As we collectively prepare to gather at the 2026 Annual Conference in Fort Wayne near the end of this month, the Review and Evaluation Committee has been working diligently on its task of making a comprehensive study of the denominational program.
Church of the Brethren Newsline
Shine Everywhere reaches midpoint, strengthening faith formation at home and church
At the midpoint of its five-year grant initiative, Shine Everywhere is demonstrating how research, partnerships, and innovative resources are helping congregations better support families in sharing faith at home. Shine Everywhere is shaping the future of Shine: Living in God’s Light Curriculum and deepening the connection between faith practices at church and at home.
Elizabethtown Church of the Brethren to host Church World Service ‘Rise Up for Refuge’ event
Across the United States, immigrant and refugee families are living in fear while facing increasing violence, detention, deportation, and dehumanizing rhetoric. These actions are impacting not only undocumented immigrants, but also legally present refugees, asylum seekers, green card holders, and naturalized citizens.
Brethren bits
In this issue: Global Mission prayer requests, Brethren Volunteer Service fall applications are due, FaithX summer kicks off, job openings with the National Council of Churches, On Earth Peace announces third annual 3,000 Miles for Peace, BMC celebrates 50th anniversary, World Council of Churches renews its commitment to peacemaking, and more
Messenger and Communications receive six awards from the Associated Church Press
Messenger magazine and the Communications department of the Church of the Brethren received six awards—three awards of excellence, one award of merit, and two honorable mentions—in the Associated Church Press 2025 “Best of the Church Press” contest.
Virtual event for adults will follow on conscientious objection sessions for young people
“Well, guess I’m going to jail!” I guess we know where one youth stands about his beliefs in participating in war! On May 17, On Earth Peace invited youth and young adult groups to learn more about conscientious objection
Deportation Defense Response invites participation in World Refugee Day Ecumenical Service
The Church of the Brethren Deportation Defense Response (DDR) is inviting participation in a World Refugee Day Ecumenical Service taking place online on Wednesday, June 17, 6-7 p.m. (Eastern time).
Brethren bits
In this issue: Remembering Earl K. Ziegler, Dale Eugene Minnich, Kenneth Lee Gibble, David S. Young, and Olga Serrano; new online giving pages; calls to prayer from the Deportation Defense Response and Churches for Middle East Peace; job opening at Camp Harmony; Wichita First hosts event on conscientious objection; CCW publishes new online resource “Draft Law for Conscientious Objectors”; and more
Jeff Thomson hired to direct Brethren Disaster Ministries
Jeff Thomson has been hired as director of Brethren Disaster Ministries for the Church of the Brethren. In his previous role as chief housing officer and general contractor with Interfaith Housing and Community Services, he collaborated with numerous volunteers while leading home repair programs for families in need in Hutchinson, Kan.
Special Annual Conference events are offered in Fort Wayne this summer
The 2026 Annual Conference of the Church of the Brethren is offering a number of special events and opportunities this summer in Fort Wayne, Ind.
