Individuals can be nominated for volunteer/family caregiver, organizational staff (such as CEO or pastor), and organizational board member and/or deacon. Organizations can be nominated for organizational/congregational caregiving, organizational/facility innovation, and organizational health care or caregiving services. The awards committee may also consider those whose service to the fields fall outside those categories.

All candidates must be members of the Church of the Brethren and/or an employee or volunteer of a Church of the Brethren organization, have made significant contributions to the health and/or caregiving fields for at least five years, and be recognized as members of ABC or a Church of the Brethren-related organization.

Nominations are now being accepted and will close March 1. Send nominations and supporting materials to Steve Mason, executive director, Association of Brethren Caregivers, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.  

The theme for NOAC 2002 will be "While We Run This Race," based on Hebrews 12:1-2. It was developed by the NOAC 2002 Planning Committee, which includes Lester and Barbara Kesselring, Sebring, Fla.; Norman Harsh, Lorida, Fla.; Romy Mueller, Modesto, Calif.; Lona Norris, Huntingdon, Pa.; and Scott Douglas, ABC staff. Lester Kesselring is serving as chair.

Keynote presenters at NOAC will include well-known speaker Tony Campolo of Eastern College, St. David's, Pa.; Katie Funk Wiebe, professor emerita of English at Tabor College, Hillsboro, Kan.; Richard Morgan, national leader in issues on aging confronting the church in the 21st century; long-time social worker, teacher, and writer Marty Richards of Seattle. Church of the Brethren presenters will include Paul Mundey, senior pastor of the Fredrick (Md.) Church of the Brethren and Dawn Ottoni Wilheim, assistant professor of Ministry Studies at Bethany Theological Seminary, Richmond, Ind.

A Bible study each morning will again be led by Robert Neff, president emeritus of Juniata College and visiting professor at Penn State University. He is staff for resource and development at The Village at Morrisons Cove in Pennsylvania.

Evening entertainment will include Ministers of Music, a male quartet with female accompanist/vocalist from Lancaster County, Pa.; and the duet of Joseph Helfrich of Darke County, Ohio, and Shawn Kirchner of La Verne, Calif.

For more information about NOAC 2002, contact ABC at 800-323-8039. Registration materials will be available in February. Pastors and district offices will receive copies of the NOAC promotional brochure for distribution to interested church members.  

Titled "The Good War and Those Who Refused to Fight It," it will tell the story "through the memories of several remarkable men who went against the tide of the most popular and justifiable war of the 20th century," according to a press release. Those profiled include Quakers and Mennonites.

The Brethren Historical Library and Archives in Elgin, Ill., supplied materials for the program as it was being researched. An associate producer for the film spent a day in the archives in 1999 and requested copies of several items.

This is among the last untold stories of World War II. What the COs did (and didn't do) during World War II is a significant chapter in U.S. social and intellectual history. It was an experience that prepared many of them to change American society during the post-war decades in ways that we are now beginning to understand.

To the vast majority of Americans the clear moral issues presented by the war between democracy and totalitarianism offered no room for opposition, yet 40,000 young men refused to shoulder weapons in that "good war."

Most COs served in non-combatant positions in the armed services. Over 12,000 went into Civilian Public Service camps to help their country in other ways. They fought fires, volunteered as smoke jumpers served as medical guinea pigs and staffed many mental institutions. Even the 7,000 who were imprisoned because of their beliefs would have an impact, using non-violent hunger strikes to integrate and reform the Federal prison system.

The story is told with first-person testimony, historical materials including letters, articles, songs and poems, and a wide variety of archival visual materials.  

The documentary tells riveting stories of persons facing anger and forgiveness in the face of violent or wrongful death, near-death from racial injustice, terminal illness, and other stories.

The hour-long documentary powerfully demonstrates that those who are able to embark on a process towards forgiveness— though heartrending and difficult—find it to be the path to inner healing.

It looks at the stories of people from a variety of experiences, including a man whose daughter was killed in the Oklahoma City bombing, parents whose daughter was murdered, and a Native American chief who reflects on a 19th-century massacre of his people. Each struggle along routes to reconciliation and forgiveness.

The Church of the Brethren was among many denominational partners aiding in the production of the special. It will be released on December 2, but local ABC affiliates will decide if and when to broadcast the piece. It will also be released on video in March.

Additional details are available at www.journeytowardforgiveness.com.  

The East Fairview, Elizabethtown, and West Green Tree congregations all separated from Chiques in 1902. The service will include a hymn sing from the 1901 Brethren Hymnal, a combined men's chorus, and a historical retrospective; it will be held at the Chiques church. A second centennial event will be held at Elizabethtown College in June.  

Qualifications for the position include being a Christian with acceptance of Church of the Brethren values, a passion for outdoor ministry, ability to lead the camp's new strategic plan, a bachelor's degree, seven years of administrative experience with at least five years in the camping/conference center field, and ability to interpret the camp's ministry to district congregations. Licensing or ordination in the Church of the Brethren is preferred.

To apply, send letter of interest and resume to Nancy F. Knepper, Office of District Ministries, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120. Three to four professional references should be provided. An application form will be sent following receipt of resume. Application deadline is Jan. 4.  

Page 10
Anthology of response
From around the country Brethren responded to events of Sept. 11 and its aftermath with public statements of faith in Jesus' message of peace and love. Here is a collection of Brethren voices in sermons, prayers, letters, and essays.

Page 22
Introduction to Islam
When world events promote confusion about religion and when ignorance results in persecution of innocents, it is time for Christians to learn more about another great monotheistic religion, Islam. It is a good way to show concern for our Muslim neighbors.

The links are to PDF versions of the pages. You will need Acrobat Reader to view them. If you do not have this program, it is available as a free download at www.adobe.com  

Starting date for this position is negotiable, but is available January 2002.

Position Functions:

• To assist indigenous leadership, specifically the National Director, to guide and nurture the development of the Church of the Brethren in Brazil.
• To help communicate Brethren identity and practices.
• To represent the U.S. church.
• To foster support of the Brazil mission effort within the U.S. church.
• To facilitate communications and interactions between the Brazilian and the U.S. church, including coordinating and hosting of visitors.
• To manage and implement administrative support systems to undergird the ministry.

Location:

Area of Brazil to be determined

Skills and knowledge required:

• Well-grounded in, and able to articulate Church of the Brethren heritage, theology and polity.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
• Organization and administrative skills, including some knowledge of budgeting and bookkeeping
• Ability to learn Portugese language and function in Brazilian society
• Ability to function collaboratively with colleagues in a team relationship

Experience:

Minimum of three years experience in pastoral, mission, or church leadership role within the Church of the Brethren
Previous international living and work experience is preferred

Education:

Bachelors degree in a related field
Seminary training is preferred

For position description and application form contact:

Office of Human Resources
1451 Dundee Avenue
Elgin, IL 60120-1694
1-800-323-8039 ext. 259  

Position:
Teacher of Bible/theology at Kulp Bible College, Nigeria

Position focus:
Primary teaching assignments include one or more of the following: Brethren history and beliefs, Christian doctrine, New Testament. Teaching is at an academic level comparable to a U.S. junior college, but all students are experienced church leaders in their late 20s or 30s. Courses at this level are taught in English.

Specific tasks:

1. Teach and lecture in classroom – about 15 hours per week
2. Develop and administer tests for student assessment
3. Assist in curriculum development
4. Participate with other faculty in school administration and supervision
5. Accept periodic leadership roles in the wider church, i.e., preaching and consulting on church issues.

Qualifications:

• Masters degree in theology
• Commitment to Christian beliefs and lifestyle
• Ability to work under Nigerian leadership
• Ability to live and work in Africa
• Experience in teaching Bible, theology, or Christian education
• Willingness to learn conversational Hausa language
• Previous experience in another culture
• Because this institution is the primary training ground for Nigerian church leadership, membership in the Church of the Brethren and knowledge of its polity and practice is expected.

Compensation:
Salary, housing, vehicle, and basic medical insurance plan are provided. A two-year commitment expected. Candidates open to considering additional terms are preferred.

Contact:
Merv Keeney, Director for Global Mission Partnerships
800-323-8039  

Position description similar to that of "legislative associate." Special Projects are likely. Educational credit often available. Inquire with your college program advisor, as well as the Washington Office Coordinator.

Re: Familiarity with the programs and values of the Church of the Brethren, good communication skills, self starter.

Contact:
Greg Laszakovits, Washington Office Coordinator 202.546.3202  

The Church of the Brethren Washington Office, a program of the Office of the Brethren Witness, needs Legislative Associates for one or two year Brethren Volunteer Service assignments. Duties include active participation with ecumenical and public advocacy agencies to develop expertise on three to four issues of focus; assist in editing and writing the Witness to Washington (the office's monthly publication); assist with grassroots organizing; participate in weekly Washington Office organizational meetings; general office duties; hosting visitors.

Re: Familiarity with the programs and values of the Church of the Brethren, good communication skills, self starter, college degree, international experience helpful, acceptance into Brethren Volunteer Service.

Contact:
Greg Laszakovits, Washington Office Coordinator - 202.546.3202
Dan McFadden, Director of Brethren Volunteer Service - 1.800.323.8039  

For more details contact Laura Kreider, DOV Assistant, the Brethren Witness office, or On Earth Peace.  

For and Adobe Acrobat version, click here: PDF Version  

Available January 1, 2002
Application deadline December 1, 2001

Located in Elgin, IL

Provides leadership in planning, developing, scheduling, and implementing information and promotional strategy and content about BBT’s Pension, Insurance, Foundation, and eMountain Communications ministries. Works closely with the Director of Communications and Information Services and the Production Coordinator on all routine communications as well as periodic and annual projects. Represents BBT denominationally and ecumenically on communication issues at Board meetings, conferences, and other events as instructed by the Director. Specific responsibilities include

• Working with Communication and BBT staff to define and drive editorial, photo, and video content for news, public relations, and promotional purposes.
• Providing leadership in the creation of print and electronic materials, and assistance and guidance with the design, production, distribution, and scheduling of these materials.
• Working with the Director to coordinate special interpretative projects and other public relations activities as needed.

Qualifications: BS or equivalent in Journalism, Public Relations, Communications, Marketing or a related discipline with professional experience in a related position. Strong written and verbal communications skills. Experience in desktop publishing and Web page production a plus. A self-starter with a positive, collaborative attitude a must. Familiarity with the Church of the Brethren desired.

Interested and qualified individuals may apply by faxing letter, resume, and salary history to 847.742.0135

or mail to Claudia Sheets, Human Resources, Brethren Benefit Trust, 1505 Dundee Avenue, Elgin, IL 60120. Direct phone: 847.622.3389.  

Annual Conference moderator Paul Grout and On Earth Peace co-director Barbara Sayler will serve as leaders for the event. It will seek to address questions such as "How does the soul find peace?," "How can I live in this world and not be afraid?," "How do I let myself follow Jesus' call to be vulnerable?," and "What way is God calling me into Spirit- filled discipleship?"

Cost is $75 for all sessions and meals plus $10 per night for lodging options at the camp including dormitories, tent spaces, and RV hookups. Airport transportation will be provided. For more information, call Merle Crouse at 407-892- 6678 or e-mail crousejm@mpinet.net. Registrations are due by January 20.  

During the weekend, there will be planning and business meetings for the Global Women's Project, telling of the GWP story and highlighting of current projects to sisters and brothers gathered in Huntingdon, enjoy good food and community at a fundraising dinner followed by a storytelling and music family concert by Jonathan Hunter and Peg Lehman, and help lead Sunday morning worship at Stone Church.

GWP wants to continue to spread the word about itself as it holds steering committee meetings around the country. If you'd like GWP to meet with your women/congregation in the spring or fall of 2002, please contact one of our committee members or Lauryn Estes at the General Offices.  

New York City & Washington, D.C.
April 6-11, 2002

Registration limited to those 18 years and over

Special adult Christian Citizenship Seminars have at times been held in the year of a National Youth Conference. In light of the current world situation, such a CCS is again being offered in 2002. Join Brethren from around the nation for this important opportunity to discuss Christian peacemaking in a time of crisis.

The event will begin with supper on Saturday, April 6 at the Vanderbilt YMCA in New York City. The group will depart on Tuesday, April 9 for Washington D.C., with the event concluding on Thursday, April 11 at 10:30 a.m.

This experience will include discussions on:

• patriotism
• Christian/Muslim relations
• Christian alternatives to violent retaliation
• the biblical basis of peacemaking
• the role of the United Nations in international conflict situations (and a U.N. tour)
• legislative advocacy
• international military spending

Cost:  $300 (reduced from previous estimate of $350) (not including meals [other than on first night] or transportation to New York City and from Washington, D.C.)

Eligibility:  Those 18 years and older

Registration deadline:  March 15, 2002    Click here to download the PDF registration form  

January 1, 2002 is an important date because NYC registration opens on that day! Registration will take place on-line. To check out what the registration form looks like, visit www.nyc2002.com/register.html to see a sample form. At 12 a.m. (EST) on January 1, that page will become an active registration form. Your pastor should be receiving a flyer in the December Source mailing that contains guidelines for using the on-line registration process.

Entries for the Youth Speech Contest are also due on January 1, 2002.

If you have any questions about or problems with any of these items, please call us at the NYC Office (800-323-8039, ext. 245) or send us an email (NYC_gb@brethren.org).  

Another Way of Living?

In a flurry of consumption and a history of keeping up with the Jones', we are now reaping what we have long sowed. The proverbial elephant we have ignored in the corner has been there so long it now has its trunk in the cupboards. This particular elephant is environmental degradation.

We live under the illusion that we cannot avoid it. It's just part of our culture.While we may choose to ignore the elephant out of blissful ignorance, the desire to seek riches, or sheer apathy, it's not going anywhere—it's only getting bigger. Clearly, something must be done.

We cannot continue consumption at this rate or in this manner. As Christians we must be a prophetic voice modeling another way of living (sound familiar?).

This issue of Witness... focuses on our God-given earth and its treatment. It is our hope that you will be inspired not only to legislative advocacy, but also to a personal commitment or reaffirmation of your covenant with God to care for what has been so graciously given—our life-bearing earth. Let's give the elephant back to its natural habitat.

"We, the people who have accepted the redeeming love of God, have broken the covenant to care for creation." (Creation: Called to Care, AC 1991)  

The Annual Conference Council is seeking an Executive Director who is responsible for the Annual Conference of the Church of the Brethren.

Ideal candidates will demonstrate the following qualifications: knowledge of and identification with Church of the Brethren beliefs and practices; excellent administrative, financial management, communication, organization, and computer skills; ability to work with wide-range of individuals and groups; freedom to travel as required.

Applications will be received until March 1, 2002 or until the position is filled. The position is available October 15, 2002.

All interested parties should direct inquiries or letters of application to:

Annual Conference Council
c/o Harriet Finney
205 River Cove Lane
North Manchester, IN 46962-1130  

Several resources are available to facilitate the implementation of the online process. A sample registration form is available at www.nyc2002.com/register.html. Guidelines for online registrationwill also be sent in the December Source mailing and posted on the web site.

Beginning at midnight (EST) on Jan. 1, 2002, the registration page at www.nyc2002.com will become active, and youth and advisors will be able to register. A free NYC T-shirt will be given to everyone who has registered on or before February 15. Registration closes on April 1.

For further information or to report difficulties, call the General Board's Youth/Young Adult Ministry office at 800-323-8039, ext. 245, or e-mail nyc_gb@brethren.org  

Many thanks!

Brent Yoder South Bend, IN sbscout@aol.com  

Position functions:

• To walk with Dominican leadership and help them shape and guide the church
• To provide overall leadership for the mission operation, seeking to establish the Church of the Brethren in the DR.
• To foster understanding of Brethren identity, beliefs and practices and the contextualization of Brethren identity in the DR culture and context.
• To encourage and facilitate U.S. constituency involvement with and support of the mission venture.
• To oversee and administer General Board resources to achieve the mission goals.

Location:

Santo Domingo, DR

Skills and knowledge required:

• well-grounded in, and able to articulate, Church of the Brethren heritage, theology, and polity
• strong communication skills, both written and verbal
• organization and administration skills, including budgeting experience
• ability to develop and lead a team, some of whom will be based at a distance
• fluency in Spanish and English languages

Experience:

Minimum of three years experience in pastoral, mission, or church leadership role
Experience in leading a team

Education:

Bachelors degree in a related field
Ordination in the Church of the Brethren
Seminary degree is preferred

For position description and application form contact:

Office of Human Resources
1451 Dundee Avenue
Elgin IL 60120-1694
1-800-323-8039 ext. 259
e-mail: mgarrison_gb@brethren. org  

Four sessions on peacemaking (by Barb Saylor, Charlie Sutton, Gary Flory, and Herb Smith) are featured Saturday morning, with Arun Gandhi holding a workshop from 2-5:00 p.m.. Saturday evening from 7-9:00 p.m. Mr. Gandhi will be featured again as the Religious Heritage Lecturer for McPherson College.

A $5.00 fee per person includes all the daytime sessions, including Saturday lunch and Sunday breakfast. The Saturday night lecture by Mr. Gandhi is free to the public and does not require registration. Events will be held at the McPherson First Church of the Brethren, Euclid and Carrie Sts., McPherson. You may register at maccob@m pks.net or by calling the church at (620)241-1109.

The Western Plains Youth Rally is scheduled to coincide with this event, but persons of all ages are invited to attend. Please pass this email along to your friends and members to spread the word. We need to hear what the peacemakers are saying amidst the dropping of bombs. There IS a better way...

Jeanne Smith
McPherson College/
First Church of the Brethren
McPherson, Kansas

http://www.gandhiinstitute.org/  

On Earth Peace has introduced a newly designed area for its "Seeking Peace" site with a variety of resources, at www.brethren.org/oepa/seekingpeace.

The Brethren Press "The Way of Peace" congregational resources collection is also growing almost daily. It can be found at www.brethren.org/genbd/BP/resources.htm.

In addition to electronic resources, a ready-to-use print bulletin insert highlighting General Board response efforts was mailed to all congregations in the past week.  

Beginning date: July 1, 2002.

Among other responsibilities, the Associate Dean will administer the distributed education track of the M.Div. program, will provide pedagogical and technical support to faculty in the design and teaching of online courses at both the graduate and academy level, and will teach up to two courses annually. The Associate Dean will serve as a member of both the teaching and administrative faculty.

For a fuller description of the position, including responsibilities and desired qualifications, see the Seminary's homepage and go to "position openings", or call the Academic Offices at (765) 983-1821 to request a copy.

Prospective candidates are invited to send a letter of application and CV, and request three references to submit letters of recommendation, to: Academic Dean, Bethany Theological Seminary, 615 National Road West, Richmond, IN 47374. Deadline for submitting applications and supporting materials: December 1, 2001. Applications will be reviewed as received.

Bethany Theological Seminary is an equal opportunity employer.  

Let us know how your congregation is witnessing to the gospel of peace following the events of Sept. 11. You're invited to send Brethren Press worship resources, essays or meditations, excerpts from sermons, and other material created to help congregations respond from a Church of the Brethren faith perspective.

Selected writings may be used in Messenger magazine or on the denominational website. (To be considered for Messenger, material must be submitted by Sept. 26.)

Material should be submitted by e-mail to wayofpeace_gb@bret hren.org. All writings must be original, and they are subject to editing. By submitting material, you are granting permission for congregations and individuals to use your work within their church settings or within local ecumenical worship services.
 

This is a full-time General Board position located in Elgin, Ill., reportable to the Director of Global Mission Partnerships.

Responsibilities:

• Strengthen member connection with and participation in denominational global mission, with emphasis on long-term church relationships in Nigeria, Sudan, Dominican Republic, and the new effort in Brazil
• Utilize interactive media and develop tangible projects to offer membership new points of engagement with mission
• Become primary constituency contact point for information about and connection with denominational mission

Knowledge/Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in public relations, marketing, or a related field
• Well-grounded in Church of the Brethren heritage, theology, and polity. Theological education would be a plus
• A minimum of three years of relevant experience reflecting increasing responsibility and building skill sets in public relations or marketing in a nonprofit context
• International mission experience and/or pastoral experience would be a plus
• Strong oral and written communication skills and ability and enthusiasm to inspire and motivate others
• Ability to function collaboratively with colleagues in a team context.

Qualified candidates are invited to request an application form and complete position description from eholderread_gb@breth ren.org

Position context:
Kulp Bible College is operated by Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria (EYN), the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria. The college's primary function is to train leaders for the rapidly-growing Nigerian church. This school provides training for 180 students annually in multi- year certificate or degree programs. The school is located in a rural area near Mubi in northeast Nigeria, almost at the Cameroon border.

The curriculum includes agricultural training, alongside its Bible and theology focus, since most pastors will farm for a living. The school is exploring academic links with Nigerian universities in order to gain a recognized credential. A women's program incorporated into the school's program teaches literacy, English, health education, income-generating skills, and Bible.

The campus is situated just off the main north-south road, with classrooms and housing situated about one-half mile amidst large trees. Faculty housing, in a three-bedroom furnished mission house, is provided on campus. The campus has fairly- reliable electricity from the national grid and an excellent water supply. Nearby Mubi is a major town with a good market and telephone access.

Compensation:
Salary, housing, vehicle, and basic medical insurance plan are provided. A two-year commitment expected. Candidates open to considering additional terms are preferred.

Contact:
Merv Keeney, Director for Global Mission Partnerships
mission_gb@brethren.org
800-323-8039  

Work assignments will include processing archival materials, writing descriptive inventories, preparing books for cataloging, responding to reference requests, and assisting researchers in the library. Professional contacts may include attending archival and library conferences and workshops, visits to libraries and archives in the Chicago area, and participation in the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference and the Brethren Historical Committee meeting.

Brethren Historical Library and Archives:
BHLA is an official repository for Church of the Brethren publications and records. The collection consists of 9000 volumes, over 2700 linear feet of manuscripts and records, over 2500 photographs, plus videos, films, and recordings. BHLA is located at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Illinois.

Term of Service:
One Year, beginning June 2002 (preferred)

For additional information contact the Brethren Historical Library and Archives by phone at 1-800-323-8039, ext. 294 or by e-mail at kshaffer_gb@brethren.org.  

I am a Christian Home based small business man..Offering you (the member of this chruch) for your personal or business web site at very low price.

Please contact me via e-mail..to know the detail..  

Camp Eder seeks a Program Director to implement the summer program, yearly retreats, expand the Outdoor Education program and assist with the daily operations of the camping ministry.

Camp Eder currently serves approximately 400 campers from first through twelfth grade in one-week sessions. The person must be well organized, outgoing, service oriented, with excellent communication skills. They are directly responsible for hiring and training summer staff and volunteers as well as implementing year-round retreats. Benefits include medical insurance, housing, meals when groups are in camp and professional development opportunities.

Join the Camp Eder team where each member makes a difference in the lives of our campers. For more info e-mail Curt at curt@campeder.org or send resume to Curt Rowland, Camp Eder, 914 Mt Hope Rd, Fairfield, PA 17320, phone (717) 642-8256