Christian News: August 2008 Edition

The August 2008 Edition of Christian News, the newspaper of the Christian Church in the Upper Midwest is now online. You can also download recent issues as well.

New Disciples.org Website to be Launched September 2

From Disciples News Service:

Communication Ministries will launch a new design for the primary web site of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) on Sept. 2. Disciples.org has been redesigned to utilize new technologies for managing content and will provide new services such as RSS feeds and online giving to the Disciples Mission Fund.The launch will be the first phase of a web site improvement project by Communication Ministries. Future enhancements will include improved and additional resources, and integration with online communities such as MySpace, YouTube and Facebook. Information and online registration for the 2009 General Assembly also will be available on Sept. 2.

To see the new design and to register for the 2009 General Assembly, be sure to visit http://www.disciples.org/ on September 2.

First Christain Keokuk Announces "Saturday Night Alive"

First Christian Church in Keokuk, IA is starting a new service on September 6 (yes, that's a Saturday) called "Saturday Night Alive." Want to find out more? Well, the folks at First have made this video to explain their new endeavor:




The church also has a blog that shares more about the service.

New Info on the Upper Midwest webpage

The following information is now available at the Christian Church in the Upper Midwest website:

• Information on Reconciliation Grants;
• Applications for New Church Grants.
  
  

Both are available at the Resource Page.

Work Groups Needed!!!!!

As you know a Mission Station has been created in Cedar Rapids, Iowa
to accomodate work groups desiring to assist in the cleanup and
rebuild of the areas damaged by flooding and tornados this summer.
The schedule, as of 8-12-08 is below.

I'm wondering if it would be possible to get a whole bunch of other
Upper Midwest folks lined up to go?????????

WE ARE IN NEED OF WORK GROUPS FOR THE FOLLOWING TIME FRAMES.

• August 17-23, 2008 (FCC, Nevada is scheduled...we can easily accomodate 10 more persons)

• August 31-September 6, 2008 (no one is scheduled as of yet)

• September 7-13, 2008 (Capitol Hill, Des Moines is scheduled...we can easily accomodate 10 more persons)

• September 14-20, 2008 (Northwood CC, Indianapolis is scheduled...we can easily accomodate 10 more persons)

• September 21-30, 2008 (FCC, Gibson City, IA is scheduled for 9/22-24...we can easily accomodate a dozen more folks at least for the entire week)

• September 28-October 4, 2008 (Norwalk CC is scheduled for 10/4; FCC Red Oak is scheduled for 9/28-10/1...we can easily accomodate about 15-18 more persons for the entire week)

• October 5-11, 2008 (FCC, Medina, Ohio is scheduled...we can easily accomodate an additional 15 persons

• October 12-18, 2008 (Disciples CC, Cleveland Heights, Ohio is scheduled...we can accomodate an addition half dozen folks)

• October 19-25, 2008 (no one is scheduled as of yet)

• October 26-November 1, 2008 (Legacy CC, Harrison, Ohio is scheduled...we can easily accomodate another dozen folks)

• November 2-8, 2008 (First CC, Zanesville, Ohio is scheduled...we can easily accomodate another half dozen folks)

• November 9-15, 2008 (no one is scheduled as of yet)

The Mission Station will like close for the winter (with the possible
exception of some inside work as it becomes available) on November 15
and likely reopen again in the early Spring 2009.

Looking to build community within the congregation you serve? This
certainly is one way to help in that process...

Interested in helping?

It's simple...just contact the person below to begin the process...

Anne Marie Moyars, Administrative Assistant
Disciples Volunteering - Disaster Response
amoyars@dhm.disciples.org
(317) 713-2666 or toll free (888) 346-2631
Fax Number: (317) 635-4426
Web Site: http://www.discipleshomemissions.org

From the DOC Lectionary Blog

From the DOC Lectionary Blog:

It's easier to say what we believe than to practice what we believe. So for the early Christians it might have been easy to say that "God is the God of all" or "in Christ there is no Jew nor Greek" but putting these abstract thoughts into practice would have been much harder to do. Perhaps these stories are there to remind them that Jesus was more concerned about what comes out of the heart than about what rules you follow and that the first messianic proclamation actually came from a gentile woman. Reminders of things like these were almost certainly needed to help resolve issues of Church governance in the first century. They're also needed today.

Continue reading...

Work groups needed for Iowa flood recovery

From DisciplesWorld:

By Rebecca Bowman Woods, DisciplesWorld news and website editor

INDIANAPOLIS (8/11/08) — Three Disciples congregations have opened their doors as mission stations in Iowa, where summer flooding caused extensive damage in Cedar Rapids and other areas.

After the floodwaters receded, the churches — Noelridge Christian Church in Cedar Rapids, First Christian Church in Coralville, and Marion Christian Church in Marion — worked with the Office of Disciples Volunteering to prepare their facilities, and their members, to host mission groups from outside the area. Now all they need are volunteers.

Carl Zerweck, who heads Disciples Volunteering, estimated the number of homes damaged by flooding in the Cedar Rapids area as “somewhere between 4,000 and 5,400.” Zerweck is concerned about the amount of “cutting and gutting” work to be done before cold weather arrives. “The situation is bad. There’s a lot of need and we really need people to consider going.”

Work groups are needed for several of the weeks from September through mid-November, according to Zerweck. Grants are available through Week of Compassion to help with trip costs.

Continue reading...

Disciples Musicians are denomination’s best-kept secret

From DisciplesWorld:

By Verity A. Jones, DisciplesWorld editor and publisher

TULSA, Okla. — (8/13/08) I don’t understand why the annual conference of the Association of Disciples Musicians (ADM) isn’t attended by hundreds if not thousands of people every year.

It must be the best -kept secret in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), otherwise more than this year’s 103 registrants would’ve been here.

This year’s event at First Christian Church in downtown Tulsa, July 19–24, featured fabulous performances, opportunities to rehearse with remarkable musicians of all kinds, and meaningful worship experiences to boot.

Not to mention the workshops exploring the many facets of Emerging Worship, including controversies that this and other changing worship styles pose to the world of American religious music today.

Oh, and there is the fellowship. This is a group of Disciples, professional and volunteer, who really like each other and enjoy getting together year after year. Some have been doing so for more than 20 years. Go figure.

Continue reading...

World Reformed grouping and Disciples body seek closer ties

by Ecumenical News International

GENEVA — Two global bodies grouping Protestant Christians — the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC) and the Disciples Ecumenical Consultative Council (DECC) — say they are looking to establish a closer relationship.

“It is significant that several united churches around the world are already members of both bodies and have been a voice encouraging us to pursue closer relationships in the future,” said the Rev. Robert Welsh, the general secretary of DECC. The president of the WARC is former Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Stated Clerk Clifton Kirkpatrick.

The Geneva-based WARC said in an Aug. 11 statement that leaders of the two groups had agreed at a meeting in Nashville, TN at the end of July to continue talking about “the development of a comprehensive partnership in pursuit of the visible unity of the Church.”

WARC general secretary the Rev. Setri Nyomi said the Nashville meeting marked a “potentially significant” step in the pursuit of Christian unity. “We welcome this important move.”

WARC has roots in the 16th-century Reformation led by John Calvin, John Knox and others, as well as in earlier church reform movements such as the Waldensians in the Piedmont valleys of Italy, and the followers of Jan Hus in the Czech lands. It brings together 75 million Christians in 214 churches.

The Disciples of Christ (which in some parts of the world is known as Churches of Christ), grew out of an early 19th century movement with origins in both the United Kingdom and the U.S.A. The DECC is a council of 19 Disciples of Christ, Churches of Christ, United and Uniting churches established in 1979, and represents 4.5 million Christians around the world.

In October 2007, WARC agreed to merge with the Reformed Ecumenical Council, with which it has an overlapping membership, to form the World Communion of Reformed Churches in 2010.

The DECC member churches are to consider a proposal that DECC become an associate member of WCRC to allow closer ties in relation to the programs and governance of the new communion of churches.

Registration and Promotional Materials for Regional Assembly Now Available

Registration forms for the 2008 Regional Assembly of the Christian Church in the Upper Midwest are now available for download. For information on this year's gathering, please go to the Regional Assembly page.

Online Courses Available

The registration deadline for two upcoming courses “History and Polity of the Disciples of Christ” and “Introduction to Christian Thought” is August 21st. Information for both courses is below along with a link to our website where you can download the registration form. If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to contact me.

Krystal Jacobs, Office Administrator
Missouri School of Religion
Email: krystalmsr@earthlink.net

History and Polity of the
Disciples of Christ

The purpose of this on-line course is to explore and analyze the history, polity and characteristic beliefs of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Specific aims of the course include the following:

• ¨ Becoming familiar and knowledgeable about the origins, development, growth and current status of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

• ¨ Understanding and articulating the characteristic beliefs and practices which make the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) a unique part of the universal church while celebrating the Disciples' ecumenical pilgrimage.

• ¨ Identifying and being aware of how the polity of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) works.

Instructor: Rev. Ken Watson, D.Min. is the recently retired Associate Minister of First Christian Church in Columbia, Missouri. Responsibilities in that position were to give staff oversight for Adult Christian Education, membership development, local outreach, worship, property concerns, and the unique Computer Lab which the church began developing in 1994. A native Missourian, Ken was raised in Warrensburg where he also completed his undergraduate education in Psychology in 1967. Following graduation, he attended Lexington Theological Seminary in Kentucky, graduating in 1972 with a Doctor of Ministry degree. After serving pastorates in Iowa, he came to Columbia in 1978 to pursue a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology at the University of Missouri and was granted that degree in 1985. From 1981 to 1984 he served as Associate Minister for Broadway Christian Church in Columbia. From 1984 to 1994 he served as Associate Regional Minister for the Christian Church of Mid-America, with primary responsibilities in leader development, Christian education and overseas ministry relationships.

Start Date: September 2, 2008 Course will run for 12 weeks
Registration Deadline: August 21, 2008
Cost: $350.00
Texts:

• Joined in Discipleship: The Shaping of Contemporary Disciples Identity, Mark G. Toulouse.
• Journey in Faith: A History of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) by William E. Tucker and Lester G. McAllister

Click for more information and to register

Introduction to Christian Thought

This course will be an introduction to the breadth of theologies and issues central to Christian Thought including analysis of their socio-historical roots. Attention will be given to significant theologians and social movements that have impacted the contemporary landscape of thought.

Rev. Christine Isham-Walsh, Phd. Ordained in the Christian Church (DOC) in 2005, Christine received her PhD from Drew University with an emphasis in contemporary ethics. Her dissertation explored issues of racism in Christian Feminist Theological Ethics and was titled: Engaging Differences: Replacing the search for essentials in feminist theological ethics with a conversation on difference. She has served the local church in various leadership positions, as Elder, and Sunday school teacher as well as well as Associate and Senior Minister positions. She currently balances working for the State of Missouri Department of Social Services, filling various pulpits on Sundays, and the busy lives of her two teenagers with great joy and by the grace of God.

Start Date: September 2, 2008 Course will run until October 30
Registration Deadline: August 21, 2008
Cost: $350.00

Texts:

• Modern Christian Thought: The Twentieth Century. James C. Livingston , Francis Schussler Fiorenza, Sarah Coakley, James H., Jr. Evans , eds. Fortress Press, 2006.

• Building a Biblical Faith by Charles Bayer. Chalice Press, 1994.

Click for more information and to register.

First Christian Minneapolis Looking For Pianist

First Christian Church of Minneapolis (Disciples of Christ) is seeking a part-time, regular pianist for weekly, 10:30 a.m. Sunday services. There may be some additional rehearsals and special services during the week. Candidate should be versatile in a variety of worship styles and improvisations. Position to begin in early September 2008.

For more information, please contact First Christian at 612-870-1868 or fcc-mpls@qwest.net.

News from the Minnesota Council of Churches

Prayer at the Fair -Sundays, August 24 & 31, 2008, 9:15 – 9:45 AM, State Fair Bandshell

Skipping worship on Sunday August 24th or 31st? You don’t have to! Come to the Bandshell for an uplifting, spirited worship service that celebrates the abundance of life. Sponsored by the Minnesota Council of Churches, the casual service contains both the familiar forms of church including hymns, prayers and a sermon and also gets into the fun spirit of the Fair with our “bulletins on a stick." Celebrants represent the many denominations that make up the Minnesota Council of Churches, making the service a celebration of Christian Unity. For more information contact Gail at (612) 230-3210.

Minneapolis CROP Walk to Benefit Refugee Services Sunday, October 12, 2008, 2PM beginning and ending at Augsburg College

Join the fight against poverty by participating in the Minneapolis Metro CROP Walk. Sponsored by Church World Service, proceeds will benefit the Minnesota Council of Churches Refugee Services and other international and local disaster relief, refugee assistance and long-term self-help development programs. Click here to learn more about an August 21 recruitment rally, registering online and more, or call Kristin at (612) 230-3219.

Darfur: Where is Our Moral Compass Wednesday, September 3, 2008, 5 – 6 PM, State Capitol Grounds This non-partisan event will create international awareness about Darfur, focusing on current conditions and what can be done to improve the situation. The event will include an interfaith prayer service, Camp Darfur (a reenactment of what life is like in Darfur), stories from survivors of genocide, and speakers. For more information click here or contact Lynne at (612) 230-3211.

Interfaith Service a Meaningful Commemoration Over 1,000 people gathered at the Basilica of St. Mary on August 1, 2008 for an interfaith prayer service in commemoration of the 35W bridge collapse year anniversary. The Service was organized by the Minnesota Council of Churches and the Basilica of St. Mary with cooperation of the office of Governor Tim Pawlenty and Mayor R.T. Rybak. View photo gallery online.

Camp Stories

From Associate Regional Minister, Bill Spangler-Dunning:


From a distance, standing at the parking lot looking down the hill at
closing circle as the high school campers are saying their good byes, it is
easy for one to be overwhelmed and yet not fully understand what is behind
the tears.

Sure, they cry because they have made deep friendships that may last a
lifetime but closing circle means that for now they must leave each other
and this makes them cry.

Sure, they cry because a week of intense experience with God and their own
faith lives touches them deep in their souls and closing circle means this
concentrated faith time will also be coming to end.

Sure, they cry because they are exhausted having slowly given of
themselves to others all week and it is at closing circle as others are
hugging them goodbye that they realize just how much they meant to others.

Sure, they cry because a week of camp can inspire them for the rest of the
year and the joy that fills their spirits provides the fuel to carry their
faith into the world.

As I watch parents watching the closing circles and listening to the tears I wonder as we change (grow older) do we remember just why we cried during out closing circles. Or maybe even more what do we need to change to make sure we experience our faith and life at a level that changes our lives enough to make us cry tears of joy!

Thank you all for your support of the Christian Conference Center and our
camping ministry!

Bill Spangler-Dunning

Disciples News Service: August 6, 2008

GENERAL MINISTER AND PRESIDENT WRITES PASTORAL LETTER ABOUT WAR IN IRAQ: General Minister and President Sharon E. Watkins has written a pastoral letter to all Disciples congregations which acknowledges the pain caused by the five-year old war in Iraq. Watkins letter, which was sent to congregations last week, addresses the impact of the war on people from many walks of life, including service men and women, their families, military chaplains, peace advocates, and the Iraqi people. “During the next year, I am calling each of us to continue our prayers for those whose lives have been disrupted or lost, to continue our prayers for peace and understanding, and to continue to be engaged in meaningful dialogue that seeks first to understand those who differ from us, before we seek to be understood,” she states.Her letter is written as part of the GMP’s actions called for in General Assembly resolution 0728, “The Church’s Response to the War in Iraq, passed at the 2007 General Assembly. To read the full letter, go to: www.disciples.org/watkins/news/2008/08/05a.aspTo read General Assembly resolution 0728, visit: www.disciples.org/ga/resolutions/0728

ECUMENICAL STEWARDSHIP CENTER CONTINUES TO PROVIDE DISCIPLE CHURCHES WITH ANNUAL CAMPAIGN MATERIALS: The Ecumenical Stewardship Center has long been the source of stewardship materials for Disciples. ESC is committed to providing materials that help congregations grow in their understanding of Christian stewardship. Congregations may order their 2008 theme materials, bulletin inserts, giving cards, and other supplies directly through the Ecumenical Stewardship Center at 1-800-835-5671 or visit their website www.stewardshipresources.org.The center also sponsors educational events designed to encourage the stewardship ministries of congregations, denominations, church-related institutions and organizations.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY GIVES FAITHFUL SERVANT AWARD: The Disciples of Christ Historical Society has named Timothy M. James as the recipient of the 2008 Faithful Servant Award. The award goes annually to individuals who have given an extra-measure of service to causes in the whole Church. James is associate general minister of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and administrative secretary of the National Convocation. The award was presented during the closing banquet of the 20th Biennial Session of the National Convocation, which was held in Memphis, Tenn., July 25-28.James graduated from Culver-Stockton College in 1974, earned his master’s of divinity degree at Christian Theological Seminary in 1978, and his doctorate in ministry at United Theological Seminary in 1994. He also served as student pastor at Hill Street Christian Church in Louisville, Ky., and as pastor of Fifth Christian Church in Cleveland, Ohio, 1978-2003. He has been director of the Inner City Ministers Training Program, a lecturer at Cleveland State University, a member of the Commission on Ministry of the Christian Church in Ohio, and on the board of directors of the Cleveland Christian Home for Children. In addition, James served as president of the National Convocation and on the affirmative action committee of the National Benevolent Association. For more, see: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08073.html

LATINO MINISTERS GATHER AT CHRISTIAN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY: Latino pastors and lay leaders from seven states recently attended a first-of-its kind Spanish summer school program at Christian Theological Seminary. The course, called Curso Teologico de Verano, was offered to help participants enhance the skills they need to better serve their local congregations. The curriculum included instruction in worship, pastoral care and Christian education.The weeklong class, which took place from July 28 to Aug. 1, was made up of 18 people. Christian Theological seminary plans to offer the course again next summer with a capacity to handle twice as many ministers. “Latino pastors do heroic ministry with few resources,” said Carol Johnston, the seminary’s director of lifelong theological education. “Anything we can do to help equip them for their ministries is valuable.” For more, see: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08074.html

PASTORS FROM AROUND THE U.S. AND CANADA SOON TO GATHER IN CHICAGO: More than 325 Disciples pastors from around the United States and Canada will soon gather in Chicago for the 2008 General Minister and President’s Pastor’s Conference. The Sept. 8-10 event has been organized around the theme: “Wholeness in a Fragmented World: Body, Mind and Spirit.”Those attending will have the opportunity to participate in a number of workshops or panel discussions on such topics as stewardship, worship planning, community involvement and ministering to the five generations of the church. Speakers will include Will Willimon, bishop of the North Alabama Conference of the United Methodist Church and noted preacher Floyd Flake, pastor of Greater Allen African Methodist Episcopal Cathedral in Jamaica, Queens, New York. Although registration is now closed, you can learn more about the conference by going to: www.disciples.org/watkins/pastorsconference

FAITH-BASED WORKSHOP ON OFFENDER RE-ENTRY WILL BE OFFERED IN SEPTEMBER: A one-day workshop on faith-based offender re-entry is being offered by the Missouri School of Religion and its ecumenical partners. The workshop is entitled “Opening Gates, Opening Hearts: Faithful Responses to Offender Re-entry,” and will be held Sept. 6 at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Jefferson City, Mo. The gathering will focus on meeting the needs of Christ in the person of the ex-offender.Break-out sessions at the workshop will discuss how to help ex-offenders get attached to a local church, find Christian mentors, become employed and not return to prison. The program is sponsored by the Randolph County Ministerial Alliance in Moberly, Mo., the Christian Fellowship Church, Missouri Union Presbytery, and Diocese of Jefferson City, all in Jefferson City, and the Missouri School of Religion. Registration is $25 prior to Aug. 22 and $35 thereafter. To find out more, visit: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08075.pdf (PDF)

U.S. HOUSE PASSES BILL BACKED BY FAITH UNITED AGAINST TOBACCO: The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a landmark tobacco regulation bill, which has been endorsed by more than 680 public health, medical, faith and other organizations, including the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The bill, H.R. 1108, would give the Food and Drug Administration significantly enhanced authority over the manufacturing, marketing and sale of tobacco products. The legislation now goes to the Senate, where it has at least 57 co-sponsors.In 2007, the General Assembly adopted Resolution No. 0726, “Faith United Against Tobacco Use.” The resolution called for increasing FDA jurisdiction over tobacco products, and urged regions and congregations of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) to strongly support state and local public health measures that would increase tobacco tax rates to fully fund tobacco prevention and cessation programs and prohibit smoking in public places. For more, see:www.tobaccofreekids.org/reports/fda/index.shtml

YOUTH GROUPS ENCOURAGED TO BECOME INVOLVED IN GLOBAL MISSION: Disciples youth groups can help change the world and be inspired through global mission at the same time. Congregations are encouraged to urge their youth groups to become a Global Mission Youth Group. Global Mission Youth Groups pray regularly for partners, missionaries, and the world. The youth groups also educate their members about global issues, seek justice for the "least of these" in the international community, give to the work of global mission, send their members into the world to share the good news of Jesus, and grow in sharing the story of God's mission with others. Congregations may download a guide on the youth group process and create an action plan for the coming year at: www.globalministries.org/global-mission-youth

DISCIPLES PASTOR URGES UNITY AT WORLD CONVENTION: Disciples minister Cynthia Hale reminded those who attended the World Convention (Christian - Churches of Christ – Disciples of Christ) meeting in Nashville, Tenn., last week that Jesus has given specific instructions about unity among his followers as described in John 17. His prayer in that passage is that His Disciples “may be one” as He and the Father are one. Hale preached to the opening gathering of the World Convention. She is founder and senior pastor of Ray of Hope Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Decatur, Ga.The World Convention was held July 30-Aug. 3. Christians from churches related to the Stone-Campbell Movement from around the world attended the meeting at the Nashville Convention Center. The movement was launched by Barton W. Stone and Thomas and Alexander Campbell in the early 19th century.B. J. Mpofu of Zimbabwe was inducted as the new World Convention president during closing ceremonies on Aug. 3. For more about the World Convention, see: www.worldconvention.org or www.disciplesworld.com/newsArticle.html?wsnID=13847

OKLAHOMA CHURCH SENDS BIBLES TO SOLDIERS OVERSEAS: First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Jenks, Okla., is making a major effort to help provide Bibles to U.S. soldiers serving overseas. The congregation recently presented Mardel Christian Book Stores with a check for the cost of five cases containing a total of 160 Bibles. Each case cost $124.99 and contains 32 Bibles. The program, called “Operation Worship Bible” puts Bibles into the hands of soldiers who are stationed far away from family and friends.Members of the congregation will sign the bibles and write notes to the troops that will accompany the books. After those books are returned to Mardel, the Oklahoma City-based book chain will ship them to soldiers overseas at no charge to First Christian. In addition, each soldier who receives one of the Bibles can choose to have another Bible sent to a family member, without charge. To learn more about First Christian in Jenks, go to: www.fccjenksok.com

FORMER MISSIONARY TO OKINAWA, PARAGUAY, BOLIVIA, BRAZIL DIES: Former Disciples missionary Itoko Maeda has died. Maeda, 89, died in Indianapolis, where she resided on July 24. She served as a missionary in Okinawa, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Brazil and also worked as Director of Interpretation with the Division of Overseas Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Maeda was the first missionary of Japanese descent sent as a missionary by the United Christian Missionary Society in 1956.Maeda was born in Tokyo, Japan on Sept. 4, 1918. She immigrated to the United States in 1953, became a naturalized citizen and began her career as a school teacher. She later received a call to become a Disciples missionary. Maeda provided spiritual guidance to Japanese who were residing temporarily and permanently in Indiana. To find out more about her, go to: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08076.html

LYNCHBURG COLLEGE SETS UP NEW VETERANS AWARD: Lynchburg College has instituted a program to make it easier for eligible veterans to qualify for grant assistance. The new Veterans Award program was established by the school in response to the 21st Century GI Bill, which was signed into law by President Bush in June. The new law will enable Lynchburg to offer the eligible veterans a tuition free college education. Lynchburg College is affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and located in Lynchburg, Va.The bill “represents the voices of our nation’s veterans’ service organizations who truly understand the costs of war,” said Virginia Sen. Jim Webb, one of the legislation’s strongest supporters. “These advocates have called for a ‘21st Century GI Bill’ that provides returning Iraq and Afghanistan veterans with benefits that respect their service and reward their sacrifice like the WW II veterans that came before them.” To get more about the college’s GI education program, visit: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08077.html

FORMER PRESIDENT OF CHURCH WOMEN UNITED DIES IN DALLAS: Mary L. Rowand, a former Disciples minister and trustee at Texas Christian University and Brite Divinity School has died. Rowand, 89, died July 14 at a nursing home in Fort Worth, Texas. She had been married to the late Edward C. Rowand, who had been senior minister at Central Christian Church (Disciples Christ) in Dallas, Texas. The couple moved to Texas in 1953, where Edward Rowand served as minister at Central Christian.The Rowands began leading tours of Christian sites in the Middle East in the late 1950s. They later led similar tours in Europe. Mary Rowand became international president of Church Women United, which gave her the opportunity to travel around the world. For more, see: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08078.html

####Editor: Wanda Bryant Wills
E-mail: news@cm.disciples.org

Pastoral Letter about the War in Iraq from General Minister and President Sharon E. Watkins

July 25, 2008
Dear Church,
Grace and peace to you in the name of our Redeemer, Jesus Christ.

Resolution 0728 adopted at the Fort Worth General Assembly asked that I write a pastoral letter to the congregations about the pain to the nation and to the church related to the war in Iraq. As we surpass the 4000th American death in that war, as at least one of those deaths is a Disciples young man from one of our churches in the Northeast Region, as we pass the unnumbered tens of thousands of Iraqi deaths, I write out of deep sorrow. The families and congregations of those who have died are living with a depth of loss that is unimaginable for those who have not traveled that road. And yet, there is also a depth of pride for the courage displayed by men and women who serve their country through military duty.

As General Minster and President, I have the privilege of participating in conversations with a broad range of persons and partners in mission. Recently I convened a table of persons to reflect on issues raised by the war in Iraq. There were military chaplains present, as well as retired military officers now involved in the church. There were peace and justice activists, representatives of Global Ministries, and two Iraqi refugees – a doctor and a chemist. There were local congregations represented, including a congregation that has been outspoken in its opposition to the General Assembly resolution on Iraq. Personal stories were shared, tears shed, anger expressed and connections made among individuals who ordinarily expect to find themselves on opposite sides of a cavern of divergent opinion. The meeting ended with a strong sense of hope growing out of the oneness in Christ that flows deeper than human opinion.

Continue Reading...

Tim Diebel Elected to Executive of the Forum

Friends:

I'm proud to announce that the Rev. Dr. Tim Diebel, Sr. Minister of First Christian Church, Des Moines, and Moderator-Elect of the Upper Midwest Region has just been elected Secretary of the FORUM OF REGIONAL MODERATORS.

The Moderators of Regions from across the United States and Canada have been meeting for two full days in Nashville, Tn. They have just concluded their assembly tonight. At the closing worship service our General Minister and President, Rev. Dr. Sharon Watkins, issued the installation charge and covenant to the organization's newest officers.

Moderators and Moderators-Elect of the denomination gather in this forum once every two years along with the College of Regional Ministers. This year the body had an orientation from Rev. Glenn Carson to the work of the Disciples Historical Society, which calls Nashville home to its museum of memorabilia for the three restoration streams of the church.

Participants had the opportunity to visit and tour the Historical Society.They also explored the nature of the Disciples past, present and future work in the Regional and General manifestations of the church. They concluded their meeting with hearing the delightful music of a famous Nashville song-writer, Thom Schuyler. His award-winning song, "Prayer of a Desperate Man" can be heard at http://www.thomschuyler.com/

Congratulations to Rev. Diebel on his election to the Forum's executive committee.

Dr. Richard Guentert, Regional Minister

DBS Brief

August 1, 2008

Welcome to the first edition of the DBS Brief. We plan to bring you regular, concise, bulleted updates on DBS programs, services and developing partnerships with Regions, Areas and Congregations. This e-mail is being distributed to all Regional and Area Ministers. If you know of others who might like to receive this newletter, please shoot an e-mail to mrcrawford@nbacares.org. Of course, your feedback on this newsletter is also invited.

· Chaplaincy Care – The program is running at full speed at the Barton W. Stone Home and surrounding community in Jacksonville, Ill. Chaplain Gladys Herzog has made such an impact on residents, families and staff, that we are now planning to soon hire a second chaplain to help serve the community. The program is about to be launched in Des Moines, Iowa, to serve the residents and staff at Ramsey Home, as well as the surrounding community.

· ECHO – In partnership with Memorial Boulevard Christian Church, area preschool and elementary children are attending VBS during the first week of August. A community Back-to-School Fair is scheduled for August 9 and school-aged children will receive free school supplies, backpacks and underwear. Information booths and workshops are available for parent workshops. Southeast Gateway Area (SEGA) congregations have helped by collecting school supplies for this event. The 16^th annual YTB Lou Brock Golf Classic benefiting ECHO is taking place August 4 in Chesterfield, Mo. As a sponsor of St. Louis Restoration Network, we are partnering to feed the underprivileged and homeless in the community.

· Florida Christian Center – FCC published and mailed its first newsletter, reconnecting with friends and donors throughout the Florida and Alabama-Northwest Florida Regions. A partnership with a local health and rehab organization provides opportunities for healthy lifestyle choices for the residents in the area.

· Woodhaven – Plans are underway to build an additional home in Columbia, Mo., where Woodhaven serves more than 100 developmentally disabled adults in community-based homes and apartments. During 2007, 108 men and women were served in the Community Living Program in 45 homes and apartments.

· CSCA – Children’s Services for Children in Alabama has recently expanded its Family Preservation program in the 6-county area surrounding Selma. Specially trained professionals work with families to teach them the skills and provide them with the resources necessary to keep the family unit intact.

· Personal Care Homes – DBS staff are taking steps to develop “just like home” residences for older adults who need daily living assistance but not nursing home or medical care. The residences will serve between 3-4 persons each in addition to a round-the-clock attendant. We plan to partner with congregations to develop these homes. A DBS gift component is available to help start such new ministries.

· Regional Assemblies – DBS participated in the recent National Convocation in Memphis and will be attending the following Regional Assemblies this year: Upper Midwest; Pacific Southwest; Kansas; Nebraska; Ohio; Southwest; Arizona; Tennessee; Greater Kansas City; Georgia; and Illinois-Wisconsin. DBS staff also attended spring 2008 Regional Assemblies in Alabama-NW Florida; California, Northern Nevada; North Carolina, and Pennsylvania.

President and CEO

Disciples Benevolent Services

"Continuing the proud tradition of the NBA..since 1887"

149 Weldon Pkwy, Suite 115

Maryland Heights, MO 63043-3103

314-993-9000, Ext. 116

Reconcilation Camp: A Letter from Sharon Watkins

Reconciliation Camp

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

As I write this letter, I am on a plane traveling from Reconciliation Camp in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia to Sessions ’08 on the Oklahoma prairie. The young mom sitting beside me has a baby boy asleep in her arms. I am thinking of my strapping 6 foot son, now 22, whom I used to carry like that – and it doesn’t seem so very long ago.

Raising up children is just about the most important thing we do. In the church, we don’t raise our children alone.

Reconciliation Camp took place at Craig Springs, Virginia. The campers and the staff were African-American and European-American. Twenty-five middle schoolers, four counselors, a nurse, a chaplain, a crafts person and director Rev. Terrye Williams. When Terrye envisioned this camp, she saw young people (just coming to the “age of accountability” as we used to say) learning about the gift of diversity and challenging the unfairness of stereotypes. She hoped they would learn about working together, sharing many gifts, being one church. Terrye’s vision became a reality and on the morning of their last full day, I had the privilege of joining these young members of our church and participating with them as their keynoter.

When I arrived, it was clear that the message of the week was sinking in.

“What headlines would go with the story of this camp?” I asked.

“A Week of Unity,” “We are One at Craig Springs,” “35 Working as One,” “News Flash: We are One People,” they told me.

At worship the night before they’d presented a skit where they divided into groups, each one claiming that God loved their group the most. Then “God” arrived on the scene, and solved the riddle: God loved them all the same. Another skit: quarrels breaking out one after the other, but each one stopped by a prophetic figure “in the name of peace!” Simple skits, fervent prayers, energetic songs.

Raising our children is just about the most important thing we do, and parents don’t do it alone. We share the job with the surrogate parents, aunts, uncles, grandmas and grandpas of the church.

At Reconciliation Camp I reminded the children of the saying attributed to St. Francis: “Preach the gospel always. When necessary: use words.” I reminded them that our lives are a sermon, that our mission statement as Disciples of Christ is “to BE and to share the good news of Jesus Christ.” I urged them, according to the theme of the day, to reflect on the words from James, “Be doers of the word, not hearers only,” and encouraged them to think of how they could be doers of all they were learning at camp once they got back home.

My time with the campers reminded me that there is hope for the church as we look for opportunities in our congregations, in our schools, and in our neighborhoods to live as Jesus lived.

Reconciliation Camp is one way that creative people in one region are working to fulfill our church-wide priority to be a pro-reconciliation/anti-racism church. Because their work links with our most important responsibility of raising our children well, this camp gives me hope for our future. If we can raise our children to see beyond stereotypes, to value the variations in culture as a gift, and to thrive in a world of diversity, then I see the reign of God drawing near.

Before long we’ll be observing our Reconciliation Offering. This year for the first time it is intentionally linked with World Communion Sunday, on Oct. 5. We’ll remember that as Disciples, we are a movement for wholeness, reaching across barriers of race and culture, to be one people at the table of God. We’ll remember that as part of the one church, we welcome all to the Lord’s Table as God has welcomed us. And we’ll pray for a day when all our lives will preach a sermon that says, “God loves all God’s children just the same!”

Sharon E. Watkins
General Minister and President
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

Project Recovery Iowa

PROJECT RECOVERY IOWA

Iowa Concern Hotline (800) 447-1985
24-hour confidential assistance

What is Project Recovery Iowa?
Project Recovery Iowa is a collaborative program administered by the
Iowa Department of Human Services designed to empower those affected
by disaster through educating them about disaster reactions, teaching
them coping skills, assessing them for individual needs, and linking
them to appropriate community resources. After crisis counseling
services have been provided, individuals may be referred to an
appropriate provider for ongoing care, if needed.

What is Crisis Counseling?
Crisis counseling is a strengths-based, outreach-oriented approach to
helping disaster survivors access and identify personal and community
resources that will aid the recovery process.

It consists primarily of supportive, educational, face-to-face
interventions with individuals and communities in their natural
environments.

Who Do I Contact?
The Iowa State University Iowa Concern Hotline will take initial
calls from any individual statewide seeking information or counseling
assistance. Iowa Concern Hotline will direct calls to the
appropriate crisis counseling provider serving the county. All calls
are free and confidential, and the operators are willing to assist
wherever possible.

Iowa Concern Hotline (800) 447-1985