Brethren Press is publishing a book in which Nigerian Brethren who have suffered violence at the hands of Boko Haram tell of their experiences and their heartache. Titled “We Bear It in Tears,” the book is a collection of interviews recorded by Carol Mason, with photographs by Donna Parcell. It may be pre-ordered from Brethren Press at www.brethrenpress.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=9780871782915 .
Aug. 6 and 9, 2020, mark the 75th anniversaries of the nuclear bombings of the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in Japan. The Church of the Brethren has been involved in peace witness in Hiroshima through the placement of Brethren Volunteer Service workers at the World Friendship Center. Currently, Roger and Kathy Edmark of Lynnwood, Wash., are serving as directors of the center through BVS (see www.wfchiroshima.com/english ).
As of the end of July, 25 congregations across 9 districts have received grants totaling $104,662. Programs have included food distributions, hot or takeaway meals, children’s summer meals, childcare, rental and utility assistance, hygiene and safety supplies, and shelter for vulnerable homeless populations. Brethren Disaster Ministries is beginning to receive reports about some of the first grants given, and it is clear that the assistance came at just the right time and has been received with gratitude.
In this issue: Remembering Art Myers, Brethren Disaster Ministries updates on Hurricane Isaias, Brethren Benefit Trust extends COVID-19 Emergency Grant as part of Church Worker’s Assistance Plan, Office of Ministry recommends webinar on “COVID-19 Mental and Spiritual Health of Children and Teens,” Columbia City Church participates in “Bells for John Lewis.”
Upcoming webinars are by the Church of the Brethren Discipleship Ministries, Intercultural Ministry, Outdoor Ministry Association, and Office of Ministry. Topics include “Witness of Churches on the Path to Healing Racism: A Theological Exploration” and “Cultivating a Verdant Faith: Eco Discipleship Practices for the 21st Century Church.”
The Fellowship of Brethren Homes has joined other faith-based, aging services groups in a letter to the US President, Vice-President, and members of Congress, asking the nation’s leaders to “immediately deliver the leadership, resources, and support needed to ensure the health and wellbeing of millions of people facing special danger from the pandemic.”
NEWS
1) COVID-19 Pandemic Grants Program issues grants to another 11 congregations
2) Fellowship of Brethren Homes signs letter to the US President, Vice President, and Congress
3) Southeastern District Conference approves withdrawal of 19 congregations
4) Illinois and Wisconsin District issues statement of response to racial injustice
5) Giveaway Garden produces good food and good will
UPCOMING EVENTS
6) Marking the 75th anniversary of the nuclear attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki
7) Webinars explore path to healing racism, eco-discipleship
8) Brethren bits: Remembering Art Myers, Brethren Disaster Ministries updates on Hurricane Isaias, BBT extends COVID-19 Emergency Grant as part of Church Worker’s Assistance Plan, webinar on “COVID-19 Mental and Spiritual Health of Children and Teens,” Columbia City participates in “Bells for John Lewis”
The Church of the Brethren’s Illinois and Wisconsin District has issued a statement of response to racial injustice, signed by district executive minister Kevin Kessler on behalf of the District Leadership Team.
The Southeastern District Conference on July 25 at Pleasant Valley Church of the Brethren in Jonesborough, Tenn., approved the withdrawal of 19 congregations from the district and from the Church of the Brethren denomination. The withdrawing churches represent close to half of the 42 congregations that have been part of the district that covers Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, and the western parts of North Carolina and Virginia.
The youth Giveaway Garden was planted the first week of June next to the church playground. The team of 11 working that day transformed the new bed from grass to garden in under four hours. At that point we had no idea if our labor would be fruitful, or if anyone from the neighborhood would stop by to pick up some free produce. The answer to those questions has been yes and yes!
