmith,  North Carolina Campaign Director for MomsRising, received the 2017 Effie Steele Award from North Carolinians Against Gun Violence. Effie Steele was a tireless advocate for gun violence prevention after her daughter and unborn grandson were murdered in a domestic violence dispute. […]

Executive Director Jennifer Copeland Receives Award from North Carolinians Against Gun Violence

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director of the North Carolina Council of Churches, and Beth Messersmith,  North Carolina Campaign Director for MomsRising, received the 2017 Effie Steele Award from North Carolinians Against Gun Violence. Effie Steele was a tireless advocate for gun violence prevention after her daughter and unborn grandson were murdered in a domestic violence dispute. […]

An Important Reminder – Less than 5 Days Remain to Get Insurance through the Affordable Care Act

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

If you do not have insurance through an employer or other group plan, the Affordable Care Act continues to provide an option. Though battered, up to and including, appeals to the US Supreme Court, the law remains in place and benefits millions of people across the country. As the window to enroll for 2018 coverage […]

An Important Reminder – Less than 5 Days Remain to Get Insurance through the Affordable Care Act

by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

If you do not have insurance through an employer or other group plan, the Affordable Care Act continues to provide an option. Though battered, up to and including, appeals to the US Supreme Court, the law remains in place and benefits millions of people across the country. As the window to enroll for 2018 coverage […]

Advent Guide: Second Sunday, December 10

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

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the […]

Advent Guide: Second Sunday, December 10

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

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the […]

NCIPL Testifies at EPA Hearing on Clean Power Plan

By Michelle Peedin, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Last week North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light spoke at the EPA public hearing in Charleston, West Virginia, on the proposed repeal of the Clean Power Plan.  The EPA has proposed that the Clean Power Plan is not consistent with the Clean Air Act. The EPA held the public hearing on this critical issue in the heart of coal country. […]

NCIPL Testifies at EPA Hearing on Clean Power Plan

by Michelle Peedin, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Last week North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light spoke at the EPA public hearing in Charleston, West Virginia, on the proposed repeal of the Clean Power Plan.  The EPA has proposed that the Clean Power Plan is not consistent with the Clean Air Act. The EPA held the public hearing on this critical issue in the heart of coal country. […]

Torture Inquiry Hits Close to Home

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The solid citizens of Johnston County, N.C. – in a fateful quirk of geography – for several years have faced an unusual dilemma: What to do about the local company whose airplanes and personnel helped the Central Intelligence Agency carry out an interrogation program featuring human rights abuses that amounted to torture. By extension, the […]

Torture Inquiry Hits Close to Home

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The solid citizens of Johnston County, N.C. – in a fateful quirk of geography – for several years have faced an unusual dilemma: What to do about the local company whose airplanes and personnel helped the Central Intelligence Agency carry out an interrogation program featuring human rights abuses that amounted to torture. By extension, the […]

Hope for the Holidays: 2017 Advent Calendar to Defend Immigrants and Refugees

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last year, we created an Advent Calendar to Support Immigrants and Refugees. This year, as the futures of tens of thousands of refugees, DACA recipients, and immigrants who are at risk for deportation remain in question, we have created an “Advent Calendar to Defend Immigrants and Refugees.” As we enter into a season of preparation […]

Hope for the Holidays: 2017 Advent Calendar to Defend Immigrants and Refugees

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last year, we created an Advent Calendar to Support Immigrants and Refugees. This year, as the futures of tens of thousands of refugees, DACA recipients, and immigrants who are at risk for deportation remain in question, we have created an “Advent Calendar to Defend Immigrants and Refugees.” As we enter into a season of preparation […]

Advent Guide: First Sunday, December 3

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. “But in those days, following that distress, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.” At […]

Advent Guide: First Sunday, December 3

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North Carolina Council of Churches. “But in those days, following that distress, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.” At […]

Jesus, Money, and Taxes

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks offered at a press conference on tax reform at the North Carolina State Capitol on Monday, November 29. For those of us who mark time a little differently than the Roman calendar, a new year begins on Sunday when the Christian season of Advent begins. One of the most important scripture readings during these […]

Jesus, Money, and Taxes

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks offered at a press conference on tax reform at the North Carolina State Capitol on Monday, November 29. For those of us who mark time a little differently than the Roman calendar, a new year begins on Sunday when the Christian season of Advent begins. One of the most important scripture readings during these […]

Road Work Ahead: Jesus and Taxes

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Jesus had a lot to say about money, possessions, care for those who are impoverished, and care for those whose bodies are hungry or sick. And those things he said never supported the status quo. They never championed the wealthy. They never legitimized any excuse for not feeding or not healing. Jesus said that loving […]

Road Work Ahead: Jesus and Taxes

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Jesus had a lot to say about money, possessions, care for those who are impoverished, and care for those whose bodies are hungry or sick. And those things he said never supported the status quo. They never championed the wealthy. They never legitimized any excuse for not feeding or not healing. Jesus said that loving […]

Winding Down National Diabetes Month with Partners in Health and Wholeness

By Josie Walker, PHW Regional Coordinator

It isn’t too late to practice prevention. In North Carolina alone, an estimated 750,000 people have been diagnosed with diabetes. An additional 280,000 may have diabetes but are undiagnosed. Already one of the leading causes of disability and death in the United States; the truly alarming fact is that diabetes is the fastest growing disease […]

Winding Down National Diabetes Month with Partners in Health and Wholeness

by Josie Walker, PHW Regional Coordinator

It isn’t too late to practice prevention. In North Carolina alone, an estimated 750,000 people have been diagnosed with diabetes. An additional 280,000 may have diabetes but are undiagnosed. Already one of the leading causes of disability and death in the United States; the truly alarming fact is that diabetes is the fastest growing disease […]

Support the Council on Giving Tuesday

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Dear Friends, Last year when we sent out our fall appeal requesting financial support for the work of the North Carolina Council of Churches we were only days past the presidential election and could only hypothesize about what lay ahead. In that letter I predicted “constrictions on health care coverage and access to affordable health […]

Support the Council on Giving Tuesday

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Dear Friends, Last year when we sent out our fall appeal requesting financial support for the work of the North Carolina Council of Churches we were only days past the presidential election and could only hypothesize about what lay ahead. In that letter I predicted “constrictions on health care coverage and access to affordable health […]

Advent Guide: A Season of Hope

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

The theme for our Advent Guide this year is hope. After considering various themes, we chose hope for the reminder of eternal Hope rather than the spurts of an optimistic outlook. We understand hope as waiting for what is beyond the obvious, a hope that focuses on eternal joy—not joy that is victim to situational […]

Advent Guide: A Season of Hope

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

The theme for our Advent Guide this year is hope. After considering various themes, we chose hope for the reminder of eternal Hope rather than the spurts of an optimistic outlook. We understand hope as waiting for what is beyond the obvious, a hope that focuses on eternal joy—not joy that is victim to situational […]

Protect Dreamers This Thanksgiving

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

For many of us living in the United States, Thanksgiving is a time when we get together with family and friends. We share food, fellowship, and the things that we are grateful for. When I think about the past year when so many of my neighbors have been under attack and living in fear, I give […]

Protect Dreamers This Thanksgiving

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

For many of us living in the United States, Thanksgiving is a time when we get together with family and friends. We share food, fellowship, and the things that we are grateful for. When I think about the past year when so many of my neighbors have been under attack and living in fear, I give […]

Thanksgiving Notes

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Psalm 100 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing. Know that the Lord is God. It is he that made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and […]

Thanksgiving Notes

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Psalm 100 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing. Know that the Lord is God. It is he that made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and […]

Navigating the Health Insurance Marketplace

By Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Open enrollment to sign up for or renew health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) began November 1 and ends December 15, 2017. The ACA Marketplace allows individuals to find some of the best and most affordable healthcare plans available, but it can be a bit overwhelming to navigate. Before you enroll, consider researching […]

Navigating the Health Insurance Marketplace

by Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Open enrollment to sign up for or renew health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) began November 1 and ends December 15, 2017. The ACA Marketplace allows individuals to find some of the best and most affordable healthcare plans available, but it can be a bit overwhelming to navigate. Before you enroll, consider researching […]

Tax Plan Twist: Churches, Charities, Candidates

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

With Republicans on Capitol Hill and in the White House desperate to post a big legislative win, their push for so-called tax reform – the label being used to sugar-coat costly tax changes mostly benefiting profitable corporations and the wealthiest among us – has reached red-line intensity. On the merits, the tax plans now being […]

Tax Plan Twist: Churches, Charities, Candidates

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

With Republicans on Capitol Hill and in the White House desperate to post a big legislative win, their push for so-called tax reform – the label being used to sugar-coat costly tax changes mostly benefiting profitable corporations and the wealthiest among us – has reached red-line intensity. On the merits, the tax plans now being […]

Faith and Health Summit Recap

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Written by Council intern Katie Withers. Katie is a Master of Social Work student at North Carolina State University. Two weeks ago, Partners in Health and Wholeness, a program of the North Carolina Council of Churches, hosted its bi-annual Faith & Health Summit. The purpose of the event was to increase awareness about health disparities […]

Faith and Health Summit Recap

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Written by Council intern Katie Withers. Katie is a Master of Social Work student at North Carolina State University. Two weeks ago, Partners in Health and Wholeness, a program of the North Carolina Council of Churches, hosted its bi-annual Faith & Health Summit. The purpose of the event was to increase awareness about health disparities […]

United for Puerto Rico

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Written by Council intern Yolanda Santiago-Correa. Yolanda is a Duke Divinity School student and was born and raised in Puerto Rico. September 20, 2017: a date that every Puerto Rican will remember forever. Six weeks ago, Hurricane Maria swept through the archipelago and created a crisis that, 47 days later, continues to threaten survival, take […]

United for Puerto Rico

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Written by Council intern Yolanda Santiago-Correa. Yolanda is a Duke Divinity School student and was born and raised in Puerto Rico. September 20, 2017: a date that every Puerto Rican will remember forever. Six weeks ago, Hurricane Maria swept through the archipelago and created a crisis that, 47 days later, continues to threaten survival, take […]

Creating Peace

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

If we are not angry today, we have no faith. If we are not frustrated today, we have no hope. If we are not bereaved today, we have no love. As Christians, we claim faith, hope, and love as foundational elements for our identity (I Corinthians 13:13). Our faith in God’s good gifts should cause […]

Creating Peace

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

If we are not angry today, we have no faith. If we are not frustrated today, we have no hope. If we are not bereaved today, we have no love. As Christians, we claim faith, hope, and love as foundational elements for our identity (I Corinthians 13:13). Our faith in God’s good gifts should cause […]

Democracy Under the Reign of God

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As I continue to follow court cases addressing Gerrymandering at both the federal level (Gill v. Whitford) and in North Carolina (Common Cause v. Rucho), along with the latest move by the North Carolina General Assembly to make judicial elections more partisan, I despair for our democracy. I’ve spoken at press conferences, sat on panel […]

Democracy Under the Reign of God

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

As I continue to follow court cases addressing Gerrymandering at both the federal level (Gill v. Whitford) and in North Carolina (Common Cause v. Rucho), along with the latest move by the North Carolina General Assembly to make judicial elections more partisan, I despair for our democracy. I’ve spoken at press conferences, sat on panel […]

Honoring Farmworkers Who Died in the Fields

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Yesterday farmworkers and farmworker allies from across the state came together to celebrate Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead. On Día de los Muertos, which originated in Mexico and is also observed in other Latin American countries, people gather to remember those who are no longer with us. Though it focuses […]

Honoring Farmworkers Who Died in the Fields

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Yesterday farmworkers and farmworker allies from across the state came together to celebrate Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead. On Día de los Muertos, which originated in Mexico and is also observed in other Latin American countries, people gather to remember those who are no longer with us. Though it focuses […]

PHW Faith and Health Summit: Thank You

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

It has been a little over a week since our third PHW Faith and Health Summit, themed “Making Connections: We’re Worth It.” The day began with worship and a keynote address by The Reverend Richard Joyner. We were inspired and challenged to see the world through relationships, and to embrace the possibilities and calling of […]

PHW Faith and Health Summit: Thank You

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

It has been a little over a week since our third PHW Faith and Health Summit, themed “Making Connections: We’re Worth It.” The day began with worship and a keynote address by The Reverend Richard Joyner. We were inspired and challenged to see the world through relationships, and to embrace the possibilities and calling of […]

Affordable Care Act Open Enrollment Begins November 1st

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The period to enroll or renew health insurance coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) or Marketplace, is just around the corner. This year the enrollment period is significantly shorter making December 15th the deadline if you want to have health coverage in 2018. Otherwise, unless you have a qualifying life change, you will not […]

Affordable Care Act Open Enrollment Begins November 1st

by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The period to enroll or renew health insurance coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) or Marketplace, is just around the corner. This year the enrollment period is significantly shorter making December 15th the deadline if you want to have health coverage in 2018. Otherwise, unless you have a qualifying life change, you will not […]

GOP’s Goal: A Tilted Bench

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

To the Republicans who run the N.C. General Assembly, the concept of judicial independence – central to our bedrock American principle of checks and balances and to the rule of law – must seem as alien as the one-eyed, one-horned, flying purple people-eater of vintage Top 40 radio. Yes, it must be a strange concept […]

GOP’s Goal: A Tilted Bench

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

To the Republicans who run the N.C. General Assembly, the concept of judicial independence – central to our bedrock American principle of checks and balances and to the rule of law – must seem as alien as the one-eyed, one-horned, flying purple people-eater of vintage Top 40 radio. Yes, it must be a strange concept […]

Don’t let Trump Repeal and Replace our Clean Power Plan

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

After failing to “repeal and replace” the Affordable Care Act, the Trump administration now has its sights set on our Clean Power Plan. For this one, they won’t have to go through Congress. EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt has announced his intention to “withdraw the so-called Clean Power Plan” — and replace it with a far […]

Don’t let Trump Repeal and Replace our Clean Power Plan

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

After failing to “repeal and replace” the Affordable Care Act, the Trump administration now has its sights set on our Clean Power Plan. For this one, they won’t have to go through Congress. EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt has announced his intention to “withdraw the so-called Clean Power Plan” — and replace it with a far […]

Faith and Health Summit Spotlight: Mental Health Workshops

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness invites you to join us in Greensboro on Friday, October 20, for our Faith and Health Summit. There will be excellent workshops on many relevant topics to encourage your church’s health initiatives.  The workshop topics include aging, chronic disease, food security, permaculture, mental health, preaching, and much more. We have […]

Faith and Health Summit Spotlight: Mental Health Workshops

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness invites you to join us in Greensboro on Friday, October 20, for our Faith and Health Summit. There will be excellent workshops on many relevant topics to encourage your church’s health initiatives.  The workshop topics include aging, chronic disease, food security, permaculture, mental health, preaching, and much more. We have […]

Join Us for the PHW Faith and Health Summit

By Michelle Peedin, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness

On Thursday, October 19th Partners in Health and Wholeness will host our 2017 Faith and Health Summit. Thursday’s events include a community gardens and permaculture tour throughout the city of Greensboro. Unfortunately this tour is full, but don’t let that discourage you from driving to Greensboro on Thursday. At 6 p.m. that evening all conference […]

Join Us for the PHW Faith and Health Summit

by Michelle Peedin, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness

On Thursday, October 19th Partners in Health and Wholeness will host our 2017 Faith and Health Summit. Thursday’s events include a community gardens and permaculture tour throughout the city of Greensboro. Unfortunately this tour is full, but don’t let that discourage you from driving to Greensboro on Thursday. At 6 p.m. that evening all conference […]

Welcome Yolanda

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Yolanda will be with the Council during the 2017-2018 academic year as an intern through Duke Divinity School. She introduces herself below: My name is Yolanda Santiago-Correa. I am originally from Bayamón, a metropolitan city in the island of Puerto Rico. I am in my third – and last – year of the M.Div. program […]

Welcome Yolanda

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Yolanda will be with the Council during the 2017-2018 academic year as an intern through Duke Divinity School. She introduces herself below: My name is Yolanda Santiago-Correa. I am originally from Bayamón, a metropolitan city in the island of Puerto Rico. I am in my third – and last – year of the M.Div. program […]

Lament for Las Vegas

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

There are no words… and so my words come from the Psalms where laments make up the largest category. This lament from a portion of Psalm 142: With my voice I cry out to the LORD;     with my voice I plead for mercy to the LORD. I pour out my complaint before him;     I tell […]

Lament for Las Vegas

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

There are no words… and so my words come from the Psalms where laments make up the largest category. This lament from a portion of Psalm 142: With my voice I cry out to the LORD;     with my voice I plead for mercy to the LORD. I pour out my complaint before him;     I tell […]

Defenders of Rights; Defenders of Privilege

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

At many levels, Americans are confronting issues of race relations and racial justice with an intensity that echoes the climax of the civil rights movement five decades ago – as well as the violent urban protests that signaled black citizens’ impatience with the pace of progress. Martin Luther King’s 1968 martyrdom was a big reason […]

Defenders of Rights; Defenders of Privilege

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

At many levels, Americans are confronting issues of race relations and racial justice with an intensity that echoes the climax of the civil rights movement five decades ago – as well as the violent urban protests that signaled black citizens’ impatience with the pace of progress. Martin Luther King’s 1968 martyrdom was a big reason […]

Time to Take a Knee

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

It has been nearly fourteen months since Colin Kaepernick first knelt during the playing of the Star Spangled Banner prior to the start of his team’s games. The decision not to stand during the national anthem, as he has repeatedly stated, was in response to the on-going epidemic of police brutality and the inequality that […]

Time to Take a Knee

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

It has been nearly fourteen months since Colin Kaepernick first knelt during the playing of the Star Spangled Banner prior to the start of his team’s games. The decision not to stand during the national anthem, as he has repeatedly stated, was in response to the on-going epidemic of police brutality and the inequality that […]