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Council Voices

2017 Lenten Guide — Second Sunday

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

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday and throughout Holy Week. Let us hope when hope seems hopeless, when the dreams we dreamed have died When the morning breaks […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Second Sunday

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

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday and throughout Holy Week. Let us hope when hope seems hopeless, when the dreams we dreamed have died When the morning breaks […]

Women and Wages

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference on fair wages on March 8, 2017. Today is a day without women. Across the world women have been encouraged not to labor, whether for pay or not for pay. We are taking the day off, all on the same day, to demonstrate how […]

Women and Wages

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference on fair wages on March 8, 2017. Today is a day without women. Across the world women have been encouraged not to labor, whether for pay or not for pay. We are taking the day off, all on the same day, to demonstrate how […]

Taking Away Health Care

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Despite evidence that the Affordable Care Act is more popular and more needed than ever, some Republicans in Congress have proceeded with partisan plans to repeal Obamacare while dismantling Medicaid as we know it. Among other things, our friends at Save My Care explain that the plan put forward on Monday would: End ACA tax […]

Taking Away Health Care

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Despite evidence that the Affordable Care Act is more popular and more needed than ever, some Republicans in Congress have proceeded with partisan plans to repeal Obamacare while dismantling Medicaid as we know it. Among other things, our friends at Save My Care explain that the plan put forward on Monday would: End ACA tax […]

Raleigh Report — March 7, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES S 147, Reenact School Sales Tax Holiday. The school sales tax holiday was a three-day weekend shortly before the start of school each August during which sales taxes were not collected on a variety of school-related supplies, including some big-ticket items like computers. […]

Raleigh Report — March 7, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES S 147, Reenact School Sales Tax Holiday. The school sales tax holiday was a three-day weekend shortly before the start of school each August during which sales taxes were not collected on a variety of school-related supplies, including some big-ticket items like computers. […]

2017 Legislative Seminar: Advocate in NC as well as DC

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The political situation at the national level has occupied the time and attention of many faithful progressives. Each day has brought with it more reasons to be concerned for our most vulnerable sisters and brothers as well as for our democratic system of government. Right now, there isn’t much reason to believe things will improve. […]

2017 Legislative Seminar: Advocate in NC as well as DC

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The political situation at the national level has occupied the time and attention of many faithful progressives. Each day has brought with it more reasons to be concerned for our most vulnerable sisters and brothers as well as for our democratic system of government. Right now, there isn’t much reason to believe things will improve. […]

2017 Lenten Guide — First Sunday

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

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday and throughout Holy Week. Guide my feet while I run this race, for I don’t want to run this race in vain! […]

2017 Lenten Guide — First Sunday

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

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday and throughout Holy Week. Guide my feet while I run this race, for I don’t want to run this race in vain! […]

Introducing the Partners in Health and Wholeness Collaborative

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are pleased to introduce the PHW Collaborative. Mostly, it is a change in the name, so if your congregation has been a part of the Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program, you actually already know a lot about the PHW Collaborative. At the heart of it, the program is the same. But words are […]

Introducing the Partners in Health and Wholeness Collaborative

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are pleased to introduce the PHW Collaborative. Mostly, it is a change in the name, so if your congregation has been a part of the Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program, you actually already know a lot about the PHW Collaborative. At the heart of it, the program is the same. But words are […]

PHW Launches Collaborative; Certify for 2017

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are pleased to introduce the PHW Collaborative. Mostly, it is a change in the name, so if your congregation has been a part of the Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program, you actually already know about the PHW Collaborative. At the heart of it, the program is the same. But words are important. The […]

PHW Launches Collaborative; Certify for 2017

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are pleased to introduce the PHW Collaborative. Mostly, it is a change in the name, so if your congregation has been a part of the Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program, you actually already know about the PHW Collaborative. At the heart of it, the program is the same. But words are important. The […]

H.B. 2 ‘Compromise’ Must Protect Rights

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The fight over North Carolina’s House Bill 2 – the law that notoriously stamps the state’s seal of approval on discrimination against lesbian, gay and transgender folks – has devolved into a form of trench warfare. Republican legislators and social conservatives who support the law remain dug in against an outright repeal. They can’t afford […]

H.B. 2 ‘Compromise’ Must Protect Rights

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The fight over North Carolina’s House Bill 2 – the law that notoriously stamps the state’s seal of approval on discrimination against lesbian, gay and transgender folks – has devolved into a form of trench warfare. Republican legislators and social conservatives who support the law remain dug in against an outright repeal. They can’t afford […]

Raleigh Report — February 28, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills ENVIRONMENTAL CARE H 171, Change Exclusion for Solar Energy Systems. Current law provides an 80% exclusion from property taxation for the value of a solar electric system, defined as “all equipment used directly and exclusively for the conversion of solar energy to electricity.” H 171 would […]

Raleigh Report — February 28, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills ENVIRONMENTAL CARE H 171, Change Exclusion for Solar Energy Systems. Current law provides an 80% exclusion from property taxation for the value of a solar electric system, defined as “all equipment used directly and exclusively for the conversion of solar energy to electricity.” H 171 would […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Ash Wednesday

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday and throughout Holy Week. When we have run with patience the race, We shall know the joy of Jesus. “I Want to […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Ash Wednesday

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday and throughout Holy Week. When we have run with patience the race, We shall know the joy of Jesus. “I Want to […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Sing With Us

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday, and during Holy Week. Some of us have chosen hymns from the faith tradition of our youth, others songs that we might […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Sing With Us

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday, and during Holy Week. Some of us have chosen hymns from the faith tradition of our youth, others songs that we might […]

N.C.’s Reckless ‘Party Time’

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Politics, at least in a democracy, is competitive. The analogy to sports may be simplistic but it’s not too far off the mark. Participants seek to win, and to do so in accordance with rules constraining behavior that’s plainly unfair or dangerous. The rewards for winning athletes can include fame, wealth and pride in their […]

N.C.’s Reckless ‘Party Time’

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Politics, at least in a democracy, is competitive. The analogy to sports may be simplistic but it’s not too far off the mark. Participants seek to win, and to do so in accordance with rules constraining behavior that’s plainly unfair or dangerous. The rewards for winning athletes can include fame, wealth and pride in their […]

Video of Webinar: Loving Our Neighbors in a New Administration

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Did you miss our webinar, ““Loving Our Neighbors in a New Administration?” If so, please watch the one-hour video below to learn ways to protect immigrants and refugees in the wake of new, harmful federal legislation as well as possible anti-immigrant threats at a state and local level. This webinar begins with updates from Christy […]

Video of Webinar: Loving Our Neighbors in a New Administration

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Did you miss our webinar, ““Loving Our Neighbors in a New Administration?” If so, please watch the one-hour video below to learn ways to protect immigrants and refugees in the wake of new, harmful federal legislation as well as possible anti-immigrant threats at a state and local level. This webinar begins with updates from Christy […]

Congregations Act on Faith and Science

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Remarks delivered by NCIPL Director Susannah Tuttle at a press conference on February 23. People of faith have always embraced our cathedrals, churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples as sacred. In the best of scenarios, houses of worship hold the community together and serve as a central focus for community life. Symbolically and in reality, people […]

Congregations Act on Faith and Science

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Remarks delivered by NCIPL Director Susannah Tuttle at a press conference on February 23. People of faith have always embraced our cathedrals, churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples as sacred. In the best of scenarios, houses of worship hold the community together and serve as a central focus for community life. Symbolically and in reality, people […]

Let Loving One Another Become Our Norm

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Yesterday morning, the Sandra P. Lerner Jewish Community Day School in Durham received a bomb threat. This was the most recent in recurring waves of bomb threats against Jewish centers over the past two months—69 bomb threats at 54 Jewish community centers in 27 states and a Canadian province, according to the Jewish Community Center […]

Let Loving One Another Become Our Norm

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Yesterday morning, the Sandra P. Lerner Jewish Community Day School in Durham received a bomb threat. This was the most recent in recurring waves of bomb threats against Jewish centers over the past two months—69 bomb threats at 54 Jewish community centers in 27 states and a Canadian province, according to the Jewish Community Center […]

Sol Train Connects Climate and Faith with Solar Power

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Many people want to take meaningful action on climate change but don’t know where to start. Taking a big step, like switching to solar, doesn’t have to be hard. Any change is easier when you have a guide to point you the right way and when your community is on the same journey. NC congregations […]

Sol Train Connects Climate and Faith with Solar Power

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Many people want to take meaningful action on climate change but don’t know where to start. Taking a big step, like switching to solar, doesn’t have to be hard. Any change is easier when you have a guide to point you the right way and when your community is on the same journey. NC congregations […]

Ethical Debates on Industrial Agriculture

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

An ethical debate is a bit of a juxtaposition. As we know, ethics are a set of moral principles. It is how we understand right from wrong. So how can what is right and what is wrong be up for debate? In Carl Sigel’s post on the “Caring for Creation” section of the Church of […]

Ethical Debates on Industrial Agriculture

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

An ethical debate is a bit of a juxtaposition. As we know, ethics are a set of moral principles. It is how we understand right from wrong. So how can what is right and what is wrong be up for debate? In Carl Sigel’s post on the “Caring for Creation” section of the Church of […]

Raleigh Report — February 20, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES S 75, Constitutional Amendment – Maximum Income Tax Rate of 5.5%. The Constitution currently sets a maximum rate for income tax at 10%. S 75, which would have to be approved by voters, would lower that maximum to 5.5%. (Currently the flat rate […]

Raleigh Report — February 20, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES S 75, Constitutional Amendment – Maximum Income Tax Rate of 5.5%. The Constitution currently sets a maximum rate for income tax at 10%. S 75, which would have to be approved by voters, would lower that maximum to 5.5%. (Currently the flat rate […]

Governor Fights Power Shortage

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s governor gets to live in a mansion whose handsome property occupies a full city block in downtown Raleigh. He or she gets to meet with assorted dignitaries, here and elsewhere, to talk up the Old North State’s virtues. He or she gets to make congratulatory remarks at ceremonial ground-breakings, plant openings and the […]

Governor Fights Power Shortage

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s governor gets to live in a mansion whose handsome property occupies a full city block in downtown Raleigh. He or she gets to meet with assorted dignitaries, here and elsewhere, to talk up the Old North State’s virtues. He or she gets to make congratulatory remarks at ceremonial ground-breakings, plant openings and the […]

Johnson Amendment: Name Games and Far-reaching Impact

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director I came to North Carolina in 1978 to work with the Baptist State Convention after completing a law degree and becoming a member of the NC State Bar. As a result, I have fielded a lot of questions over the years explaining – or trying to explain – to […]

Johnson Amendment: Name Games and Far-reaching Impact

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director I came to North Carolina in 1978 to work with the Baptist State Convention after completing a law degree and becoming a member of the NC State Bar. As a result, I have fielded a lot of questions over the years explaining – or trying to explain – to […]

Answering your Questions about Sanctuary

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

President Trump’s recent executive actions impacting refugees and immigrants have faithful people increasingly interested in how they might support our sisters and brothers being impacted. Court decisions have offered a reprieve, but the administration’s determination to make many newcomers to our country scapegoats and the targets of misguided hostility has only emphasized their vulnerability. Jennie […]

Answering your Questions about Sanctuary

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

President Trump’s recent executive actions impacting refugees and immigrants have faithful people increasingly interested in how they might support our sisters and brothers being impacted. Court decisions have offered a reprieve, but the administration’s determination to make many newcomers to our country scapegoats and the targets of misguided hostility has only emphasized their vulnerability. Jennie […]

Raleigh Report — February 15, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director As the legislative session continues, there’s been a marked increase in the number of bills being introduced. Here are summaries of several which will be of interest to members of the Raleigh Report network. HUMAN RIGHTS The saga of HB2 continues, with the NCAA soon to be selecting sites […]

Raleigh Report — February 15, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director As the legislative session continues, there’s been a marked increase in the number of bills being introduced. Here are summaries of several which will be of interest to members of the Raleigh Report network. HUMAN RIGHTS The saga of HB2 continues, with the NCAA soon to be selecting sites […]

Welcome Andrew and Michelle!

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council has added two new staffers in recent months. Andrew Hudgins is our Program Associate for Operations, and Michelle Peedin is our Program Associate for North Carolina Interfaith Power and Light and for Partners in Health and Wholeness. They introduce themselves in the video below:

Welcome Andrew and Michelle!

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council has added two new staffers in recent months. Andrew Hudgins is our Program Associate for Operations, and Michelle Peedin is our Program Associate for North Carolina Interfaith Power and Light and for Partners in Health and Wholeness. They introduce themselves in the video below:

Repealing the Johnson Amendment Means Pulpits for Sale

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at HKonJ 2017. Picture this on the marquee in front of your favorite house of worship: Pulpit for Sale! For the right price I will support the Republican candidate for office, but bring me more money next week and I’ll support the Democrat. Perhaps with enough financial incentive, […]

Repealing the Johnson Amendment Means Pulpits for Sale

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at HKonJ 2017. Picture this on the marquee in front of your favorite house of worship: Pulpit for Sale! For the right price I will support the Republican candidate for office, but bring me more money next week and I’ll support the Democrat. Perhaps with enough financial incentive, […]

Whispers and Shouts

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Sometimes God whispers. Whether through hymns or homilies or kids dancing their way down the aisle to children’s chapel. Sometimes God shouts. Through the amplified suffering of others, known or strangers, all created in the same image. Or through the aftermath of a cataclysmic election. Lately, the lectionary readings have provided desperately needed whispers for […]

Whispers and Shouts

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Sometimes God whispers. Whether through hymns or homilies or kids dancing their way down the aisle to children’s chapel. Sometimes God shouts. Through the amplified suffering of others, known or strangers, all created in the same image. Or through the aftermath of a cataclysmic election. Lately, the lectionary readings have provided desperately needed whispers for […]

Refugees Welcomed, Not Banned

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last in a series of three blogs. Above all, these strangers bring to us the Christ. When we welcome a stranger we welcome Jesus, and when we welcome Jesus we welcome our creator. Refugees, immigrants, those yearning to be free—these are the ones whom Jesus spoke about when he said, “I was a stranger and […]

Refugees Welcomed, Not Banned

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last in a series of three blogs. Above all, these strangers bring to us the Christ. When we welcome a stranger we welcome Jesus, and when we welcome Jesus we welcome our creator. Refugees, immigrants, those yearning to be free—these are the ones whom Jesus spoke about when he said, “I was a stranger and […]

Walls Demonstrate Hostility, not Hospitality

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Second in a series of three blogs. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. (Hebrews 13:2)  The idea of “building a wall” has been extremely popular in this administration, and President Trump’s first executive order followed through on that promise by directing the […]

Walls Demonstrate Hostility, not Hospitality

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Second in a series of three blogs. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. (Hebrews 13:2)  The idea of “building a wall” has been extremely popular in this administration, and President Trump’s first executive order followed through on that promise by directing the […]

Big Stakes in High Court Pick

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Compared with some of the provocatively, even outrageously unsuited people whom President Trump has chosen for high office, Neil Gorsuch barely moves the needle. But that’s not to say Americans concerned about safeguarding the institutions of democracy should be heartened to see Gorsuch ascending to the U.S. Supreme Court, as almost assuredly he will. There […]

Big Stakes in High Court Pick

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Compared with some of the provocatively, even outrageously unsuited people whom President Trump has chosen for high office, Neil Gorsuch barely moves the needle. But that’s not to say Americans concerned about safeguarding the institutions of democracy should be heartened to see Gorsuch ascending to the U.S. Supreme Court, as almost assuredly he will. There […]

The Pipelines We Need and the Ones We Don’t

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Last week President Trump signed executive actions to advance the construction of the Keystone, Dakota Access, and Atlantic Coast Pipelines. In the face of clear scientific consensus that our dependence on fossil fuels is jeopardizing our climate and threatening vulnerable communities around the world, it is unconscionable to build more oil pipelines for the benefit […]

The Pipelines We Need and the Ones We Don’t

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Last week President Trump signed executive actions to advance the construction of the Keystone, Dakota Access, and Atlantic Coast Pipelines. In the face of clear scientific consensus that our dependence on fossil fuels is jeopardizing our climate and threatening vulnerable communities around the world, it is unconscionable to build more oil pipelines for the benefit […]

Raleigh Report — January 31, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director The 2017 General Assembly has begun its work. Elected in November, it came to Raleigh for a day in early January in order to organize itself and then returned last week to begin work in earnest. The following are bills which have been introduced and which may be of […]

Raleigh Report — January 31, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director The 2017 General Assembly has begun its work. Elected in November, it came to Raleigh for a day in early January in order to organize itself and then returned last week to begin work in earnest. The following are bills which have been introduced and which may be of […]

Speak Against Vitriol; Stand for Values

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

For more than 80 years the NC Council of Churches has stood for essential human rights and common decency grounded in the Gospel imperative to “love God and love neighbor.” We started with the issue of racial equality in 1935 and forthrightly moved into “migrant labor” and immigration, women’s right, the environment, and health care. […]

Speak Against Vitriol; Stand for Values

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

For more than 80 years the NC Council of Churches has stood for essential human rights and common decency grounded in the Gospel imperative to “love God and love neighbor.” We started with the issue of racial equality in 1935 and forthrightly moved into “migrant labor” and immigration, women’s right, the environment, and health care. […]

Blessed not Blocked or Banned

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

This Sunday’s Gospel reading was the Beatitudes, Matthew 5:1-12. Jesus says blessed nine times, but he never says blocked or banned. When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in […]

Blessed not Blocked or Banned

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

This Sunday’s Gospel reading was the Beatitudes, Matthew 5:1-12. Jesus says blessed nine times, but he never says blocked or banned. When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in […]

Keeping With Community

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Enabling good health is a community restoration project. It’s really not about prescription plans, deductibles, out-of-pocket expenses, or any other cost-benefit analysis. It’s about community. When people are sick or hurt they usually don’t feel like getting out much and, depending on their illness or injury, they sometimes can’t (think contagions). They are hostages to […]

Keeping With Community

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Enabling good health is a community restoration project. It’s really not about prescription plans, deductibles, out-of-pocket expenses, or any other cost-benefit analysis. It’s about community. When people are sick or hurt they usually don’t feel like getting out much and, depending on their illness or injury, they sometimes can’t (think contagions). They are hostages to […]

The Threat is not from Immigrants and Refugees

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council has had a busy weekend. Much of the staff was helping with the Beyond Gun Violence Conference at United Church of Chapel Hill, but we also had folks at the Duke Divinity School event on embodying sanctuary. Both had been in the works for some time but occurred, by chance, on the heels […]

The Threat is not from Immigrants and Refugees

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council has had a busy weekend. Much of the staff was helping with the Beyond Gun Violence Conference at United Church of Chapel Hill, but we also had folks at the Duke Divinity School event on embodying sanctuary. Both had been in the works for some time but occurred, by chance, on the heels […]

Getting Back to Our Normal: Some Suggestions for the Long Haul

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friend Rob Schofield over at Policy Watch wrote a column on Tuesday that was as vitally important in its truth-telling as it was hard to read for the future it forecasts. One of the crucial facts he offered — those of us opposed to the policies, personalities, and vicious rhetoric of the current administration […]

Getting Back to Our Normal: Some Suggestions for the Long Haul

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friend Rob Schofield over at Policy Watch wrote a column on Tuesday that was as vitally important in its truth-telling as it was hard to read for the future it forecasts. One of the crucial facts he offered — those of us opposed to the policies, personalities, and vicious rhetoric of the current administration […]

Sanctuary, Not Deportation

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

First in a series of three blogs. God calls people of faith to remember that they once were strangers in a strange land and they must, must welcome the stranger as an expression of covenant faithfulness. (Leviticus 19:33-34) For the past several weeks I have been working on organizing a webinar, “Loving Our Neighbors in […]

Sanctuary, Not Deportation

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

First in a series of three blogs. God calls people of faith to remember that they once were strangers in a strange land and they must, must welcome the stranger as an expression of covenant faithfulness. (Leviticus 19:33-34) For the past several weeks I have been working on organizing a webinar, “Loving Our Neighbors in […]

The ACA Remains in Place; 2017 Open Enrollment ends January 31

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Affordable Care Act is still in place for 2017, and as our friends at the NC Justice Center remind us, nothing has changed for this year. Plans, prices, deadlines, and requirements to have coverage are the same. The deadline for open enrollment is January 31. To get free, expert help enrolling, visit Keep NC […]

The ACA Remains in Place; 2017 Open Enrollment ends January 31

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Affordable Care Act is still in place for 2017, and as our friends at the NC Justice Center remind us, nothing has changed for this year. Plans, prices, deadlines, and requirements to have coverage are the same. The deadline for open enrollment is January 31. To get free, expert help enrolling, visit Keep NC […]

Let’s Keep Marching

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

At another time in my life, I would not have spent most of Saturday occupying my tiny square of personal space in the heart of Washington DC, literally shoulder to shoulder with a half million others. But there I was, pink hat and all. I chose to be there because my grandmother cleaned other people’s […]

Let’s Keep Marching

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

At another time in my life, I would not have spent most of Saturday occupying my tiny square of personal space in the heart of Washington DC, literally shoulder to shoulder with a half million others. But there I was, pink hat and all. I chose to be there because my grandmother cleaned other people’s […]

Moving Beyond Gun Violence

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Two weeks ago I flew to Florida for a national gathering of state ecumenical leaders and a few days later I flew home.  In between my landing and leaving, in a different Florida airport (into which I have also flown many times), a passenger retrieved his baggage, assembled and loaded the gun he had brought […]

Moving Beyond Gun Violence

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Two weeks ago I flew to Florida for a national gathering of state ecumenical leaders and a few days later I flew home.  In between my landing and leaving, in a different Florida airport (into which I have also flown many times), a passenger retrieved his baggage, assembled and loaded the gun he had brought […]

A Letter to President Trump

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Dear Mr. Trump, You ARE my president. I did not vote for you, but you were elected, and that makes you my president because I am a citizen of these United States. True, my ancestors tried to secede from the union in 1861, but the ancestors of others prevailed against them and kept us together. […]

A Letter to President Trump

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Dear Mr. Trump, You ARE my president. I did not vote for you, but you were elected, and that makes you my president because I am a citizen of these United States. True, my ancestors tried to secede from the union in 1861, but the ancestors of others prevailed against them and kept us together. […]

Medicaid Push: Cooper’s Strong Start

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For many of us, these are troubling times as Donald Trump ascends to the nation’s highest office. We can hope for the best but it’s hard not to anticipate the worst: valuable alliances trashed, environmental protections ravaged, civil rights eroded, neighbors pitted against neighbors as Trump’s own crude selfishness like a virus afflicts our civic […]

Medicaid Push: Cooper’s Strong Start

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For many of us, these are troubling times as Donald Trump ascends to the nation’s highest office. We can hope for the best but it’s hard not to anticipate the worst: valuable alliances trashed, environmental protections ravaged, civil rights eroded, neighbors pitted against neighbors as Trump’s own crude selfishness like a virus afflicts our civic […]

Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Pizazz. Laughter. Friends. Singing. These words describe the Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference. But, did you know that a faith and health national conference even exists? Healthy Churches 2020 held its third annual national conference in Charlotte, NC.  A Balm in Gilead, a non-profit based out of Virginia organizes this conference. They develop educational and […]

Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Pizazz. Laughter. Friends. Singing. These words describe the Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference. But, did you know that a faith and health national conference even exists? Healthy Churches 2020 held its third annual national conference in Charlotte, NC.  A Balm in Gilead, a non-profit based out of Virginia organizes this conference. They develop educational and […]

Remembering the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Excerpts from Dr. King’s remarks delivered on May 14, 1963 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Cleveland Heights, Ohio. The American dream reminds us that every man is the heir of the legacy of dignity. This is a great dream. But ever since the founding fathers of our nation dreamed that dream, America has been something […]

Remembering the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Excerpts from Dr. King’s remarks delivered on May 14, 1963 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Cleveland Heights, Ohio. The American dream reminds us that every man is the heir of the legacy of dignity. This is a great dream. But ever since the founding fathers of our nation dreamed that dream, America has been something […]

Pope Francis Advocates for Breastfeeding in Worship

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

In the past Partners in Health and Wholeness had a program dedicated to helping worshipping communities promote breastfeeding and support breastfeeding mothers. This week, the most prominent religious leader in the world, the Pope, took it a step further. In a homily during a baptism service in the Sistine Chapel, Pope Francis encouraged mothers to feed their babies […]

Pope Francis Advocates for Breastfeeding in Worship

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

In the past Partners in Health and Wholeness had a program dedicated to helping worshipping communities promote breastfeeding and support breastfeeding mothers. This week, the most prominent religious leader in the world, the Pope, took it a step further. In a homily during a baptism service in the Sistine Chapel, Pope Francis encouraged mothers to feed their babies […]

Speak Out on Cabinet Nominees

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Groups at the state and national level continue to mobilize around concerns about President-Elect Donald Trump’s stated policy objectives and choices for cabinet posts. The NC NAACP, Interfaith Power & Light, MomsRising, Faith in Public Life, and the National Council of Churches are just some of the organizations calling on people of conscience to speak […]

Speak Out on Cabinet Nominees

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Groups at the state and national level continue to mobilize around concerns about President-Elect Donald Trump’s stated policy objectives and choices for cabinet posts. The NC NAACP, Interfaith Power & Light, MomsRising, Faith in Public Life, and the National Council of Churches are just some of the organizations calling on people of conscience to speak […]

Update: Save Our Health Care Rallies Statewide on January 15

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On Friday, the House of Representatives voted to continue the process that could ultimately repeal the Affordable Care Act. Activists across the nation were already planning Day of Action events for Sunday focused on saving our health care, and several will take place in North Carolina. This is an opportunity to make your voice heard. […]

Update: Save Our Health Care Rallies Statewide on January 15

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On Friday, the House of Representatives voted to continue the process that could ultimately repeal the Affordable Care Act. Activists across the nation were already planning Day of Action events for Sunday focused on saving our health care, and several will take place in North Carolina. This is an opportunity to make your voice heard. […]

PHW Mini-Grants Now Open

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are excited to announce that we are now accepting mini-grant applications. Congregations who were certified in 2016 (and have not already received a grant from the last cycle) are eligible to apply. We look forward to reading all the wonderful, meaningful, and creative health-related projects your congregations have planned. For great stories on what past grantees have […]

PHW Mini-Grants Now Open

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are excited to announce that we are now accepting mini-grant applications. Congregations who were certified in 2016 (and have not already received a grant from the last cycle) are eligible to apply. We look forward to reading all the wonderful, meaningful, and creative health-related projects your congregations have planned. For great stories on what past grantees have […]

Advent Guide: Baptism of the Lord, January 8

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

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come […]

Advent Guide: Baptism of the Lord, January 8

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

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come […]

Advent Guide: Epiphany, January 6

By Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the child who has been born king […]

Advent Guide: Epiphany, January 6

by Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the child who has been born king […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Grant Cycle Opens January 6

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

PHW-certified congregations across North Carolina are eligible to apply for a mini-grant to assist in furthering their commitment to health and wholeness. Mini-grant application periods are open twice a year; the current cycle is from January 6 through February 6. To be eligible for this grant cycle, congregations must have been certified in the past […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Grant Cycle Opens January 6

by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

PHW-certified congregations across North Carolina are eligible to apply for a mini-grant to assist in furthering their commitment to health and wholeness. Mini-grant application periods are open twice a year; the current cycle is from January 6 through February 6. To be eligible for this grant cycle, congregations must have been certified in the past […]

Join us to Pray for Justice and Reconciliation and to Share Dinner Together

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Durham and the NC Council of Churches invite you to join us for a brief service to pray for justice and reconciliation in our nation and world on January 18 at 6 p.m. As we gather in the days between the commemoration of the work and witness of Dr. Martin […]

Join us to Pray for Justice and Reconciliation and to Share Dinner Together

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Durham and the NC Council of Churches invite you to join us for a brief service to pray for justice and reconciliation in our nation and world on January 18 at 6 p.m. As we gather in the days between the commemoration of the work and witness of Dr. Martin […]

Two PHW Regional Coordinators Recognized

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Two of the Partners in Health and Wholeness program’s regional coordinators have been honored recently. Joy Williams has been named a 2017 Rural Health Fellow by the National Rural Health Association. She is one of 16 fellows  who will participate in a yearlong, intensive program to develop leaders who can articulate a clear and compelling […]

Two PHW Regional Coordinators Recognized

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Two of the Partners in Health and Wholeness program’s regional coordinators have been honored recently. Joy Williams has been named a 2017 Rural Health Fellow by the National Rural Health Association. She is one of 16 fellows  who will participate in a yearlong, intensive program to develop leaders who can articulate a clear and compelling […]

Job Opening: Program Associate for PHW and NCIPL

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council is hiring a full-time program associate to support Partners in Health and Wholeness and North Carolina Interfaith Power and Light. The full job description is posted below and at this link. Interviews are anticipated in January, and the position is open until filled. Hours: 32-40 hours per week Salary and benefits: Hiring range […]

Job Opening: Program Associate for PHW and NCIPL

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council is hiring a full-time program associate to support Partners in Health and Wholeness and North Carolina Interfaith Power and Light. The full job description is posted below and at this link. Interviews are anticipated in January, and the position is open until filled. Hours: 32-40 hours per week Salary and benefits: Hiring range […]

Thank You for Speaking Love in 2016

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We could not begin the new year without acknowledging the volunteers, grassroots advocates, donors, organizational partners, and all others who helped the Council continue to be a faithful, prophetic voice for justice, peace, and unity in 2016. In particular, we would like to recognize faith leaders from across traditions, denominations, and locations statewide who signed their name to our shared call for love […]

Thank You for Speaking Love in 2016

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We could not begin the new year without acknowledging the volunteers, grassroots advocates, donors, organizational partners, and all others who helped the Council continue to be a faithful, prophetic voice for justice, peace, and unity in 2016. In particular, we would like to recognize faith leaders from across traditions, denominations, and locations statewide who signed their name to our shared call for love […]

Seeds of Change in a Momentous Year

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As we watched the egregiously unqualified Donald Trump campaign for and win election to the White House, any good news on the government and politics front was likely to be obscured amid concerns about what Trump’s ascent could bode for the nation’s well-being. Concerns? That’s putting it mildly. Those of us who value our efforts […]

Seeds of Change in a Momentous Year

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As we watched the egregiously unqualified Donald Trump campaign for and win election to the White House, any good news on the government and politics front was likely to be obscured amid concerns about what Trump’s ascent could bode for the nation’s well-being. Concerns? That’s putting it mildly. Those of us who value our efforts […]

Advent Guide: First Sunday After Christmas Day, January 1

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. Now after they had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain […]

Advent Guide: First Sunday After Christmas Day, January 1

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. Now after they had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain […]

The Rural Oasis: Conetoe Family Life Center

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

The amount of grassroots, efficient, and sustainable Kingdom work happening in North Carolina is astounding. People across our state are working together in various communities to promote health and wholeness. People care about health. People recognize that our lives and families depend on us caring about health. Communal work is happening all around us, to […]

The Rural Oasis: Conetoe Family Life Center

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

The amount of grassroots, efficient, and sustainable Kingdom work happening in North Carolina is astounding. People across our state are working together in various communities to promote health and wholeness. People care about health. People recognize that our lives and families depend on us caring about health. Communal work is happening all around us, to […]

Beyond Gun Violence: A Conference for People of Faith and Conscience About Ending America’s Deadly Epidemic

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join us one month from today for a weekend of preaching and teaching about the cost of gun violence to our nation and how we can bring about change. Speakers will include: ·         Matthew Crebbin, Senior Minister of Newtown Congregational Church (UCC) ·         Mark Carman, American Coalition for Responsible Gun Ownership ·         James Atwood, theologian […]

Beyond Gun Violence: A Conference for People of Faith and Conscience About Ending America’s Deadly Epidemic

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join us one month from today for a weekend of preaching and teaching about the cost of gun violence to our nation and how we can bring about change. Speakers will include: ·         Matthew Crebbin, Senior Minister of Newtown Congregational Church (UCC) ·         Mark Carman, American Coalition for Responsible Gun Ownership ·         James Atwood, theologian […]

The Council Welcomes Your End-of-Year Gift

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Looking ahead to 2017, there is much more work for the Council to do than we ever imagined. Please join us. Your financial support helps us continue what began in 1935 out of the recognition that racial segregation was antithetical to Christ’s teachings. Since that time, the Council’s work has expanded to include issues ranging […]

The Council Welcomes Your End-of-Year Gift

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Looking ahead to 2017, there is much more work for the Council to do than we ever imagined. Please join us. Your financial support helps us continue what began in 1935 out of the recognition that racial segregation was antithetical to Christ’s teachings. Since that time, the Council’s work has expanded to include issues ranging […]

Advent Guide: Christmas Eve and Day

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness on them light has shined. You have multiplied the nation, you have […]

Advent Guide: Christmas Eve and Day

by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness on them light has shined. You have multiplied the nation, you have […]

Merry Christmas from the Council

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Promise of a New Day Brown Baby Born to Unwed Parents Immigrant, Refugee, Religious Outsider Radical Organizer for the Oppressed Prince of Peace, Emmanuel Savior We know you as all of these. We welcome you as all of these. Blessings of this Christmas Season from the Staff of the NC Council of Churches Susannah, Steve, […]

Merry Christmas from the Council

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Promise of a New Day Brown Baby Born to Unwed Parents Immigrant, Refugee, Religious Outsider Radical Organizer for the Oppressed Prince of Peace, Emmanuel Savior We know you as all of these. We welcome you as all of these. Blessings of this Christmas Season from the Staff of the NC Council of Churches Susannah, Steve, […]

UPDATE: Raleigh Report — Special GA Session on HB2

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Updated December 21, 9:50 p.m. Special Session #5 of the General Assembly adjourned this evening without passing anything. The Senate moved first. But the bill introduced by Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger (R-Eden) was not a “clean” repeal bill. Rather it had two sections: the first repealed HB2, […]

UPDATE: Raleigh Report — Special GA Session on HB2

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Updated December 21, 9:50 p.m. Special Session #5 of the General Assembly adjourned this evening without passing anything. The Senate moved first. But the bill introduced by Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger (R-Eden) was not a “clean” repeal bill. Rather it had two sections: the first repealed HB2, […]

Advent: A Call to Action

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The themes of Advent are particularly resonant and difficult this year. For me, this is in light of two major events, the recent election and the recent birth of my first child. This time seems particularly dark and scary, and we as a nation seem in desperate need of light and hope. Many of us […]

Advent: A Call to Action

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The themes of Advent are particularly resonant and difficult this year. For me, this is in light of two major events, the recent election and the recent birth of my first child. This time seems particularly dark and scary, and we as a nation seem in desperate need of light and hope. Many of us […]

Support North Carolina’s Faithful Voice for Justice, Unity, and Peace

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are living in unsettling times. Progress we once thought inviolable now feels threatened. One constant is the NC Council of Churches and our commitment to a more just, united, and peaceful society. Our faith calls us to love one another, protect the vulnerable, and work together toward a beloved community. We continue to be […]

Support North Carolina’s Faithful Voice for Justice, Unity, and Peace

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are living in unsettling times. Progress we once thought inviolable now feels threatened. One constant is the NC Council of Churches and our commitment to a more just, united, and peaceful society. Our faith calls us to love one another, protect the vulnerable, and work together toward a beloved community. We continue to be […]

We Didn’t Know it Was You

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

I recently heard the song, “Sweet Little Jesus Boy” for the first time in a beautiful recording by Straight No Chaser. For days the lines, “We didn’t know who you were,” and “We didn’t know it was you” echoed in my mind. How often do we, as a culture, as the church, and as Christians […]

We Didn’t Know it Was You

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

I recently heard the song, “Sweet Little Jesus Boy” for the first time in a beautiful recording by Straight No Chaser. For days the lines, “We didn’t know who you were,” and “We didn’t know it was you” echoed in my mind. How often do we, as a culture, as the church, and as Christians […]

Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday, December 18

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, saying, Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven. But Ahaz said, I will not ask, […]

Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday, December 18

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, saying, Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven. But Ahaz said, I will not ask, […]

Join in the Support of Belhaven’s Pungo Hospital

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

Community leaders continue to work endlessly to save the Pungo Hospital in Belhaven. Please join clergy and those concerned for justice this Wednesday, December 21, 10 a.m., at the Wake County Civil Court, Suite 1035, 316 Fayetteville Street in Raleigh (detailed directions below). The hoped-for outcome of this court hearing is to attain a temporary […]

Join in the Support of Belhaven’s Pungo Hospital

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

Community leaders continue to work endlessly to save the Pungo Hospital in Belhaven. Please join clergy and those concerned for justice this Wednesday, December 21, 10 a.m., at the Wake County Civil Court, Suite 1035, 316 Fayetteville Street in Raleigh (detailed directions below). The hoped-for outcome of this court hearing is to attain a temporary […]

Post-Election Travesty Targets the Governor

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The ugly truth can’t be evaded or denied: North Carolina’s General Assembly, in the grip of an arrogant Republican majority, has plunged ahead with a shocking, shameful abuse of power and of the principles of open, accountable government. Yes, this is a matter of vital concern to the N.C. Council of Churches. That’s because the […]

Post-Election Travesty Targets the Governor

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The ugly truth can’t be evaded or denied: North Carolina’s General Assembly, in the grip of an arrogant Republican majority, has plunged ahead with a shocking, shameful abuse of power and of the principles of open, accountable government. Yes, this is a matter of vital concern to the N.C. Council of Churches. That’s because the […]

Wise Leaders Would Answer the Call for Justice and Righteousness

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Jennifer Copeland at a December 15 press conference in Raleigh on the General Assembly’s second special session. For Christians around the world it is the third week of Advent, more than halfway through the season we designate as a time to think seriously about the kind of leader we want and the […]

Wise Leaders Would Answer the Call for Justice and Righteousness

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Jennifer Copeland at a December 15 press conference in Raleigh on the General Assembly’s second special session. For Christians around the world it is the third week of Advent, more than halfway through the season we designate as a time to think seriously about the kind of leader we want and the […]

UPDATE — Urgent Action Required: Let GA Members Hear from You

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC NAACP has called for a People’s Assembly at 4:30 p.m., today, Thursday, December 15, in the General Assembly building, 16 West Jones Street. Details can be found here. Anyone interested in non-violence and direct action training should gather at 3:30 p.m. and email tyler.swanson@naacpnc.org for more information. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The North Carolina General Assembly’s […]

UPDATE — Urgent Action Required: Let GA Members Hear from You

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC NAACP has called for a People’s Assembly at 4:30 p.m., today, Thursday, December 15, in the General Assembly building, 16 West Jones Street. Details can be found here. Anyone interested in non-violence and direct action training should gather at 3:30 p.m. and email tyler.swanson@naacpnc.org for more information. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The North Carolina General Assembly’s […]

Advent Guide: Third Sunday, December 11

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. 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 singing. The glory of Lebanon […]

Advent Guide: Third Sunday, December 11

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. 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 singing. The glory of Lebanon […]

Possible Surprises in Upcoming Special Session

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director The General Assembly returns to town this coming Tuesday, December 13, for a special session called by Governor McCrory to consider disaster relief legislation related to Hurricane Matthew in the eastern part of the state and recent forest fires in the west. But, in light of the November elections, […]

Possible Surprises in Upcoming Special Session

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director The General Assembly returns to town this coming Tuesday, December 13, for a special session called by Governor McCrory to consider disaster relief legislation related to Hurricane Matthew in the eastern part of the state and recent forest fires in the west. But, in light of the November elections, […]

The Path to McCrory’s Last Stand

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

He and his supporters twisted and turned, wriggled and squirmed. But 27 days after the Nov. 8 election, Gov. Pat McCrory finally bowed to the inevitable and conceded that his bid for a second term had come up short. Yes, his contest with Roy Cooper, for 16 years North Carolina’s Democratic attorney general, was very […]

The Path to McCrory’s Last Stand

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

He and his supporters twisted and turned, wriggled and squirmed. But 27 days after the Nov. 8 election, Gov. Pat McCrory finally bowed to the inevitable and conceded that his bid for a second term had come up short. Yes, his contest with Roy Cooper, for 16 years North Carolina’s Democratic attorney general, was very […]

Alternative Giving — Support the Council

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For a holiday shopping list filled with more hope and less stuff, consider making a gift to the Council. You can donate on behalf of the faithful advocate for social justice in your life, and we will acknowledge your alternative gift with a letter to them along with a Council “Separating Church and Hate Since […]

Alternative Giving — Support the Council

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For a holiday shopping list filled with more hope and less stuff, consider making a gift to the Council. You can donate on behalf of the faithful advocate for social justice in your life, and we will acknowledge your alternative gift with a letter to them along with a Council “Separating Church and Hate Since […]

Video — #LoveOneAnother

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The response to our sign-on ad was overwhelming and inspired the staff of the Council to create the video below. Clergy who would like to have their names included in an updated list to be posted at the end of the year can do so by going here. More information about this effort can be […]

Video — #LoveOneAnother

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The response to our sign-on ad was overwhelming and inspired the staff of the Council to create the video below. Clergy who would like to have their names included in an updated list to be posted at the end of the year can do so by going here. More information about this effort can be […]

NCIPL Webinars — December 5 and 7

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Now, more than ever, we need you to put your faith into action. On April 29, under the banner of the People’s Climate Movement, people of faith will join partners from environmental, environmental justice and student groups, labor unions, and many others for a major climate mobilization in Washington DC. Register for a webinar to […]

NCIPL Webinars — December 5 and 7

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Now, more than ever, we need you to put your faith into action. On April 29, under the banner of the People’s Climate Movement, people of faith will join partners from environmental, environmental justice and student groups, labor unions, and many others for a major climate mobilization in Washington DC. Register for a webinar to […]

Maps Again Key to Power, Rights

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

No one reading this post is likely to pull a brain muscle describing ways in which the recent elections could have consequences ranging from the unfortunate to the dire. Our incoming president sends signals that he may be willing to walk back a few of his more extreme campaign positions, but so far the folks […]

Maps Again Key to Power, Rights

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

No one reading this post is likely to pull a brain muscle describing ways in which the recent elections could have consequences ranging from the unfortunate to the dire. Our incoming president sends signals that he may be willing to walk back a few of his more extreme campaign positions, but so far the folks […]

More than 300 NC Clergy Sign-On to Speak Love

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A full-page ad in Sunday’s Raleigh News & Observer will include the signatures of more than 300 clergy who have added their name to a statement speaking to our shared faithful call to love and care for one another. They represent a variety of faith traditions, denominations, and locations from across the state. The ad reads: All […]

More than 300 NC Clergy Sign-On to Speak Love

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A full-page ad in Sunday’s Raleigh News & Observer will include the signatures of more than 300 clergy who have added their name to a statement speaking to our shared faithful call to love and care for one another. They represent a variety of faith traditions, denominations, and locations from across the state. The ad reads: All […]

Advent Guide: Second Sunday, December 4

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots. The spirit of the Lord shall rest on him, the spirit of wisdom […]

Advent Guide: Second Sunday, December 4

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots. The spirit of the Lord shall rest on him, the spirit of wisdom […]

The Cuban Church in a Post-Castro World

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

In September, I had an opportunity to travel to Cuba with Witness for Peace as part of a delegation focused on “Faith, Politics, Economics, and Changing U.S.-Cuban Relations.” There I witnessed many things. I saw a fantastic healthcare system and an educational system that provided for everyone. I met with some amazing people of faith […]

The Cuban Church in a Post-Castro World

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

In September, I had an opportunity to travel to Cuba with Witness for Peace as part of a delegation focused on “Faith, Politics, Economics, and Changing U.S.-Cuban Relations.” There I witnessed many things. I saw a fantastic healthcare system and an educational system that provided for everyone. I met with some amazing people of faith […]

Advent Calendar to Support Immigrants and Refugees

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Today when I logged onto Facebook, among all the heartbreaking news in our world (some from credible sources, others questionable), I was taken with a graphic shared by Hacking Christianity, a blog that engages in conversations about faith using the lenses of progressive theology, technology, and geek culture. It was an Advent Calendar for Dismantling White Privilege. As […]

Advent Calendar to Support Immigrants and Refugees

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Today when I logged onto Facebook, among all the heartbreaking news in our world (some from credible sources, others questionable), I was taken with a graphic shared by Hacking Christianity, a blog that engages in conversations about faith using the lenses of progressive theology, technology, and geek culture. It was an Advent Calendar for Dismantling White Privilege. As […]

Advent Guide: First Sunday, November 27

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. The word that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. In days to come the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and […]

Advent Guide: First Sunday, November 27

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. The word that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. In days to come the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and […]

Becoming the Church Together and Including Youth

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Earlier this month, the North Carolina Conference hosted its annual Pilgrimage event, a time when several thousand middle and high school students come together for a weekend to hear from speakers, worship together, and enjoy fellowship. This year a group of young Latino students from a church that has hosted one of our clergy breakfasts […]

Becoming the Church Together and Including Youth

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Earlier this month, the North Carolina Conference hosted its annual Pilgrimage event, a time when several thousand middle and high school students come together for a weekend to hear from speakers, worship together, and enjoy fellowship. This year a group of young Latino students from a church that has hosted one of our clergy breakfasts […]

Advent Guide: Introduction

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In the absence of kindness and consideration, we have become less civil and more mean-spirited with one another. Lord have mercy. In the presence of fears and hurts, we have become destructive and dangerous. Christ have mercy. For every ungentle personal act, our leaders push policies of anger or invest in division so that our […]

Advent Guide: Introduction

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In the absence of kindness and consideration, we have become less civil and more mean-spirited with one another. Lord have mercy. In the presence of fears and hurts, we have become destructive and dangerous. Christ have mercy. For every ungentle personal act, our leaders push policies of anger or invest in division so that our […]

Be Thankful for Immigrants and Indigenous People

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Almost 400 years ago, in what is now Massachusetts, a group of newly arrived immigrants from Europe received lifesaving hospitality from a group of indigenous Americans. Tomorrow, we celebrate and remember this act of welcome for the stranger as Thanksgiving. The Wampanoag tribe, who had lived in the region for some 12,000 years, taught the […]

Be Thankful for Immigrants and Indigenous People

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Almost 400 years ago, in what is now Massachusetts, a group of newly arrived immigrants from Europe received lifesaving hospitality from a group of indigenous Americans. Tomorrow, we celebrate and remember this act of welcome for the stranger as Thanksgiving. The Wampanoag tribe, who had lived in the region for some 12,000 years, taught the […]

Thanksgiving Blessings from the Council

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. ~Philippians 4:6 Thanksgiving Blessings from the NC Council of Churches Susannah, Steve, Shannon, Sandy, Rose, Nina, Nicole, Kaitlyn, Joy, Jessica, Jennifer, Jennie, Chris, Andrew, and Aleta  

Thanksgiving Blessings from the Council

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. ~Philippians 4:6 Thanksgiving Blessings from the NC Council of Churches Susannah, Steve, Shannon, Sandy, Rose, Nina, Nicole, Kaitlyn, Joy, Jessica, Jennifer, Jennie, Chris, Andrew, and Aleta  

Faith Leaders: Add Your Name to Speak Love

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On the weekend of December 2-4, the Council has called on NC faith leaders to shape their worship service around the theme “Love One Another.” On the same weekend, we hope to run a full-page ad in The Raleigh News & Observer signed by many NC clergy of all faiths. If we are not able […]

Faith Leaders: Add Your Name to Speak Love

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On the weekend of December 2-4, the Council has called on NC faith leaders to shape their worship service around the theme “Love One Another.” On the same weekend, we hope to run a full-page ad in The Raleigh News & Observer signed by many NC clergy of all faiths. If we are not able […]

Plots Thicken in Election’s Aftermath — UPDATED

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Donald Trump’s campaign for the presidency was a waste-pit wallow through a sludge of fear and hate. That millions of Americans voted for him presumably without hating anyone says a great deal about the extent of the economic desperation he vows to address. As to how he’ll address it, without starting trade wars that likely […]

Plots Thicken in Election’s Aftermath — UPDATED

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Donald Trump’s campaign for the presidency was a waste-pit wallow through a sludge of fear and hate. That millions of Americans voted for him presumably without hating anyone says a great deal about the extent of the economic desperation he vows to address. As to how he’ll address it, without starting trade wars that likely […]

Nina Voli: Duke University Must be a Climate Leader

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Council intern and Duke Divinity School student Nina Voli contributed a powerful column to The Chronicle about the proposal to build a natural gas power plant on Duke’s campus. She writes in part: I speak for myself and many other Divinity School colleagues when I say that it grieves us to witness the institution of […]

Nina Voli: Duke University Must be a Climate Leader

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Council intern and Duke Divinity School student Nina Voli contributed a powerful column to The Chronicle about the proposal to build a natural gas power plant on Duke’s campus. She writes in part: I speak for myself and many other Divinity School colleagues when I say that it grieves us to witness the institution of […]

Mourn, Pray, Serve, Organize

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week’s election has left a lot of people filled with anxiety and uncertainty, especially our brothers and sisters who immigrated here. Millions of people who have come here from other countries or whose families did so, often because they were fleeing violence and persecution, are in imminent danger. Immigration reform was one of the […]

Mourn, Pray, Serve, Organize

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week’s election has left a lot of people filled with anxiety and uncertainty, especially our brothers and sisters who immigrated here. Millions of people who have come here from other countries or whose families did so, often because they were fleeing violence and persecution, are in imminent danger. Immigration reform was one of the […]

Knowing the Truth

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Jennifer Copeland at a November 15 press conference in Fayetteville opposing the Atlantic Coast Pipeline. Roughly half the people in this country, give or take six hundred thousand, voted for a president who purports not to care about the environmental cares we have. Roughly half the people in North Carolina, give or take […]

Knowing the Truth

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Jennifer Copeland at a November 15 press conference in Fayetteville opposing the Atlantic Coast Pipeline. Roughly half the people in this country, give or take six hundred thousand, voted for a president who purports not to care about the environmental cares we have. Roughly half the people in North Carolina, give or take […]

December 2-4: Preach Love

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches is calling on people of faith and leaders of the faith communities across NC to shape their worship services the weekend of December 2-4 around the theme: Love One Another. After an election season that has seen unprecedented divisiveness, a divisiveness now spilling over into the places where we […]

December 2-4: Preach Love

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches is calling on people of faith and leaders of the faith communities across NC to shape their worship services the weekend of December 2-4 around the theme: Love One Another. After an election season that has seen unprecedented divisiveness, a divisiveness now spilling over into the places where we […]

A Troubling Choice, Yet Glimmers of Hope

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Those of us aligned with the Council of Churches share a political outlook whose priorities include equal rights, equal opportunity, environmental stewardship, ample investment in public services and fair allocation of that investment’s costs. We believe that the United States must lead by example through sustained efforts to build a just, prosperous and compassionate society, […]

A Troubling Choice, Yet Glimmers of Hope

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Those of us aligned with the Council of Churches share a political outlook whose priorities include equal rights, equal opportunity, environmental stewardship, ample investment in public services and fair allocation of that investment’s costs. We believe that the United States must lead by example through sustained efforts to build a just, prosperous and compassionate society, […]

Advent Guide Focuses on Peace

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches has never taken peace for granted. Indeed, along with our work in opposition to violence, there has long been the recognition that peace manifests itself in many ways – in how we relate to one another, in the policies our elected officials put in place, in who has enough. For […]

Advent Guide Focuses on Peace

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches has never taken peace for granted. Indeed, along with our work in opposition to violence, there has long been the recognition that peace manifests itself in many ways – in how we relate to one another, in the policies our elected officials put in place, in who has enough. For […]

Community Contributes to Our Wholeness

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness ambitiously endeavors to work for and toward issues of mind, body, and spirit with faith communities. The words ‘health’ and ‘wholeness’ are truly huge words, landscaping innumerable concerns, issues, and conversations. Daunting, yes. Needed? Definitely. As daunting as the work around health seems in this state, I was reminded of […]

Community Contributes to Our Wholeness

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness ambitiously endeavors to work for and toward issues of mind, body, and spirit with faith communities. The words ‘health’ and ‘wholeness’ are truly huge words, landscaping innumerable concerns, issues, and conversations. Daunting, yes. Needed? Definitely. As daunting as the work around health seems in this state, I was reminded of […]

A Prayer to Heal the Nation

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faith in Public Life, the Skinner Leadership Institute, and Values Partnership will offer a prayer for the nation this evening, November 9, from 7 to 7:40 p.m. As the Rev. Jennifer Butler of Faith in Public Life wrote: A contentious election has ended in trauma and pain for so many of us. We cannot conquer this moment […]

A Prayer to Heal the Nation

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faith in Public Life, the Skinner Leadership Institute, and Values Partnership will offer a prayer for the nation this evening, November 9, from 7 to 7:40 p.m. As the Rev. Jennifer Butler of Faith in Public Life wrote: A contentious election has ended in trauma and pain for so many of us. We cannot conquer this moment […]

Separating Church and Hate Since 1935

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We work toward a church that is all-loving. That’s what we’ve always done and that’s what we’re going to keep doing. Stay connected with the Council to learn about opportunities to welcome our immigrant sisters and brothers, care for creation, work for economic justice and voting rights, build toward Christian unity and interfaith understanding, teach […]

Separating Church and Hate Since 1935

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We work toward a church that is all-loving. That’s what we’ve always done and that’s what we’re going to keep doing. Stay connected with the Council to learn about opportunities to welcome our immigrant sisters and brothers, care for creation, work for economic justice and voting rights, build toward Christian unity and interfaith understanding, teach […]

Christian Unity Committee Offers Workshop: Getting to Know our Muslim Neighbor

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On December 2, the Council’s Christian Unity Committee will offer a workshop intended to help Christians get to know our Muslim neighbors with tools for interfaith community building and theological reflection. The event is to be held at Salisbury’s Hood Theological Seminary Aymer Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will feature presentations and […]

Christian Unity Committee Offers Workshop: Getting to Know our Muslim Neighbor

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On December 2, the Council’s Christian Unity Committee will offer a workshop intended to help Christians get to know our Muslim neighbors with tools for interfaith community building and theological reflection. The event is to be held at Salisbury’s Hood Theological Seminary Aymer Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will feature presentations and […]