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Council Voices

Shutdown’s Pain Spreads

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Once the budget snarl in Washington finally is untangled and the federal government is back up and running – hopefully in time to avoid a perilous default on the country’s debt – some of North Carolina’s poorest residents will be among those sighing with relief. But what happens in the meantime? Gov. Pat McCrory’s administration […]

Shutdown’s Pain Spreads

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Once the budget snarl in Washington finally is untangled and the federal government is back up and running – hopefully in time to avoid a perilous default on the country’s debt – some of North Carolina’s poorest residents will be among those sighing with relief. But what happens in the meantime? Gov. Pat McCrory’s administration […]

Braising Kale + Praising Produce = Soul Food

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I have a conflicted relationship with cooking. For the big food holidays, moments of inspired recipe testing, and the occasional soup or marinara prep and freeze binge, I’m your gal. But the day-to-day planning-shopping-cooking-cleaning has never been my forte. Luckily, my husband enjoys it enough (or sufficiently prefers his cooking to mine) that he has […]

Braising Kale + Praising Produce = Soul Food

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

I have a conflicted relationship with cooking. For the big food holidays, moments of inspired recipe testing, and the occasional soup or marinara prep and freeze binge, I’m your gal. But the day-to-day planning-shopping-cooking-cleaning has never been my forte. Luckily, my husband enjoys it enough (or sufficiently prefers his cooking to mine) that he has […]

Community Organizations Collaborate to Educate the Public about the ACA

By Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

Adam Searing, Director of the NC Justice Center’s Health Access Coalition, describes one effort of the local community around Roanoke Rapids to educate their residents about the Affordable Care Act. The blog includes a video re-cap of the event. Also present were Sorien Schmidt of Enroll America and representatives from the Rural Health Group and Legal […]

Community Organizations Collaborate to Educate the Public about the ACA

by Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

Adam Searing, Director of the NC Justice Center’s Health Access Coalition, describes one effort of the local community around Roanoke Rapids to educate their residents about the Affordable Care Act. The blog includes a video re-cap of the event. Also present were Sorien Schmidt of Enroll America and representatives from the Rural Health Group and Legal […]

PHW Receives Faith & Community Health Excellence Award

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

I had the pleasure of attending the Tri-Regional Faith and Community Health Summit in Atlanta, GA on October 3-5. The event was chock-full of dynamic speakers and informative sessions. Some of the topics included: the impact of institutionalized racism on health outcomes, the Affordable Care Act, mental health and counseling, youth engagement, and how to […]

PHW Receives Faith & Community Health Excellence Award

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

I had the pleasure of attending the Tri-Regional Faith and Community Health Summit in Atlanta, GA on October 3-5. The event was chock-full of dynamic speakers and informative sessions. Some of the topics included: the impact of institutionalized racism on health outcomes, the Affordable Care Act, mental health and counseling, youth engagement, and how to […]

Five Enrollment Tips for the Health Insurance Marketplace

By Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

Whether you plan to enroll in the Health Insurance Marketplace on your own or through the assistance of a trained Navigator or Certified Application Counselor (CAC), I have five tips for you to consider before you begin the process. These are tips I gleaned from a supplemental training for North Carolina Navigators, and they will […]

Five Enrollment Tips for the Health Insurance Marketplace

by Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

Whether you plan to enroll in the Health Insurance Marketplace on your own or through the assistance of a trained Navigator or Certified Application Counselor (CAC), I have five tips for you to consider before you begin the process. These are tips I gleaned from a supplemental training for North Carolina Navigators, and they will […]

Shutdown Scenario: The Hunger Brink

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The political stakes and motives are plain to see. President Obama and his Democratic allies on Capitol Hill are locked in a desperate struggle with the Republicans who control the U.S. House. Neither side wants to be painted as villains in the sorry saga of the partial federal government shutdown, or even worse, in any […]

Shutdown Scenario: The Hunger Brink

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The political stakes and motives are plain to see. President Obama and his Democratic allies on Capitol Hill are locked in a desperate struggle with the Republicans who control the U.S. House. Neither side wants to be painted as villains in the sorry saga of the partial federal government shutdown, or even worse, in any […]

Voices of Moral Mondays: Testimonies of Faithfulness and Civil Disobedience

By chris

Sign up below to download this free e-book. We will send you the e-book and add you to our regular email list. We won’t share your email with anyone, and you can unsubscribe at any time. [contact-form-7 id=”14036″ title=”Voices of Moral Mondays Download”] Or click here to download without signing up.   The NC Council […]

Voices of Moral Mondays: Testimonies of Faithfulness and Civil Disobedience

by chris

Sign up below to download this free e-book. We will send you the e-book and add you to our regular email list. We won’t share your email with anyone, and you can unsubscribe at any time. [contact-form-7 id=”14036″ title=”Voices of Moral Mondays Download”] Or click here to download without signing up.   The NC Council […]

Introduction to Voices of Moral Mondays: Mustard Seed

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

I’ve been thinking about mustard seed as I reflect on Moral Mondays. Jesus once described the coming kingdom of God by comparing it to a tiny seed that grows into a large tree. Moral Mondays started with a simple call to people of faith to prayer, to pursue the “moral high ground” of nonviolent protest and peaceful assembly, to register distress at the direction our state was being taken by the General Assembly and Governor. The call came from the Rev. William Barber, pastor of Goldsboro’s Greenleaf Christian Church, president of the state chapter of the NAACP, and the creator and prophetic force behind Moral Mondays. On April 29 (my birthday, but I’m pretty sure that’s just coincidental) there was a “pray-in,” followed by a rally at the General Assembly, followed by civil disobedience that resulted in 17 arrests.

Introduction to Voices of Moral Mondays: Mustard Seed

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

I’ve been thinking about mustard seed as I reflect on Moral Mondays. Jesus once described the coming kingdom of God by comparing it to a tiny seed that grows into a large tree.

Moral Mondays started with a simple call to people of faith to prayer, to pursue the “moral high ground” of nonviolent protest and peaceful assembly, to register distress at the direction our state was being taken by the General Assembly and Governor. The call came from the Rev. William Barber, pastor of Goldsboro’s Greenleaf Christian Church, president of the state chapter of the NAACP, and the creator and prophetic force behind Moral Mondays. On April 29 (my birthday, but I’m pretty sure that’s just coincidental) there was a “pray-in,” followed by a rally at the General Assembly, followed by civil disobedience that resulted in 17 arrests.

Worship Resources on Climate Change

By chris

Date: Proper 28 - Nov. 17, 2013
Topic: Climate Change
Focus Text: Psalm 98
Our lectionary texts, Isaiah 65:17-25 and Psalm 98, offer vision and hope for people of faith, a vision of ultimate peace among the whole of creation. The Hebrew word which implies such a state of being is shalom. The word shalom has a deep and rich meaning, implying not only a lack of hostility towards the creation and all God’s creatures, but also a state of general health and well being, a condition where there is “ecojustice” for all parts of creation.

Worship Resources on Climate Change

by chris

Date: Proper 28 – Nov. 17, 2013
Topic: Climate Change
Focus Text: Psalm 98
Our lectionary texts, Isaiah 65:17-25 and Psalm 98, offer vision and hope for people of faith, a vision of ultimate peace among the whole of creation. The Hebrew word which implies such a state of being is shalom. The word shalom has a deep and rich meaning, implying not only a lack of hostility towards the creation and all God’s creatures, but also a state of general health and well being, a condition where there is “ecojustice” for all parts of creation.

PHW Book Club Discussion: Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, Chapter Two

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life” by Barbara Kingsolver. We are posting updates through the PHW […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, Chapter Two

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life” by Barbara Kingsolver. We are posting updates through the PHW […]

Marching for immigration reform in Charlotte on Oct. 5

New Comprehensive Immigration Reform Bill Introduced in the House

By chris

It’s been 102 days since the US Senate passed a bipartisan comprehensive immigration reform bill with overwhelming support. Since then, however, all progress has been stalled by the U.S. House of Representatives. House leadership has said consistently that they don’t want to vote on the Senate bill; they want to do their own thing. Now […]

New Comprehensive Immigration Reform Bill Introduced in the House

by chris

It’s been 102 days since the US Senate passed a bipartisan comprehensive immigration reform bill with overwhelming support. Since then, however, all progress has been stalled by the U.S. House of Representatives. House leadership has said consistently that they don’t want to vote on the Senate bill; they want to do their own thing. Now […]

Bulletin Inserts on the Affordable Care Act

By Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

Download the bulletin insert: Color | Black & White Trouble printing? You may have to adjust PDF print settings in order to get a complete copy. Printing Instructions here. This fall marks the start of the biggest part of the Affordable Care Act, bringing hundreds of thousands of North Carolinians who have lived without health care closer […]

Bulletin Inserts on the Affordable Care Act

by Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

Download the bulletin insert: Color | Black & White Trouble printing? You may have to adjust PDF print settings in order to get a complete copy. Printing Instructions here. This fall marks the start of the biggest part of the Affordable Care Act, bringing hundreds of thousands of North Carolinians who have lived without health care closer […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, Chapter One

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life” by Barbara Kingsolver. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, Chapter One

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life” by Barbara Kingsolver. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook […]

Catholic Dioceses Withdraw from Council Membership

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

I come with sad news. Bishop Michael Burbidge and Bishop Peter Jugis, bishops of the two Catholic dioceses in North Carolina, communicated to the Council early this year their plan to withdraw from membership at the end of December. This is not a hasty decision on their part; we and they have been engaged in […]

Catholic Dioceses Withdraw from Council Membership

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

I come with sad news. Bishop Michael Burbidge and Bishop Peter Jugis, bishops of the two Catholic dioceses in North Carolina, communicated to the Council early this year their plan to withdraw from membership at the end of December. This is not a hasty decision on their part; we and they have been engaged in […]

Holy Discontentment: Lifting Your Voice and Letting Your Little Light Shine

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

“Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, […]

Holy Discontentment: Lifting Your Voice and Letting Your Little Light Shine

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

“Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, […]

ACA Welcomes Volunteers to Help with Enrollment

By Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

An exciting moment in the history of our country has arrived, and we need your help. North Carolina’s new federally-facilitated Health Insurance Marketplace is opening on October 1. For an initial six-month enrollment period, individuals and families who have faced living without health insurance will be able to enroll in affordable health coverage through the […]

ACA Welcomes Volunteers to Help with Enrollment

by Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

An exciting moment in the history of our country has arrived, and we need your help. North Carolina’s new federally-facilitated Health Insurance Marketplace is opening on October 1. For an initial six-month enrollment period, individuals and families who have faced living without health insurance will be able to enroll in affordable health coverage through the […]

Cheap Chicken, at What Cost?

By chris

As you'll see in the news clip and discussion above, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is about to implement major changes to how chickens are processed. These changes will harm workers and consumers alike. The USDA plans to implement a new rule to increase production speed and eliminate 75% of USDA inspectors in poultry processing factories. Companies will police themselves. During the comment period last year, the proposed rule was savaged by food safety experts, animal rights activists, and worker advocates. There was no credible rebuttal to their concerns. With faster production and less oversight, it’s no surprise that the pilot program found higher rates of salmonella.

Cheap Chicken, at What Cost?

by chris

As you’ll see in the news clip and discussion above, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is about to implement major changes to how chickens are processed. These changes will harm workers and consumers alike.

The USDA plans to implement a new rule to increase production speed and eliminate 75% of USDA inspectors in poultry processing factories. Companies will police themselves. During the comment period last year, the proposed rule was savaged by food safety experts, animal rights activists, and worker advocates. There was no credible rebuttal to their concerns. With faster production and less oversight, it’s no surprise that the pilot program found higher rates of salmonella.

Tragic Combination: Guns and Mental Illness

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Let’s hope this isn’t the case, but recent history suggests that President Obama is not done with a duty that surely is among the most difficult and heart-wrenching aspects of his job. When groups of innocent Americans are gunned down in the all-too-familiar pattern we refer to as mass shootings, the president – whether Obama […]

Tragic Combination: Guns and Mental Illness

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Let’s hope this isn’t the case, but recent history suggests that President Obama is not done with a duty that surely is among the most difficult and heart-wrenching aspects of his job. When groups of innocent Americans are gunned down in the all-too-familiar pattern we refer to as mass shootings, the president – whether Obama […]

Worship Resources on Gun Violence

By chris

Date: Proper 26 - Nov. 3, 2013
Topic: Gun Violence
Focus Text: Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4
What poverty of spirit causes Americans to so glorify their guns – in movies, on television, in video games, on the streets of our neighborhoods and in the halls of Congress? Where are the prophets who will condemn the religion of the second amendment which preaches a sacred right to own any and all kinds of firearms? Why are people of faith and conscience not protecting the sacred trust of children’s lives as vehemently as Congress protects the gun lobby? It is time for pastors, priests, rabbis, and imams to speak out against the blasphemy of gun violence.

Worship Resources on Gun Violence

by chris

Date: Proper 26 – Nov. 3, 2013
Topic: Gun Violence
Focus Text: Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4
What poverty of spirit causes Americans to so glorify their guns – in movies, on television, in video games, on the streets of our neighborhoods and in the halls of Congress? Where are the prophets who will condemn the religion of the second amendment which preaches a sacred right to own any and all kinds of firearms? Why are people of faith and conscience not protecting the sacred trust of children’s lives as vehemently as Congress protects the gun lobby? It is time for pastors, priests, rabbis, and imams to speak out against the blasphemy of gun violence.

Avoid Health Insurance Marketplace Fraud

By Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

As the beginning of the enrollment period for the Health Insurance Marketplace approaches, it is important to be aware of ways dishonest individuals may try to gain access to your money or your personally identifiable information. According to the Office of the Inspector General, there are key ways you can protect yourself from becoming a […]

Avoid Health Insurance Marketplace Fraud

by Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

As the beginning of the enrollment period for the Health Insurance Marketplace approaches, it is important to be aware of ways dishonest individuals may try to gain access to your money or your personally identifiable information. According to the Office of the Inspector General, there are key ways you can protect yourself from becoming a […]

The Cost of Doing Nothing

By chris

In celebration of World Day of Migrants and Refugees on September 24, Pope Francis said: Migrants and refugees are not pawns on the chessboard of humanity. They are children, women and men who leave or who are forced to leave their homes for various reasons, who share a legitimate desire for knowing and having, but above all for being more. Here in our own political context, we might re-word the Pope's powerful message to say: Immigrants are not pawns for Congress. It's been 90 days since the US Senate overwhelmingly passed a comprehensive immigration reform bill, but the House has done nothing with it. In those 90 days, more than 100,000 immigrants have been needlessly deported.

The Cost of Doing Nothing

by chris

In celebration of World Day of Migrants and Refugees on September 24, Pope Francis said:

Migrants and refugees are not pawns on the chessboard of humanity. They are children, women and men who leave or who are forced to leave their homes for various reasons, who share a legitimate desire for knowing and having, but above all for being more.

Here in our own political context, we might re-word the Pope’s powerful message to say: Immigrants are not pawns for Congress.

It’s been 90 days since the US Senate overwhelmingly passed a comprehensive immigration reform bill, but the House has done nothing with it. In those 90 days, more than 100,000 immigrants have been needlessly deported.

The Pumpkin Paradox

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Fall is in the air. There has been a crispness in the air that, until recently, has been a distant memory. But where did I first catch a glimpse of fall?  Not in the crisp air, leaves turning, or the fall harvest, but in advertising. I was in California at the end of August when I first […]

The Pumpkin Paradox

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Fall is in the air. There has been a crispness in the air that, until recently, has been a distant memory. But where did I first catch a glimpse of fall?  Not in the crisp air, leaves turning, or the fall harvest, but in advertising. I was in California at the end of August when I first […]

Conversations Today or Crisis Tomorrow

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

I spent August 2011 through August 2012 working as a chaplain resident at Wake Forest Baptist Health in Winston-Salem. During my residency I took care of the everyday pastoral care needs of my clinical units, and responded to crisis and bereavement calls. Among many other tasks and responsibilities of this educational program, I facilitated conversations about […]

Conversations Today or Crisis Tomorrow

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

I spent August 2011 through August 2012 working as a chaplain resident at Wake Forest Baptist Health in Winston-Salem. During my residency I took care of the everyday pastoral care needs of my clinical units, and responded to crisis and bereavement calls. Among many other tasks and responsibilities of this educational program, I facilitated conversations about […]

Continuing the Conversation: Healthy Food Pantry Workshop

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The recent workshop on healthy food pantries that Partners in Health and Wholeness presented with the Partnership for Community Care was a huge success. The food was delicious, and the presentation was informative, but for me the most meaningful portion of the event was the conversation. The room was full of diverse participants, ranging from nonprofit workers, […]

Continuing the Conversation: Healthy Food Pantry Workshop

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The recent workshop on healthy food pantries that Partners in Health and Wholeness presented with the Partnership for Community Care was a huge success. The food was delicious, and the presentation was informative, but for me the most meaningful portion of the event was the conversation. The room was full of diverse participants, ranging from nonprofit workers, […]

Worship Resources Celebrating Native American Spirituality

By chris

Date: Proper 25 - Oct. 27, 2013
Topic: Celebrating Native American Spirituality
Focus Text: Joel 2:23-32
Is a better day coming for Lumbee Native Americans in North Carolina? Being an optimist, I believe that God’s words, “I will pour out my spirit on all flesh” (v.28), will become a reality in the last days. “I will pour out my spirit on all flesh” are encouraging words. These prophetic words speak of God sending help for my people, Native Americans in North Carolina. Help is a word meaning “aid,” “save,” and “relieve.”

Worship Resources Celebrating Native American Spirituality

by chris

Date: Proper 25 – Oct. 27, 2013
Topic: Celebrating Native American Spirituality
Focus Text: Joel 2:23-32
Is a better day coming for Lumbee Native Americans in North Carolina? Being an optimist, I believe that God’s words, “I will pour out my spirit on all flesh” (v.28), will become a reality in the last days. “I will pour out my spirit on all flesh” are encouraging words. These prophetic words speak of God sending help for my people, Native Americans in North Carolina. Help is a word meaning “aid,” “save,” and “relieve.”

NC Faith Leaders Call on Sen. Burr for Report’s Release

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

More than 190 faith leaders from across North Carolina have sent a letter to Senator Richard Burr, asking his support for release of the U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI) report on the use of torture after 9/11. Among the signatories are 18 bishops and other denominational executives, including Bishop Michael Curry of the Episcopal […]

NC Faith Leaders Call on Sen. Burr for Report’s Release

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

More than 190 faith leaders from across North Carolina have sent a letter to Senator Richard Burr, asking his support for release of the U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI) report on the use of torture after 9/11. Among the signatories are 18 bishops and other denominational executives, including Bishop Michael Curry of the Episcopal […]

Farmworkers in NC

Farm Safety & Health Week: An Empty Proclamation?

By chris

Governor Pat McCrory recently issued a proclamation declaring September 15-21 to be "Farm Safety and Health Week." Here at the NC Council of Churches, we've been working with rural communities and farmworkers for decades, and we are well aware of the need for safety on our state's farms. Our friends at NC FIELD have issued a powerful press release calling attention to the need for not only words from the Governor's mansion but for real actions by all NC agencies and growers to make farmwork safer and to close the child labor loophole that puts kids in danger.

Farm Safety & Health Week: An Empty Proclamation?

by chris

Governor Pat McCrory recently issued a proclamation declaring September 15-21 to be “Farm Safety and Health Week.” Here at the NC Council of Churches, we’ve been working with rural communities and farmworkers for decades, and we are well aware of the need for safety on our state’s farms. Our friends at NC FIELD have issued a powerful press release calling attention to the need for not only words from the Governor’s mansion but for real actions by all NC agencies and growers to make farmwork safer and to close the child labor loophole that puts kids in danger.

When I was a Child, I Spoke with Hunger Pains

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

One in four children in North Carolina is at-risk of hunger. Yet the House of Representatives will soon take up a bill that will cut $40 billion from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly the Food Stamp Program) over 10 years. These cuts are cruel, unjust and immoral, which makes them un-Biblical. There is probably […]

When I was a Child, I Spoke with Hunger Pains

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

One in four children in North Carolina is at-risk of hunger. Yet the House of Representatives will soon take up a bill that will cut $40 billion from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly the Food Stamp Program) over 10 years. These cuts are cruel, unjust and immoral, which makes them un-Biblical. There is probably […]

Health Law Navigators and Naysayers

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Many Americans without health insurance coverage look forward to the coming weeks and months. Starting Oct. 1, they’ll be able to enroll for coverage under the Affordable Care Act, President Obama’s signature health care initiative. Folks who don’t make much money – strangely and sadly, those who make too little may still be out of […]

Health Law Navigators and Naysayers

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Many Americans without health insurance coverage look forward to the coming weeks and months. Starting Oct. 1, they’ll be able to enroll for coverage under the Affordable Care Act, President Obama’s signature health care initiative. Folks who don’t make much money – strangely and sadly, those who make too little may still be out of […]

Federal Spending: Are You Concerned, Confused or Both?

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Congress is back in session.  Are you concerned about how your federal tax dollars are being spent, are you confused or both? President Obama notes that the average CEO has gotten a 40% raise since 2009, but the average American earns less than he or she did in 1999. Does this matter to you? Would […]

Federal Spending: Are You Concerned, Confused or Both?

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Congress is back in session.  Are you concerned about how your federal tax dollars are being spent, are you confused or both? President Obama notes that the average CEO has gotten a 40% raise since 2009, but the average American earns less than he or she did in 1999. Does this matter to you? Would […]

ACA Meets the YouToons

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Helping people get the health care they need is serious and important stuff. As the next phase of the Affordable Care Act kicks in on October 1, a lot of work is being done to help folks understand how the program will work and how it benefits them. The Kaiser Family Foundation has been at […]

ACA Meets the YouToons

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Helping people get the health care they need is serious and important stuff. As the next phase of the Affordable Care Act kicks in on October 1, a lot of work is being done to help folks understand how the program will work and how it benefits them. The Kaiser Family Foundation has been at […]

NCCC Board Statement on Syria

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The following statement was adopted by the Council’s Governing Board at its September 10 meeting in Chapel Hill: We are called by our faith to turn swords into plowshares. The NC Council of Churches, while made up of denominations and individuals who are pacifist and others who believe war can occasionally be justified, has always […]

NCCC Board Statement on Syria

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The following statement was adopted by the Council’s Governing Board at its September 10 meeting in Chapel Hill: We are called by our faith to turn swords into plowshares. The NC Council of Churches, while made up of denominations and individuals who are pacifist and others who believe war can occasionally be justified, has always […]

For I Was Hungry and You Gave Me Nothing

By chris

The Jefferson Post

Have you ever gone to bed hungry? Have you ever skipped a meal so that your children could eat? Have you ever waited in a long line to take home a bag of leftover groceries that was no longer fit for store shelves? Did you know that 1 in 6 North Carolina households reported serious problems affording adequate nutritious food at some point last year, according to new data released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture today. Of the North Carolinians experiencing this food insecurity, some 5.5 percent experienced very low food security – meaning that one or more household members had to reduce their food intake at least some time during the year.

For I Was Hungry and You Gave Me Nothing

The Jefferson Post

Have you ever gone to bed hungry? Have you ever skipped a meal so that your children could eat? Have you ever waited in a long line to take home a bag of leftover groceries that was no longer fit for store shelves?

Did you know that 1 in 6 North Carolina households reported serious problems affording adequate nutritious food at some point last year, according to new data released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture today. Of the North Carolinians experiencing this food insecurity, some 5.5 percent experienced very low food security – meaning that one or more household members had to reduce their food intake at least some time during the year.

Capital’s End-of-Summer Fallout

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Call it the year of North Carolina’s Big Right Turn. A conservative General Assembly, with a conservative governor in tow, veered away from the moderate consensus that had set the tone of Tar Heel politics for decades. Taxes were cut for high-end earners. Public schools were put through a budget wringer. Anti-pollution rules were weakened, […]

Capital’s End-of-Summer Fallout

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Call it the year of North Carolina’s Big Right Turn. A conservative General Assembly, with a conservative governor in tow, veered away from the moderate consensus that had set the tone of Tar Heel politics for decades. Taxes were cut for high-end earners. Public schools were put through a budget wringer. Anti-pollution rules were weakened, […]

Fracking on Your Property Without Your Permission?

By chris

The controversial issue of hydraulic fracturing for natural gas, or fracking, has many angles here in North Carolina. One of the most important and least talked about components deeply affects private property rights, and it’s called “forced / compulsory pooling.” Compulsory pooling is used by oil and gas companies to force unleased or non-consenting landowners into […]

Fracking on Your Property Without Your Permission?

by chris

The controversial issue of hydraulic fracturing for natural gas, or fracking, has many angles here in North Carolina. One of the most important and least talked about components deeply affects private property rights, and it’s called “forced / compulsory pooling.” Compulsory pooling is used by oil and gas companies to force unleased or non-consenting landowners into […]

Speaking Truth About the ACA

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

One of the problems for people of faith trying to understand the Affordable Care Act and its requirements and benefits for them is that there is bad information out there. Some of it is intentionally planted by those politically opposed to President Obama and Obamacare. An example: A recent TV commercial from the extremely conservative, […]

Speaking Truth About the ACA

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

One of the problems for people of faith trying to understand the Affordable Care Act and its requirements and benefits for them is that there is bad information out there. Some of it is intentionally planted by those politically opposed to President Obama and Obamacare. An example: A recent TV commercial from the extremely conservative, […]

Interreligious Prayer Service Saturday

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Raleigh is inviting people of faith to an Interreligious Prayer Service for Peace in the Middle East.  It takes place Saturday, September 7, at 11 a.m. at the Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi, 11401 Leesville Road, Raleigh. For additional information, e-mail Brother William J. […]

Interreligious Prayer Service Saturday

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Raleigh is inviting people of faith to an Interreligious Prayer Service for Peace in the Middle East.  It takes place Saturday, September 7, at 11 a.m. at the Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi, 11401 Leesville Road, Raleigh. For additional information, e-mail Brother William J. […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Eleven

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Eleven

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

Act Now – New Food Safety Regulations Will Harm Small Farmers

By chris

Ever heard of the Food Safety & Modernization Act? It’s a 2011law that’s meant to help make our food safer and prevent contamination. While we all want safer food, the law contains many provisions that cater to huge agribusinesses while doing serious economic harm to small-scale family farmers. Check out these updates and then find […]

Act Now – New Food Safety Regulations Will Harm Small Farmers

by chris

Ever heard of the Food Safety & Modernization Act? It’s a 2011law that’s meant to help make our food safer and prevent contamination. While we all want safer food, the law contains many provisions that cater to huge agribusinesses while doing serious economic harm to small-scale family farmers. Check out these updates and then find […]

ACA Offers Real Answers

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For health care advocates, the Affordable Care Act means they can finally offer solutions to those who have previously been uninsured and “uninsurable.” In a Point of View column for Saturday’s News & Observer, Adam Searing of the N.C. Justice Center describes the difference ACA can make in people’s lives. He writes about a recent phone call […]

ACA Offers Real Answers

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For health care advocates, the Affordable Care Act means they can finally offer solutions to those who have previously been uninsured and “uninsurable.” In a Point of View column for Saturday’s News & Observer, Adam Searing of the N.C. Justice Center describes the difference ACA can make in people’s lives. He writes about a recent phone call […]

NCCC: Coming Soon to a City Near You

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council staff is taking it on the road, visiting cities across North Carolina in September and October to discuss NCCC programs as well as the most recent legislative session. Please join us when we are near you. RSVPs are encouraged, but not required, so that we can plan for refreshments. Wednesday, September 18, 9-11 […]

NCCC: Coming Soon to a City Near You

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council staff is taking it on the road, visiting cities across North Carolina in September and October to discuss NCCC programs as well as the most recent legislative session. Please join us when we are near you. RSVPs are encouraged, but not required, so that we can plan for refreshments. Wednesday, September 18, 9-11 […]

Heed the Governor on Drug Tests

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

When the General Assembly during its recently concluded session turned out one misguided bill after another – to hold down the racial minority vote, weaken environmental rules, cut taxes for the well-off, squeeze spending on schools – Gov. Pat McCrory went along for the ride. He signed most of the bills pushed through by his […]

Heed the Governor on Drug Tests

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

When the General Assembly during its recently concluded session turned out one misguided bill after another – to hold down the racial minority vote, weaken environmental rules, cut taxes for the well-off, squeeze spending on schools – Gov. Pat McCrory went along for the ride. He signed most of the bills pushed through by his […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Ten

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Ten

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

Why I Went to the Prayer Vigil for Immigration Reform

By chris

Durham Herald-Sun On Sunday August 25, about a hundred Durham residents and faith leaders from seven different traditions gathered at the People’s Plaza to pray for our elected officials. As people with different stories, different colors of skin, even different faiths, we were united in our hope that Rep. Butterfield, Rep. Coble, Rep. Price and their colleagues in the House will support a just and moral immigration reform that offers a pathway to citizenship, unifies families, supports workers, and moves us forward together.

Why I Went to the Prayer Vigil for Immigration Reform

Durham Herald-Sun

On Sunday August 25, about a hundred Durham residents and faith leaders from seven different traditions gathered at the People’s Plaza to pray for our elected officials. As people with different stories, different colors of skin, even different faiths, we were united in our hope that Rep. Butterfield, Rep. Coble, Rep. Price and their colleagues in the House will support a just and moral immigration reform that offers a pathway to citizenship, unifies families, supports workers, and moves us forward together.

Back to School Amid Tight Times

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Of the many public policies North Carolina has followed across the decades, none has brought greater dividends than the state’s commitment to invest in education at all levels. No other policy has done more to support the state’s economy by attracting and nurturing businesses eager to take advantage of a well-prepared workforce. No other policy […]

Back to School Amid Tight Times

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Of the many public policies North Carolina has followed across the decades, none has brought greater dividends than the state’s commitment to invest in education at all levels. No other policy has done more to support the state’s economy by attracting and nurturing businesses eager to take advantage of a well-prepared workforce. No other policy […]

Disturbing the Peace

By chris

Rev. Cody Sanders, Ph.D. candidate in Pastoral Theology and Pastoral Counseling at Brite Divinity School

There is something in these furious, feverish words that beckons beyond a simple description of what life will be like if you choose to follow a peculiar call from Jesus and your closest friends and family don’t. Beyond description, there is something of a call in this passage trying to work its way inside of us. These words beckon us beyond a recounting of our inevitable losses on the journey, to embrace our sacred calling to disturbers the peace.

Disturbing the Peace

by chris

Rev. Cody Sanders, Ph.D. candidate in Pastoral Theology and Pastoral Counseling at Brite Divinity School

There is something in these furious, feverish words that beckons beyond a simple description of what life will be like if you choose to follow a peculiar call from Jesus and your closest friends and family don’t. Beyond description, there is something of a call in this passage trying to work its way inside of us. These words beckon us beyond a recounting of our inevitable losses on the journey, to embrace our sacred calling to disturbers the peace.

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Nine

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Nine

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

Take Action for Public Schools — Aug. 24 and 26

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

North Carolina’s public schools has suffered at the hands of this General Assembly and Governor. The impact on the schools, their employees, and the children they serve will be felt for years to come. Supporters of public education are rallying for North Carolina’s schools with events planned for Saturday and with a statewide “red out” on Monday. Saturday rallies […]

Take Action for Public Schools — Aug. 24 and 26

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

North Carolina’s public schools has suffered at the hands of this General Assembly and Governor. The impact on the schools, their employees, and the children they serve will be felt for years to come. Supporters of public education are rallying for North Carolina’s schools with events planned for Saturday and with a statewide “red out” on Monday. Saturday rallies […]

Events for Immigration Reform Crop Up Across NC

By chris

If you've been following immigration reform, you know that this month is crucial to the effort for overhauling our nation's broken immigration system. While the US Senate passed a reform bill earlier this summer, the fate of millions of immigrant families lies in the House of Representatives. This month there are a number of key events happening across NC. When you participate in a prayer vigil or march, you're letting our leaders and the media know that North Carolinians are serious about reform. We hope to see you there.

Events for Immigration Reform Crop Up Across NC

by chris

If you’ve been following immigration reform, you know that this month is crucial to the effort for overhauling our nation’s broken immigration system. While the US Senate passed a reform bill earlier this summer, the fate of millions of immigrant families lies in the House of Representatives. This month there are a number of key events happening across NC. When you participate in a prayer vigil or march, you’re letting our leaders and the media know that North Carolinians are serious about reform. We hope to see you there.

Court Tests for New Election Law

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s new voter ID law also cuts the period for early voting and makes other changes in election rules. Does the law discriminate against some voters on the basis of their race? Or is it targeted at Democrats, with any downside for African-Americans simply reflecting the fact that as a group they lean Democratic […]

Court Tests for New Election Law

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s new voter ID law also cuts the period for early voting and makes other changes in election rules. Does the law discriminate against some voters on the basis of their race? Or is it targeted at Democrats, with any downside for African-Americans simply reflecting the fact that as a group they lean Democratic […]

Worship Resources on a Living Wage

By chris

Date: Proper 21 - Sep. 29, 2013
Topic: A Living Wage
Focus Text: Luke 16:19-31
We were on our tour bus, about to leave the dorm where we had been staying, when a few of us saw her. She looked about sixty years old, and she looked like she could have been my grandmother. She came quietly around the corner of the building, went straight to the big trashcan, and started digging out our thrown-away lunches. She put what she could find in a bag, and she was gone. Sheltered life that I had led, I had never before seen someone using a trashcan as a food source.

Worship Resources on a Living Wage

by chris

Date: Proper 21 – Sep. 29, 2013
Topic: A Living Wage
Focus Text: Luke 16:19-31
We were on our tour bus, about to leave the dorm where we had been staying, when a few of us saw her. She looked about sixty years old, and she looked like she could have been my grandmother. She came quietly around the corner of the building, went straight to the big trashcan, and started digging out our thrown-away lunches. She put what she could find in a bag, and she was gone. Sheltered life that I had led, I had never before seen someone using a trashcan as a food source.

A Special Energy Audit

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

United Church of Christ of Chapel Hill (UCC-CH) is my home church. My parents are committed members and, as a returning college grad, I feel excited about being part of this faith community. Going through an energy audit with my church pastor to learn about the church’s efforts for energy savings and lowering our congregation’s […]

A Special Energy Audit

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

United Church of Christ of Chapel Hill (UCC-CH) is my home church. My parents are committed members and, as a returning college grad, I feel excited about being part of this faith community. Going through an energy audit with my church pastor to learn about the church’s efforts for energy savings and lowering our congregation’s […]

The Ag Act: Congress Considers Turning Back the Clock to the Bracero Program

By chris

Somewhat lost this summer amidst all the conversation about comprehensive immigration reform is a little-known bill called the "Agricultural Guestworker Act" (or "Ag Act," HB 1773) that has already passed out of the House Judiciary Committee. This harmful bill is a thinly veiled attempt to strip farmworkers of the few rights they have on the job while propping up agribusinesses' bottom line.

The Ag Act: Congress Considers Turning Back the Clock to the Bracero Program

by chris

Somewhat lost this summer amidst all the conversation about comprehensive immigration reform is a little-known bill called the “Agricultural Guestworker Act” (or “Ag Act,” HB 1773) that has already passed out of the House Judiciary Committee. This harmful bill is a thinly veiled attempt to strip farmworkers of the few rights they have on the job while propping up agribusinesses’ bottom line.

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Eight

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Eight

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

Passing of Bishop Gossman

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Bishop Joseph Gossman, who died yesterday, was a great friend of the North Carolina Council of Churches. He led the Diocese of Raleigh into full membership in the Council in 1977, when Catholic membership in ecumenical organizations was very unusual. He supported our work for social justice as he believed strongly in Jesus’ call to […]

Passing of Bishop Gossman

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Bishop Joseph Gossman, who died yesterday, was a great friend of the North Carolina Council of Churches. He led the Diocese of Raleigh into full membership in the Council in 1977, when Catholic membership in ecumenical organizations was very unusual. He supported our work for social justice as he believed strongly in Jesus’ call to […]

Elections bill: Return to senders

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Gov. Pat McCrory has said he’ll soon dispose of the 30 or so bills remaining on his desk following the General Assembly’s July 26 adjournment. He can either sign them into law, let them become law without his signature or veto them. Will the Republican governor take a hint from Democratic Attorney General Roy Cooper […]

Elections bill: Return to senders

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Gov. Pat McCrory has said he’ll soon dispose of the 30 or so bills remaining on his desk following the General Assembly’s July 26 adjournment. He can either sign them into law, let them become law without his signature or veto them. Will the Republican governor take a hint from Democratic Attorney General Roy Cooper […]

Worship Resources on Mental Health Care

By chris

Date: Proper 20 - Sep. 22, 2013
Topic: Mental Health Care
Focus Text: Jeremiah 8:18-9:1
The church must not forget either the biblical witness to suffering or the reality of Christian hope while caring for those who are mentally ill. Rather, the task of the church, in general terms, is both to suffer with and also, at the same time, to hope for those caught in the tangled web of mental illness. The first, to suffer with, is extremely important. “Weep with those who weep,” the scripture tells us (Rom 12:15); and yet the need of those who are mentally ill is so complex, the chasm so apparently deep and dark, that many would prefer, like priests and Levites, to pass by on the other side of the road (Lk 10:31-32). Christ, however, enters that chasm and commands us to follow.

Worship Resources on Mental Health Care

by chris

Date: Proper 20 – Sep. 22, 2013
Topic: Mental Health Care
Focus Text: Jeremiah 8:18-9:1
The church must not forget either the biblical witness to suffering or the reality of Christian hope while caring for those who are mentally ill. Rather, the task of the church, in general terms, is both to suffer with and also, at the same time, to hope for those caught in the tangled web of mental illness. The first, to suffer with, is extremely important. “Weep with those who weep,” the scripture tells us (Rom 12:15); and yet the need of those who are mentally ill is so complex, the chasm so apparently deep and dark, that many would prefer, like priests and Levites, to pass by on the other side of the road (Lk 10:31-32). Christ, however, enters that chasm and commands us to follow.

Congregations and Coal: Faith and the Riverbend Coal Plant

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

I travelled to the River Bend Coal Power Plant just outside of Charlotte to attend a press conference for the release of “Closing the Floodgates: How the Coal Industry is Poisoning our Water and How We can Stop It”. This extensive report, written as a collaboration between the Sierra Club, Waterkeeper Alliance, Clean Water Action, […]

Congregations and Coal: Faith and the Riverbend Coal Plant

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

I travelled to the River Bend Coal Power Plant just outside of Charlotte to attend a press conference for the release of “Closing the Floodgates: How the Coal Industry is Poisoning our Water and How We can Stop It”. This extensive report, written as a collaboration between the Sierra Club, Waterkeeper Alliance, Clean Water Action, […]

Affordable Care Act — Get Informed, Get Covered

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Those who do not have health insurance can begin to enroll through the Affordable Care Act on October 1, and the Council is one of many organizations working to help folks understand their benefits and options. Get Covered America has just released some excellent information about the ACA and eligibility, including statistics specific to North […]

Affordable Care Act — Get Informed, Get Covered

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Those who do not have health insurance can begin to enroll through the Affordable Care Act on October 1, and the Council is one of many organizations working to help folks understand their benefits and options. Get Covered America has just released some excellent information about the ACA and eligibility, including statistics specific to North […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Seven

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Seven

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

New Bulletin Inserts in Support of Immigration Reform

By chris

We're proud to be publishing these brand new church bulletin inserts on comprehensive immigration reform. With large color pictures and up-to-date facts and figures, these 8.5x5.5 inserts explain where things stand with federal legislation and offer congregants many different ways to get involved.

New Bulletin Inserts in Support of Immigration Reform

by chris

We’re proud to be publishing these brand new church bulletin inserts on comprehensive immigration reform. With large color pictures and up-to-date facts and figures, these 8.5×5.5 inserts explain where things stand with federal legislation and offer congregants many different ways to get involved.

Healthy Communities, Healthy Churches Summit

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness is co-sponsoring a Healthy Communities, Healthy Churches Summit on Saturday, September 7 from 10am-3pm in New Bern (Christ Episcopal Ministry Center, 311 Middle Street). The Summit will provide information on local health initiatives, funding opportunities for faith-based organizations, as well as information on the upcoming Affordable Care Act. Other participating […]

Healthy Communities, Healthy Churches Summit

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

Partners in Health and Wholeness is co-sponsoring a Healthy Communities, Healthy Churches Summit on Saturday, September 7 from 10am-3pm in New Bern (Christ Episcopal Ministry Center, 311 Middle Street). The Summit will provide information on local health initiatives, funding opportunities for faith-based organizations, as well as information on the upcoming Affordable Care Act. Other participating […]

The Liberal Protest that Would Shock the Right: Moral Monday

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Salon

Every week prayers and gospel songs infuse the air and participants offer blessings to the latest batch of 100 or so activists entering the Raleigh General Assembly building to commit civil disobedience. If you’re not from here, it may all seem a little counter-intuitive: A movement for inclusive and just secular governance that is deeply inflected with Christian ethics and arguments.

The Liberal Protest that Would Shock the Right: Moral Monday

Salon

Every week prayers and gospel songs infuse the air and participants offer blessings to the latest batch of 100 or so activists entering the Raleigh General Assembly building to commit civil disobedience. If you’re not from here, it may all seem a little counter-intuitive: A movement for inclusive and just secular governance that is deeply inflected with Christian ethics and arguments.

Prejudice Against the Poor

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Bob Seymour, minister emeritus of Binkley Baptist Church in Chapel Hill, recently provided a powerful commentary in the News & Observer on how society views some of the most vulnerable among us. Binkley is a member congregation of the Council. He wrote in part: Whatever the case, in our free society there is a tendency for many […]

Prejudice Against the Poor

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Bob Seymour, minister emeritus of Binkley Baptist Church in Chapel Hill, recently provided a powerful commentary in the News & Observer on how society views some of the most vulnerable among us. Binkley is a member congregation of the Council. He wrote in part: Whatever the case, in our free society there is a tendency for many […]

Three for the Governor’s ‘No’

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

If Gov. Pat McCrory goes along with the General Assembly’s partial “disassembly” of state environmental rules – and if North Carolina loses significant ground in the battle against pollution, as likely would be the case – he won’t be able to say he wasn’t warned. Fourteen of the state’s environmental groups have teamed up with […]

Three for the Governor’s ‘No’

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

If Gov. Pat McCrory goes along with the General Assembly’s partial “disassembly” of state environmental rules – and if North Carolina loses significant ground in the battle against pollution, as likely would be the case – he won’t be able to say he wasn’t warned. Fourteen of the state’s environmental groups have teamed up with […]

Fred Bahnson: On Food & Faith in the Washington Post

By chris

American spirituality is discovering itself anew as people of faith reconnect with the land. As I’ve traveled the country I’ve met fellow Christians who are falling in love with their faith all over again, and in every instance this love affair is tied to a place. Not a lofty cathedral directing the worshipper’s thoughts heavenward; these places draw the eyes—and the hands—down to earth, back to the soil from which Genesis tells us we were formed, and which we’re called to “tend and keep.” Our first and most basic human task, I’ve come to learn, is to care for the garden.

So begins Fred Bahnson's recent op-ed article in the Washington Post. If you don't know Fred already, you should. He's a gifted speaker and writer, a thinker and theologian, but most importantly, he's a gardener. After working for years with Anathoth Community Garden in Cedar Grove, NC, he now directs the new Food, Faith, and Religious Leadership Initiative at Wake Forest University School of Divinity.

Fred Bahnson: On Food & Faith in the Washington Post

by chris

American spirituality is discovering itself anew as people of faith reconnect with the land. As I’ve traveled the country I’ve met fellow Christians who are falling in love with their faith all over again, and in every instance this love affair is tied to a place. Not a lofty cathedral directing the worshipper’s thoughts heavenward; these places draw the eyes—and the hands—down to earth, back to the soil from which Genesis tells us we were formed, and which we’re called to “tend and keep.” Our first and most basic human task, I’ve come to learn, is to care for the garden.

So begins Fred Bahnson’s recent op-ed article in the Washington Post. If you don’t know Fred already, you should. He’s a gifted speaker and writer, a thinker and theologian, but most importantly, he’s a gardener. After working for years with Anathoth Community Garden in Cedar Grove, NC, he now directs the new Food, Faith, and Religious Leadership Initiative at Wake Forest University School of Divinity.

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Six

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Six

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

Short Rations for Schools

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The teachers were upset. And with North Carolina now embarked on a program of aggressive backsliding in its commitment to public education, who could blame them? Teachers, many of them wearing distinctive red t-shirts, helped swell the crowd of several thousand at the July 29 “Moral Monday” protest in downtown Raleigh – the largest gathering […]

Short Rations for Schools

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The teachers were upset. And with North Carolina now embarked on a program of aggressive backsliding in its commitment to public education, who could blame them? Teachers, many of them wearing distinctive red t-shirts, helped swell the crowd of several thousand at the July 29 “Moral Monday” protest in downtown Raleigh – the largest gathering […]

Recent Poll Shows North Carolinians Want More Clean Energy

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Most North Carolinians oppose fracking, favor clean energy and think current regulations are sufficient or should be stronger. Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) released the North Carolina poll results on July 15, 2013. “From the mountains to the beaches, it’s clear that North Carolinians take special pride in their state, and see state environmental safeguards as protecting our heritage and ensuring that our children can enjoy this place we know and love,” said NRDC senior attorney Luis Martinez, who is based in Asheville. Among the poll’s key findings: 61% say state environmental standards and regulatory standards do more good than [...]

The post Recent Poll Shows North Carolinians Want More Clean Energy appeared first on North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light.

Recent Poll Shows North Carolinians Want More Clean Energy

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Most North Carolinians oppose fracking, favor clean energy and think current regulations are sufficient or should be stronger. Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) released the North Carolina poll results on July 15, 2013. “From the mountains to the beaches, it’s clear that North Carolinians take special pride in their state, and see state environmental safeguards as protecting our heritage and ensuring that our children can enjoy this place we know and love,” said NRDC senior attorney Luis Martinez, who is based in Asheville. Among the poll’s key findings: 61% say state environmental standards and regulatory standards do more good than […]

The post Recent Poll Shows North Carolinians Want More Clean Energy appeared first on North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light.

Feed My Sheep: Healthy Food Pantry Workshop

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Many churches highlight feeding ministries and fighting hunger as one of their most important and holy missions, taking very seriously the call of Jesus to feed his sheep, as he commands Peter in John’s Gospel. We also know that Jesus said when we clothe, feed, visit and welcome the least of these we are doing it […]

Feed My Sheep: Healthy Food Pantry Workshop

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Many churches highlight feeding ministries and fighting hunger as one of their most important and holy missions, taking very seriously the call of Jesus to feed his sheep, as he commands Peter in John’s Gospel. We also know that Jesus said when we clothe, feed, visit and welcome the least of these we are doing it […]

Immigration and the Body of Christ

By chris

In these fever-pitch days of summer, with the once-in-a-generation chance at real immigration reform in Congress, we're hearing a lot about how reform is good politics (for both parties) and good for the economy. These are of course important factors, especially in the political context of a major legislative fight on Capitol Hill, but for Christians, should these be the most determinative considerations?

Immigration and the Body of Christ

by chris

In these fever-pitch days of summer, with the once-in-a-generation chance at real immigration reform in Congress, we’re hearing a lot about how reform is good politics (for both parties) and good for the economy. These are of course important factors, especially in the political context of a major legislative fight on Capitol Hill, but for Christians, should these be the most determinative considerations?

More Damage as Session Ends

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The General Assembly has adjourned its 2013 session after a final cascade of disappointing and disturbing bills that now await review by Gov. Pat McCrory. Among the bills approved are ones that will make it less convenient for many citizens to vote and that weaken regulatory oversight of the environment. There was at least one bright spot, as the House rejected a last-minute push by the Senate to speed up the environmentally risky natural gas extraction process known as fracking. But on the whole, legislators succeeded in putting the crowning touches on a session devoted to a conservative agenda the likes of which modern North Carolina has never before seen.

More Damage as Session Ends

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The General Assembly has adjourned its 2013 session after a final cascade of disappointing and disturbing bills that now await review by Gov. Pat McCrory. Among the bills approved are ones that will make it less convenient for many citizens to vote and that weaken regulatory oversight of the environment.

There was at least one bright spot, as the House rejected a last-minute push by the Senate to speed up the environmentally risky natural gas extraction process known as fracking. But on the whole, legislators succeeded in putting the crowning touches on a session devoted to a conservative agenda the likes of which modern North Carolina has never before seen.

Help NC Farmworkers Participate in Democracy

By chris

Every four years the Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC) holds its National Convention, and this year it will be here in North Carolina on October 4th-5th. FLOC is both a social movement and a labor union that works to challenge the deplorable conditions of the broader workforce that remains voiceless, powerless, and invisible to mainstream America. To […]

Help NC Farmworkers Participate in Democracy

by chris

Every four years the Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC) holds its National Convention, and this year it will be here in North Carolina on October 4th-5th. FLOC is both a social movement and a labor union that works to challenge the deplorable conditions of the broader workforce that remains voiceless, powerless, and invisible to mainstream America. To […]

PHW Success Story – Sparta Presbyterian Church, Sparta

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

Our future PHW program is aimed toward achieving Gold Certification. As we uphold our Silver Certification we will continue to provide worship bulletin inserts on health. Also, healthy potluck lunches will be pursued and healthy snacks for children will be maintained. We have collected a set of recipes from our first healthy potluck luncheon for […]

PHW Success Story – Sparta Presbyterian Church, Sparta

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

Our future PHW program is aimed toward achieving Gold Certification. As we uphold our Silver Certification we will continue to provide worship bulletin inserts on health. Also, healthy potluck lunches will be pursued and healthy snacks for children will be maintained. We have collected a set of recipes from our first healthy potluck luncheon for […]

In the Shadows of Riverbend

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Across the street, a small, unassuming, idyllic Catholic church faces the Duke Power Riverbend Coal Plant at the center of litigation and outrage in response to consistent pollution and lack of effective coal ash pond treatment. For a new intern at NCIPL, the physicalized contrast contained powerful irony that drove home the nature of our relationship as faithful North Carolinians with utility companies; we will always be living side by side. While utilities provide us the basic comforts of modern life, we see the destructive nature of their work and feel called to act and react against it. Such was [...]

The post In the Shadows of Riverbend appeared first on North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light.

In the Shadows of Riverbend

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Across the street, a small, unassuming, idyllic Catholic church faces the Duke Power Riverbend Coal Plant at the center of litigation and outrage in response to consistent pollution and lack of effective coal ash pond treatment. For a new intern at NCIPL, the physicalized contrast contained powerful irony that drove home the nature of our relationship as faithful North Carolinians with utility companies; we will always be living side by side. While utilities provide us the basic comforts of modern life, we see the destructive nature of their work and feel called to act and react against it. Such was […]

The post In the Shadows of Riverbend appeared first on North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light.

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Five

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Five

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

Voter ID: We Get the Picture

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Democracy can become a farce if the rules by which votes are cast are skewed so that the voices of some citizens are muffled. That is the troubling prospect facing North Carolina as legislators move to require would-be voters to show photo identification and to trim the period for early voting. At the same time, […]

Voter ID: We Get the Picture

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Democracy can become a farce if the rules by which votes are cast are skewed so that the voices of some citizens are muffled. That is the troubling prospect facing North Carolina as legislators move to require would-be voters to show photo identification and to trim the period for early voting. At the same time, […]

Fighting for Farmworkers: Baldemar Velásquez talks with Bill Moyers

By chris

Since the end of slavery in America, no workers have been more exploited than the men and women who bend to the earth in backbreaking labor, picking fruits, vegetables, and tobacco. Despite miracles of agricultural progress and innovation over the decades, the harsh lives and working conditions of migrant laborers have changed very little. Their cause has been championed in the past by Edward Murrow, Cesar Chavez, and the United Farmworkers. But that list is incomplete without Baldemar Velásquez . Velásquez was among hundreds of thousands of children who joined their migrant parents working long hours in the fields. Inspired by that early experience, Velásquez founded the Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC) in 1967.

Fighting for Farmworkers: Baldemar Velásquez talks with Bill Moyers

by chris

Since the end of slavery in America, no workers have been more exploited than the men and women who bend to the earth in backbreaking labor, picking fruits, vegetables, and tobacco. Despite miracles of agricultural progress and innovation over the decades, the harsh lives and working conditions of migrant laborers have changed very little. Their cause has been championed in the past by Edward Murrow, Cesar Chavez, and the United Farmworkers. But that list is incomplete without Baldemar Velásquez . Velásquez was among hundreds of thousands of children who joined their migrant parents working long hours in the fields. Inspired by that early experience, Velásquez founded the Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC) in 1967.

Call Legislative Leaders About Gun Measures

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We will never know if George Zimmerman would ever have gotten out of his car if he hadn’t had a gun. We do know that countless children of God have died in the last year alone because of gun violence. More guns and easier access to them do not inherently make us safer. Gail Neely […]

Call Legislative Leaders About Gun Measures

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We will never know if George Zimmerman would ever have gotten out of his car if he hadn’t had a gun. We do know that countless children of God have died in the last year alone because of gun violence. More guns and easier access to them do not inherently make us safer. Gail Neely […]

Lectionary: Hunger (Proper 16)

By chris

Date: Proper 16 - Aug. 25, 2013
Topic: Hunger
Focus Text: Isaiah 58:9b-14
God does not say here, “The poor you have with you always, so relax, take your time, pay your bills, balance your budget, play the lottery, fill up the SUV, take a vacation, and, if there are any crumbs left on the table, offer pennies to the hungry.” Rather, God clearly gives feeding the hungry top priority on the daily agenda of God’s people rather than fighting terrorism and protecting one’s job security, life insurance, college savings program, or retirement investment.

Lectionary: Hunger (Proper 16)

by chris

Date: Proper 16 – Aug. 25, 2013
Topic: Hunger
Focus Text: Isaiah 58:9b-14
God does not say here, “The poor you have with you always, so relax, take your time, pay your bills, balance your budget, play the lottery, fill up the SUV, take a vacation, and, if there are any crumbs left on the table, offer pennies to the hungry.” Rather, God clearly gives feeding the hungry top priority on the daily agenda of God’s people rather than fighting terrorism and protecting one’s job security, life insurance, college savings program, or retirement investment.

Squeeze on Education Spending

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

A budget to carry North Carolina state government through the next two years is poised for approval in the General Assembly. It represents a triumph of diminished expectations. That is not because less money would be spent than if appropriations continued at currently authorized levels. In fact, spending would rise slightly – from $20.2 billion […]

Squeeze on Education Spending

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

A budget to carry North Carolina state government through the next two years is poised for approval in the General Assembly. It represents a triumph of diminished expectations. That is not because less money would be spent than if appropriations continued at currently authorized levels. In fact, spending would rise slightly – from $20.2 billion […]

Lessons in Liberty: A Guide to Religion and Constitutional Law in NC Schools

By chris

Click here to download now. The American Civil Liberties Union of North Carolina, in partnership with the North Carolina Council of Churches, Action for Children-NC, The Covenant with North Carolina’s Children, NAACP-NC, the North Carolina Justice Center, and Southern Coalition for Social Justice, has created a new resource focused on the intersection of religion and North Carolina public […]

Lessons in Liberty: A Guide to Religion and Constitutional Law in NC Schools

by chris

Click here to download now. The American Civil Liberties Union of North Carolina, in partnership with the North Carolina Council of Churches, Action for Children-NC, The Covenant with North Carolina’s Children, NAACP-NC, the North Carolina Justice Center, and Southern Coalition for Social Justice, has created a new resource focused on the intersection of religion and North Carolina public […]

Lessons in Liberty: A Guide to Religion and Constitutional Law for NC Government

By chris

Click here to download now. The American Civil Liberties Union of North Carolina, in partnership with the North Carolina Council of Churches, NAACP-NC, and Southern Coalition for Social Justice, has created a new resource focused on the intersection of religion and constitutional law. This free booklet is sponsored by the above organizations and intended for government […]

Lessons in Liberty: A Guide to Religion and Constitutional Law for NC Government

by chris

Click here to download now. The American Civil Liberties Union of North Carolina, in partnership with the North Carolina Council of Churches, NAACP-NC, and Southern Coalition for Social Justice, has created a new resource focused on the intersection of religion and constitutional law. This free booklet is sponsored by the above organizations and intended for government […]

Social Service Groups to Enroll NC Residents for Subsidized Insurance

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

Raleigh News & Observer

They plan to fan out across the state visiting community centers, school gyms, churches, libraries, waiting rooms and shopping centers. Their goal: Sign up as many North Carolina residents as possible for subsidized insurance under the nation’s health care law.

Social Service Groups to Enroll NC Residents for Subsidized Insurance

Raleigh News & Observer

They plan to fan out across the state visiting community centers, school gyms, churches, libraries, waiting rooms and shopping centers. Their goal: Sign up as many North Carolina residents as possible for subsidized insurance under the nation’s health care law.

Voter ID Showdown Looms

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

With the end of the 2013 legislative session in sight, Republicans in the General Assembly are making a final push to adopt photo identification as a requirement for voting. The Senate Rules Committee is expected early next week to consider a revised and in some respects toughened version of a voter ID bill that passed […]

Voter ID Showdown Looms

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

With the end of the 2013 legislative session in sight, Republicans in the General Assembly are making a final push to adopt photo identification as a requirement for voting. The Senate Rules Committee is expected early next week to consider a revised and in some respects toughened version of a voter ID bill that passed […]

North Carolina supports immigration reform

Immigration Reform Depends on the House of Representatives – and You

By chris

Only in today’s Washington would legislation that grows the economy, reduces the debt, curtails illegal immigration, helps the GOP politically and enjoys public approval in the 80% range be seen as a problem for the House Republican caucus. With every flimsy excuse crumbling, it comes down to John Boehner. Actually his choice is pretty simple: a bipartisan majority for reform with a path to citizenship for the 11 million undocumented immigrants in America exists right now; he should find a way to have that majority express its will.

Immigration Reform Depends on the House of Representatives – and You

by chris

Only in today’s Washington would legislation that grows the economy, reduces the debt, curtails illegal immigration, helps the GOP politically and enjoys public approval in the 80% range be seen as a problem for the House Republican caucus. With every flimsy excuse crumbling, it comes down to John Boehner. Actually his choice is pretty simple: a bipartisan majority for reform with a path to citizenship for the 11 million undocumented immigrants in America exists right now; he should find a way to have that majority express its will.

Medicare Turns 48 on July 30

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Dozens of organizations across the country are planning events to celebrate Medicare on or around the program’s 48th birthday on July 30. The North Carolina Council of Churches is among groups that have long advocated for health care for all God’s children. Find an event in your area or get the tool kit to plan […]

Medicare Turns 48 on July 30

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Dozens of organizations across the country are planning events to celebrate Medicare on or around the program’s 48th birthday on July 30. The North Carolina Council of Churches is among groups that have long advocated for health care for all God’s children. Find an event in your area or get the tool kit to plan […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Four

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Four

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

Lectionary: Materialism & Consumerism (Proper 13)

By chris

Date: Proper 13 - Aug. 4, 2013
Topic: Materialism & Consumerism
Focus Text: Luke 12:13-21
“I have so much stuff—stuff that consumes me, consumes my time, and consumes my energy! As I’ve struggled in my faith journey with what to buy, how much to pay for it, and where to store it, I’ve come to realize that “stuff’ may not be a gift to enjoy but an obsession that begins to become all-consuming."

Lectionary: Materialism & Consumerism (Proper 13)

by chris

Date: Proper 13 – Aug. 4, 2013
Topic: Materialism & Consumerism
Focus Text: Luke 12:13-21
“I have so much stuff—stuff that consumes me, consumes my time, and consumes my energy! As I’ve struggled in my faith journey with what to buy, how much to pay for it, and where to store it, I’ve come to realize that “stuff’ may not be a gift to enjoy but an obsession that begins to become all-consuming.”

Tax Cuts Take Shape

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

It could be said that the elephant – symbol of the Republicans who control North Carolina’s General Assembly and governor’s office -- has labored and brought forth a mouse. But this is a mouse with sharp teeth. After weeks of effort, the legislature’s Republican majorities and Gov. Pat McCrory have agreed on a spate of changes to the state’s tax laws centered on cuts in personal and corporate income taxes. The cuts aren’t as deep as some conservatives wanted. Still, they will sap revenues that finance the entire portfolio of state programs and services.

Tax Cuts Take Shape

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

It could be said that the elephant – symbol of the Republicans who control North Carolina’s General Assembly and governor’s office — has labored and brought forth a mouse. But this is a mouse with sharp teeth.

After weeks of effort, the legislature’s Republican majorities and Gov. Pat McCrory have agreed on a spate of changes to the state’s tax laws centered on cuts in personal and corporate income taxes. The cuts aren’t as deep as some conservatives wanted. Still, they will sap revenues that finance the entire portfolio of state programs and services.

How NC Tax-reform Plans Could Fray Safety Nets

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

The News & Observer

These are difficult times. We pray that our lawmakers and governor will demonstrate compassion for our fellow North Carolinians who need food, clothing, health care and shelter and for the many charitable nonprofit organizations that provide this support.

How NC Tax-reform Plans Could Fray Safety Nets

The News & Observer

These are difficult times. We pray that our lawmakers and governor will demonstrate compassion for our fellow North Carolinians who need food, clothing, health care and shelter and for the many charitable nonprofit organizations that provide this support.

The Nation is Watching NC and Moral Mondays

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The impact of Moral Mondays continues to extend beyond North Carolina. Two recent articles and an editorial in “The New York Times” are reaching a national audience. One of the articles is by Peter Carman, pastor of Binkley Baptist Church, a Council member congregation. Alliance of Baptists: ‘Not One Step Back’: Moral Mondays in Raleigh, […]

The Nation is Watching NC and Moral Mondays

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The impact of Moral Mondays continues to extend beyond North Carolina. Two recent articles and an editorial in “The New York Times” are reaching a national audience. One of the articles is by Peter Carman, pastor of Binkley Baptist Church, a Council member congregation. Alliance of Baptists: ‘Not One Step Back’: Moral Mondays in Raleigh, […]

Lines in the Wind

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina Republican legislators seem to be a little conflicted when it comes to their opinion of the federal Voting Rights Act. How many of them would disagree with the U.S. Supreme Court’s conservative majority and allow the Act to continue to be enforced as Congress intended? It’s a fair bet, not many. But when […]

Lines in the Wind

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina Republican legislators seem to be a little conflicted when it comes to their opinion of the federal Voting Rights Act. How many of them would disagree with the U.S. Supreme Court’s conservative majority and allow the Act to continue to be enforced as Congress intended? It’s a fair bet, not many. But when […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Three

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Three

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

Faith Communities Cannot Do It All

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Many of you listen to Marketplace, a business-news program produced by American Public Media and carried in North Carolina by WUNC radio. Monday night, Marketplace carried a very good, though brief, report on Moral Mondays, taking the word of North Carolina’s protest movement to a national audience. Council Communications Director Aleta Payne and I met […]

Faith Communities Cannot Do It All

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Many of you listen to Marketplace, a business-news program produced by American Public Media and carried in North Carolina by WUNC radio. Monday night, Marketplace carried a very good, though brief, report on Moral Mondays, taking the word of North Carolina’s protest movement to a national audience. Council Communications Director Aleta Payne and I met […]

Laurinburg Presbyterian Lets People Grow Food on its Property

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

The Fayetteville Observer

Sam Thompson was looking for a sunny spot to plant tomatoes. He ended up leading an award-winning community revolution. Thompson, an elder at Laurinburg Presbyterian Church, pitched the idea of a community garden to the church six years ago. What began as a creative use for otherwise empty church property was recently awarded an equipment grant by the North Carolina Council of Churches and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. "We're using the grant funds to dig a well," Thompson said. "Wouldn't you know this would be the wettest June in years."

Laurinburg Presbyterian Lets People Grow Food on its Property

The Fayetteville Observer

Sam Thompson was looking for a sunny spot to plant tomatoes. He ended up leading an award-winning community revolution. Thompson, an elder at Laurinburg Presbyterian Church, pitched the idea of a community garden to the church six years ago. What began as a creative use for otherwise empty church property was recently awarded an equipment grant by the North Carolina Council of Churches and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. “We’re using the grant funds to dig a well,” Thompson said. “Wouldn’t you know this would be the wettest June in years.”

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Two

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

PHW Book Club Discussion: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Chapter Two

by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Thank you for joining the Partners in Health and Wholeness Book Club. You can officially sign-up here. Through it, we hope to engage people of faith in discussions over why our health matters. Our current choice of reading is “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. We are posting updates through the PHW Facebook page, […]

Congregations Around NC Host “Prayers for a Pathway” Vigils

By chris

People of faith from across North Carolina are invited to gather at houses of worship on Tuesday night at 7pm to pray for comprehensive immigration reform. Faith leaders will lead prayers for immigrant families and North Carolina’s elected officials – including all NC members of the U.S. House of Representatives. Tuesday’s prayer vigils come at […]

Congregations Around NC Host “Prayers for a Pathway” Vigils

by chris

People of faith from across North Carolina are invited to gather at houses of worship on Tuesday night at 7pm to pray for comprehensive immigration reform. Faith leaders will lead prayers for immigrant families and North Carolina’s elected officials – including all NC members of the U.S. House of Representatives. Tuesday’s prayer vigils come at […]

President’s Climate Action Plan Could Increase Air Quality and Business for NC

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The President’s newly announced climate action plan calls for more funding for clean energy and limiting carbon emissions for new and existing power plants. This is good news for us here in North Carolina. According to the Center for American Progress, 61% of NC residents breathe dangerous levels of smog.  And in 2012, North Carolina […]

President’s Climate Action Plan Could Increase Air Quality and Business for NC

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The President’s newly announced climate action plan calls for more funding for clean energy and limiting carbon emissions for new and existing power plants. This is good news for us here in North Carolina. According to the Center for American Progress, 61% of NC residents breathe dangerous levels of smog.  And in 2012, North Carolina […]