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Council Voices

Rolling Waters

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

A couple of weeks ago, my wife and I headed north for my sister’s graduation. Being only a few hours away from Niagara Falls at that point, we decided to make a weekend out of it since it would be a new experience for both of us. It is quite easy to see what makes […]

Rolling Waters

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

A couple of weeks ago, my wife and I headed north for my sister’s graduation. Being only a few hours away from Niagara Falls at that point, we decided to make a weekend out of it since it would be a new experience for both of us. It is quite easy to see what makes […]

Now what? Staying Engaged and Grow the Interfaith Climate Movement

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

We were already living in a time of profound consequence. President Trump’s decision to pull the U.S. out of the Paris Climate Agreement means that while the needs of our endangered climate are increasing, the response to global warming is diminishing at the national level. Our actions now, as climate conscious people of faith, matter more than ever. There […]

Now what? Staying Engaged and Grow the Interfaith Climate Movement

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

We were already living in a time of profound consequence. President Trump’s decision to pull the U.S. out of the Paris Climate Agreement means that while the needs of our endangered climate are increasing, the response to global warming is diminishing at the national level. Our actions now, as climate conscious people of faith, matter more than ever. There […]

Gun Bill Advances in GA; National Gun Violence Awareness Day is June 2

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Consider the shame of the North Carolina General Assembly working to rush through a bill that weakens gun laws as National Gun Violence Awareness Day approaches. It is right up there with a billboard vilifying Muslims displayed during Ramadan. Both are disturbing enough on their own, but the timing somehow makes them feel even worse. […]

Gun Bill Advances in GA; National Gun Violence Awareness Day is June 2

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Consider the shame of the North Carolina General Assembly working to rush through a bill that weakens gun laws as National Gun Violence Awareness Day approaches. It is right up there with a billboard vilifying Muslims displayed during Ramadan. Both are disturbing enough on their own, but the timing somehow makes them feel even worse. […]

Action Alert: May 31, 2017 — GA May Act on Guns

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As was feared, some members of the General Assembly may be bringing back legislation that would roll back existing gun safety laws. A version of the previously introduced H.B. 746 is scheduled to be heard in the House Judiciary IV committee on Wednesday. A new version of the bill would likely eliminate North Carolina’s pistol […]

Action Alert: May 31, 2017 — GA May Act on Guns

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As was feared, some members of the General Assembly may be bringing back legislation that would roll back existing gun safety laws. A version of the previously introduced H.B. 746 is scheduled to be heard in the House Judiciary IV committee on Wednesday. A new version of the bill would likely eliminate North Carolina’s pistol […]

We Are Love Warriors

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The exhilaration of Easter is fading into memory, and we are left with more routine matters. Unfortunately, the matters that are becoming more and more commonplace have frightening implications: tweets, threats, tapes, etc. All should be sobering to us. We need to be taking these things seriously, but sometimes it feels like we can’t take them […]

We Are Love Warriors

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The exhilaration of Easter is fading into memory, and we are left with more routine matters. Unfortunately, the matters that are becoming more and more commonplace have frightening implications: tweets, threats, tapes, etc. All should be sobering to us. We need to be taking these things seriously, but sometimes it feels like we can’t take them […]

The Plank in Your Eye

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As followers of the Prince of Peace, Christians are not always particularly peaceful people, which is what makes North Carolina’s return to the national stage as a foothold for intolerance both unsurprising and deeply troubling. The ease with which a Christian group would condemn another religion denies our own legacy as well as the work […]

The Plank in Your Eye

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As followers of the Prince of Peace, Christians are not always particularly peaceful people, which is what makes North Carolina’s return to the national stage as a foothold for intolerance both unsurprising and deeply troubling. The ease with which a Christian group would condemn another religion denies our own legacy as well as the work […]

Lines of Influence: Justices Zap Voting Map

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Following the elections of 2010 – tilted as they were by an intense right-wing pushback against President Barack Obama midway through his first term – Republicans in the N.C. General Assembly saw themselves as large and in charge. For the first time in the state’s modern history, they had won majorities in both the House […]

Lines of Influence: Justices Zap Voting Map

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Following the elections of 2010 – tilted as they were by an intense right-wing pushback against President Barack Obama midway through his first term – Republicans in the N.C. General Assembly saw themselves as large and in charge. For the first time in the state’s modern history, they had won majorities in both the House […]

Heal the Sick

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For more than two decades, the NC Council of Churches has called for access to health care for all. The score from the Congressional Budget Office makes it undeniably clear that the American Health Care Act takes us farther from that goal. It would put the lives of many at risk and negatively impact the […]

Heal the Sick

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For more than two decades, the NC Council of Churches has called for access to health care for all. The score from the Congressional Budget Office makes it undeniably clear that the American Health Care Act takes us farther from that goal. It would put the lives of many at risk and negatively impact the […]

2018 Budget Proposal is the Antithesis of our Call

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Plenty of analysis is already happening around the 2018 budget proposal out of the White House. The Washington Post provides two helpful graphics here and here. More is being written than most of us can fully absorb, but  Politico offers a key observation: On close reading, the budget is less a credible attempt to eliminate, […]

2018 Budget Proposal is the Antithesis of our Call

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Plenty of analysis is already happening around the 2018 budget proposal out of the White House. The Washington Post provides two helpful graphics here and here. More is being written than most of us can fully absorb, but  Politico offers a key observation: On close reading, the budget is less a credible attempt to eliminate, […]

For Children, It’s Good News and Bad News from the GA

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Last week was a mixed bag for children and youth in terms of activity at the General Assembly. Among accomplishments was further progress on raising the age at which juveniles can be charged as adults in criminal proceedings. North Carolina is the only state where 16- and 17-year-olds are automatically charged as adults. While advocates […]

For Children, It’s Good News and Bad News from the GA

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Last week was a mixed bag for children and youth in terms of activity at the General Assembly. Among accomplishments was further progress on raising the age at which juveniles can be charged as adults in criminal proceedings. North Carolina is the only state where 16- and 17-year-olds are automatically charged as adults. While advocates […]

Justice on Gerrymandering

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Today’s decision by the U.S. Supreme Court affirms what many in North Carolina knew – the state’s congressional districts were deliberately drawn in 2011 to mute the voices of minority voters. By upholding last year’s lower court ruling, the justices reinforced the value of every vote. For the Council and others, this has been and […]

Justice on Gerrymandering

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Today’s decision by the U.S. Supreme Court affirms what many in North Carolina knew – the state’s congressional districts were deliberately drawn in 2011 to mute the voices of minority voters. By upholding last year’s lower court ruling, the justices reinforced the value of every vote. For the Council and others, this has been and […]

Join the Council at Wild Goose!

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council is a sponsor of the Wild Goose Festival in Hot Springs this July. Members of the staff will be leading workshops and sharing resources. We hope to see you there!  

Join the Council at Wild Goose!

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council is a sponsor of the Wild Goose Festival in Hot Springs this July. Members of the staff will be leading workshops and sharing resources. We hope to see you there!  

What Gives Me Hope

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered at the NC Justice Center’s 2017 Defenders of Justice Awards where the Council was recognized for Grassroots Empowerment. In 1960 Terry Sanford ran for Governor of NC. By all accounts, he should not have won. He was not as well-known as his opponent and he consistently mentioned raising taxes. But he did win […]

What Gives Me Hope

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered at the NC Justice Center’s 2017 Defenders of Justice Awards where the Council was recognized for Grassroots Empowerment. In 1960 Terry Sanford ran for Governor of NC. By all accounts, he should not have won. He was not as well-known as his opponent and he consistently mentioned raising taxes. But he did win […]

Budget’s Big Picture: A Crumbling Core

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

So, the question as always comes down to one of vision. The elected chieftains who decide how much money North Carolina’s state government will spend, what it will be spent on and how it will be raised must decide not only which programs and services will thrive and which will dwindle. They must decide to […]

Budget’s Big Picture: A Crumbling Core

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

So, the question as always comes down to one of vision. The elected chieftains who decide how much money North Carolina’s state government will spend, what it will be spent on and how it will be raised must decide not only which programs and services will thrive and which will dwindle. They must decide to […]

2017 Stand Up Sabbath — June 16-18

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

About this time two years ago, I accepted the offer to become the next Executive Director of the NC Council of Churches. We agreed that I would spend two weeks with the outgoing ED in June learning the ropes, and then I would really get to work in August. My first day in the office […]

2017 Stand Up Sabbath — June 16-18

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

About this time two years ago, I accepted the offer to become the next Executive Director of the NC Council of Churches. We agreed that I would spend two weeks with the outgoing ED in June learning the ropes, and then I would really get to work in August. My first day in the office […]

Special Interest Altar Calls

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

By now, most of us have read “Dark Money” or heard enough about the subject it explores to recognize that money is suffocating our democracy. Add to this styptic environment a potential new infusion of money, this time through the tax-free political contributions that could flow directly into nonprofit organizations and communities of faith across […]

Special Interest Altar Calls

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

By now, most of us have read “Dark Money” or heard enough about the subject it explores to recognize that money is suffocating our democracy. Add to this styptic environment a potential new infusion of money, this time through the tax-free political contributions that could flow directly into nonprofit organizations and communities of faith across […]

Apply for PHW Collaborative by May 31 to be Eligible for June Mini-Grant

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The next Partners in Health and Wholeness Mini-grant Cycle will begin June 5. Interested congregations must apply to join the PHW Collaborative (previously PHW Certification) by May 31 to be eligible. Priority is given to projects that address one of PHW’s four cornerstones: healthy eating, physical activity, tobacco prevention and cessation, and mental health. In […]

Apply for PHW Collaborative by May 31 to be Eligible for June Mini-Grant

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The next Partners in Health and Wholeness Mini-grant Cycle will begin June 5. Interested congregations must apply to join the PHW Collaborative (previously PHW Certification) by May 31 to be eligible. Priority is given to projects that address one of PHW’s four cornerstones: healthy eating, physical activity, tobacco prevention and cessation, and mental health. In […]

Raleigh Report — May 10, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For more information on bills, including committee referrals and re-referrals, texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes, go to the General Assembly website www.ncleg.net.] Newly Introduced Bills EDUCATION Three companion bills would impact food served in schools. H 891, Free Breakfast and Lunch in K-12 Public Schools, would […]

Raleigh Report — May 10, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For more information on bills, including committee referrals and re-referrals, texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes, go to the General Assembly website www.ncleg.net.] Newly Introduced Bills EDUCATION Three companion bills would impact food served in schools. H 891, Free Breakfast and Lunch in K-12 Public Schools, would […]

The People’s Climate March — Called to Respond

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Multi-faith pilgrims on a moral high road unified to honor God’s creation at the Peoples Climate March last month on the National Mall.  The event, which came as a crescendo in a week of climate action, drew 200,000 people from every state, with broad support from more than 400 sister marches in the U.S. and […]

The People’s Climate March — Called to Respond

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Multi-faith pilgrims on a moral high road unified to honor God’s creation at the Peoples Climate March last month on the National Mall.  The event, which came as a crescendo in a week of climate action, drew 200,000 people from every state, with broad support from more than 400 sister marches in the U.S. and […]

Shepherds of Creation

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon preached on May 7, 2017 at Church of the Nativity, Raleigh. When I was in kindergarten, we memorized the 23rd Psalm. Of course, it was the King James Version, so different from what we read here today since we’ve all moved on to the modern translations that change so often we can’t keep up […]

Shepherds of Creation

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon preached on May 7, 2017 at Church of the Nativity, Raleigh. When I was in kindergarten, we memorized the 23rd Psalm. Of course, it was the King James Version, so different from what we read here today since we’ve all moved on to the modern translations that change so often we can’t keep up […]

House Passage of AHCA — We are Better Than This

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The passage of the American Health Care Act by the House of Representatives reflects a political choice on a life-or-death matter. If House members truly believed that this was the best possible plan, they could have held hearings and waited for a new score from the Congressional Budget Office. Supporters would not have been blaming […]

House Passage of AHCA — We are Better Than This

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The passage of the American Health Care Act by the House of Representatives reflects a political choice on a life-or-death matter. If House members truly believed that this was the best possible plan, they could have held hearings and waited for a new score from the Congressional Budget Office. Supporters would not have been blaming […]

Urgent Action Alert: Please Call Congress about Health Care

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our allies at the NC Justice Center have put out the following action alert about efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act. As people of faith, we believe that we are all equally beloved children of God. The America Health Care Act values some more than others and leaves the most vulnerable among us even […]

Urgent Action Alert: Please Call Congress about Health Care

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our allies at the NC Justice Center have put out the following action alert about efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act. As people of faith, we believe that we are all equally beloved children of God. The America Health Care Act values some more than others and leaves the most vulnerable among us even […]

Shine a Light on Postpartum Depression This Mother’s Day

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We often struggle to address mental health in our communities of faith. This Mother’s Day, as we honor those who bring forth life and contribute so much to our communities, let us also acknowledge one of the most common complications of childbirth: postpartum depression (PPD). As many as one in seven mothers suffer from postpartum […]

Shine a Light on Postpartum Depression This Mother’s Day

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We often struggle to address mental health in our communities of faith. This Mother’s Day, as we honor those who bring forth life and contribute so much to our communities, let us also acknowledge one of the most common complications of childbirth: postpartum depression (PPD). As many as one in seven mothers suffer from postpartum […]

When the Good Samaritan is Your Neighbor

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

If you’re part of the Christian tradition then you have probably heard the story of the good Samaritan more times than you can count. A man is traveling along a road when he is beaten, robbed, and left for dead in a ditch. A couple of people who would have been held in pretty high […]

When the Good Samaritan is Your Neighbor

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

If you’re part of the Christian tradition then you have probably heard the story of the good Samaritan more times than you can count. A man is traveling along a road when he is beaten, robbed, and left for dead in a ditch. A couple of people who would have been held in pretty high […]

Workers’ Memorial: Remembering Those Who Have Died

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered at the Workers’ Memorial, April 28, at the Old Capitol Building, Raleigh Micah 7:1-4, 6:8 God has always had a preferential option for the marginalized and the down trodden of society, while also holding out hope that the dominant and powerful will see justice the way God sees it. Sometimes people in charge […]

Workers’ Memorial: Remembering Those Who Have Died

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered at the Workers’ Memorial, April 28, at the Old Capitol Building, Raleigh Micah 7:1-4, 6:8 God has always had a preferential option for the marginalized and the down trodden of society, while also holding out hope that the dominant and powerful will see justice the way God sees it. Sometimes people in charge […]

Retiring Judge Stands Tall

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As Shakespeare’s King Lear famously put it, “How sharper than a serpent’s tooth it is to have a thankless child.” Top Republicans in the N.C. General Assembly now might well be muttering, “How sharper than a serpent’s tooth it is to have a Republican judge who stands on principle!” Sure, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper had […]

Retiring Judge Stands Tall

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As Shakespeare’s King Lear famously put it, “How sharper than a serpent’s tooth it is to have a thankless child.” Top Republicans in the N.C. General Assembly now might well be muttering, “How sharper than a serpent’s tooth it is to have a Republican judge who stands on principle!” Sure, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper had […]

Raleigh Report — April 26, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [The deadlines for the introduction of most new bills have now passed, and we are in Crossover Week. By the end of the week, most non-money bills (i.e., not taxes, fees, or appropriations) must have passed one house in order to remain alive for this session. There are exceptions, […]

Raleigh Report — April 26, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [The deadlines for the introduction of most new bills have now passed, and we are in Crossover Week. By the end of the week, most non-money bills (i.e., not taxes, fees, or appropriations) must have passed one house in order to remain alive for this session. There are exceptions, […]

Guns on Campus Are a Bad Idea

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Two of the most volatile elements on a college campus are alcohol and hormones. These ingredients contribute to sexual assault (23.1 percent of female and 5.4 percent of male undergraduates), property destruction (50 percent of college administrators from schools with high drinking levels say their campuses have a problem with alcohol-related property damage), and poor […]

Guns on Campus Are a Bad Idea

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Two of the most volatile elements on a college campus are alcohol and hormones. These ingredients contribute to sexual assault (23.1 percent of female and 5.4 percent of male undergraduates), property destruction (50 percent of college administrators from schools with high drinking levels say their campuses have a problem with alcohol-related property damage), and poor […]

Efforts to Cut Health Care Continue in Congress

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The public is opposed to efforts to replace the Affordable Care Act, but some members of the U.S. House of Representatives seem determined to forge ahead anyway. The latest version of a replacement plan for the ACA could be voted on as early as this Wednesday. As with the American Health Care Act, this would […]

Efforts to Cut Health Care Continue in Congress

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The public is opposed to efforts to replace the Affordable Care Act, but some members of the U.S. House of Representatives seem determined to forge ahead anyway. The latest version of a replacement plan for the ACA could be voted on as early as this Wednesday. As with the American Health Care Act, this would […]

Faith Leaders: Make Yourselves Heard on Juvenile Justice

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A change in New York law earlier this month leaves North Carolina alone in a place 49 other states have found to be indefensible: only NC automatically prosecutes 16- and 17-year-olds as adults, regardless of their crime. There are many things our state will not let teenagers do because of their age, but it will […]

Faith Leaders: Make Yourselves Heard on Juvenile Justice

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A change in New York law earlier this month leaves North Carolina alone in a place 49 other states have found to be indefensible: only NC automatically prosecutes 16- and 17-year-olds as adults, regardless of their crime. There are many things our state will not let teenagers do because of their age, but it will […]

Science Must Matter to People of Faith

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Crowds are gathered on this Earth Day in Washington, D.C. and in cities across the country to march for science and protect the deeply held value of truth and facts. They are marching to defend the vital role science plays in our communities and our world. They are marching because science is not partisan; it […]

Science Must Matter to People of Faith

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Crowds are gathered on this Earth Day in Washington, D.C. and in cities across the country to march for science and protect the deeply held value of truth and facts. They are marching to defend the vital role science plays in our communities and our world. They are marching because science is not partisan; it […]

Tax-Cut Fever Threatens Services

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

How many times do we have to say it? Well, it’s worth repeating – especially in the aftermath of recent income tax filing deadlines, when the subject becomes a sore point for many: None of us should have to pay more in taxes than our fair share in financing the necessary and desirable tasks of […]

Tax-Cut Fever Threatens Services

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

How many times do we have to say it? Well, it’s worth repeating – especially in the aftermath of recent income tax filing deadlines, when the subject becomes a sore point for many: None of us should have to pay more in taxes than our fair share in financing the necessary and desirable tasks of […]

There’s an App for That

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

The Council is excited to announce the release of our free app for iOS and Android mobile devices. The current political climate has proven to be chaotic at times and deeply troubling to many progressive people of faith. Each new day seems to bring with it a new set of concerns: health care, HB 2 […]

There’s an App for That

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

The Council is excited to announce the release of our free app for iOS and Android mobile devices. The current political climate has proven to be chaotic at times and deeply troubling to many progressive people of faith. Each new day seems to bring with it a new set of concerns: health care, HB 2 […]

Raleigh Report — April 21, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For the latest committee referrals and re-referrals, go to the General Assembly website www.ncleg.net. There you can also find the texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes.] Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES H 727, Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights, would add a lengthy and detailed amendment to the […]

Raleigh Report — April 21, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For the latest committee referrals and re-referrals, go to the General Assembly website www.ncleg.net. There you can also find the texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes.] Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES H 727, Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights, would add a lengthy and detailed amendment to the […]

Do We Treat Workers as We Would Treat Jesus?

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

In this Easter season of the Christian church, we have just celebrated Resurrection Sunday and the joy we feel that Jesus overcame death.  However, my preacher, the Rev. Betty Connette of West Boulevard Presbyterian Church in Raleigh, noted in her Easter sermon that believing in the resurrection is not the important part.  The important part […]

Do We Treat Workers as We Would Treat Jesus?

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

In this Easter season of the Christian church, we have just celebrated Resurrection Sunday and the joy we feel that Jesus overcame death.  However, my preacher, the Rev. Betty Connette of West Boulevard Presbyterian Church in Raleigh, noted in her Easter sermon that believing in the resurrection is not the important part.  The important part […]

Congress is on Recess but You Can Still Take Action

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Congressional leaders are still in their home states for their spring recess, but your voices are still important. Please attend town halls held by our elected leaders, and please request town halls from those who don’t have them planned. In addition, some health advocacy organizations at the national level are urging grassroots advocates to make […]

Congress is on Recess but You Can Still Take Action

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Congressional leaders are still in their home states for their spring recess, but your voices are still important. Please attend town halls held by our elected leaders, and please request town halls from those who don’t have them planned. In addition, some health advocacy organizations at the national level are urging grassroots advocates to make […]

SB 145 Debate Not in Accordance with Matthew 25

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week, the Senate Judiciary Committee of the North Carolina General Assembly discussed SB 145, an anti-immigrant bill that would expand the 287g program, ​ thereby allowing local law enforcement to act as ICE officials and forcing​ NC university system institutions to disclose a student’s immigration status if required by a state or federal agency​. It would also​ revoke the […]

SB 145 Debate Not in Accordance with Matthew 25

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week, the Senate Judiciary Committee of the North Carolina General Assembly discussed SB 145, an anti-immigrant bill that would expand the 287g program, ​ thereby allowing local law enforcement to act as ICE officials and forcing​ NC university system institutions to disclose a student’s immigration status if required by a state or federal agency​. It would also​ revoke the […]

From Sour to Sweet

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Confession: I didn’t give anything up for Lent this year and I don’t feel bad about it. Instead, I baked loaves of sourdough bread every Sunday for communion at my church, Southeast Raleigh Table. It’s a time consuming process; beginning Friday evening by feeding my sourdough starter to “wake it up” and begin the process […]

From Sour to Sweet

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Confession: I didn’t give anything up for Lent this year and I don’t feel bad about it. Instead, I baked loaves of sourdough bread every Sunday for communion at my church, Southeast Raleigh Table. It’s a time consuming process; beginning Friday evening by feeding my sourdough starter to “wake it up” and begin the process […]

Raleigh Report — April 17, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES H 540, Teachers & State Employees Pay Raise, would give annual raises of $2,400 to teachers and other state employees making less than $100,000/year. The bill would appropriate more than $700 million for the first year of these raises. Introduced by Reps. Malone […]

Raleigh Report — April 17, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES H 540, Teachers & State Employees Pay Raise, would give annual raises of $2,400 to teachers and other state employees making less than $100,000/year. The bill would appropriate more than $700 million for the first year of these raises. Introduced by Reps. Malone […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Easter Sunday

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday, and throughout Holy Week. Christ is alive! His spirit burns through this and every future age, till all creation lives and learns […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Easter Sunday

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday, and throughout Holy Week. Christ is alive! His spirit burns through this and every future age, till all creation lives and learns […]

Easter Greetings from the Council

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Sanctuary of West Raleigh Presbyterian Church as photographed by Martie Leming Maundy Thursday, 2017 Goodness is stronger than evil; love is stronger than hate; light is stronger than darkness; life is stronger than death; Victory is our, victory is ours through him who loved us. Victory is ours. ~ Archbishop Desmond Tutu Blessings of this […]

Easter Greetings from the Council

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Sanctuary of West Raleigh Presbyterian Church as photographed by Martie Leming Maundy Thursday, 2017 Goodness is stronger than evil; love is stronger than hate; light is stronger than darkness; life is stronger than death; Victory is our, victory is ours through him who loved us. Victory is ours. ~ Archbishop Desmond Tutu Blessings of this […]

New Push for Broader Medicaid, Better Health

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s failure under Republican leadership to improve low-income residents’ access to health care via the Medicaid program has been like a persistent, throbbing pain in the state’s civic and economic life. The pain can be literal, when people must do without the kinds of care and treatment that everyone recognizes as meeting basic standards […]

New Push for Broader Medicaid, Better Health

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s failure under Republican leadership to improve low-income residents’ access to health care via the Medicaid program has been like a persistent, throbbing pain in the state’s civic and economic life. The pain can be literal, when people must do without the kinds of care and treatment that everyone recognizes as meeting basic standards […]

No More of This

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

In the final hours of the first day of the Triduum, these intense three days when Christians rehearse the events between Maundy Thursday and the Easter Vigil, the juxtaposition of bombs in Afghanistan and swords in Gethsemane boggles the mind. In Gethsemane when they came out with swords and clubs to arrest Jesus and someone […]

No More of This

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

In the final hours of the first day of the Triduum, these intense three days when Christians rehearse the events between Maundy Thursday and the Easter Vigil, the juxtaposition of bombs in Afghanistan and swords in Gethsemane boggles the mind. In Gethsemane when they came out with swords and clubs to arrest Jesus and someone […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Holy Saturday

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday, and throughout Holy Week. Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Holy Saturday

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday, and throughout Holy Week. Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Good Friday

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday, and throughout Holy Week. I danced on a Friday When the sky turned black It’s hard to dance With the devil on […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Good Friday

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday, and throughout Holy Week. I danced on a Friday When the sky turned black It’s hard to dance With the devil on […]

A Day in the Life of….

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Preached on April 12 at St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, Chapel Hill Holy Week, this week, is the most intense week of the Christian year. The secular world might say, looking at us, that the week leading up to Christmas Day is the most intense because they see us scurrying around searching for the […]

A Day in the Life of….

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Preached on April 12 at St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, Chapel Hill Holy Week, this week, is the most intense week of the Christian year. The secular world might say, looking at us, that the week leading up to Christmas Day is the most intense because they see us scurrying around searching for the […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Maundy Thursday

By Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday, and throughout Holy Week. Were you there when they crucified my Lord? Were you there when they crucified my Lord? Oh, sometimes […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Maundy Thursday

by Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday, and throughout Holy Week. Were you there when they crucified my Lord? Were you there when they crucified my Lord? Oh, sometimes […]

Raleigh Report — April 10, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Bills are being introduced at a rapid pace as the Senate’s deadline for new bills has passed and the House’s deadline on non-money approaches. This Raleigh Report and another one later in the week will try to catch up with the flood of bills. Newly Introduced Bills CHILDREN AND […]

Raleigh Report — April 10, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Bills are being introduced at a rapid pace as the Senate’s deadline for new bills has passed and the House’s deadline on non-money approaches. This Raleigh Report and another one later in the week will try to catch up with the flood of bills. Newly Introduced Bills CHILDREN AND […]

Shock Waves from High Court ‘Nuke’

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Our national politics are in an ugly place, driven by an accelerating cycle of suspicion, accusation, blame, recrimination and retaliation. The circumstances by which Neil Gorsuch takes office as a justice of the Supreme Court sadly fit the mold – to the U.S. Senate’s discredit and the court’s peril. President Trump, with his reckless disregard […]

Shock Waves from High Court ‘Nuke’

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Our national politics are in an ugly place, driven by an accelerating cycle of suspicion, accusation, blame, recrimination and retaliation. The circumstances by which Neil Gorsuch takes office as a justice of the Supreme Court sadly fit the mold – to the U.S. Senate’s discredit and the court’s peril. President Trump, with his reckless disregard […]

NC Council of Churches to be Recognized as a Defender of Justice

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Jesus mentions when discussing faith-based activity, “Do not sound a trumpet before you…so that [you] might be praised” (Matthew 6:2) and advises that those who work toward the Reign of God do so regardless of reward. More often than not, that’s exactly what we do here at the NC Council of Churches, but this week […]

NC Council of Churches to be Recognized as a Defender of Justice

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Jesus mentions when discussing faith-based activity, “Do not sound a trumpet before you…so that [you] might be praised” (Matthew 6:2) and advises that those who work toward the Reign of God do so regardless of reward. More often than not, that’s exactly what we do here at the NC Council of Churches, but this week […]

Work for Just and Equitable Health Care is Not Finished

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Every state legislator should be required to listen to the stories shared at a press conference organized this week by North Carolina advocates for health care. Anyone opposed to Medicaid expansion might learn something. Dr. Erica Pettigrew, medical director of the Orange County Health Department, shared four different cases from a single day’s work where […]

Work for Just and Equitable Health Care is Not Finished

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Every state legislator should be required to listen to the stories shared at a press conference organized this week by North Carolina advocates for health care. Anyone opposed to Medicaid expansion might learn something. Dr. Erica Pettigrew, medical director of the Orange County Health Department, shared four different cases from a single day’s work where […]

Let NC Legislators Know You Care about Creation

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

NC Interfaith Power and Light’s lay and faith leader network is at the General Assembly on April 6 until 4 p.m. for their Advocating with Compassion Day. Even if you cannot be there to meet with your elected officials, please contact them to hear their visions for NC’s future and to express your support for new […]

Let NC Legislators Know You Care about Creation

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

NC Interfaith Power and Light’s lay and faith leader network is at the General Assembly on April 6 until 4 p.m. for their Advocating with Compassion Day. Even if you cannot be there to meet with your elected officials, please contact them to hear their visions for NC’s future and to express your support for new […]

Standing on Our Heads

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon preached by the Rev. Jennifer Copeland on April 1, 2017 at First United Methodist Church, Mocksville for the Western North Carolina Conference United Methodist Women’s Legislative Day. For God’s foolishness is wiser than human wisdom, and God’s weakness is stronger than human strength. Consider your own call, brothers and sisters: not many of you […]

Standing on Our Heads

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon preached by the Rev. Jennifer Copeland on April 1, 2017 at First United Methodist Church, Mocksville for the Western North Carolina Conference United Methodist Women’s Legislative Day. For God’s foolishness is wiser than human wisdom, and God’s weakness is stronger than human strength. Consider your own call, brothers and sisters: not many of you […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Fifth Sunday

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday and throughout Holy Week. Remember, Lord, though frail we be, in your own image were we made; help us, lest in anxiety, […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Fifth Sunday

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday and throughout Holy Week. Remember, Lord, though frail we be, in your own image were we made; help us, lest in anxiety, […]

Swallow Hard: H.B. 2’s Less-than-Ideal ‘Repeal’

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Call it a head-on collision between politics and principle. Is anyone surprised that politics prevailed? Yet here’s the twist that perhaps makes the outcome somewhat understandable, if no less regrettable. Those of us committed to stamping out discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity wanted North Carolina’s infamous House Bill 2 to […]

Swallow Hard: H.B. 2’s Less-than-Ideal ‘Repeal’

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Call it a head-on collision between politics and principle. Is anyone surprised that politics prevailed? Yet here’s the twist that perhaps makes the outcome somewhat understandable, if no less regrettable. Those of us committed to stamping out discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity wanted North Carolina’s infamous House Bill 2 to […]

Speak Out Against Anti-Climate Executive Order

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

This week, Donald Trump issued an executive order to turn back the clock on the climate progress we have made over the past decade. In addition to directing the EPA to dismantle the Clean Power Plan, this sweeping executive order also attempts to undo methane standards for oil and gas operations, stop federal agencies from considering […]

Speak Out Against Anti-Climate Executive Order

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

This week, Donald Trump issued an executive order to turn back the clock on the climate progress we have made over the past decade. In addition to directing the EPA to dismantle the Clean Power Plan, this sweeping executive order also attempts to undo methane standards for oil and gas operations, stop federal agencies from considering […]

2017 Legislative Seminar — Thank You plus Worship and Awards Presentation Online

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For those who could not be with us at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Raleigh, video from portions of the day is available on our Facebook page. The morning worship was led by the Revs. Jill and Rick Edens of United Church of Chapel Hill, and NCCC board member the Rev. Paula Dempsey provided […]

2017 Legislative Seminar — Thank You plus Worship and Awards Presentation Online

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For those who could not be with us at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Raleigh, video from portions of the day is available on our Facebook page. The morning worship was led by the Revs. Jill and Rick Edens of United Church of Chapel Hill, and NCCC board member the Rev. Paula Dempsey provided […]

Action Needed Before Monday Night on Guns in Places of Worship

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friends at North Carolinians Against Gun Violence have issued the alert below. Please note that it requires action before this evening, Monday, March 27. _________________________________________________________________________ We are continuing to try and stop the expansion of guns in congregations that share a space with schools. HB 174 will be on the floor this Monday night. […]

Action Needed Before Monday Night on Guns in Places of Worship

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friends at North Carolinians Against Gun Violence have issued the alert below. Please note that it requires action before this evening, Monday, March 27. _________________________________________________________________________ We are continuing to try and stop the expansion of guns in congregations that share a space with schools. HB 174 will be on the floor this Monday night. […]

Raleigh Report — March 26, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXATION H 356, Tax Reduction Act of 2017, would increase the standard deduction for state income taxes from $17,500 to $18,500 for married/filing jointly, and by comparable amounts for other tax statuses. Introduced by Reps. Szoka (R-Cumberland), Saine (R-Lincolnton), Brawley (R-Matthews), and S. Martin […]

Raleigh Report — March 26, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXATION H 356, Tax Reduction Act of 2017, would increase the standard deduction for state income taxes from $17,500 to $18,500 for married/filing jointly, and by comparable amounts for other tax statuses. Introduced by Reps. Szoka (R-Cumberland), Saine (R-Lincolnton), Brawley (R-Matthews), and S. Martin […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Fourth Sunday

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday and throughout Holy Week. Spirit of Life, come unto me. Sing in my heart all the stirrings of compassion. Blow in the […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Fourth Sunday

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday and throughout Holy Week. Spirit of Life, come unto me. Sing in my heart all the stirrings of compassion. Blow in the […]

2017 Legislative Seminar Check-In Instructions

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Thank you to those who have registered for the 2017 Legislative Seminar. We are looking forward to having you join us this Monday, March 27, at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church (4801 Six Forks Road, Raleigh). In an effort to get everyone checked-in as efficiently as possible, we have a few suggestions: Check-in begins at […]

2017 Legislative Seminar Check-In Instructions

by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Thank you to those who have registered for the 2017 Legislative Seminar. We are looking forward to having you join us this Monday, March 27, at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church (4801 Six Forks Road, Raleigh). In an effort to get everyone checked-in as efficiently as possible, we have a few suggestions: Check-in begins at […]

UPDATE: Trumpcare Just Got Worse — Call Before Today’s Vote

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Thank you for every call, email, and letter to Congressional leaders that led to today’s decision to pull the American Health Care Act without a vote. Those committed to a compassionate and just vision for our society have had many moments of despair in recent months. Today was a reminder that persistence matters. There is […]

UPDATE: Trumpcare Just Got Worse — Call Before Today’s Vote

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Thank you for every call, email, and letter to Congressional leaders that led to today’s decision to pull the American Health Care Act without a vote. Those committed to a compassionate and just vision for our society have had many moments of despair in recent months. Today was a reminder that persistence matters. There is […]

GOP Mantra: Party Hearty!

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

They might not care for the image, but Republican members of the N.C. General Assembly act as though they were drunk with power. They have the votes not merely to set conservative policies on spending, taxes, education, health care, protection or misprotection of the environment — votes they’ve been only too happy to cast. They […]

GOP Mantra: Party Hearty!

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

They might not care for the image, but Republican members of the N.C. General Assembly act as though they were drunk with power. They have the votes not merely to set conservative policies on spending, taxes, education, health care, protection or misprotection of the environment — votes they’ve been only too happy to cast. They […]

Raleigh Report — March 21, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXATION HB 329, Home School Education Tax Credit, would give a $1,250-per-student-per-semester income tax credit to the parents of children being home schooled. Introduced by Reps. Pitman (R-Concord), Boswell (R-Kill Devil Hills), and Brody (R-Monroe). Referred to House Education—K-12 and, if favorable, to House […]

Raleigh Report — March 21, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXATION HB 329, Home School Education Tax Credit, would give a $1,250-per-student-per-semester income tax credit to the parents of children being home schooled. Introduced by Reps. Pitman (R-Concord), Boswell (R-Kill Devil Hills), and Brody (R-Monroe). Referred to House Education—K-12 and, if favorable, to House […]

Increased Costs in NC Under Health Care Repeal

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

With a House vote on the plan to appeal the Affordable Care Act as early as this week, the NC Justice Center has released a series of fact sheets that show the financial impact on state residents under the new plan broken down by Congressional district. Their findings make it clear that the American Health […]

Increased Costs in NC Under Health Care Repeal

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

With a House vote on the plan to appeal the Affordable Care Act as early as this week, the NC Justice Center has released a series of fact sheets that show the financial impact on state residents under the new plan broken down by Congressional district. Their findings make it clear that the American Health […]

Do the Goose

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

If you think organized religion has lost its appeal (25% of Americans do; most of them under 40), then it might be time to look again. Look at the Wild Goose Festival in Hot Springs, NC, July 13-16, 2017. Rooted in the Christian tradition, Wild Goose is an amalgamation of spirit, justice, music and arts. […]

Do the Goose

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

If you think organized religion has lost its appeal (25% of Americans do; most of them under 40), then it might be time to look again. Look at the Wild Goose Festival in Hot Springs, NC, July 13-16, 2017. Rooted in the Christian tradition, Wild Goose is an amalgamation of spirit, justice, music and arts. […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Third Sunday

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday and throughout Holy Week. I come to the garden alone While the dew is still on the roses And the voice I […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Third Sunday

by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

For this year’s Lenten Guide, each member of the Council staff chose a verse from a favorite hymn to write about. We will post their reflections throughout Lent, for Ash Wednesday, each Sunday and throughout Holy Week. I come to the garden alone While the dew is still on the roses And the voice I […]

If a Budget is a Moral Document, Then What Does this One Preach?

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The budget blueprint for 2018 released by President Trump on Thursday cuts a wide swath through programs that serve women, people of color, those of low income (for poor women of color, that would mean the same old same old), the arts, the environment, education, job creation, and science.  Couple it with the proposed health […]

If a Budget is a Moral Document, Then What Does this One Preach?

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The budget blueprint for 2018 released by President Trump on Thursday cuts a wide swath through programs that serve women, people of color, those of low income (for poor women of color, that would mean the same old same old), the arts, the environment, education, job creation, and science.  Couple it with the proposed health […]

Raleigh Report — March 13, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills CRIMINAL AND JUVENILE JUSTICE H 233, Ban the Box, would govern how state and local governments could use criminal histories in making hiring decision. (“Ban the box” refers to the question on an application form about whether the applicant has ever been convicted of a crime, […]

Raleigh Report — March 13, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills CRIMINAL AND JUVENILE JUSTICE H 233, Ban the Box, would govern how state and local governments could use criminal histories in making hiring decision. (“Ban the box” refers to the question on an application form about whether the applicant has ever been convicted of a crime, […]

Who Would Choose to be Poor or Sick?

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Around the release of the alt-health plan currently making its way through Congress, several elected leaders have gone where elected leaders sometimes go – blaming the poor for being poor. Perhaps it’s to assuage their consciences or justify their current proposal which would make it more expensive for those with the fewest resources and limit […]

Who Would Choose to be Poor or Sick?

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Around the release of the alt-health plan currently making its way through Congress, several elected leaders have gone where elected leaders sometimes go – blaming the poor for being poor. Perhaps it’s to assuage their consciences or justify their current proposal which would make it more expensive for those with the fewest resources and limit […]

2017 Lenten Guide — Second Sunday

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

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

2017 Lenten Guide — Second Sunday

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

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

Women and Wages

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

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

Women and Wages

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

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

Taking Away Health Care

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Taking Away Health Care

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Raleigh Report — March 7, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Raleigh Report — March 7, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

2017 Legislative Seminar: Advocate in NC as well as DC

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

2017 Legislative Seminar: Advocate in NC as well as DC

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

2017 Lenten Guide — First Sunday

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

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

2017 Lenten Guide — First Sunday

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

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

Introducing the Partners in Health and Wholeness Collaborative

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

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

Introducing the Partners in Health and Wholeness Collaborative

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

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

PHW Launches Collaborative; Certify for 2017

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

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

PHW Launches Collaborative; Certify for 2017

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

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

H.B. 2 ‘Compromise’ Must Protect Rights

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

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

H.B. 2 ‘Compromise’ Must Protect Rights

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

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

Raleigh Report — February 28, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Raleigh Report — February 28, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

2017 Lenten Guide — Ash Wednesday

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

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

2017 Lenten Guide — Ash Wednesday

by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

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

2017 Lenten Guide — Sing With Us

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

2017 Lenten Guide — Sing With Us

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

N.C.’s Reckless ‘Party Time’

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

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

N.C.’s Reckless ‘Party Time’

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

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

Video of Webinar: Loving Our Neighbors in a New Administration

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

Video of Webinar: Loving Our Neighbors in a New Administration

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

Congregations Act on Faith and Science

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Congregations Act on Faith and Science

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Let Loving One Another Become Our Norm

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

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

Let Loving One Another Become Our Norm

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

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

Sol Train Connects Climate and Faith with Solar Power

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

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

Sol Train Connects Climate and Faith with Solar Power

by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

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

Ethical Debates on Industrial Agriculture

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

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

Ethical Debates on Industrial Agriculture

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

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

Raleigh Report — February 20, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Raleigh Report — February 20, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Governor Fights Power Shortage

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

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

Governor Fights Power Shortage

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

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

Johnson Amendment: Name Games and Far-reaching Impact

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Johnson Amendment: Name Games and Far-reaching Impact

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Answering your Questions about Sanctuary

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Answering your Questions about Sanctuary

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Raleigh Report — February 15, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Raleigh Report — February 15, 2017

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Welcome Andrew and Michelle!

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Welcome Andrew and Michelle!

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Repealing the Johnson Amendment Means Pulpits for Sale

By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

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

Repealing the Johnson Amendment Means Pulpits for Sale

by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

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

Whispers and Shouts

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Whispers and Shouts

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Refugees Welcomed, Not Banned

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

Refugees Welcomed, Not Banned

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

Walls Demonstrate Hostility, not Hospitality

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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

Walls Demonstrate Hostility, not Hospitality

by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

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