{"id":28159,"date":"2026-10-29T12:30:00","date_gmt":"2026-10-29T12:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.brethren.org\/news\/?p=28159"},"modified":"2026-10-31T23:32:05","modified_gmt":"2026-10-31T23:32:05","slug":"brethren-bits-122","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.brethren.org\/news\/2026\/brethren-bits-122\/","title":{"rendered":"Brethren bits"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

\u201cMail early for year-end giving,\u201d <\/strong>said a reminder from Church of the Brethren Mission Advancement. \u201cPlanning to mail a year-end donation? Please send it well before Dec. 31, 2026. US Postal Service transportation changes mean some mail may receive a postmark later than the day you put it in the mailbox. A check mailed on Dec. 31 could receive a January 2027 postmark.\u201d To ensure your year-end gift is on track, mail it early, and no later than Dec. 24, to Church of the Brethren, Attn: Mission Advancement, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120. You may ask for a manual postmark at the post office showing that day\u2019s date. Or give online<\/a>. For questions contact MA@brethren.org<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

— Job opening: Camp Mardela is seeking a camp administrator. <\/strong>The Church of the Brethren-affiliated 125-acre retreat and summer camp facility near Denton, Md., borders Martinak State Park on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Camp Mardela is seeking a gifted and visionary individual with a passion for outdoor ministry to serve as the next camp administrator. This full-time position is open as of Nov. 1. Duties include overseeing the overall development and operation of the camp, building and coordinating the retreat and conference programs, promoting the camp, supervising other staff and volunteers, and networking with the camp\u2019s various stakeholders. Qualifications include strong skills in administration, organization, communication, marketing, program development, hospitality, and leadership, along with basic computer and finance skills. A bachelor\u2019s degree and\/or appropriate certification is required, along with at least two seasons of camp supervisory experience and knowledge and an understanding of ACA core competencies. The administrator should have an appreciation and understanding of Church of the Brethren beliefs and values. Salary is paid bi-monthly. Benefits include health benefits, retirement contributions, and on-site housing and utilities (in a separate home near the camp office). A full position description is available upon request. To apply, send a letter of interest and resum\u00e9 to the Camp Mardela board chair via email to mardelasearch@hotmail.com<\/a>. Find this posting online<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

— Ekklesiyar Yan\u2019uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria) has been sharing news of increased violence in northeast Nigeria.<\/strong> Most recently, as of mid-October, several violent attacks that affected EYN members and\/or congregations were reported. On Oct. 17, two people were killed, including EYN member Richard Christopher who was a choir member at the LCC Dabeghi congregation in the DCC Golantabal church district, \u201cafter suspected Fulani herders attacked farmers in the Gollar area of Golantabal,\u201d said a report<\/a>. Another incident on Oct. 15 \u201craised fresh concerns over a recurring pattern of night raids on communities in the area, following similar attacks recently reported in Garaha, Mussa and Guyaku,\u201d said EYN News. The suspected Boko Haram attack on Dzangola Kilba in Gombi Local Government Area of Adamawa State reportedly burned eight houses and seven shops and killed \u201can elderly man, Mr. Barnabas David…in his house after it was set on fire…. The gunmen also set fire to EYN LCC Dzangola, damaging part of the church building before the fire was stopped.\u201d Read the full report<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Last week, EYN president Daniel Y. C. Mbaya condemned the killing of Islamic scholar Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka<\/strong> in Katsina State, and commended police and others for responding to a separate case involving inflammatory religious rhetoric. \u201cBullets can silence the voice of a man but cannot silence truth,\u201d Mbaya said in the EYN release. He also extended condolences to Masussuka\u2019s family. EYN News reported that \u201cgunmen killed Masussuka and his friend, Adamu Abubakar, in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State\u201d on Oct. 26. \u201cReports about Masussuka\u2019s life describe him as an Islamic preacher and educator who advocated peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians.\u201d Find the full release<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

— The Church of the Brethren in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is requesting prayer <\/strong>for continued support of their general secretary Bitien Shabani Walumona. \u201cHe was involved in a road accident on Sept. 7, 2025, while returning with other team members from an evangelical and humanitarian mission to the Musenyi 1 and 2 Congolese refugee camps in Burundi\u2019s Rutana Province,\u201d said the prayer request. \u201cHe continues to receive appropriate medical and rehabilitation care at Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also shared by the Church of the Brethren Global Mission prayer guide this month, the Church of the Brethren in Uganda gives thanks \u201cthat Uganda was officially declared Ebola-free on July 28, 2026,<\/strong> after completing the required monitoring period without new transmission. Uganda recorded 20 confirmed cases during the outbreak, with 18 recoveries and 2 deaths. We thank God for the recovery of those who became ill, for the dedication of health workers, and for the successful efforts of communities and health authorities to contain the outbreak. Continue to pray for protection over Uganda and for wisdom and strength for health workers as Uganda maintains surveillance and preparedness. We also pray for our neighbors in the other countries where Ebola continues to affect communities, that the outbreak will soon be brought under control.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For many more prayer requests shared by the Global Mission office, see the October prayer guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

— Brethren Disaster Ministries is requesting prayer for a Disaster Project Leadership training<\/strong> that will take place at the Ashe County, N.C., rebuilding project site from Nov. 4-11. Prayer is requested for BDM staff, the trainers, and all participants during this time of learning and discernment. \u201cWe also appreciate your prayers for travel mercies for all,\u201d said the request. BDM staff also will be attending some meetings in North Carolina next week before the training begins. \u201cWe ask for your prayers for wisdom and discernment for all involved in those meetings.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

— In more from Brethren Disaster Ministries, the latest volunteer schedules<\/a> have been released.<\/strong> Volunteers are serving in western North Carolina in Hurricane Helene recovery rebuilding projects through the fall and winter. At the project site in Buncombe County, where volunteers are based in Montreat, N.C., there are openings for 9 volunteers for the week of Dec. 6-12; 7 volunteers for the week of Dec. 13-19; and 15 volunteers for the week of Jan. 24-30, 2027. Find out more<\/a> about the Buncombe County project. Find out how to volunteer<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

— A \u201cnominating party\u201d has been announced by the Womaen\u2019s Caucus <\/strong>for Wednesday, Nov. 18, at 8:30 p.m. (Eastern time) via Zoom. \u201cWhether you\u2019ve been elected to denominational leadership, or have no idea how to even nominate someone, join Womaen’s Caucus on Zoom for an informative, active session,\u201d said the announcement. \u201cJust think\u2014instead of putting \u2018nominate people\u2019 on your to-do list and never getting around to it, come to a Zoom party with friendly folks and you\u2019ll have time to make those nominations! Nominations are made online, with or without consulting your nominee first. But, the nomination can only move forward if the person you nominated fills out the nominee information form\u2014and over half of nominees never do!\u201d The open offices for election by the Church of the Brethren 2027 Annual Conference are Annual Conference moderator-elect (3-year term), Annual Conference Program and Arrangements Committee (3-year term), Annual Conference secretary (5-year term), Church of the Brethren Mission and Ministry Board for Area 1 (Southern Pennsylvania, Middle Pennsylvania, Western Pennsylvania, Mid-Atlantic), and for Area 2 (Northern Ohio, Southern Ohio\/Kentucky, Northern Indiana, South\/Central Indiana, Michigan, Illinois\/Wisconsin) (5-year term); and the Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee, clergy (5-year term). Full descriptions of the open positions, a video about the nominations process, and FAQs here<\/a>. Join the Zoom nominating party<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

— On Earth Peace has announced its 2026 Member Meeting on Thursday, Nov. 19, at 8 p.m. (Eastern time).<\/strong> \u201cWe want to listen to you tell us what you appreciate about On Earth Peace and what you dream for OEP,\u201d said the announcement. \u201cThis member meeting will be held on Zoom. Members of On Earth Peace must approve any changes in On Earth Peace\u2019s bylaws. Revised bylaws were approved by the Board in their August 2026 meeting and must now be approved by OEP members. Please read through the bylaws to be a knowledgeable voter to either approve or reject the revised bylaws.\u201d The definition of membership in On Earth Peace: \u201cAny person who intellectually and spiritually supports the purpose of On Earth Peace Assembly, Inc. shall be a member of the corporation if a financial contribution has been made at any time within the previous two (2) years.\u201d Find out more<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n

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— \u201c2027 marks 100 years of Camp Bethel! Celebrate with us!\u201d<\/strong> said an announcement of the camp and outdoor ministry center\u2019s milestone anniversary celebration in 2027. Camp Bethel is located near Fincastle, Va. \u201c100 YEARS! That\u2019s a lot of relationships created, worship held under the stars, yummy meals served and creek stomping enjoyed! It\u2019s also countless stories of searching, discovery, transformation, and belonging. It\u2019s countless feet that have stepped on this holy ground: campers, supporters, volunteers, congregations, retreating adults, and more. All these moments have created a century of ministry at Camp Bethel. There is so much to celebrate! So much so that we\u2019re going to spread it out over a year-long lineup of events.\u201d Special events in 2027 will include, among many others, a 100th Year Celebration Birthday Bash on July 3 and a 100th Year Celebration Banquet on Dec. 4. Find the full list of events and more<\/a> about the anniversary celebration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The camp also is collecting and sharing photos and stories in honor of the 100th anniversary. <\/strong>\u201cWhat\u2019s your Camp Bethel story?\u201d said an invitation to submit stories and photos from the last 50 years of Camp Bethel to be used in the next edition of the Camp Bethel history book, The Memory Maker<\/em>.\u201d Submit stories and photos<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n

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— Camp Swatara near Bethel, Pa., is hosting a Brethren Disaster Ministries Skill Builder Weekend for Parents and Kids<\/strong> on Feb. 5-6, 2027. The announcement was shared by Atlantic Northeast District. Families with children age 5 to 13 are welcome. Attendees will participate in fun building projects, learn how to use tools, and other skills needed on a Brethren Disaster Ministries project site. Contact BDMweekend@gmail.com<\/a> or 717-466-3006.<\/p>\n\n\n

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— A shirt fundraiser is being held by the Outdoor Ministries Association<\/strong> (OMA) of the Church of the Brethren after a design contest. \u201cThe people have spoken and have picked a shirt design,\u201d said an announcement. \u201cWe received over 30 votes (this could be Brian Bert voting 30 times, we have no way of knowing), and this design received an overwhelming majority.\u201d OMA is inviting supporters to order their shirts<\/a> in advance of the 2026 OMA Retreat to be held at Camp Harmony on Nov. 15-19. <\/strong>The event is \u201ca dedicated time for Brethren camping leaders of all levels to gather for professional growth, faith formation, and Outdoor Ministry community development…. Our theme this year is \u2018Torchbearers.\u2019 A torchbearer is someone who leads or inspires others in working toward a valued goal. In Matthew 5:14-16 Jesus calls us, His followers, \u2018the light of the world\u2019 and tells us to \u2018let our light shine before others.\u2019 We hope you will join us for adventure and fun with an eternal purpose!\u201d If your camp is a member of the OMA, cost for the retreat is $215. If your camp is not a member, cost is $240. For more details about the schedule and pricing<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n

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— The University of La Verne, Calif., has announced the inauguration of Risa E. Dickson as its 20th president<\/strong> on Thursday, Nov. 19, at 4 p.m. (Pacific time). Members of the ULV campus and community are invited to celebrate this milestone. \u201cPresident Dickson has led the University since January 2024,\u201d said the announcement. \u201cWith nearly three decades of experience in higher education leadership, she is committed to strengthening academic excellence, expanding opportunity, and fostering a collaborative culture that supports student success and prepares graduates to make meaningful contributions in their professions and communities. The ceremony and the events surrounding it will honor the University\u2019s legacy while celebrating the people, purpose, and values that will shape its future.\u201d A special event from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the inauguration day, titled \u201cLeos Build Through Service,\u201d invites participants to join the new president in supporting students who rely on the Leo Food Pantry. Participants are invited to bring food or personal hygiene items to donate, then help sort and organize the donations, said the announcement. \u201cA complimentary lunch from The Habit will be provided. Please make sure you register for this event and check in to receive your lunch ticket. Together, we can meet the growing needs of our students and carry forward the University of La Verne\u2019s tradition of service.\u201d Find out more and register<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

— The National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA (NCC) is remembering Dolores Clara Fernandez Huerta, <\/strong>described in a memorial release as \u201ca pioneering labor and civil rights leader and enduring advocate for farm workers, immigrants, women, and marginalized communities. Huerta\u2019s extraordinary life embodied a steadfast commitment to justice and the dignity of every person.\u201d The NCC remembered Huerta for her work standing \u201calongside workers whose labor helped sustain the nation, but whose voices and needs were too often ignored. Her leadership helped transform the struggle for farm workers\u2019 rights into a broader movement for economic justice, civil rights, and social change.\u201d After starting her career as a teacher in the 1950s, she co-founded the Stockton chapter of the Community Service Organization, where she participated in voter-registration efforts and advocated for economic opportunities for Latino communities. In 1962, she co-founded the National Farm Workers Association, which became part of the United Farm Workers. In 2002, she established the Dolores Huerta Foundation, through which she continued to develop community leaders and advance civic engagement, education, youth development, health and environmental justice, and economic opportunity. Her legacy \u201cis a reminder that the pursuit of justice requires more than words. She embodied courage, persistence, solidarity, and a willingness to stand with people whose voices have been pushed to the margins…. NCC gives thanks for the life and witness of Dolores Huerta and extends heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, colleagues, and the countless workers, organizers, and communities whose lives were touched by her leadership.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

— Scott Holland, professor emeritus of theology and culture at Bethany Theological Seminary, joined pastor Harry Jarrett\u2019s Sunday school class<\/strong> at Pleasant Valley Church of the Brethren in Weyers Cave, Va., for a conversation about the United Brethren roots of the Wright brothers, their father Bishop Milton Wright, and the place of imagination and dissent in the life of the church. The conversation is part of \u201cFaith in Process,\u201d recorded Sunday mornings at Pleasant Valley. Listen here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Find more Church of the Brethren news:<\/p>\n\n\n