Disciples New Briefs

CENTER FOR PUBLIC WITNESS NAMES THREE TO ADVOCACY TEAM-The Advocacy Team of The Disciples Center for Public Witness will now benefit from the expertise of three additional Disciples. The new members are Laura Hobgood-Oster, professor of religion at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas; Preston T. Adams III, executive minister at Light of the World Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Indianapolis, and C. Douglas Smith, executive director of the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy. The appointments increase the Advocacy Team to 21 members.The Advocacy Team is a shared ministry among D.C. congregations, Light of the World Christian Church, Park Avenue Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in New York City, and the Christian Church Capital Area. Hobgood-Oster, the daughter of former General Minister and President Chris Hobgood, will serve as senior fellow for eco-justice and environmental concerns, Adams, who is also chief executive officer of Project Impact Indianapolis, will serve as senior advisor on juvenile justice and restoration, and Smith will serve as senior advisor on interfaith advocacy. For more information, visit: www.centerblog.org

HISTORICAL SOCIETY INTERVIEWS GENERAL MINISTER AND PRESIDENT-General Minister and President Sharon Watkins recently sat down to talk with Glenn Carson, president of the Disciples of Christ Historical Society, for an in-depth discussion about her life. In the hour-long audio dialogue that is broken up into eleven segments, Watkins speaks on several topics including being the eldest of five siblings, growing up in a Disciples congregation, her call to ministry and her vision for churches in the 21st century. To listen to the audio segments, go to: www.discipleshistory.org/audio/default.htm

DISCIPLES SEMINARIANS CONFERENCE REGISTRATION NOW OPEN-Registration for the 2009 Disciples Seminarians Conference is open to all M.Div. students who have completed a year of study. Scheduled for March 5-8 in Nashville, Tenn., the conference will give seminarians opportunities to meet other new Disciples leaders and learn how the church can help them and the congregation or organization they lead to minister faithfully and effectively. The conference is sponsored by Disciples general ministries and organized by Higher Education & Leadership Ministries. Registration is $95, and a limited amount of travel stipends is available. The registration deadline is Feb. 3, 2009. To register or to learn more about the conference, go to: www.helmdisciples.org/theological/seminarians.htm

MEMO TO ADULT YOUTH MINISTRY VOLUNTEERS: ATTEND YOUTH MINISTRY BACKPACK CONFERENCE - FREE!! As an adult youth ministry volunteer would you like to receive training in youth ministry? Do you have all the knowledge needed to effectively work with youth groups? Would you attend a useful conference if all of your expenses were paid? If the answers to any or all of the previous questions are yes, then the "Youth Ministry Backpack Conference" is for you. This all expenses paid conference will be held at Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, Ind., June 12-14, 2009.Please review the attached information. Space is limited, so register early! Applications must be received by March 15, 2009. For more information, see: www.disciplesyouth.com. For questions, contact Tod Iseminger at 888-346-2631 or: tiseming@dhm.disciples.org

UCCIB NAMES EXPERIENCED MANAGER TO NEW POST-The United Church of Christ Insurance Board has named Carl J. Kotheimer to director, loss control and claims. Kotheimer's responsibilities will include heading the development, communication and administration of superior core competencies in risk management and loss prevention programs for all 2,400 church participants.Kotheimer has 20 years of experience as a risk management leader. He was most recently a compliance and claims manager for a Youngstown, Ohio-based company. "His experience in managing compliance, claims and risk management programs for both small and global companies will serve the IB well," said United Church of Christ Insurance Board President and Chief Executive Officer Cathy Green. To learn more, go to: www.disciples.org/Portals/0/PDF/DNS/2008/20081203-UCCIBKotheimer.pdf (PDF)

SPECIAL ADVENT BIBLE STUDY NOW AVAILABLE FROM YOUTH MINISTRY COMMISSION-The Disciples Youth Ministry Commission of Disciples Home Missions has written an Advent Bible study series for youth to use during this Advent season. The study curriculum is especially designed for youth, who, like many people, find themselves dealing with higher than normal levels of stress during this busy time of year."Advent invites us into a time of waiting and preparation, so that we may more fully appreciate the fullness of the Christmas event and the impact this season has on the lives of Christians year round," writers in the study guide note. Weekly themes, activities, discussion starters, and suggestions for worship are included in each week's lesson plans. Download a copy at: www.disciplesyouth.com

LECTURE AT NORTHWEST CHRISTIAN TO HIGHLIGHT JUSTICE AND EQUITY-Social justice issues will be explored during a lecture at Northwest Christian University on Dec. 4. The topic will be "Ethical Leadership: Toward a Just and Equitable Society" and will occur as part of the Trustee Lecture Series on Leadership and Ethics at Northwest Christian University. NCU is historically related to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and is located in Eugene, Ore.The lecturer will be Carla Gary, assistant vice provost for institutional equity and diversity at the University of Oregon. Gary has been working on the Portland Initiative, a plan that establishes partnerships with Portland schools, community organizations and businesses on behalf of underrepresented students. For more, see: www.northwestchristian.edu/news/112108_TrusteeLecture.htm

PRESIDENT OF CULVER-STOCKTON LEAVING FOR ALMA MATER-Culver-Stockton College President William L. Fox has accepted an offer to become president of his alma mater, St. Lawrence University in Canton, N.Y. Fox has been president and senior lecturer at C-SC for six years. During his time as president there, annual fundraising has doubled, and major investments in capital improvements including new buildings, a new track and field facility and substantial interior upgrades have taken place. C-SC is related by covenant to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), and located in Canton, Mo.Fox received a bachelor's degree in history from St. Lawrence, a M.Div. degree from the Harvard University Divinity School, and a Ph.D. in history and religion from George Washington University. His resignation from Culver-Stockton becomes effective July 1, 2009. For more, see: www.culver.edu/publicrelations/article.asp?id=3332

JARVIS CHRISTIAN COLLEGE HIRES DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS-Jarvis Christian College has named Urissanna Roberson as Director of Public Relations. Roberson, who has worked for the past five years in Tyler, Texas, is charged with the oversight of all activities affecting the image of Jarvis College, which is related by covenant to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and located in Hawkins, Texas.A native of Houston, Texas, Roberson earned a bachelor's degree in radio-television from Sam Houston State University, and a master's degree in educational administration from the University of Texas at Tyler. She replaces Larry Everett who has accepted a position at Texas College.For more information about Jarvis Christian College, visit their web site at: www.jarvis.edu

SEND AN ADVENT/CHRISTMAS MESSAGE OR PRAYER TO BETHLEHEM-Global Ministries invites Disciples to be among those sending messages of peace to people in Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus. Individuals, communities, congregations, organizations and partners from around the world are once again invited to e-mail Advent and Christmas wishes and prayers for justice and peace to Bethlehem. The project is being carried out this year in collaboration with the World Council of Churches and its Palestine Israel Ecumenical Forum (PIEF). The tradition dates back to 2000. The wishes and prayers that are e-mailed to organizers will be printed and handed out as personal messages, educational materials at schools and in places of worship, and in the newly established peace house of the Arab Educational Institute opposite the Israeli "separation wall" at Rachel's Tomb in Bethlehem. For more details and where to e-mail your prayer or message, visit:globalministries.org/news/mee/prayers-for-bethlehem-during.html

HELM LEADERSHIP FELLOWS EXPLORE THE BREADTH OF MINISTRY-We are all ministers. We just minister in different ways. The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) cherishes each member as a minister, even if we aren't called into ordained ministry. So how do we live into that calling? The Leadership Fellows Program acknowledges the variety of callings and helps students explore their calls to other forms of ministry. The eighth HELM Leadership Fellows Conference, held in November in St. Louis, Mo., focused on the breadth of ministry, examining the different ways ministry takes place. To learn more about the conference, visit: www.helmdisciples.org/helm/08/HELM-LFConference.htm

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

Administrative Committee Hears Report On New Approach For General Assembly Action

From Disciples News Service:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ADMINISTRATIVE COMMITTEE HEARS REPORT ON NEW APPROACH FOR GENERAL ASSEMBLY ACTION

(Indianapolis, Ind. – DNS – Nov. 1, 2008) – Disciples may have new ways of expressing their views on important moral, ethical or religious issues at General Assembly meetings as part of a report discussed at the Oct. 31-Nov. 1 Administrative Committee.

The report was among a number of items brought before the fall Administrative Committee meeting. It recommends combining three categories of General Assembly business (Sense of the Assembly Resolutions, Study Documents, and Items for Research and Reflection) into a new category – Call of the Assembly to the Church for Study, Reflection and Action.

The Standing Committee on Renewal and Structural Reform (SCRSR) developed the proposal following a request from the Administrative Committee at its meeting in mid-April, to look at new ways for the Church to address issues of pressing social concern. Many of those issues have come before the General Assembly as Sense of the Assembly resolutions.

“This proposal from the standing committee looks at news ways for churches to engage in the discussion of controversial issues, with an emphasis on prayerful discussion resulting in faithful action,” said General Minister and President Sharon Watkins.

The new process suggests that the General Board select no more than three Calls to come before each General Assembly. The purpose in limiting the number of Calls is to place a realistic agenda before the church of what can be accomplished between assemblies, standing committee members say. However, the Office of General Minister and President will be required to list all Calls that were considered in the General Assembly docket. The 2007 General Assembly looked at 11 business items that fit in the three categories that may be combined.

“We hope this process will allow all parts of the Church to engage more deeply in matters of theological, ethical and moral importance,” said Associate General Minister and Vice-President Todd Adams, who made the report on behalf of the SCRSR. “We believe three Calls is a manageable number that will allow congregations, regions, general ministers and our partners to equip themselves to carry out study, reflection and action.”

The SCRSR suggests several criteria that a Call should meet prior to submission:

• A Call proposal must be submitted with a brief historical statement, rationale describing why this issue should be considered by the whole church, and a list of resources that can be made available to inform the Church in its consideration of and action on the issue.
• A Call will not be eligible for consideration if either of the previous two General Assemblies has looked at the same subject, unless its content or the circumstances leading to its submission are substantially different.
• All expressions of the Church – especially congregations, are urged to consider and take action on a moral, ethical or religious matter confronting the church, the nation or the world.

After a review, the General Minister and President (GMP) will forward three suggested Calls to the General Board. The General Board will then review the GMP’s suggestions and decide on the three Calls that will be forwarded to the General Assembly. As part of its deliberations, the General Board will name ways in which the Church is already responding to this matter. The General Board also will attach an estimate of the financial impact, if any, that the Call might incur, along with a proposal for underwriting the cost.

At the General Assembly, each Call will be voted on and the vote recorded. The vote will be to affirm or not to affirm the particular topic as a matter for action throughout the Church. Calls also may be discussed or considered through the use of a number of models, including a Town Hall Format, an All-Assembly session that might involve a pastoral statement by the GMP’s Pastoral Team, or a general question and answer period. Other General Assembly discussion methods might involve a learning track model, a large group discussion model such as World Café, or web-based dialogue.

After the General Assembly, and once the Assembly has engaged a Call, the GMP will write a pastoral letter to the Church urging the Church to further consideration and action. The pastoral letter will be understood to be speaking to the Church not for the Church.

The Administrative Committee accepted the SCRSR report and provided feedback for the standing committee. The SCRSR will meet again in February for further discussion, and will develop a proposal which will be submitted to the General Board in mid-April for its review. The suggested change requires action by the General Assembly which will meet July 29- August 2 in Indianapolis. The 2011 General Assembly is the earliest that the “Call of the Assembly to the Church for Study, Reflection and Action” process could be used.

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Written by: Wanda Bryant Wills
wbwills@cm.disciples.org

Amy Gopp Selected as New Head of Week of Compassion

NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR NAMED FOR WEEK OF COMPASSION

Amy Gopp(Indianapolis, Ind. – DNS – Oct. 3, 2008) - The Rev. Amy Gopp has witnessed the crushing impact of war, poverty and natural disaster on people’s lives around the globe. But she also has seen how faith, cooperation and a resilient spirit can instill hope in devastating situations.

Gopp will draw on her experiences as a missionary, preacher, global activist and peacemaker in her newest position as Executive Director of Week of Compassion (WOC). Gopp was called to the position earlier this week after a nation-wide search. She had previously served three years as Associate Director of WOC.

“I am thrilled to be able to serve the Church in this new way,” said Gopp. “This ministry allows me to do all that I love and all that I feel God calls me to do. I am able to preach, connect with congregations, and accompany people that we are serving around the world.”

In her new position, Gopp will continue Week of Compassion’s long tradition of ministering to those in need across the United States and Canada and around the globe. She will lead the ongoing work of Week of Compassion, which serves as the relief, refugee, and development ministry fund of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). In partnership with more than 3200 congregations across North America, the ministry annually channels more than $2.5 million for world-wide humanitarian needs.

Gopp’s goals include continuing WOC’s relationships with key partners, donors and congregations in developing the annual giving campaign that undergirds WOC. She also will work to interpret theologically and practically the work, mission and vision of WOC, as well as help Disciples’ grow in their understanding of disaster response and the ways it often connects to deeper systemic issues within social structures.

“Week of Compassion has been one of Disciples’ most effective ministries,” commented Gopp, who notes that she has been associated with WOC for about 12 years. “I will basically continue to build on the success created by my dear colleague Johnny Wray and work to continue the ministry.”

Gopp will succeed Wray, who has served as director of Week of Compassion since 1992. Wray announced in May that he will leave the position at the end of 2008, citing a desire to spend more time with family in a less travel-dominated field.

In announcing her selection, General Minister and President Sharon Watkins noted: “Rev. Gopp brings not only experience in Week of Compassion’s well-known disaster relief and development work but she also brings a passion for ministries of justice. I look forward to working with Amy in this important position.”

“Amy has served Week of Compassion in an excellent way,” added John Richardson, chair of the Week of Compassion board and regional minister of North Carolina. “I am very enthused about her selection as Executive Director.”

Gopp, 37, is a native of Kent, Ohio. She is an ordained Disciples minister, who credits First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Kent, Ohio with helping to form her faith, as well as Camp Christian, a Disciples’ youth-oriented program in Ohio. Gopp received her Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations from the American University School of International Service in Washington, D.C., a Master of Arts degree in Conflict Resolution from the McGregor School of Antioch University in Yellow Springs, Ohio and a Master of Divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary in New York.

Her numerous international experiences include living for four years as a peace activist and missionary in the war-torn former Yugoslavia. She worked in Croatia and Bosnia helping to relieve refugee concerns, promote interfaith dialogue and provide education toward conflict resolution. She also coordinated the award-winning Pontanima, an inter-religious choir based in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Gopp recalls those experiences as having a profound impact on her outlook and ministry.

“I was amazed to see how people could survive in the midst of so much destruction, death and suffering,” she says. “Living in that area had a huge impact on me. I learned a lot about how people are able to dance in the midst of suffering.”

Gopp also has worked with relief and development efforts in Kenya and the Sudan, as well as been involved in poverty outreach efforts in this country, in places such as New York City.

“I see my calling as one where I must heed my call to bring good news to the poor, but also bring good news from the poor,” said Gopp. “This is the way I live out the Gospel and respond to the mandate to minister to those who are suffering.”

In her free time, Gopp enjoys reading poetry, writing, singing, cooking and spending time with her nieces and nephew.

First president of Christian Church Foundation, James R. Reed, dies at 80

From Disciples News Service:

The Christian Church Foundation has announced the death of Rev. Dr. James R. Reed, president emeritus of the Christian Church Foundation. Reed died Monday evening, September 1, in an Indianapolis hospital, where he had been admitted earlier in the day. He was 80 years old.
Reed was the first president of the Christian Church Foundation and served as the dynamic force behind its ministry from 1964 until retiring in 1991. A visionary leader and passionate about the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in all of its manifestations, Reed was committed to excellence and integrity.

"[Reed] cared about people - traits that today remain key to the Foundation's DNA," said Gary Kidwell, current president of the Christian Church Foundation, in an e-mail sent to the Disciples community announcing Reed's death.

Services for Reed will be held September 5 at Downey Avenue Christian Church in Indianapolis. Memorials should be made payable to the Christian Church Foundation and noted for the James R. and Lucille B. Reed Fund.

A more extensive article was written by DisciplesWorld magazine and can be found here. Reed was the stepfather of Bob Brite, Interim Pastor of First Christian Church in Minneapolis, MN.

Mission Alignment Coordinating Council Holds Its Second Meeting

From Disciples News Service:


(Indianapolis, Ind. - DNS - Sept. 5, 2008) - The Mission Alignment Coordinating Council (MACC) met in Indianapolis this week and engaged in prayer, worshipful work and dialogue. The 12-member council spent time reviewing church-wide response to a working document it developed which is aimed at better aligning the ministries of the Church around its stated mission.
The MACC, which is comprised of Disciples lay and clergy leaders, met from Sept. 2-4. It was created earlier this year at the request of the 2008 General Board. At its April meeting, the Board approved the framework for a Plan of Mission Alignment and asked that the MACC be put in place to develop that plan. The General Board also asked the Moderator of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the General Minister and President to appoint MACC members.

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International Christian Youth Fellowship Draws Several Hundred Youth

From Disciples News Service:

Hundreds of youths gathered at Chapman University in Orange, Calif., July 24-27 for the International Christian Youth Fellowship (ICYF). Every four years, Disciples high school youth come together for worship, fun, mission work and leisure activities. More than 750 attended the opening worship service on July 24. Before that, at least 450 engaged in mission work beginning July 20. They fixed up transitional housing, labored in food warehouses in Orange, Calif., and constructed new homes.

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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.

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

Disciples New Service Update

SMALL TEXAS CHURCH REACHES OUT THROUGH 100,000-WATT RADIO STATION: First Christian Church in Paris, Texas, has decided to make a difference in its ministry by spreading the gospel to all who will listen to its weekly radio broadcast. The church of about 90 members is located in a rural area of northeast Texas but its services now reach thousands each week. Shut-ins, local residents, and travelers crossing the busy highways in the area are now able to dial into the 30-minute taped broadcasts that air over a powerful 100,000-watt FM station on Sunday mornings.“We just felt like that was a way that we could do evangelism and also be a help to our shut-ins and older people, who sorely missed being able to come and hear a live service,” said Ronnie A. Nutt, an elder at First Christian in Paris. “Now they think they are a part of it just by tuning in and listening to the program right where they are.” The broadcast is sponsored by contributions from First Christian’s members. To find out more, see: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08068.html

EMBRACE GOD’S WORLD THROUGH GLOBAL MISSION AT ¡Missionworks!Disciples are encouraged to explore new ways to engage in global mission at the fourth biennial ¡Missionworks!, an event blending mission education with practical ideas for involvement in God’s mission. The event will take place Oct. 2-5 in Cleveland, Ohio. Those who attend will gain a renewed excitement about Global Ministries and discover how to make a difference in the world.Participants will learn how to connect their congregation to global partners and missionaries, effectively pray for missionaries, partners, and the world, educate members of all ages about global issues, and seek justice on behalf of international partners through specific advocacy efforts.Congregational representatives may also participate in Ministries and Mission Interpreter (MMI) training. MMIs are trained to convey the stories of mission, educate people in their local church and region utilizing available Global Ministries resources about the work of global mission, and inspire others to get involved in global mission.The registration deadline is Aug. 29. For more information, click on the ¡Missionworks! logo at www.globalministries.org or contact Bob Shebeck at (317) 713-2571 or bshebeck@dom.disciples.org

DISCIPLES CHURCHES TO SERVE AS MISSION STATIONS IN IOWA RECOVERY INITIATIVE: Three Disciples churches in Iowa are preparing to open their doors to hundreds of volunteers who will arrive in early August to begin the difficult work of helping several Iowa communities rebuild following massive summer floods. The churches will serve as mission stations where volunteers can eat, sleep and fellowship. The three churches are Noelridge Christian Church in Cedar Rapids, Marion Christian Church in Marion, and First Christian Church in Coralville. Each will have a place for 20-25 volunteers per week. More than 4,000 homes were flooded in Cedar Rapids alone. Week of Compassion, the Upper Midwest Region of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), the mission station churches and the Office of Disciples Volunteering, a part of Disciples Home Missions, have partnered in this effort. Volunteers are still needed to assist in the effort that will begin Aug. 3 and last through mid-November. To schedule a work week, contact Anne Marie Moyars in the Office of Disciples Volunteering at 888-346-2631 or amoyars@dhm.disciples.org. For questions regarding the recovery efforts, call Carl Zerweck, director of Disciples Volunteering at 317-289-5061. You can also find out more by visiting the Disciples Home Missions website at: www.discipleshomemissions.org

BLACK LEADERSHIP PROJECTS COMMITTEE MAKES GRANT AWARDS: The Black Leadership Projects Committee has awarded grants totaling $31,287 that will enhance the work of five groups in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The awards will pay for a trip by new church planters to southern Africa; allow a group of African-American Disciples to travel to Haiti; underwrite an arts-music camp for Springfield, Ohio youth; create an immersion opportunity for two adults with a Disciples partner overseas; assist African-American Disciples congregations with sponsoring refugees; and sponsor a pre-Convocation training session to prepare clergy, church and lay leaders for transformed ministry within Disciples congregations, regions, and other institutional structures. The fund is administered through Disciples Home Missions. For more information, visit: www.discipleshomemissions.org/News2008/08.07.BlackLeadership.htm

WEEK OF COMPASSION FIGHTS RISING WORLD FOOD COSTS: Week of Compassion is responding to the continuing global food crisis, in part through the relationship that Disciples share with the Foods Resource Bank. The relationship enables local Disciples farmers to donate a portion of their harvest to the bank, which uses the resources through partners around the world to empower poor farming families to become self-sufficient in their own food production and security.Donated food is badly needed in countries that have been hit by soaring food prices, particularly developing countries. Prices for basic stables such as corn, rice and wheat have risen 50 percent to 100 percent in some countries since the beginning of the year. Poor families that had been spending 10 to 20 percent of their income on food are now spending 50 percent. To learn more about how Week of Compassion is helping and the Disciples congregations that participated in 2007 growing projects, see: www.weekofcompassion.org/pages/updates/July0817.html

DISCIPLES BENEVOLENT SERVICES NAMES NEW BOARD MEMBERS: The Disciples Benevolent Services (DBS) Board of Trustees has named its new slate of officers for 2008-2009. Belva Brown Jordan is now board chair and Don Downing is vice chair. Jordan, an ordained Disciples minister, is associate dean for admissions and student services at Phillips Theological Seminary in Tulsa, Okla. She was previously dean for student life at Harvard Divinity School.Downing is a St. Louis, Mo., attorney, and member of Webster Groves Christian Church in Webster Groves, Mo. Joseph M. Kidwell, an attorney in Fort Worth, Texas, also has been named to serve on the board through 2010. Kidwell is a member of Carmel Christian Church in Carmel, Ind. Disciples Benevolent Services (National Benevolent Association) is the 121-year old social and health services general ministry of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). To read more, go to: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08069.pdf (PDF)

SPECIAL RATE FOR AIRPORT SHUTTLE SERVICE AT NATIONAL CONVOCATION: The 20th Biennial Session of the National Convocation opens Friday evening, July 25 in Memphis, Tenn. with a concert by Gospel recording artist Kurt Carr. Delegates who will arrive at the Memphis International Airport can now use the Tennco Express airport shuttle at a special rate of $20 round trip. To get this rate, delegates must go online to www.tenncoexpress.com and click on the “Group Shuttle Services” icon. Convocation delegates can catch the Tennco Express shuttles at column #14 Yellow on the lower level. Shuttles will run every half hour from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. For more information about the 20th Biennial Session of the National Convocation, see: www.disciples.org/convo/biennial.htm

FUND FOR THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION AWARDS MORE THAN $1.5 MILLION: Four Disciples are among 162 students who will benefit from more than $1.5 million in fellowships and support recently announced by the Fund for Theological Education. The FTE is working to help reverse a decline in the number of clergy under age 35 by supporting promising college, seminary and doctoral students who have a passion for ministry or theological scholarship.Over the past decade, the fund has awarded $16 million in support of nearly 1,500 students, most of whom have pursued ordained ministry, a church-related vocation or a faculty post teaching religion and theology. FTE also has a goal to improve diversity on the faculties of North American theological institutions. More than one-third of theological schools do not have a scholar of color on their staffs. To read more, see: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08070.pdf (PDF)

ASIAN INTERFAITH NETWORK STRIVES TO RECLAIM RIGHTS OF CHILDREN WITH HIV-AIDS: Global Ministries reports on the Asian Interfaith Network which is fighting a difficult battle. Last year, AINA led an interfaith effort that promised to respond to the continuing HIV-AIDS scourge. Since then, the epidemic has exacerbated. The Interfaith Network is now grappling with the increasing incidence of HIV-AIDS in children and the projected rise in the number of orphans and vulnerable children.Faith leaders and other members from faith-based organizations representing 10 countries in Asia, including Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Indonesia, Philippines, Hong Kong, and Korea, met in Chiang Mai, Thailand July 2-5 to tackle the problem. The theme of the conference was "Reclaiming Rights of Children Affected and Living with HIV and AIDS." To read more about their efforts to restore human dignity and to reclaim the rights of children affected and living with HIV and AIDS, visit:www.globalministries.org/news/eap/reclaiming-rights.html

NEW MEMBERS SOUGHT FOR YOUNG ADULT COMMISSION: The Young Adult Commission is looking for two people who want to make a difference in the lives of young adults in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Applications for the positions on the commission are now available. Members of the commission are expected to connect with other young adults across the denomination, plan young adult gatherings for general assemblies, and work for young adult causes on the local, regional and national levels. Commission members also are asked to work with all manifestations of the Church to strengthen young adult leadership.Applicants must be a member of a congregation affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and be between the ages of 18 and 33 when the application is submitted. Applications are due Oct. 1. For questions, contact Tod Iseminger at 888-346-2631 or tiseming@dhm.disciples.org.

NATIONAL CITY CHRISTIAN TO HONOR ORGANIST FOR 40 YEARS OF SERVICE: National City Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Washington, D.C., will honor its former minister of music, Lawrence (“Lon”) P. Schreiber, on Aug. 9-10 in observance of his upcoming 75th birthday. Schreiber was minister of music at National City Christian and was one of the founding members of the Association of Disciples Musicians. Known as one of the most respected church musicians in the United States, he will celebrate his birthday in November. Schreiber was minister of music and organist of National City Christian from 1960 to 2000. The festivities honoring him will include a dinner and celebratory worship service. Anyone interested in attending should RSVP as soon as possible by contacting Kathleen Burger-Gerada, chair of the NCCC music committee, at ggerada@yahoo.com, or 12808 Monroe Manor Drive, Herndon, Va. 20171, or call 703-725-9892. For additional information, call Burger-Gerada or minister of music Charles Miller at 202-797-0103.

FORMER DISCIPLES PASTOR AND MISSIONARY TO PHILIPPINES DIES: Former Disciples missionary Leonard Brummett has died. Brummett, 81, died July 14. The ordained Disciples minister served as a missionary to the Philippines from 1952 to 1958. He also served as pastor at churches in Little Rock, Ark., Columbia, Mo., and Mount Carmel, Ill., and as interim pastor at five churches in Indiana and Kentucky following his retirementBrummett is survived by his wife, Ruth Mitchum Brummett, one daughter and three sons. Memorial services were held July 19 at First Christian Church in Henderson, Ky. Contributions may be made to First Christian in Henderson or the American Cancer Society. For more, see: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08071.html####Editor: Wanda Bryant WillsE-mail: news@cm.disciples.org

OGMP Seeks Minister of Compassion / Exec. Dir. for Week of Compassion

From Disciples News Service:

The Office of the General Minister and President Opens Minister of Compassion / Executive Director of the Week of Compassion Search The Office of the General Minister and President (OGMP) seeks a dynamic and innovative leader to serve as the Minister of Compassion / Executive Director for Week of Compassion. The new Minister of Compassion will serve as a member of the OGMP staff with primary responsibility to oversee the relief, rescue and development fund of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). As the main avenue for Disciples disaster response giving, Week of Compassion also supports sustainable development and humanitarian projects through denominational and ecumenical partnerships around the world.

For more information, a full position description, and information on how to apply visit:www.disciples.org/watkins/news/2008/07/16a.asp.

Disciples News Service Update

MISSION ALIGNMENT COORDINATING COUNCIL SEEKS CHURCH-WIDE INPUT
The Mission Alignment Coordinating Council (MACC) recently spent three days in prayer and discussion as it looked at ways to more faithfully organize our Church for mission in the 21st century. The group was created following the 2008 General Board, which approved the creation of the MACC in April, and asked General Minister and President Sharon E. Watkins and Moderator Newell Williams to name a 12-member group that would develop a plan of mission alignment which addressed several key principles and outcomes.

At its June 3-5 meeting, the MACC offered several examples of how Disciples today can best be organized to accomplish our priorities of 1,000 new congregations, 1000 transformed congregations, new leadership and furthering our pro-reconciliation/anti-racism initiative. To review the Principles of Mission Alignment, the work of the Mission Alignment Coordinating Council and to send on any comments or suggestions, please go to: www.disciples.org/macc

DISCIPLES ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUPPORT LEGISLATION PROTECTING CONGO’S RESOURCES
The Congo is one of the poorest countries in the world plagued by violence that has lead to a battle for many of the country’s natural resources, including coltan, diamonds, cassiterite and gold. Coltan is a little known but very valuable mineral-ore used in consumer products around the world such as cell phones, computers and DVD players. Export of coltan, which is also known as columbite-tantalite, has been blamed for fueling the war in that country.

The humanitarian crisis in the Congo has been a preoccupation of Global Ministries, many in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and our Congolese global partners. U.S. Senators Sam Brownback and Richard Durbin have submitted a bill to Congress entitled, “Conflict, Coltan and Cassiterite Act of 2008” that will require the President to compile a list of armed groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo committing human rights violations and prohibit the importation into the U.S. of any products if the group on the list would financially benefit. To find out more about Global Ministries support of the bill, visit: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08061.pdf (PDF)

For additional questions, contact LaMarco Cable with Global Ministries at lcable@dom.disciples.org

TRANSITIONAL LIVING PROGRAMS FOR ADOLESCENTS AT ECHO AND OLIVE BRANCH SUSPENDED
Disciples Benevolent Services has announced the suspension of its transitional living programs for adolescents at ECHO and the Olive Branch in St. Louis, Mo. Increasing cuts from state and local funding sources combined with a national trend toward more foster care placement for children forced the difficult decision last month.

Four of the last 15 children recently were placed in foster homes. Several ECHO employees have gone through foster parent training and are now in the process of taking several of the children into their own homes. One student is in college and one will attend this fall. The rest of the youth are in other custodial programs. To read more, go to: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08062.html

DISCIPLES SHOW THEIR SUPPORT FOR REFUGEES IN DARFUR THROUGH TENTS OF HOPE
Disciples churches across the country have joined other faith communities in the national “Tents of Hope” campaign to raise awareness and resources for the suffering people in Darfur, Sudan.

Two Ohio churches, Heights Christian Church in Cleveland, and First Christian Church in Medina have not only painted their tent, but plan to take them to a national rally, that will be held in Washington D.C. this November.

In Oklahoma City, Okla., about 30 people at Crown Heights Christian Church took turns drawing on and painting a Tent of Hope that was erected in front of the church.

“The Sudan, generally, has been one of our advocacy issues for a few years but Tents of Hope has been a campaign that we’ve been promoting,” said Derek Duncan, associate for global advocacy and education with Global Ministries. To read more, go to: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08063.html

NATIONAL HISPANIC BI-LINGUAL ASSEMBLY TAKES PLACE JULY 10-13
The National Hispanic and Bilingual Fellowship asks for your prayers as it opens its 14th Assembly on Thursday, July 10 in Hasbrouck Heights, N.J. Hundreds of Disciples from across the United States and Canada will gather for the event, where the theme “Growth and Discipleship: Challenges of the 21st Century” will be explored. The Biblical text for the theme comes from Acts 16:5.

Assembly events will include worship, business, workshops and youth activities. The 2008-2010 Hispanic Caucus Board also will be installed at the Assembly, which runs through Sunday, July 13. To learn more about the Central Pastoral Office for Hispanic Ministries and its work, please visit: www.obrahispana.org

APPLICATIONS SOLICITED FOR THE 2008 DISCIPLES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
Applications for the Disciples Leadership Institute, a program that aims to help the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) transcend barriers of race, culture, and language, are being accepted for the 2008 conference, which will be held in August in St. Louis, Mo.

The Disciples Leadership Institute (DLI) creates personal and professional linkages among younger congregational leaders from both new and established congregations and across the divides of race, culture and language.

Centered around a week-long event, DLI is intentionally diverse: half of the participants are from new congregations, half from established congregations. Half are non-Anglo. A one-page application, a short essay, and a reference's name and contact information must be received by Higher Education and Leadership Ministries (HELM) no later than Friday, July 11. For more information, visit: www.helmdisciples.org

NATIONAL CONVOCATION EXTENDS REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR 20th BIENNIAL SESSION
The 20th Biennial Session of the National Convocation will take place in Memphis, Tenn. July 25-28. This year’s theme is “God, Our Weapon In Spiritual Warfare”, based on II Corinthians 10:3-5. Pre-Convocation Workshops begin Friday morning, July 25th. The session officially opens on Friday evening with a gospel concert featuring Kurt Carr and the Kurt Carr Singers. The deadline for hotel reservations is July 15th although participants also may register for the event on-site. Convocation planners are excited about the preaching, teaching, singing, fellowship and food that will be shared at the event. Those unable to attend the session are encouraged to pray for the event and its many participants. To learn more about the upcoming Biennial Session, visit: www.disciples.org/convo/biennial.htm

ATTENTION ON MIDWAY COLLEGE AND HISTORIC KENTUCKY CHURCHES IS FOCUS OF CANE RIDGE DAY
The annual Cane Ridge Day celebration focused on Midway College when it was held June 28 at the Cane Ridge Shrine in Paris, Ky. The histories of Midway Christian Church and Second Christian Church, both located in Midway, Ky., were told by church members during the celebration. Both churches have historic ties to Midway College. The college was established in 1847 as the Kentucky Female Orphan School by Midway Christian’s first pastor, Lewis L. Pinkerton.

Second Christian Church, believed to be the oldest black church in the nation, was organized out of Midway Christian so that black slaves could have a worship house. Second Christian was established in 1852, 11 years before the Emancipation Proclamation was given by President Lincoln. For more, go to: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08064.html

DISCIPLES AND CATHOLICS DIALOGUE ABOUT PRIESTHOOD OF CHRIST IN CHURCH AND MINISTRY
The International Commission for Dialogue between the Disciples of Christ and the Roman Catholic Church held its final meeting of the fourth phase of its dialogue at the Abbey of Klosterneuburg, outside of Vienna, on June 23-27. The topic of this session was “The Priesthood of Christ in Church and Ministry.”

From its dialogue, the Commission prepared a document that brought together the wide-ranging issues discussed into the three areas of general agreements, disagreements, and issues for further consideration. The dialogue anticipates producing an agreed statement in the coming year that will bring together the work of the five sessions of this phase of its dialogue on the overall theme, “The Presence of Christ in the Church, with special reference to the Eucharist.” The Commission sees its work as a contribution toward realizing the dialogue’s long-range goal of full visible unity in one faith, one eucharistic fellowship, and common life in Christ. To read more, go to:
www.disciples.org/ccu/news/2008/0806.Disciples%20Catholic%20Dialogue.html

NORTHWEST CHRISTIAN COLLEGE BECOMES UNIVERSITY
Northwest Christian College has changed its name to Northwest Christian University. The name change was made to reflect the Eugene, Ore., school’s expanding course offerings and the aggressive course it has taken to better compete and retain faculty and students. NCC officially became NCU during a July 1 ceremony that was attended by the mayors of Eugene and Springfield. The university offers 16 undergraduate programs, four master’s degree disciplines and professional studies for working adults.

“We want students to have an experience that is rich academically with a robust campus life that is positive, fun and interesting,” said Northwest Christian University President David Wilson. NCU also launched a new School of Christian Ministry on July 1. The establishment of the new school was marked with a special worship service in the campus chapel. For more, go to: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08065.html

DISCIPLES BENEVOLENT SERVICES SEEKS CHAPLAIN TO SERVE IN IOWA
Disciples Benevolent Services Chaplaincy Care is searching for a chaplain to provide services at Ramsey Village, a retirement facility in Des Moines, Iowa, formerly owned by National Benevolent Association (NBA). Ramsey Village has been without chaplaincy services since 2005, when it changed ownership. The DBS chaplain will be available to provide pastoral care for village residents and the surrounding community. Services are provided at no cost to Ramsey Village, its residents or members of the community. The service is available to all persons, regardless of religious preference.

Chaplaincy Care is a program of DBS Senior Care Ministries and was first introduced earlier this year at Barton W. Stone Home in Jacksonville, Ill., which also was also formerly owned by NBA. DBS anticipates that a second chaplain will be added to the Jacksonville area later this year. To read more about the chaplaincy program, go to: www.disciples.org/dns/Releases2008/08066.pdf (PDF)

Persons interested in applying for the chaplaincy position in Iowa should go to the employment link on the DBS website at: www.nbacares.org

DISCIPLES WORK GROUP ASSISTANCE FOR GULF REGION ENTERS PHASE II
Having surpassed its goal in Phase I of sending 750 Disciples work groups to the storm-ravaged Gulf Coast region by this coming August, Disciples Home Missions has set a new goal to send dozens more work groups to the region between Sept. 1, 2008 and Dec. 31, 2009. The goal in Phase II will be to sign up 150 – 200 Disciples work groups to travel to the region, where they will repair and/or rebuild homes and other structures that were damaged or destroyed by the hurricanes that pounded the region in 2005.

The volunteer groups will work out of mission stations in Gulfport, Miss.; Slidell, Metairie, Lake Charles and Algiers, La.; and Port Arthur and Beaumont, Texas. To get more information, contact Anne Marie Moyars at 888-346-2631. Or visit: www.discipleshomemissions.org/Volunteer/DisasterResponse/Register.htm

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

Disciples News Service Update

The latest from Disciples News Service, June 18, 2008.

Disciples News Service Update

The latest from Disciples News Service on June 4, 2008.

Two Longtime Disciple Leaders Leaving Posts

From Disciples News Service:

Longtime Disciples Leaders Announce Plans To Step Aside

Editor’s Note: Please note the corrected headline. Johnny and Deborrah Wray are not retiring, but are leaving their positions at the end of the year.

(Indianapolis, Ind. - DNS - May 30, 2008) - Two longtime general ministry servants have announced their plans to step aside so that they can spend more time together.

Johnny Wray, director of Week of Compassion since 1992, and Deborrah Wray, a development officer with the Christian Church Foundation since 1992, will leave their positions at the end of 2008.

The couple wed in 2002, and desires to spend more time together in less travel-dominated fields.

"Johnny has done a tremendous job in connecting Disciples with the poor, the victims of war and natural disasters and those who have been oppressed," said Sharon Watkins, General Minister and President. "He has been the face of Week of Compassion, and he has served the church well."

During his tenure, Week of Compassion has become one of the church’s most well-known ministries, providing emergency funding and humanitarian aid through church partnerships around the globe, every day.

"The past decade and a half have been the most fulfilling and rewarding years of my life," Johnny Wray told the Week of Compassion Committee. "But I believe now is the time for new leadership at the helm of WOC, and Deb and I look forward to returning to our place in Mississippi."

John Richardson, chair of the Week of Compassion Committee, said: "We respect Johnny’s desire to spend a greater amount of time on his farm with family. People around the world have been blessed by Johnny’s ability to raise money and then ensure that it gets to those in need. His name will forever be linked to the Disciples of Christ ministries of disaster relief, political or economic crisis, and the ministries of self-help and development to lift the poorest people in the world out of poverty, hunger and injustice. He has connected the individuals in our local church pews to the needs of the whole world."

His wife, Debbie, will leave the Foundation as the vice president serving donors and congregations in an area that stretches from Illinois to New York and into the Northeast.

"The church has been blessed by Debbie’s faithfulness, attentiveness and leadership," said Gary Kidwell, Foundation president. "Her passion for the ministries of the church is unwavering, and her love for the church helped her play an important role in connecting Disciples donors with their passions."

"This was not just a job for Debbie - this has been ministry."

Kidwell said Darwin Collins, who had been announced to join the Foundation staff in the fall, will assume sole responsibility for the Great Lakes Zone after Debbie leaves. "We are grateful that there will be some significant time for the two people to overlap so that our services to donors and congregations in that area will be seamless," Kidwell said.

The Office of General Minister and President, in consultation with the Week of Compassion Committee, will appoint a search committee to seek Johnny Wray’s replacement.

The Christian Church Foundation is a general ministry of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) devoted to helping Disciples make a difference through planned gifts and permanent funds that undergird church ministries. To find out more about Christian Church Foundation, visit: www.disciples.org/ccf/

To learn more about Week of Compassion, go to: www.weekofcompassion.org

Wanted: Minister of Faith and Giving

From Disciples News Service:

Office of the General Minister and President Announces New Minister of Faith and Giving Position

(Indianapolis, Ind. - DNS - May 20, 2008) - The Office of the General Minister and President is seeking a Minister of Faith and Giving who will lead the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in creating a stewardship movement and a culture of generosity. The Minister of Faith and Giving will work with regional and general ministry partners to create culturally diverse resources for congregations related to giving, annual stewardship campaigns, personal wealth management, and congregational financial management.

To read the full ministry description, please visit:
www.disciples.org/watkins/news/2008/05/20a-mfg.pdf (PDF)

Interested candidates can contact Dr. Todd Adams, Associate General Minister and Vice President at 317-713-2414 or tadams@ogmp.disciples.org. Resumes must be received by July 10, 2008. Please submit resumes to:

Dr. Todd Adams
c/o Office of the General Minister and President
130 E. Washington St.
Indianapolis, IN 46204