(May 25, 2007) — The Board of Directors of On Earth Peace met April 20-22, at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. The meeting was scheduled in conjunction with the Cross-Cultural Consultation and Celebration, so that both groups could benefit from joint sessions and informal interaction.
The On Earth Peace board and staff took part in worship, Bible study, discussions, and lively conversations with other participants in the celebration. A number of new relationships were formed that promise cooperative efforts in the future. Already, plans are being formed for peace education and organizing to support the work of peacemakers in the Cross-Cultural Ministries community.
In other agenda items, the On Earth Peace board held a session on the development role of the board, led by Theresa Eshbach; received reports from liaison relationships with Christian Peacemaker Teams and the UN NGO Subcommittee on the Elimination of Racism; received a midyear financial report showing expenses and income in balance; heard an update on changes in staff responsibilities, with co-director Barbara Sayler moving to the half-time role of communications coordinator, and co-director Bob Gross continuing as executive director in a solo role. Program activity reports from all six staff members reflected an energetic and comprehensive program of education, networking, support, resources, and leadership for the peace and reconciliation ministries of the denomination.
Annual Conference related business items included a report on Annual Conference plans for 2007-08 from Lerry Fogle, executive director of the Conference; a compilation and analysis of individual comments on the survey taken at the 2005 Conference to measure beliefs regarding the peace and reconciliation roles of the church; introduction of proposed bylaw updates to be put before On Earth Peace members at this year’s Conference; and consideration of the Review and Evaluation report coming before the Conference, and its possible implications for On Earth Peace.
Recognizing the pain of violence near at hand as well as around the world, the board and staff gathered in prayer for the families of the victims of the shootings at Virginian Tech. The group also approved a message of remembrance and consolation to be posted on the front page of the On Earth Peace website.
The fall meeting of the On Earth Peace board is scheduled for Sept. 20-22, in New Windsor.
(This report was provided by Bob Gross, executive director of On Earth Peace.)