{"id":17964,"date":"2021-12-11T16:30:00","date_gmt":"2021-12-11T16:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.brethren.org\/news\/?p=17964"},"modified":"2021-12-11T22:40:45","modified_gmt":"2021-12-11T22:40:45","slug":"newsline-for-dec-11-2021","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.brethren.org\/news\/2021\/newsline-for-dec-11-2021\/","title":{"rendered":"Newsline for Dec. 11, 2021"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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NEWS
1) Annual Conference planners shift away from \u2018insight sessions\u2019 to \u2018equipping sessions\u2019<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) EYN medical worker regains freedom; EYN president Joel S. Billi issues Christmas message<\/p>\n\n\n\n

UPCOMING EVENTS
3) Speakers, Youth Speech Contest announced for National Youth Conference<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4) \u2018I am because we are\u2019: National Young Adult Conference focuses on life-giving quality of community<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) Deadline nears to register for the Clergy Tax Seminar on Jan. 29<\/p>\n\n\n\n

JESUS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD: STORIES FROM CONGREGATIONS
6) Frederick Church creates new website inviting people to accept Jesus Christ<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7) Community of Joy shares \u2018Food and Faith\u2019 podcast<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8) Bethany Church brings friends to worship<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9) Warrensburg Church hosts birthday celebration for minister emeritus and Heifer International<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10) Brethren bits: Correction, Young Adult Advent Worship, religious workers now eligible for student loan forgiveness, webinars from On Earth Peace, celebrating the ministry of Dave Shetler in Southern Ohio and Kentucky District, new Jesus in the Neighborhood Mini-Grants in Mid-Atlantic District, and more<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Photo of wild grasses by Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Please be in prayer<\/strong> for those who have lost loved ones, homes, and businesses, the injured, and the first responders in the tornado outbreak that hit at least six states last night including Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas, and Tennessee. At least 70 people were killed with many areas still searching wreckage for survivors. Kentucky governor Andy Beshear has described the town of Mayfield, Ky., as \u201cground zero\u201d for destruction wrought by a tornado that traveled more than 200-miles, reports the Guardian. Find that newspaper\u2019s updated page with latest information about the tornado outbreak at www.theguardian.com\/world\/live\/2021\/dec\/11<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quote of the week:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u201cFor many of us, the most consequential thing that we have lost during the last several years has been our faith in each other\u2026. Too many of us are forgetting the friendship, comradery, community spirit, and accomplishments working and living with these people around us in the past made possible. People are messy, contradictory, imperfect, sometimes disappointing, sometimes surprising, creative, unpredictable, sometimes shortsighted, sometimes hurtful, sometimes compassionate, sometimes exasperating, sometimes astonishing creatures of God\u2019s creation and all of them are made in God\u2019s image. We need to start looking for God\u2019s image and grace in people again. Yes, it can be hard work, but God calls us to do the work required to be his people together. The rewards are heavenly!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

— From the December 2021 \u201cPray for Peace\u201d bulletin insert from the Church of the Brethren\u2019s Northern Ohio District. Find it and more inserts at www.nohcob.org\/blog\/2021\/12\/09\/pray-for-peace-12-8-2021<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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We want to keep updating our listing of Churches of the Brethren congregations and their worship opportunities at <\/strong>www.brethren.org\/news\/2020\/church-of-the-brethren-congregations-worship-online.html<\/a>. Please send new information to cobnews@brethren.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Lifting up Brethren who are active in health care: <\/strong>www.brethren.org\/news\/2020\/brethren-active-in-health-care.html<\/a>. Add a person to the list by sending first name, county, and state to cobnews@brethren.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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1) Annual Conference planners shift away from \u2018insight sessions\u2019 to \u2018equipping sessions\u2019<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Program and Arrangements Committee of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference is shifting away from a long-standing practice of offering \u201cinsight sessions\u201d at the denomination\u2019s annual meeting, focusing instead on \u201cequipping sessions.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Conference planners first began this shift some years ago, gradually working in specific days for equipping sessions at the denomination\u2019s annual meetings. \u201cNow we are asking everyone to make this shift for all of their sessions,\u201d said Annual Conference director Rhonda Pittman Gingrich.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She described the difference between an insight session and an equipping session in terms of the difference between an infomercial in which attendees are given information about a program, versus a workshop in which attendees experience and are given hands-on tools and resources to use in ministry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The 2022 Annual Conference will renew and expand the emphasis on offering equipping sessions that empower congregations and participants for a life of discipleship and service to Christ and the church. All presenters are asked to plan sessions that are interactive learning experiences, introducing or exploring practical tools, skills, practices, or frameworks that participants can take home with them to enhance their personal or congregational ministry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Presenters are encouraged, in particular, to plan equipping sessions related to discipleship formation, neighborhood engagement and missional outreach, leadership development, and stewardship enhancement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more about Annual Conference and the planning for the 2022 event, go to www.brethren.org\/ac<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2) EYN medical worker regains freedom; EYN president Joel S. Billi issues Christmas message<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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By Zakariya Musa, EYN<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Charles Ezra, about 70 years old, assists on the Disaster Relief Management Medical Team of Ekklesiyar Yan\u2019uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria). He was abducted Saturday, Dec. 4, on his way home from his farm. He rejoined his family after three terrible days in the hands of his abductors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThey stopped other people before and allowed them to pass, I arrived the scene where one of them said \u2018that is the man,\u2019\u201d Ezra reported. \u201cI tried to run into the bush but they caught me from behind, blindfolded, put me on a motorcycle, and took me through the bush. I was beaten many times. I couldn\u2019t eat the whole duration. They threw food on the ground for me to eat in a cave where I was kept, and [I was] threatened to be killed,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pray for the people who were recently abducted on the Maiduguri Road, and many others who are still unaccounted for.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Charles Ezra<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

In more news from EYN, president Joel S. Billi has released his Christmas message:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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EYN president Joel S. Billi.
Photo by Zakariya Musa.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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1st December, 2021
CHRISTMAS TIDINGS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To the Pastors and all fellow Believers who are the Ecclesia of Christ.
Greetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We thank God for yet another Christmas. Our hearts glorify the LORD for His protection and guidance from January to date. He has seen us through turbulence and temptations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

BEREAVEMENTS
Many of our members have lost their beloved ones within this year. Your bereavements sadden our hearts. Kindly accept our hearty condolences on behalf of the entire Ekklesiya. May our good LORD give you the fortitude to bear the loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PERSECUTION OF THE CHURCH
It is unfortunate that the matter of security in our country has slipped through the fingers of our leaders and security apparatus. Consequently, churches and Christians are now vulnerable, and nobody seems to care about our vulnerability. It is sad to hear from the lips of some of the leaders that there is nothing they can do about the insecurity because it is a global trend. We have suffered enormous casualties innocently not in accidents or natural disaster but by barbaric people who claim to be working for God. Our steadfastness will make them know that we are truly serving a living God. Let us stay away from all evil things that will disqualify us before Christ.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT
We advise all farmers not to be extravagant or reckless in handling what they have harvested. It is unfortunate that some people sell their products right on the farms at give-away amounts. Please, let us restrain ourselves from such behavior except otherwise. You will agree with me that many farmers this year suffered crop losses from poor weather and lack of fertilizer. Therefore let us be wise and careful. Bearing in mind the plan to remove the fuel subsidy in the coming year (2022).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PROSPECTIVE HUSBANDS\/WIVES
It is our fervent and passionate prayer that all those who are going to get married this Christmas through the new year, may God who is the creator of marriage establish to them Christ-centered homes, in the name of Jesus. As you plan to get married work within your income and do not compete or compare yourself with others. We also pray for the officiating clergymen to take Christian marriage with solemnness in every sphere. People who are still behaving and acting in a worldly manner by eloping in order to discredit the sacredness of biblical marriage, should be disciplined and treated as inactive members. Parents should also see the need to tell their children that if they eloped, they will not be happy with them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RECKLESS DRIVING
Many people term the Christmas period as rush hours and drive recklessly despite the congestion of the roads and amounts of accidents which sometimes claim lives. Therefore let us drive with patience and diligence. If you are a passenger, it is your right to caution your driver to drive attentively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TRANSFERS
We want to make a passionate call to all members to welcome any pastor that would be sent to you with outstretched arms without prejudice. Transfer is always for the good and growth of the church and it should not be misunderstood. Always avoid the temptation to have the desire to choose pastors for yourselves if given the opportunity or attempt to induce leaders to do what you want. Pastors and all workers should not be choosy or selective of where they want to work. All pastors have covenanted during ordination to work round the clock to ensure holistic growth of the church and not to think of \u201ccomfort zones.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

CHRISTMAS TIME
Celebrate Christmas with Christ the Master of Christmas. All your celebration should be centered on Him. Behave as expected during and after Christmas. We are encouraged to help and put smiles on the faces of the widows, orphans, aged, and destitute. Christ\u2019s love is universal, likewise our own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.
In Christ,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rev. Joel S. Billi.
EYN President<\/p>\n\n\n\n

–– Zakariya Musa is head of Media for Ekklesiyar Yan\u2019uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria).<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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UPCOMING EVENTS<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

3) Speakers, Youth Speech Contest announced for National Youth Conference<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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By Erika Clary<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The National Youth Conference (NYC) office has been hard at work confirming speakers for the event to take place on July 23-28, 2022. Each week on Saturday, a speaker is announced via the NYC social media pages–all part of a series titled \u201cSpeaker Saturday.\u201d Be on the lookout for more NYC speaker announcements, which will be available on the NYC social media (Facebook: National Youth Conference, Instagram: @cobnyc2022).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

National Youth Conference 2022 registration is open now. Register at www.brethren.org\/nyc<\/a> by Dec. 31 to receive a free t-shirt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Five speakers, plus the theme of the Youth Speech Contest, have been announced so far:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Drew Hart <\/strong>is an assistant professor of theology at Messiah University and has 10 years of pastoral experience. He directs Messiah University\u2019s Thriving Together: Congregations for Racial Justice program and co-hosts Inverse Podcast. He is the author of two books, Trouble I\u2019ve Seen and Who Will Be a Witness?, both available from Brethren Press (www.brethrenpress.com\/SearchResults.asp?Search=drew+hart&Submit=GO<\/a>). He can be found on Twitter and Instagram with the username @DruHart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chelsea Skillen and Tyler Goss<\/strong> are an energetic, insightful sibling team. They have been active in the church through summer camps, Peace Teams, Brethren Volunteer Service, and denominational agencies, and have spoken at many Church of the Brethren conferences. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chelsea Skillen<\/strong> runs a small production company with her husband in Petersberg, Va., and is excited about her newest project of writing her first book called How to Rock Your 20s. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tyler Goss<\/strong> received his master of divinity degree and master of arts in conflict transformation degree from Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, Va., where he now works as assistant director of Student Programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Naomi Kraenbring<\/strong> is an adjunct professor of religious studies at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College, where she loves working with undergraduate students to study many things, especially interfaith peacebuilding. She is also a 2019 graduate of Bethany Theological Seminary and a current doctoral student at the Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Osheta Moore<\/strong> loves people! She is a pastor and peacemaker who loves Jesus and is convinced God has a sense of humor. She is the author of two books, Shalom Sistas and Dear White Peacemakers, both available from Brethren Press (www.brethrenpress.com\/SearchResults.asp?Search=osheta+moore&Submit=GO<\/a>). She is an optimistic cookbook reader, a hopeless romantic, and a goofball with a little bit of sass. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jody Romero<\/strong> and his wife, Vanessa, are church planters and have been leading Restoration Los Angeles, a Church of the Brethren congregation in East Los Angeles, Calif., for nearly 12 years. They have a heart for the underserved and a passion to strengthen local churches. The Romeros also launched RiseUp Youth Conference, which has become a global movement to inspire young people to know Jesus and make him known.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Youth Speech Contest<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do you know a youth who is attending NYC and would be interested in speaking? Encourage them to submit an entry for the Youth Speech Contest! The theme is \u201cBring Your Own Jesus Story.\u201d Youth are encouraged to consider how Jesus\u2019 teachings are foundational to their life, and then to choose a story about Jesus from the Bible and preach on it. Participants should send a written entry of 500-700 words and a video entry of about 10 minutes length to the NYC Office by email to cobyouth@brethren.org<\/a>. The deadline is March 15, 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

— Erika Clary is the coordinator of National Youth Conference 2022, working in the Church of the Brethren Youth and Young Adult Ministry as a volunteer with Brethren Volunteer Service.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Drew Hart<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Tyler Goss and Chelsea Skillen. Photo by Glenn Riegel<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Naomi Kraenbring<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Osheta Moore<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Jody Romero<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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4) \u2018I am because we are\u2019: National Young Adult Conference focuses on life-giving quality of community<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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By Becky Ullom Naugle<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cSo we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another\u201d (Romans 12:5).<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

After so much pandemic living and the isolation it\u2019s caused, the centrality of community in this scripture compelled the Young Adult Steering Committee to choose Romans 12:5 as the theme for National Young Adult Conference (NYAC) 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Christians spend significant time focusing on the verses before and after this one–reminding ourselves that there are \u201cmany gifts but the same Spirit.\u201d The reality of variety in giftedness certainly deserves attention and study; it is occasionally challenging to recognize and identify God\u2019s presence in another. However, as the world has learned so painfully over the last two years in our isolation, God built us to need each other.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Even if we chafe at standards and boundaries placed to enable peaceful, healthy living, humans have a deep and strong desire to be with others. We are undeniably affected by the relationships we create. Simply, we are affected by our community. Often the implications of this reality are seen as a liability. However, NYAC participants will focus on the ways this reality is an asset. How are we as individuals enriched by being part of a community? How is life better when we are together, rather than apart? If we felt empathy for others due to such a deep connection through our baptism into the family of Jesus and call to live as one of his disciples, what would our lives look like?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It is precisely such deep connection to a group that allows an aspen tree to live. From above ground, where we spend most of our time, we see distinct trees. If we are paying enough attention, we might note that aspen trees tend to grow in groups. But did you know that the \u201cdistinct\u201d aspen trees are actually part of the same organism? They share a root system and resources like water and nutrients. Aspens are a living expression of Romans 12:5; the \u201cindividual\u201d thrives due to their deep connection to the larger body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After so much time away from the larger body, the Young Adult Steering Committee is eager for young adults to remember and strengthen connection to each other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NYAC registration opens online on Jan. 6, 2022. To learn more, visit www.brethren.org\/yac<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

— Becky Ullom Naugle is director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries for the Church of the Brethren.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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5) Deadline nears to register for the Clergy Tax Seminar on Jan. 29<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership\u2019s annual Clergy Tax Seminar takes place on Jan. 29, 2022, via Zoom from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Eastern time). It is intended for students, clergy, and anyone who deals with clergy finances. A continuing education credit of 0.4 units is available for credentialed ministers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The event is sponsored by the academy along with the Church of the Brethren Office of Ministry and Bethany Theological Seminary. Leadership is provided by Deb Oskin, a tax professional specializes in clergy taxes and who is chairing the Church of the Brethren Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee. The event will include a special presentation from the committee about the brand new Pastoral Compensation Calculator and Integrated Annual Ministry Agreement expected to become effective as of the 2022 Annual Conference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cost is $40 per person. Current students at the Brethren Academy, Bethany Theological Seminary, and Earlham School of Religion students may attend at no cost, although registration is still required. Find more detailed information and register by Jan. 19 at https:\/\/bethanyseminary.edu\/brethren-academy\/clergy-tax-seminar<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Deb Oskin leading the clergy tax seminar, in a former year.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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JESUS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD: STORIES FROM CONGREGATIONS<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

6) Frederick Church creates new website inviting people to accept Jesus Christ<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

By Lerry Fogle<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A new website created by a ministry team of Frederick (Md.) Church of the Brethren provides information on the homepage and invites persons to accept Jesus Christ into their hearts. The remaining pages of the site provide information and resources for all followers of Jesus, no matter their level of spiritual maturity. The site launched on Dec. 4 at www.sourceoftruelife.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Included in these pages is a repository of many resources (articles and other websites) answering various types of spiritual questions. The site is multi-media. The title for the site, \u201cSource of True Life\u201d is inspired by John 4:14.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

— Lerry Fogle is a former director of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference and a member of Frederick Church of the Brethren.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

7) Community of Joy shares \u2018Food and Faith\u2019 podcast<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Community of Joy Church of the Brethren in Salisbury, Md., has shared the link to listen to a \u201cFood and Faith\u201d podcast by pastor Martin Hutchison, according to the Mid-Atlantic District newsletter. The podcast interviews Hutchison about what\u2019s happening at the church\u2019s community garden \u201cand how that has opened unimagined connections and opportunities to work and minister with the community, the local school system, and government programs,\u201d said the newsletter. \u201cLearn about \u2018vegetable mischief\u2019 teaching moments. The garden is an \u2018opportunity to engage neighbors, nurture seeds of love and blessing; an opportunity greater than you can imagine.\u2019\u201d Find the podcast at https:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/food-and-faith-podcast\/id1434195759?i=1000538227395<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8) Bethany Church brings friends to worship<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Bethany Church of the Brethren in Norborne, Mo., held a special \u201cBring a Friend to Church\u201d service on Sunday, Nov. 14, reported pastor Jason Frazer in the Missouri and Arkansas District newsletter. \u201cFifty-three persons were in attendance that morning,\u201d he wrote, \u201cand the text came from Mark\u2019s Gospel, Chapter 10, verses 17 thru 31: the story of the rich man asking how to inherit eternal life. Several newcomers have been visiting our small rural church, which has brought some excitement and energy to our congregation.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9) Warrensburg Church hosts birthday celebration for minister emeritus and Heifer International<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Warrensburg (Mo.) Church of the Brethren in early November hosted a celebration of minister emeritus Ethmer Erisman\u2019s 97th birthday and the 77th year of Heifer International\u2019s ministry to end hunger and poverty. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a report in the Missouri and Arkansas District newsletter, LuRae Shreves and Pearl Miller wrote that Erisman celebrates his birthday every year with \u201chis traditional gift of seed money for Heifer International! Every year around his birthday, he challenges the congregation to \u2018pass on the gift\u2019 with him\u2026. This year, Pastor Ethmer, with the help of three of our teens, passed out donation boxes for Heifer International. Each box contained a generous gift to the recipients with the hope that the recipients would consider their own donation to Heifer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“A total of $1,068 was raised through his birthday gift! Also, as part of that birthday celebration, Ethmer preached the sermon, \u2018Love Will Find a Way.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Photos by Renee Staab and pastor Becky Crouse, courtesy of Missouri and Arkansas District<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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10) Brethren bits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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— Correction:<\/strong> The Dec. 4 Newsline incorrectly identified the author of the study and discussion guide for Tod Bolsinger\u2019s plenary session on \u201cDoing Church in Uncharted Territory\u201d from the 2021 Annual Conference. The guide was written by Renee Wilson, who helped out with the Moderator Town Hall events and is a member of the staff of Ministry Architects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

–– Religious workers and clergy are now eligible for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). <\/strong>The program offers methods to help all borrowers (including religious workers and clergy) reduce or better manage student loans. View the webinar linked below to learn how to apply for PSLF, with leadership from attorney Ashley Harrington, a senior official of the Federal Student Aid Office of the US Department of Education. This webinar was offered by the United Church of Christ in partnership with the National Council of Churches. Go to www.youtube.com\/watch?v=D2ovXOLhKQw<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

–– A webinar hosted by On Earth Peace and the Good Shepherd Collective <\/strong>is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 15, at 1-3 p.m. (Eastern time). \u201cJoin the Good Shepherd Collective and On Earth Peace for a critical conversation on the Palestinian-led campaign to Defund Racism, a grassroots movement to stop the exploitation of US charities and the financing of violent political movements,\u201d said an announcement. \u201cBana Abu Zuluf, a legal researcher and advocate for the Good Shepherd Collective, and Manal Shqair, a Palestinian climate activist and the international advocacy officer of Stop the Wall Campaign, will discuss how the Israeli settler movement exploits US charitable law to fund the dispossession of indigenous Palestinian communitie–and more importantly–what you can do to dismantle the structures that underwrite violence and oppression.\u201d Go to www.onearthpeace.org\/defund_racism_webinar_12-15-21<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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A group of Church of the Brethren young adults are leading an Advent Worship Service this Sunday evening, Dec. 12, at 6 p.m. (Eastern time) via Zoom. To attend, contact jhouff@washingtoncitycob.org<\/a>.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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On Earth Peace is offering an online seminar titled \u201cChildren as Peacebuilders: Equipping Resilient Leaders\u201d at 12 noon (Eastern time) on Saturday, Dec. 18. The seminar \u201cwill be sharing Christmas traditions from all around the globe, equipping caregivers and educators to use the holidays as a time to teach children about inclusiveness and diversity,\u201d said an announcement. \u201cCaregivers will be provided with tools such as storytelling using OEP’s Read Aloud Program.\u201d Go to www.onearthpeace.org\/cap_christmas<\/a>.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

— The Church of the Brethren\u2019s Southern Ohio and Kentucky District is celebrating the ministry of retiring district executive Dave Shetler <\/strong>on Jan. 23, 2022, from 2-5 p.m. (Eastern time) at Salem Church of the Brethren in Englewood, Ohio. \u201cPlease join us as we honor Dave\u2019s 11 years of ministry to our district as District Executive,\u201d said an invitation. Donations in Shetler\u2019s honor are received to the district disaster ministries, the district\u2019s camping and retreat ministries, and to the Brethren Retirement Community in Greenville, Ohio.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

–– Mid-Atlantic District has begun a new program of Jesus in the Neighborhood Mini-Grants,<\/strong> through its CORE Ministry Team tasked with \u201cChurch Outreach, Renewal, and Evangelism.\u201d Following on the denomination\u2019s adoption of the compelling vision, \u201cCORE is offering Jesus in the Neighborhood Mini-Grants to congregations who wish to begin projects related to congregational renewal, revitalization, and community outreach but may need additional support to do so,\u201d said the district newsletter. \u201cCongregations are encouraged to think outside the box!\u201d The mini-grants are restricted to Church of the Brethren congregations within the district, who apply for help to fund efforts that will use church funds wisely and judiciously, and that adhere to Church of the Brethren polity and values. The mini-grants of up to $500 will be awarded to congregations that have committed their own funds and resources to the project in addition to the mini-grant and that submit a simple budget of projected costs for their project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

— Lititz (Pa.) Church of the Brethren has appeared in several news reports recently, <\/strong>following the appearance of some chalk graffiti on the church property. The media stories have been overblown, said pastor Eric Landram. The graffiti was done with sidewalk chalk, and there was no lasting damage. It took only 20 minutes for church members to wash it off. Landram explained to a few media outlets, \u201cSince this has not occurred on the property before, we are not concerned.\u201d To Newsline, he wrote, \u201cWe aren\u2019t letting the antics stop us from focusing on what matters the most during this season of Advent. We are busy living into the Church of the Brethren\u2019s new compelling vision statement by following Jesus in relationship-based neighborhood engagement. We are encouraging our members and community to support families less fortunate during the holidays and we are diligent in continuing the important work of resettling refugees in Lancaster County. A little sidewalk chalk isn\u2019t going to get us down. Christmas is coming and with it a great light of peace and hope!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

–– The World Council of Churches (WCC) is publishing a series of Bible studies<\/strong> leading up to its assembly taking place next year in Germany. The series is based on the assembly theme and linked to significant days in the Christian calendar. The first Bible study was published at the beginning of Advent and the next will be published in preparation for Epiphany. Read the first Bible study of the series, \u201cAdvent and Christmas\u201d by Susan Durber, at www.oikoumene.org\/resources\/bible-studies\/11th-assembly-bible-study-advent-and-christmas<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

— Harvey Nininger\u2019s role as \u201cthe father of meteoritics\u201d<\/strong> is told by writer Max McCoy in a Nov. 28 article in the Kansas Reflector<\/em> titled \u201cIn 1923, a Kansan saw a fireball overhead. He helped popularize a new science.\u201d Nininger was a Church of the Brethren member and biology professor at McPherson (Kan.) College who in November 1923 began tracking and collecting meteorites. \u201cDuring the next 60 years he located thousands,\u201d writes McCoy. \u201cBy the 1940s, he was believed to have located half of all the meteorites that had so far been identified anywhere on the surface of the earth\u2026. \u2018Verily,\u2019 he wrote in 1933, \u2018Kansas has been the target of the universe.\u2019 \u2026From 1923 on, Nininger crisscrossed the state, educating local populations about meteorites and offering $1 a pound for the space rocks.\u201d He even led McPherson students on trips to search for meteorites \u201cas far away as South America, cataloguing historic finds and gathering new data from the strewn fields.\u201d Although McCoy calls the Church of the Brethren a \u201csect,\u201d he acknowledges Nininger\u2019s deep faith along with his conflicts with McPherson College leadership: \u201cFor all of his adult life, Nininger would challenge the cornerstones of faith he had learned as a child; not only would he denounce belief in a 6,000-year-old earth, but he would come to chide the president of the Brethren college at McPherson for not teaching evolution. But Nininger never rejected faith.\u201d Find the article at https:\/\/kansasreflector.com\/2021\/11\/28\/in-1923-a-kansan-saw-a-fireball-overhead-he-helped-popularize-a-new-science<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

— Ron Beachley is the subject of an article in the Tribune-Democrat<\/em> <\/strong>highlighting his more than 35 years as a referee for high school sports. The 81-year-old is a former pastor in the Church of the Brethren, served for years as a district executive, and was Annual Conference moderator. He also \u201chas been a sports enthusiast his whole life,\u201d the article noted. \u201cAnd it\u2019s led to the Davidsville resident refereeing high school sports for more than 35 years as a PIAA official.\u201d Throughout years serving the church, wherever he served he also connected with opportunities to serve local schools by officiating at sports events. In retirement, that passion continues. \u201cBeachley said he attends rules meetings annually for each sport and a number of chapter meetings to keep his credentials current. \u2018Being an official allows me keep up with rule changes and seeing good athletes participate in the games,\u2019 he said\u2026. Beachley, who also drives a school bus for the Ferndale Area School District, said what keeps him working as an official is his love of competition and the camaraderie with other officials. \u2018I question if I should retire, but I want to be involved,\u2019 he said.\u201d Find the article at www.tribdem.com\/news\/local_news\/davidsville-resident-refereeing-high-school-sports-for-over-35-years-as-a-piaa-official\/article_09e9baae-4610-11ec-8be5-4f88f47ba3c0.html<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

–– Pastor Dwayne Yost of Flat Creek and Mud Lick Churches of the Brethren in Big Creek, Ky.<\/strong>, is one of the church leaders that welcomed a large delivery of gifts and personal care items to help Kentuckians in need, sent to the Red Bird Mission supporting families in Bell, Clay, and Leslie County by churches in upstate New York. An article titled \u201cNY to KY: Huge donation arrives at Eastern Kentucky’s Red Bird Mission\u201d by Jonathon Gregg and published by Spectrum News 1 noted that \u201cpoverty rates in this area of Kentucky are some of the highest in the country\u201d and that the area is seeing a \u201cripple effect\u201d after the collapse of the coal industry, with many families staying in the area despite the loss of employment. Yost had worked for Red Bird more than 50 years ago, the piece reported, quoting him as saying, \u201cIf I live another 3 weeks I\u2019ll be 87.\u201d Yost also told the reporter: \u201cIt\u2019s wonderful to be a part of God\u2019s work wherever it is. Whether it\u2019s at Red Bird or if it\u2019s in New York where they put these boxes together\u2026. You know, it\u2019s wonderful we can all work together.\u201d Find the article at https:\/\/spectrumlocalnews.com\/nys\/central-ny\/news\/2021\/12\/03\/red-bird-mission-new-york-donation-kentucky<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Newsline is the email news service of the Church of the Brethren. Inclusion in Newsline does not necessarily convey endorsement by the Church of the Brethren. All submissions are subject to editing. Newsline stories may be reprinted if Newsline is cited as the source. Contributors to this issue include Erika Clary, Lerry Fogle, Nancy Sollenberger Heishman, Eric Landram, Nancy Miner, Zakariya Musa, Becky Ullom Naugle, and editor Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, director of News Services for the Church of the Brethren. Please send news tips and submissions to cobnews@brethren.org<\/a> . Find the Newsline archive at www.brethren.org\/news<\/a> . Sign up for Newsline and other Church of the Brethren email newsletters and make subscription changes at www.brethren.org\/intouch<\/a> . Unsubscribe by using the link at the top of any Newsline email.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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