'John 10:10 Challenge' calls people of faith to work for health-care reform
New website provides resources to empower advocacy in community and with Congress.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — United Methodists are invited to participate in the “John 10:10 Challenge” to raise the faith community’s voice in support of comprehensive U.S. health-care reform. The challenge, issued by the General Board of Church & Society (GBCS), is based on Jesus’ declaration that he came so all “may have life, and have it abundantly.” A new website, www.1010challenge.org, contains resources to enable persons to be informed, engaged and empowered to begin advocacy for U.S. health-care reform.
The United Methodist Church states in its Social Principles (¶162.V) that it believes health care is “a basic human right.” Last year, the denomination’s highest policy-making body, the General Conference, adopted a resolution that supports a single-payer system. That resolution, #3201 in the 2008 Book of Resolutions, urges United Methodists to exert influence through all structures and means “to connectionally advocate and fervently lobby the federal government for the adoption and implementation of a totally nonprofit health-insurance system, a single-payer system administered by the federal government.”
More than 47 million people are without health care in this country, and 14,000 people are losing their coverage daily, according to both health-care industry and congressional estimates. While the U.S. Congress deliberates on health-care reform, the 10:10 Challenge will enable the faith community to learn about details under consideration, start dialogues around reform, and to act on behalf of the United Methodist witness that health care is a basic human right.
The 10:10 Challenge website offers a “justice-filled prescription for health care.” People who visit the site are asked to make a commitment to take action in the next 10 weeks to help convince Congress that reform is necessary.
The website offers 10 actions that persons who accept the challenge can choose to take during these 10 intensive weeks of congressional advocacy. Actions are suitable for individuals or groups, such as United Methodist Women or Men, youth fellowships or Sunday school classes. The website encourages persons to start a team challenge and invite others to join to commit to being a part of health-care reform.
Actions include:
• Signing a “Prescription for Health-care Reform.” The petition will be forwarded to the White House and Congress. The petition gives a strong endorsement to a public option to insure everyone.
• Conducting a Health-care Justice Sabbath. The website contains a suggested worship service, including litanies, prayers and Bible verses.
• Holding prayer vigils. The website offers an enhanced prayer service that supports the United Methodist position on health-care reform.
• Contacting members of Congress. The website includes scripts that feature faith-based messaging.
The website is predicated on United Methodist principles that health care should be inclusive, available, accessible and accountable for all. The site states: “As people of faith, we envision a society where each person is afforded health, wholeness and human dignity.”
A one-page 10:10 Challenge overview is available in .pdf format.
For more information about the 10:10 Challenge or United Methodist positions on comprehensive health-care reform, contact the Rev. Cynthia Abrams, director of GBCS’s work area on Alcohol, Other Addictions & Health Care, (202) 488-5636 or by e-mail to cabrams@umc-gbcs.org.
The General Board of Church & Society is one of four international general program boards of The United Methodist Church. The board’s primary areas of ministry are Advocacy, Education and Leadership Formation, United Nations and International Affairs, and resourcing these areas for the denomination. It has offices on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., and at the Church Center at the United Nations in New York City.
To reach the website click on the address http:www.1010challenge.org
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Church of the Resurrection Leadership Institute, October 8-9, 2009
Hello! I am Debi Nixon and I serve as one of the Executive Directors at Church of the Resurrection with direct oversight of our annual Leadership Institute team. Our Institute design team just completed a planning meeting with our Senior Pastor Adam Hamilton. I can't tell you how excited I am about this year's Institute! As we dream and plan, we are also praying about the impact the Institute will have throughout the church. We understand, from our own experience, that this year in particular all of us as church leaders have to make careful decisions about how to spend valuable (and limited) church resources. Knowing that, we want to tell you why we believe that, this year more than ever, you need to be at the Leadership Institute in October.
This year has been one of tremendous growth at Resurrection in both the depth and the reach of our ministries, and we are thrilled to share what we have leanred. At Leadership Institute, we are going to share powerful new ministry ideas we implemented since last year's Institute. These ideas have never before been shared at the Institute. We wil be particularly sharing ideas emerging from our efforts to reach young adults and to lead our congregation through a time of economic struggle.
We will also share innovations we have used in Children's Ministry, Student Ministry, Congregational Care, Media Technology, Worship, and more. You'll also gain learning and inspiration from our Keynote Speaker Michael Slaughter, Senior Pastor of Ginghamsburg UMC in Tipp City, Ohio.
This year we have intentionally planned for young adults. As a part of our Young Adult Focus, we are inviting men and women 25 and under to attend the Institute for a deeply discounted rate of $49 (including a Special Pre-Institute). We encourage you to indentify young people who are leaders in the church, considering vocational or lay ministry, or who are key volunteers in your congregation. Bring them with your team or sponsor them to attend this incredible opportunity.
Our team is committed to giving you the maximum possible value for your training investment including opportunities for great networking with others from across the country and of course, awesome Kansas City barbeque. This year's Institute is so packed with great ideas aimed directly at the most pressing issues for the church right now, I believe it's a "can't miss" exprience.
For more information and to register go to www.cor.org/li2009 (includes a video incerpt featuring Debi Nixon)
We look forward to welcoming you and your team at the Institute October 8-9! If I can serve in any way as you prepare to register or make your travel plans, please email me at debi.nixon@cor.org. See you at the Institute.
Debi Nixon
Church of the Resurrection
Hello! I am Debi Nixon and I serve as one of the Executive Directors at Church of the Resurrection with direct oversight of our annual Leadership Institute team. Our Institute design team just completed a planning meeting with our Senior Pastor Adam Hamilton. I can't tell you how excited I am about this year's Institute! As we dream and plan, we are also praying about the impact the Institute will have throughout the church. We understand, from our own experience, that this year in particular all of us as church leaders have to make careful decisions about how to spend valuable (and limited) church resources. Knowing that, we want to tell you why we believe that, this year more than ever, you need to be at the Leadership Institute in October.
This year has been one of tremendous growth at Resurrection in both the depth and the reach of our ministries, and we are thrilled to share what we have leanred. At Leadership Institute, we are going to share powerful new ministry ideas we implemented since last year's Institute. These ideas have never before been shared at the Institute. We wil be particularly sharing ideas emerging from our efforts to reach young adults and to lead our congregation through a time of economic struggle.
We will also share innovations we have used in Children's Ministry, Student Ministry, Congregational Care, Media Technology, Worship, and more. You'll also gain learning and inspiration from our Keynote Speaker Michael Slaughter, Senior Pastor of Ginghamsburg UMC in Tipp City, Ohio.
This year we have intentionally planned for young adults. As a part of our Young Adult Focus, we are inviting men and women 25 and under to attend the Institute for a deeply discounted rate of $49 (including a Special Pre-Institute). We encourage you to indentify young people who are leaders in the church, considering vocational or lay ministry, or who are key volunteers in your congregation. Bring them with your team or sponsor them to attend this incredible opportunity.
Our team is committed to giving you the maximum possible value for your training investment including opportunities for great networking with others from across the country and of course, awesome Kansas City barbeque. This year's Institute is so packed with great ideas aimed directly at the most pressing issues for the church right now, I believe it's a "can't miss" exprience.
For more information and to register go to www.cor.org/li2009 (includes a video incerpt featuring Debi Nixon)
We look forward to welcoming you and your team at the Institute October 8-9! If I can serve in any way as you prepare to register or make your travel plans, please email me at debi.nixon@cor.org. See you at the Institute.
Debi Nixon
Church of the Resurrection
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Call to Action Steering Committee Begins Review
Note: To read and or download the full Call to Action issued by the Council of Bishops in May CLICK on the words Call to Action
Chicago: The steering committee formed in response to the Call to Action issued in May by the Council of Bishops began work on its task last week during an organizational meeting in Chicago.
The purpose of the steering committee is to further align the mission of the church and the four areas of focus, and to refashion and reposition the church for the future. The committee will look at the current realities and systems of The United Methodist Church to better understand how they affect our ability to reach desired outcomes, and generate dramtic alternative options to reshape and reorder the life of the denomination.
"We have a vision of a church that is vital, growing, diverse, relevant, appealing to youth and young adults, and engaged in effective, life-changing ministry -- but we're limited by an outdated organizational structure. We must have the courage to change that which no longer works for that vision to become a reality," said Bishop Larry Boodpaster, project director.
Other members of the steering committee are: Bishop Gregory Palmer, chair, Bishop John Hopkins, Bishop Sharon Rader, Bishop Joel Martinez, Bishop Mary Ann Swenson, Bishop Rosemarie Wenner, Bishop John Yambasu, Bishop Grant Hagiya, Neil Alexander, the Rev. Larry Hollon, Barbara Boigegrain, Erin Hawkins, Moses Kumar, the Rev. Karen Greenwaldt, Benjamin Boruff, Jay Brim, and the Rev. Deborah McLeod.
The committee will generate proposals to be presented to the Council of Bishops and Connectional Table in November 2009. A consulting firm experienced in organizational change management, systems analysis, and renewal/redesign has been retained to assist the committee in its work.
The formation of the steering committee was one element of a five-point call to action by the Council of Bishops that outlines the need for urgent response to the economic crisis and its impact on an already declining church. "The current global financial our hesitancy to act, but it has also gifted us with a sense of urgency and an opportuntiy to lead courageously," the Call to Action states.
Other steps outlined in the Call to Action address freezing the salaries of active U.S. bishops at the 2008 level, shartening semi-annual Council meetings, redesigning the operation of the 2012 General Conference, convening a series of "conversation circles" around the four areas of focus, gathering information about economic challenges and how congregations are adapting creatively to economic stress, and a commitment to raise $20 million for the Central Conference Pension Initiative and $75 million for the Global Health Initiative to help eliminate malaria.
Note: To read and or download the full Call to Action issued by the Council of Bishops in May CLICK on the words Call to Action
Chicago: The steering committee formed in response to the Call to Action issued in May by the Council of Bishops began work on its task last week during an organizational meeting in Chicago.
The purpose of the steering committee is to further align the mission of the church and the four areas of focus, and to refashion and reposition the church for the future. The committee will look at the current realities and systems of The United Methodist Church to better understand how they affect our ability to reach desired outcomes, and generate dramtic alternative options to reshape and reorder the life of the denomination.
"We have a vision of a church that is vital, growing, diverse, relevant, appealing to youth and young adults, and engaged in effective, life-changing ministry -- but we're limited by an outdated organizational structure. We must have the courage to change that which no longer works for that vision to become a reality," said Bishop Larry Boodpaster, project director.
Other members of the steering committee are: Bishop Gregory Palmer, chair, Bishop John Hopkins, Bishop Sharon Rader, Bishop Joel Martinez, Bishop Mary Ann Swenson, Bishop Rosemarie Wenner, Bishop John Yambasu, Bishop Grant Hagiya, Neil Alexander, the Rev. Larry Hollon, Barbara Boigegrain, Erin Hawkins, Moses Kumar, the Rev. Karen Greenwaldt, Benjamin Boruff, Jay Brim, and the Rev. Deborah McLeod.
The committee will generate proposals to be presented to the Council of Bishops and Connectional Table in November 2009. A consulting firm experienced in organizational change management, systems analysis, and renewal/redesign has been retained to assist the committee in its work.
The formation of the steering committee was one element of a five-point call to action by the Council of Bishops that outlines the need for urgent response to the economic crisis and its impact on an already declining church. "The current global financial our hesitancy to act, but it has also gifted us with a sense of urgency and an opportuntiy to lead courageously," the Call to Action states.
Other steps outlined in the Call to Action address freezing the salaries of active U.S. bishops at the 2008 level, shartening semi-annual Council meetings, redesigning the operation of the 2012 General Conference, convening a series of "conversation circles" around the four areas of focus, gathering information about economic challenges and how congregations are adapting creatively to economic stress, and a commitment to raise $20 million for the Central Conference Pension Initiative and $75 million for the Global Health Initiative to help eliminate malaria.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Finance agency thanks church members for support
TO THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH:
Greetings, brothers and sisters in Christ.
We wonder at times – particularly at financially difficult times like these – how did we get in this situation? We are all aware that giving within the Church has decreased, which diminishes the amount of monies available for mission and ministry. We’ve been worried and anxious about where we’ve been, where we are and where we’re going. We’ve been concerned with protecting what we have; worrying that life as a United Methodist as we know it – being in ministry and doing mission work to the world – just can’t go on as it is.
It’s okay to be concerned. Healthy concern allows us to open our hearts and minds to the existing situation. It is the nature of the community to be concerned about our collective futures. And this is not a time to chastise or criticize each other for expressing these concerns. This is a time for the faithful to take action to curb the effects of the economic challenges we face today. Out of our concerns can grow constructive actions.
In many arenas, bold and deliberate actions are being taken to curb the downturn and look to the future. Annual conferences across the connection have prayerfully given consideration to their expenses by rethinking finances and focusing on ministry. They are redirecting their efforts to enhance current and developing new ministries. Praise God for this creative thinking on the part of so many United Methodists across the connection.
The United Methodist Church is in the forefront of compassionate giving. A few examples of the way groups within the connection are living into the reality of a strained economy are exemplified in the reports from annual conferences and agency board meetings. Among them are included: reduction or no increase in salaries for conference staff in 2010; decreases or a freeze in current missional budgets among several annual conferences; the Council of Bishops voted to return bishop salaries to the 2008 level beginning in 2010; and general agencies of the church adjusted spending plans for 2009 and re-evaluating 2010 spending plans. These are just a few.
Experts tell us the economy will begin a turnaround near the end of the year. When? No one knows the exact day, or time, or event, or even by how much. We should be encouraged by some of the early signs of economic recovery: credit markets are thawing and the financial sector is showing early signs of growth. At the same time, our optimism should be tempered with patience. Many in our communities will continue to bear the burdens of this economic crisis and they will need our prayers and support in these difficult times. Although the likely slow pace of recovery will continue to challenge our churches, conferences, and agencies, United Methodists are still a generous people.
The Economic Advisory Committee of the General Council on Finance and Administration (GFCA) continues to monitor the situation and provide their insights to our leaders. Their models indicate that giving to apportionments in 2009 and 2010 will be below the levels of previous years, but similar to the lowered levels experienced during previous recessions.
As Methodists committed to the lessons of John Wesley, we remain faithful to the word of God as the director of our faith. As faithful followers of Jesus Christ, we know that during these times, God continues to show us a new thing: mission work around the world is still continuing, leaders are developing in their effectiveness to shepherd congregations into a new path of growth, donations are being made to purchase life-sustaining supplies that will help stamp out killer diseases associated with poverty. God has, is currently, and will continue to supply all that we need to carry out our ministries, as stated in Philippians 4:19: And my God will fully satisfy every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (NRSV)
Thank you for your continued support of the mission and ministry of The United Methodist
Church.
Bishop Lindsey Davis
President, Board of Directors,
The General Council on Finance and Administration
A. Moses Rathan Kumar
General Secretary and Treasurer
The General Council on Finance and Administration
TO THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH:
Greetings, brothers and sisters in Christ.
We wonder at times – particularly at financially difficult times like these – how did we get in this situation? We are all aware that giving within the Church has decreased, which diminishes the amount of monies available for mission and ministry. We’ve been worried and anxious about where we’ve been, where we are and where we’re going. We’ve been concerned with protecting what we have; worrying that life as a United Methodist as we know it – being in ministry and doing mission work to the world – just can’t go on as it is.
It’s okay to be concerned. Healthy concern allows us to open our hearts and minds to the existing situation. It is the nature of the community to be concerned about our collective futures. And this is not a time to chastise or criticize each other for expressing these concerns. This is a time for the faithful to take action to curb the effects of the economic challenges we face today. Out of our concerns can grow constructive actions.
In many arenas, bold and deliberate actions are being taken to curb the downturn and look to the future. Annual conferences across the connection have prayerfully given consideration to their expenses by rethinking finances and focusing on ministry. They are redirecting their efforts to enhance current and developing new ministries. Praise God for this creative thinking on the part of so many United Methodists across the connection.
The United Methodist Church is in the forefront of compassionate giving. A few examples of the way groups within the connection are living into the reality of a strained economy are exemplified in the reports from annual conferences and agency board meetings. Among them are included: reduction or no increase in salaries for conference staff in 2010; decreases or a freeze in current missional budgets among several annual conferences; the Council of Bishops voted to return bishop salaries to the 2008 level beginning in 2010; and general agencies of the church adjusted spending plans for 2009 and re-evaluating 2010 spending plans. These are just a few.
Experts tell us the economy will begin a turnaround near the end of the year. When? No one knows the exact day, or time, or event, or even by how much. We should be encouraged by some of the early signs of economic recovery: credit markets are thawing and the financial sector is showing early signs of growth. At the same time, our optimism should be tempered with patience. Many in our communities will continue to bear the burdens of this economic crisis and they will need our prayers and support in these difficult times. Although the likely slow pace of recovery will continue to challenge our churches, conferences, and agencies, United Methodists are still a generous people.
The Economic Advisory Committee of the General Council on Finance and Administration (GFCA) continues to monitor the situation and provide their insights to our leaders. Their models indicate that giving to apportionments in 2009 and 2010 will be below the levels of previous years, but similar to the lowered levels experienced during previous recessions.
As Methodists committed to the lessons of John Wesley, we remain faithful to the word of God as the director of our faith. As faithful followers of Jesus Christ, we know that during these times, God continues to show us a new thing: mission work around the world is still continuing, leaders are developing in their effectiveness to shepherd congregations into a new path of growth, donations are being made to purchase life-sustaining supplies that will help stamp out killer diseases associated with poverty. God has, is currently, and will continue to supply all that we need to carry out our ministries, as stated in Philippians 4:19: And my God will fully satisfy every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (NRSV)
Thank you for your continued support of the mission and ministry of The United Methodist
Church.
Bishop Lindsey Davis
President, Board of Directors,
The General Council on Finance and Administration
A. Moses Rathan Kumar
General Secretary and Treasurer
The General Council on Finance and Administration
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
The “Love Doctor” to Speak at National Black Church Health Summit
LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. – Dr. Sheron C. Patterson, senior pastor of Highland Hills United Methodist Church Dallas, Texas, will speak at the National Black Church Health Summit, being held August 5-7, 2009 at the Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center.
The Office of African-American Ministries of the Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center and Nia’s Ark, Inc. is co-hosting the summit, whose theme is “Building Bridges Between the Faith Community and Public Health,” to bring together members of the faith community, academia, health agencies and clergy leaders to address health disparities to strengthen community partnerships.
Being nationally recognized as a Christian relationship expert, Dr. Patterson has offered a helping word to many couples and had her advice broadcast via Black Entertainment Television (BET) and Jet Magazine. She has a broadcast on the syndicated ABC radio format REJOICE, called the “Love Doctor.” In addition to her experience, she is also the “relationship expert” for the Good Morning Texas television broadcast on WFAA and Channel 8.
Facing one of the biggest and most unexpected challenges of her life, Dr. Patterson was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006. She kept hope in her heart and decided to use her illness to help others by making her recovery steps public. In doing so she created a radio, print and television education/inspiration campaign to help others face their health issues at their onset.
Dr. Patterson decided to become a health and wellness advocate in hopes of helping other women who might be facing a similar struggle. Because of her determination she became the driving force behind The Patterson Pledge, a program that motivates thousands to take control of their health. In addition to her numerous projects Dr. Patterson began to collaborate with the U.S. State Department in 2007 to host international delegations of breast cancer survivors. The intent of these delegations is to inform and inspire patients and breast survivors alike.
Breast Cancer Builds, a program that Dr. Patterson launched in 2008, brings survivors of breast cancer together to build a Habitat for Humanity house. Dr. Patterson calls Breast Cancer Builds a gratitude project, because just like the other survivors, she is grateful to God to be alive and this is one way to give back. This project raises awareness about breast cancer prevention and raises funding to provide low income women with free mammograms via a second project called Mammograms for the Masses launched in 2007 with the help of two Dallas hospitals.
Dr. Patterson is also the author of eight books. She is a member of the Southern Methodist University Board of Trustees, the Dallas Assembly, Methodist Health Care System Board of Trustees, Perkins School of Theology Board of Directors and The UMR Communications Board of Directors.
For further information about the National Black Church Health Summit, go to www.lakejunaluska.com/health-summit.aspx
LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. – Dr. Sheron C. Patterson, senior pastor of Highland Hills United Methodist Church Dallas, Texas, will speak at the National Black Church Health Summit, being held August 5-7, 2009 at the Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center.The Office of African-American Ministries of the Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center and Nia’s Ark, Inc. is co-hosting the summit, whose theme is “Building Bridges Between the Faith Community and Public Health,” to bring together members of the faith community, academia, health agencies and clergy leaders to address health disparities to strengthen community partnerships.
Being nationally recognized as a Christian relationship expert, Dr. Patterson has offered a helping word to many couples and had her advice broadcast via Black Entertainment Television (BET) and Jet Magazine. She has a broadcast on the syndicated ABC radio format REJOICE, called the “Love Doctor.” In addition to her experience, she is also the “relationship expert” for the Good Morning Texas television broadcast on WFAA and Channel 8.
Facing one of the biggest and most unexpected challenges of her life, Dr. Patterson was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006. She kept hope in her heart and decided to use her illness to help others by making her recovery steps public. In doing so she created a radio, print and television education/inspiration campaign to help others face their health issues at their onset.
Dr. Patterson decided to become a health and wellness advocate in hopes of helping other women who might be facing a similar struggle. Because of her determination she became the driving force behind The Patterson Pledge, a program that motivates thousands to take control of their health. In addition to her numerous projects Dr. Patterson began to collaborate with the U.S. State Department in 2007 to host international delegations of breast cancer survivors. The intent of these delegations is to inform and inspire patients and breast survivors alike.
Breast Cancer Builds, a program that Dr. Patterson launched in 2008, brings survivors of breast cancer together to build a Habitat for Humanity house. Dr. Patterson calls Breast Cancer Builds a gratitude project, because just like the other survivors, she is grateful to God to be alive and this is one way to give back. This project raises awareness about breast cancer prevention and raises funding to provide low income women with free mammograms via a second project called Mammograms for the Masses launched in 2007 with the help of two Dallas hospitals.
Dr. Patterson is also the author of eight books. She is a member of the Southern Methodist University Board of Trustees, the Dallas Assembly, Methodist Health Care System Board of Trustees, Perkins School of Theology Board of Directors and The UMR Communications Board of Directors.
For further information about the National Black Church Health Summit, go to www.lakejunaluska.com/health-summit.aspx
Saturday, June 27, 2009
A Laywoman's Perspective -- Commentary by Scarritt-Bennett Center Laywoman in Residence, Joyce D. Sohl
There is a hot wind blowing outside, but the cool of the air conditioner in my office at least gives me the illusion that I am cool. Even the birds are looking for a cool spot and the squirrels are stretched out on any shady tree limb they can find. Such is summer here in Nashville!
Before the heat and humidity hit, we had a group of song writers here on campus. They had paid "big bucks" to improve their writing skills and attended lectures, participated in critical peer and leader review sessions, and became a community of people seeking the elusive lyrics and melody of a song. It was fun having them scattered around the campus with their guitars.
I sat in on one of the review sessions where they critiqued each other's songs. One young woman shared a song about not being able to find God in the church. At the end of her first verse she said something like: "But I was able to find God when the circus came to town." No one understood her metaphor and she could not explain it so that others understood, but I got it! Remember the movie "The Parable" that portrayed Jesus as a clown that came to town with the circus? (Youth work days back in the 60's) The girl was too young to have seen the movie, but she had a concept that spoke to her. The leader worked with her until finally the chorus of the song ended with God being found within. A spiritual moment within the midst of a secular class!
I taught a course this month entitled "Spirituality of Protest", talking to God in the midst of troubling times. We explored lament Psalms; the healing stories of Jesus; contemporary and ancient prayers and poems; spirituals and hymns; and art. We also wrote our own laments and talked about the need for honesty with God in our personal and public lives. The lament addressed to God can lead to justice, healing, and hope.
Tuesdays in the Chapel, a half-hour noon-time preaching service started on June 16th with Bishop Melvin Talbert as the first preacher. This service is for the community as well as the Center's staff and guests. We had great music and great preaching and are looking forward to sermons by Sharon Howell, Rami Shapiro, Beth Richardson, Kathleen Flood and Michael Waldrop. This may be the beginning of a "new tradition" and happen every week starting in the fall.
Conversation with staff, guests, and visitors are still an important part of my time. One Saturday I explained all about the Center to a Seven-day Adventist couple that were taking their Sabbath walk through the grounds. Another time I shared with a guest the purpose of the labyrinth. And yet at another time I spent about two hours with a group of United Methodist Women telling them about the Research Library and its tie to the history of this institution. Conversations with one another is as important as conversations with God, I believe. This is my perspective as a laywoman observing and participating in the activities of this sacred place.
Joyce D. Sohl
Laywoman in Residence
There is a hot wind blowing outside, but the cool of the air conditioner in my office at least gives me the illusion that I am cool. Even the birds are looking for a cool spot and the squirrels are stretched out on any shady tree limb they can find. Such is summer here in Nashville!Before the heat and humidity hit, we had a group of song writers here on campus. They had paid "big bucks" to improve their writing skills and attended lectures, participated in critical peer and leader review sessions, and became a community of people seeking the elusive lyrics and melody of a song. It was fun having them scattered around the campus with their guitars.
I sat in on one of the review sessions where they critiqued each other's songs. One young woman shared a song about not being able to find God in the church. At the end of her first verse she said something like: "But I was able to find God when the circus came to town." No one understood her metaphor and she could not explain it so that others understood, but I got it! Remember the movie "The Parable" that portrayed Jesus as a clown that came to town with the circus? (Youth work days back in the 60's) The girl was too young to have seen the movie, but she had a concept that spoke to her. The leader worked with her until finally the chorus of the song ended with God being found within. A spiritual moment within the midst of a secular class!
I taught a course this month entitled "Spirituality of Protest", talking to God in the midst of troubling times. We explored lament Psalms; the healing stories of Jesus; contemporary and ancient prayers and poems; spirituals and hymns; and art. We also wrote our own laments and talked about the need for honesty with God in our personal and public lives. The lament addressed to God can lead to justice, healing, and hope.
Tuesdays in the Chapel, a half-hour noon-time preaching service started on June 16th with Bishop Melvin Talbert as the first preacher. This service is for the community as well as the Center's staff and guests. We had great music and great preaching and are looking forward to sermons by Sharon Howell, Rami Shapiro, Beth Richardson, Kathleen Flood and Michael Waldrop. This may be the beginning of a "new tradition" and happen every week starting in the fall.
Conversation with staff, guests, and visitors are still an important part of my time. One Saturday I explained all about the Center to a Seven-day Adventist couple that were taking their Sabbath walk through the grounds. Another time I shared with a guest the purpose of the labyrinth. And yet at another time I spent about two hours with a group of United Methodist Women telling them about the Research Library and its tie to the history of this institution. Conversations with one another is as important as conversations with God, I believe. This is my perspective as a laywoman observing and participating in the activities of this sacred place.
Joyce D. Sohl
Laywoman in Residence
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
“Produce Parade” feeds inner-city hungry -- Potato Drop goes awry, inner-city benefits
What originally started as a Society of St. Andrew (Advance #801600) Potato Drop – 45,000 pounds of potatoes dropped in a parking lot for re-bagging and distribution to feeding agencies – has turned into a “produce parade” right into the streets of neighborhoods that are most in need in the Fort Myers, FL area.
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans in Fort Myers and Christ Lutheran Church in Cape Coral, FL have partnered to make a positive impact for those in need in the Fort Myers area. For three years, these groups have worked with the Society of St. Andrew, a national non-profit hunger relief ministry that saves fresh produce from being dumped due to market and cosmetic reasons, to deliver nutritious produce to critical feeding agencies. But the Potato Drop they co-sponsored in 2008 went slightly awry, producing an unexpected benefit.
“What an amazing morning! I never thought that showing up to help with a Potato Drop would lead to such an awesome experience of delivering food directly to the people who need it,” said a young couple who attend Christ Lutheran Church.
Organizing a Potato Drop can be very tricky. Between setting a date, getting volunteers to bag the potatoes, scheduling food banks and agencies to pick up the fresh produce, and hoping that a load of excess produce will be available through the Society of St. Andrew, any number of things is likely to go wrong. Miraculously, most events go off without a hitch, but during the Potato Drop in May of 2008, after all the potatoes were bagged and most of the volunteers had left, it became evident the food bank that had reserved half of the potatoes was not showing up. The remaining volunteers couldn’t just let those potatoes go to waste. Taking matters into their own hands, they loaded up their vehicles and headed to a low-income area of the city and delivered nutritious sweet potatoes to small food pantries, soup kitchens, rescue missions, local shelters, and a benefit event they happened upon that was being held for a neighbor in need. Every recipient was grateful for the food; each volunteer came back overwhelmed by the experience and with a story to tell. In fact, these dedicated volunteers were so impacted by their experience many became organizers of this year’s event and officially incorporated the “produce parade” distribution.
Child hands out food bag
What originally started as a Society of St. Andrew (Advance #801600) Potato Drop – 45,000 pounds of potatoes dropped in a parking lot for re-bagging and distribution to feeding agencies – has turned into a “produce parade” right into the streets of neighborhoods that are most in need in the Fort Myers, FL area.
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans in Fort Myers and Christ Lutheran Church in Cape Coral, FL have partnered to make a positive impact for those in need in the Fort Myers area. For three years, these groups have worked with the Society of St. Andrew, a national non-profit hunger relief ministry that saves fresh produce from being dumped due to market and cosmetic reasons, to deliver nutritious produce to critical feeding agencies. But the Potato Drop they co-sponsored in 2008 went slightly awry, producing an unexpected benefit.“What an amazing morning! I never thought that showing up to help with a Potato Drop would lead to such an awesome experience of delivering food directly to the people who need it,” said a young couple who attend Christ Lutheran Church.
Organizing a Potato Drop can be very tricky. Between setting a date, getting volunteers to bag the potatoes, scheduling food banks and agencies to pick up the fresh produce, and hoping that a load of excess produce will be available through the Society of St. Andrew, any number of things is likely to go wrong. Miraculously, most events go off without a hitch, but during the Potato Drop in May of 2008, after all the potatoes were bagged and most of the volunteers had left, it became evident the food bank that had reserved half of the potatoes was not showing up. The remaining volunteers couldn’t just let those potatoes go to waste. Taking matters into their own hands, they loaded up their vehicles and headed to a low-income area of the city and delivered nutritious sweet potatoes to small food pantries, soup kitchens, rescue missions, local shelters, and a benefit event they happened upon that was being held for a neighbor in need. Every recipient was grateful for the food; each volunteer came back overwhelmed by the experience and with a story to tell. In fact, these dedicated volunteers were so impacted by their experience many became organizers of this year’s event and officially incorporated the “produce parade” distribution.
Child hands out food bag“Rather than just dropping off a truck load of potatoes to a feeding agency, we had the satisfaction of meeting and talking to the people that we would otherwise have never met,” said Kimberly Volz, a Cape Coral, FL resident. “At the end of the day, my whole family felt really blessed by the opportunity for hands on mission work.”
The 2009 event, which has come to be known as the “Produce Parade,” included squash, zucchini, eggplant, cucumbers, onions, and some citrus, all provided by the Society of St. Andrew’s Florida Gleaning Network. The groups partnered with Mount Hermon Ministries in the Dunbar area of Fort Myers where the potatoes had been distributed in 2008. After the food was bagged at the drop site, 12 trucks loaded down with 15,000 pounds of produce were driven to the inner city area. Mount Hermon Ministries, a Baptist mission outreach facility, is well known in the area for being an important asset to the community and their large parking lot was the perfect staging area as the produce “paraded” into the community. Smaller agencies picked up various produce and people in the neighborhood were encouraged to take bags home and to their neighbors who could not get out to pick up the food on their own. “One of the greatest things to come out of this year’s event is the connection that has been made between Mount Hermon Ministries and Christ Lutheran,” said Tracy Moffat, event coordinator. “Kids who would have otherwise never met, joined together to feed their own community – what a great way to share the love of Christ,” said Moffat. Plans are already being made for another “Produce Parade” in 2010.
The Society of St. Andrew (SoSA) is a national, faith-based, ecumenical, nonprofit ministry that gleans America’s fields and feeds America’s hungry. It effectively tackles the problem of hunger in America through its grassroots Gleaning Network, Potato & Produce Project and Harvest of Hope programs, which salvage fresh produce that will otherwise be wasted and donates it to feed the hungry. For more information about the Society of St. Andrew and its hunger relief programs: call toll free 800-333-4597; e-mail: sosainfo@endhunger.org; website: http://www.endhunger.org/. The Society of St. Andrew: Gleaning America's Fields ~ Feeding America's Hungry.
The 2009 event, which has come to be known as the “Produce Parade,” included squash, zucchini, eggplant, cucumbers, onions, and some citrus, all provided by the Society of St. Andrew’s Florida Gleaning Network. The groups partnered with Mount Hermon Ministries in the Dunbar area of Fort Myers where the potatoes had been distributed in 2008. After the food was bagged at the drop site, 12 trucks loaded down with 15,000 pounds of produce were driven to the inner city area. Mount Hermon Ministries, a Baptist mission outreach facility, is well known in the area for being an important asset to the community and their large parking lot was the perfect staging area as the produce “paraded” into the community. Smaller agencies picked up various produce and people in the neighborhood were encouraged to take bags home and to their neighbors who could not get out to pick up the food on their own. “One of the greatest things to come out of this year’s event is the connection that has been made between Mount Hermon Ministries and Christ Lutheran,” said Tracy Moffat, event coordinator. “Kids who would have otherwise never met, joined together to feed their own community – what a great way to share the love of Christ,” said Moffat. Plans are already being made for another “Produce Parade” in 2010.
The Society of St. Andrew (SoSA) is a national, faith-based, ecumenical, nonprofit ministry that gleans America’s fields and feeds America’s hungry. It effectively tackles the problem of hunger in America through its grassroots Gleaning Network, Potato & Produce Project and Harvest of Hope programs, which salvage fresh produce that will otherwise be wasted and donates it to feed the hungry. For more information about the Society of St. Andrew and its hunger relief programs: call toll free 800-333-4597; e-mail: sosainfo@endhunger.org; website: http://www.endhunger.org/. The Society of St. Andrew: Gleaning America's Fields ~ Feeding America's Hungry.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Rodriguez to lead Hispanic/Latino New Church Starts Division/Path 1
NASHVILLE, Tenn., June 18, 2009/GBOD/ — The United Methodist General Board of Discipleship (GBOD) has named Samuel Rodriguez director of the Hispanic/Latino New Church Starts Division/Path 1, effective July 1.
“Sam will be very instrumental in helping achieve the important and significant goals that are set before us,” said the Rev. Thomas G. Butcher, executive officer of New Church Starts/Path 1. “We are excited to have him on our team,” he said.
Prior to this appointment, Rodriguez was a commissioned missionary with the General Board of Global Ministries (GBGM) of The United Methodist Church.
He was the conference coordinator for Hispanic/Latino Ministries in the Central Texas (regional) Conference in Fort Worth, Texas for seven years. In this capacity, Rodriguez facilitated training opportunities for the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry Module Trainings, Pentecost Journey: Guide to Hispanic Ministry, Hispanic Culture Training, and Language Immersion weekends.
He also resourced dialogue and reflection with pastors actively involved in or seeking to incorporate Hispanic-Latino ministries. As a staff member of the Office of Church Growth and Development, Rodriguez assisted in creating opportunities for several Hispanic /Latino New Church Starts.
Prior to his current assignment, Sam served four years in the Northwest Texas Conference as director of Hispanic Ministries in the Big Spring District. Two of those years Rodriguez was a GBGM Missionary under the National Plan for Hispanic/ Latino Ministries.
New Church Starts/Path 1 owns the goal of recruiting 1,000 pastors to start 650 new United Methodist congregations in the United States by 2013.
A native of El Paso, Texas, Rodriguez holds a BA in English and American Literature from the University of Texas in El Paso and an MA in Christian Service from Brite Divinity School, Texas Christian University.
Rodriguez and wife Demetria have two children: Samuel Joseph 19, and Vanessa Rae 15. His parents Luis Armando and Esperanza Rodriguez, reside in El Paso, Texas where they are members of Wesley United Methodist Church.
NASHVILLE, Tenn., June 18, 2009/GBOD/ — The United Methodist General Board of Discipleship (GBOD) has named Samuel Rodriguez director of the Hispanic/Latino New Church Starts Division/Path 1, effective July 1.
“Sam will be very instrumental in helping achieve the important and significant goals that are set before us,” said the Rev. Thomas G. Butcher, executive officer of New Church Starts/Path 1. “We are excited to have him on our team,” he said.
Prior to this appointment, Rodriguez was a commissioned missionary with the General Board of Global Ministries (GBGM) of The United Methodist Church.
He was the conference coordinator for Hispanic/Latino Ministries in the Central Texas (regional) Conference in Fort Worth, Texas for seven years. In this capacity, Rodriguez facilitated training opportunities for the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry Module Trainings, Pentecost Journey: Guide to Hispanic Ministry, Hispanic Culture Training, and Language Immersion weekends.
He also resourced dialogue and reflection with pastors actively involved in or seeking to incorporate Hispanic-Latino ministries. As a staff member of the Office of Church Growth and Development, Rodriguez assisted in creating opportunities for several Hispanic /Latino New Church Starts.
Prior to his current assignment, Sam served four years in the Northwest Texas Conference as director of Hispanic Ministries in the Big Spring District. Two of those years Rodriguez was a GBGM Missionary under the National Plan for Hispanic/ Latino Ministries.
New Church Starts/Path 1 owns the goal of recruiting 1,000 pastors to start 650 new United Methodist congregations in the United States by 2013.
A native of El Paso, Texas, Rodriguez holds a BA in English and American Literature from the University of Texas in El Paso and an MA in Christian Service from Brite Divinity School, Texas Christian University.
Rodriguez and wife Demetria have two children: Samuel Joseph 19, and Vanessa Rae 15. His parents Luis Armando and Esperanza Rodriguez, reside in El Paso, Texas where they are members of Wesley United Methodist Church.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
IRS Names J. Daniel Gary to ACT Advisory Panel
Nashville, TN – The Internal Revenue Service’s Advisory Committee on Tax Exempt and Government Entities (ACT) will introduce newly named members at a public meeting on June 10. J. Daniel Gary, Administrative Counsel to The General Council on Finance and Administration (GCFA), has been named one of the 10 new members of the panel. They will begin two-year terms and join 11 returning members.
Gary is Administrative Counsel for the General Council on Finance and Administration (GCFA) of The United Methodist Church, the third largest religious denomination in the United States. GCFA is responsible for protecting the legal interests of the denomination, and Gary provides guidance on a wide variety of issues related to tax-exempt organizations, including charitable giving, legislative and political campaign activities, and unrelated business income tax (UBIT). Gary received his Juris Doctorate from the Washington and Lee University School of Law and his Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Illinois.
A. Moses Rathan Kumar, General Secretary and Treasurer of GCFA states "We are very pleased that Dan has been selected to serve on this IRS advisory committee. This honor is well deserved. Dan is known throughout our Church as someone with a great deal of expertise in tax issues affecting clergy and churches. We are grateful that through his service on this committee, Dan will have the opportunity to share with the IRS and others the unique perspective of the faith community on the tax issues faced by churches and other religious organizations."
ACT includes external stakeholders and representatives who deal with employee retirement plans, tax-exempt organizations, tax-exempt bonds and federal, state, local and Indian tribal governments. ACT members are appointed by the Secretary of the Treasury and advise the IRS on operational policies and procedures.
The General Council on Finance and Administration coordinates and administers finances and
safeguards the legal interests and rights of The United Methodist Church.
www.gcfa.org
Nashville, TN – The Internal Revenue Service’s Advisory Committee on Tax Exempt and Government Entities (ACT) will introduce newly named members at a public meeting on June 10. J. Daniel Gary, Administrative Counsel to The General Council on Finance and Administration (GCFA), has been named one of the 10 new members of the panel. They will begin two-year terms and join 11 returning members.
Gary is Administrative Counsel for the General Council on Finance and Administration (GCFA) of The United Methodist Church, the third largest religious denomination in the United States. GCFA is responsible for protecting the legal interests of the denomination, and Gary provides guidance on a wide variety of issues related to tax-exempt organizations, including charitable giving, legislative and political campaign activities, and unrelated business income tax (UBIT). Gary received his Juris Doctorate from the Washington and Lee University School of Law and his Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Illinois.
A. Moses Rathan Kumar, General Secretary and Treasurer of GCFA states "We are very pleased that Dan has been selected to serve on this IRS advisory committee. This honor is well deserved. Dan is known throughout our Church as someone with a great deal of expertise in tax issues affecting clergy and churches. We are grateful that through his service on this committee, Dan will have the opportunity to share with the IRS and others the unique perspective of the faith community on the tax issues faced by churches and other religious organizations."
ACT includes external stakeholders and representatives who deal with employee retirement plans, tax-exempt organizations, tax-exempt bonds and federal, state, local and Indian tribal governments. ACT members are appointed by the Secretary of the Treasury and advise the IRS on operational policies and procedures.
The General Council on Finance and Administration coordinates and administers finances and
safeguards the legal interests and rights of The United Methodist Church.
www.gcfa.org
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Statement on the U.S. Immigration Situation
Council of Bishops
The United Methodist Church
May 2009
In Scripture we see evidence that God cares for sojourners. In the Old Testament we are reminded that we are to care for the sojourners among us as native born, loving them as we love ourselves, and never oppressing them (Leviticus 19:33). Most telling, God chose to be incarnated as a migrant in Jesus, who as a tender child became a refugee to Africa, and as an adult became an itinerant teacher of good news to all people. Jesus identifies himself with the sojourner in our midst and calls his followers to provide hospitality to the sojourner (Matthew 25:38-40). As we follow Jesus in serving the sojourner, we hear the good news of the gospel incarnated in their stories and in their lives. We believe that welcoming the sojourner is so vital to the expression of Christian faith that to engage in this form of hospitality is to participate in our own salvation.
Throughout the world we experience redemptive liberation through relationships with migrants in our communities. These relationships help us to see that regardless of legal status or nationality, we are all connected through Christ to one another. The Apostle Paul reminds us that when one member suffers, all members suffer as well (1 Corinthians 12:26). The solidarity we share through Christ eliminates the boundaries and barriers which exclude and isolate. The sojourners we are called to love are our brothers and sisters, our mothers and fathers, our sons and daughters; indeed, they are us.
As we serve in communities all across the United States, we are made aware of the daily suffering of immigrants who live and work among us. Our immigrant brothers and sisters suffer greatly due to abuse in the work place, indiscriminate federal raids, and indefinite detention and deportations which tear their families apart. These conditions are exacerbated by a broken immigration system that not only separates families for long and indefinite periods of time, but that ignores the fact that immigrants provide a much needed labor force in the United States and come to this country often encouraged by potential U.S. employers who actively seek their labor.
Consideration of U.S. immigration policy must take into consideration the fact that today many immigrants are forced to leave their homes due to economic and foreign policies of the United States. In addition, the growing militarism along the border with Mexico further aggravates the suffering of immigrants and border communities as it exposes immigrants and communities to greater violence and mistreatment. Because of all of these circumstances immigrants are forced to live in the shadows of society to avoid being exploited thus living lives of constant fear and insecurity.
Our calling as followers of Jesus the Christ is to stand in solidarity with our immigrant neighbors and to advocate for justice on their behalf. The United Methodist Church affirms the inherent dignity, value, and human rights of all immigrants regardless of their legal status. We acknowledge that all nations have the right to secure their borders, but the primary concern for Christians is the welfare of immigrants and communities.
The Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church is committed to advocate for comprehensive immigration reform that is humane and effective and that upholds the human and civil rights of immigrants. We affirm President Obama for his leadership in moving the immigration agenda to the forefront of public discourse and decision making.
We call upon President Obama and all Congressional leaders to support comprehensive immigration reform that would:
.Provide a pathway to citizenship for immigrants;
.Reunify immigrant families that have been separated by immigration itself or due to work place raids and ensuing indefinite detentions and deportations;
.Increase the number of visas for short-term workers to come into the United States to work in a safe, legal, and orderly way.
.Extend legal protection to all workers who come to stay for a certain period of time as well as for those who stay permanently including the right to bargain for higher wages, to protest against poor working conditions, and to preserve their human rights as workers, be they documented or undocumented;
.Eliminate privately-operated detention centers, which are not regulated by the federal or state governments, and end all indiscriminate raids.
Just and humane immigration reform will put an end to much of the human suffering of our immigrant brothers and sisters, bringing them out of the shadows of society, and integrating them into society in ways that will bring their gifts and hard work to bear as together we strive to build communities of justice.
Council of Bishops
The United Methodist Church
May 2009
In Scripture we see evidence that God cares for sojourners. In the Old Testament we are reminded that we are to care for the sojourners among us as native born, loving them as we love ourselves, and never oppressing them (Leviticus 19:33). Most telling, God chose to be incarnated as a migrant in Jesus, who as a tender child became a refugee to Africa, and as an adult became an itinerant teacher of good news to all people. Jesus identifies himself with the sojourner in our midst and calls his followers to provide hospitality to the sojourner (Matthew 25:38-40). As we follow Jesus in serving the sojourner, we hear the good news of the gospel incarnated in their stories and in their lives. We believe that welcoming the sojourner is so vital to the expression of Christian faith that to engage in this form of hospitality is to participate in our own salvation.
Throughout the world we experience redemptive liberation through relationships with migrants in our communities. These relationships help us to see that regardless of legal status or nationality, we are all connected through Christ to one another. The Apostle Paul reminds us that when one member suffers, all members suffer as well (1 Corinthians 12:26). The solidarity we share through Christ eliminates the boundaries and barriers which exclude and isolate. The sojourners we are called to love are our brothers and sisters, our mothers and fathers, our sons and daughters; indeed, they are us.
As we serve in communities all across the United States, we are made aware of the daily suffering of immigrants who live and work among us. Our immigrant brothers and sisters suffer greatly due to abuse in the work place, indiscriminate federal raids, and indefinite detention and deportations which tear their families apart. These conditions are exacerbated by a broken immigration system that not only separates families for long and indefinite periods of time, but that ignores the fact that immigrants provide a much needed labor force in the United States and come to this country often encouraged by potential U.S. employers who actively seek their labor.
Consideration of U.S. immigration policy must take into consideration the fact that today many immigrants are forced to leave their homes due to economic and foreign policies of the United States. In addition, the growing militarism along the border with Mexico further aggravates the suffering of immigrants and border communities as it exposes immigrants and communities to greater violence and mistreatment. Because of all of these circumstances immigrants are forced to live in the shadows of society to avoid being exploited thus living lives of constant fear and insecurity.
Our calling as followers of Jesus the Christ is to stand in solidarity with our immigrant neighbors and to advocate for justice on their behalf. The United Methodist Church affirms the inherent dignity, value, and human rights of all immigrants regardless of their legal status. We acknowledge that all nations have the right to secure their borders, but the primary concern for Christians is the welfare of immigrants and communities.
The Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church is committed to advocate for comprehensive immigration reform that is humane and effective and that upholds the human and civil rights of immigrants. We affirm President Obama for his leadership in moving the immigration agenda to the forefront of public discourse and decision making.
We call upon President Obama and all Congressional leaders to support comprehensive immigration reform that would:
.Provide a pathway to citizenship for immigrants;
.Reunify immigrant families that have been separated by immigration itself or due to work place raids and ensuing indefinite detentions and deportations;
.Increase the number of visas for short-term workers to come into the United States to work in a safe, legal, and orderly way.
.Extend legal protection to all workers who come to stay for a certain period of time as well as for those who stay permanently including the right to bargain for higher wages, to protest against poor working conditions, and to preserve their human rights as workers, be they documented or undocumented;
.Eliminate privately-operated detention centers, which are not regulated by the federal or state governments, and end all indiscriminate raids.
Just and humane immigration reform will put an end to much of the human suffering of our immigrant brothers and sisters, bringing them out of the shadows of society, and integrating them into society in ways that will bring their gifts and hard work to bear as together we strive to build communities of justice.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Abrahamic Faiths Unite for Peace at Lake Junaluska Peace Conference, September 20-22, 2009
LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. — Participants of this year’s Lake Junaluska Peace Conference will be exposed to a dialogue of better understanding of the faith communities of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. September 20–22 are the dates for this time of learning about one another’s faith traditions, examining what each brings to the search for peace, celebrating our common heritage and exploring ways we can be more effective “Peace Builders” in our local communities.
Jimmy L. Carr, Lake Junaluska’s Executive Director, said the Peace Conference is an event all persons should attend.
“Lake Junaluska is delighted to once again provide the site and staff support for the Lake Junaluska Peace Conference. We appreciate so much the Peace Committee’s work in offering such a timely conference. Their efforts allow Lake Junaluska to serve the church and the community by providing challenging speakers and information to assist persons in becoming the peace makers that Christ calls us to be,” Carr said.
Speakers from each faith will describe what their scriptures and practices have to bring to the Table of Peace. Workshops will teach skills in being Peace Builders. Through prayers, celebrations, and the arts, we will experience what each contributes to the search for peace.
“This year's Peace Conference centers on an issue that has universal implications. There is much agreement that we will not have world-wide peace until the major religions understand each other better and develop genuine respect for one other. As we focus this year on the three Abrahamic Faiths, we hope a significant number of persons from each faith group will be here. Come expecting to be challenged by the presenters. Come with an open mind and an eagerness to enter into creative dialogue with persons of other faiths,” Garland Young, Chair of the Peace Conference Planning Committee, said.
Leadership for the event includes:
Archbishop Elias Chacour:
Father Chacour, a native Palestinian, was ordained a priest in the Melkite Catholic Church in 1965. In 2006, he became the Archbishop Metropolitan of the Melkite Diocese of Akka, Haifa, Nazareth, and all of Galilee in Israel. He has long been a strong voice for peace and reconciliation in Palestine and Israel and has worked with all factions and faiths.
Rabbi Arthur O. Waskow:
Rabbi Waskow has been one of the creators and leaders of Jewish renewal and of several important interfaith projects addressing issues of peace, justice, and healing of the Earth. He founded the Shalom Center in 1983 and has been its director since then, shaping it into a prophetic voice.
Dr. Sayyid M. Syeed:
Dr. Syeed is the National Director of Interfaith and Community Alliances for the Islamic Society of North America. The ISNA is an umbrella organization with 300 affiliates across the US and Canada. He has been actively involved in fostering understanding among the world’s religions and has participated in interfaith dialogues at different levels.
Dr. Lisa Schirch:
Dr. Schirch is professor of peace-building at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. She serves as executive director of the 3D Security Initiative, which promotes civil society perspectives on conflict prevention and peace-building in US security policy-making.
Cost: $89 ($79 before August 1, 2009); $65 – Students
Register online at www.lakejunaluska.com/peace.aspx, by Fax (828) 452-1956 or by phone (828) 454-6656. Lodging reservations can be made at www.lakejunaluska.com/peace.aspx or by calling 1-800-222-4930. Please let the reservations representative know that you are attending the Peace Conference.
Note: Clicking on the registration address above will take you to the Peace Conference homepage where there are links to on-line registration, plus full information about leadership, schedule, workshops, lodging, and event sponsorship.
For more information, please contact: Pam Naplen at (828) 454-6656, pnaplen@lakejunaluska.com
LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. — Participants of this year’s Lake Junaluska Peace Conference will be exposed to a dialogue of better understanding of the faith communities of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. September 20–22 are the dates for this time of learning about one another’s faith traditions, examining what each brings to the search for peace, celebrating our common heritage and exploring ways we can be more effective “Peace Builders” in our local communities.Jimmy L. Carr, Lake Junaluska’s Executive Director, said the Peace Conference is an event all persons should attend.
“Lake Junaluska is delighted to once again provide the site and staff support for the Lake Junaluska Peace Conference. We appreciate so much the Peace Committee’s work in offering such a timely conference. Their efforts allow Lake Junaluska to serve the church and the community by providing challenging speakers and information to assist persons in becoming the peace makers that Christ calls us to be,” Carr said.
Speakers from each faith will describe what their scriptures and practices have to bring to the Table of Peace. Workshops will teach skills in being Peace Builders. Through prayers, celebrations, and the arts, we will experience what each contributes to the search for peace.
“This year's Peace Conference centers on an issue that has universal implications. There is much agreement that we will not have world-wide peace until the major religions understand each other better and develop genuine respect for one other. As we focus this year on the three Abrahamic Faiths, we hope a significant number of persons from each faith group will be here. Come expecting to be challenged by the presenters. Come with an open mind and an eagerness to enter into creative dialogue with persons of other faiths,” Garland Young, Chair of the Peace Conference Planning Committee, said.
Leadership for the event includes:
Archbishop Elias Chacour:
Father Chacour, a native Palestinian, was ordained a priest in the Melkite Catholic Church in 1965. In 2006, he became the Archbishop Metropolitan of the Melkite Diocese of Akka, Haifa, Nazareth, and all of Galilee in Israel. He has long been a strong voice for peace and reconciliation in Palestine and Israel and has worked with all factions and faiths.
Rabbi Arthur O. Waskow:
Rabbi Waskow has been one of the creators and leaders of Jewish renewal and of several important interfaith projects addressing issues of peace, justice, and healing of the Earth. He founded the Shalom Center in 1983 and has been its director since then, shaping it into a prophetic voice.
Dr. Sayyid M. Syeed:
Dr. Syeed is the National Director of Interfaith and Community Alliances for the Islamic Society of North America. The ISNA is an umbrella organization with 300 affiliates across the US and Canada. He has been actively involved in fostering understanding among the world’s religions and has participated in interfaith dialogues at different levels.
Dr. Lisa Schirch:
Dr. Schirch is professor of peace-building at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. She serves as executive director of the 3D Security Initiative, which promotes civil society perspectives on conflict prevention and peace-building in US security policy-making.
Cost: $89 ($79 before August 1, 2009); $65 – Students
Register online at www.lakejunaluska.com/peace.aspx, by Fax (828) 452-1956 or by phone (828) 454-6656. Lodging reservations can be made at www.lakejunaluska.com/peace.aspx or by calling 1-800-222-4930. Please let the reservations representative know that you are attending the Peace Conference.
Note: Clicking on the registration address above will take you to the Peace Conference homepage where there are links to on-line registration, plus full information about leadership, schedule, workshops, lodging, and event sponsorship.
For more information, please contact: Pam Naplen at (828) 454-6656, pnaplen@lakejunaluska.com
Monday, May 11, 2009
The Role of Jordanian Women in the Spiritual Formation of Their Children
By Jeanette Pinkston*
Muslim woman with children
Former Ambassador to the United Nations, Hasan Abu Nimah agrees. According to Mr. Abu Nimah, director of the Royal Institute for Inter-faith Studies, a child will probably be more influenced by his mother than by his father because of the physical proximity to the mother, normally.
“But I can not really talk about any rules that define the role of women or the role of parents [in] shaping the religion of their children,” he said. “A child from Christian parents will normally be Christian, from Moslem parents will be Moslem, from mixed parents that’s difficult to say. You don’t have a rule that applies to every situation,” said Mr. Abu Nimah.
While Muslims are asked to practice their beliefs by performing certain acts of worship, actually doing so is a matter of choice, as in other religions. Some people are very strict in adhering to the religious practices of their faith, while others are not.
“I think it is safe to say that regardless of one’s faith or background, perhaps the most influential person or one of the two most influential, in the minimum, is the mother,” says Ihab Wl-Kady, Ph.D., of the Islamic Center and University of New Mexico. “On her shoulders, reality says [rests] the core of faith formation for the offspring — at least in the very first few years or stages of that persons life.”
El-Kady told a gathering of over 600 Methodist educators, lay, and clergy, that women shape the faith of their young, and because they represent half of the universe, they actually have a bigger hand in faith formation than male members of that faith.
“How a mother embraces her duties and embraces her faith will really reflect on how I will embrace my faith and go through it,” he said.
Mr. Abu Nimah says, “if a child is born to a Moslem mother and a Moslem father, the child will be Moslem. If the child is born to a Christian mother and Moslem father, (we have a lot of cross marriages here), that depends on the family itself. Sometimes they agree what the children will be when they have children. Sometimes they leave it to chance.”
Throughout our travels around Jordan, we found that in Muslim and Christian communities, women have a strong influence in the family, workplace, religion and society in general. As El-Kady suggests, one can obviously spend hours and hours talking about the rights and roles and duties of women in Islam. He says it is especially imperative for those who are foreign to Islam, or who are not Muslim to separate what is cultural from what is Islamic when viewing people practicing faith from a culture perspective like in the Gulf region or in North Africa.
“One needs to ask himself — or ask those who know Islam — what of these practices is actually cultural and what of these practices is actually Islamic?” said El-Kady.
While young children are trained in the rituals of Islam, Islam is not just the ritual; it is the faithful belief itself.
“Although we teach our children and start training them how to pray at the age of seven and start teaching how to actually fast at the age of ten, we don’t go through the entire day. We go through segments of the day and a little longer as the child grows older. Then the length of the fasting actually extends until hopefully when they reach puberty they can actually fast the entire month of Ramadan.
“But the training for the ritual itself is only the surface. This is what you see the child or the member of the faith actually doing. What lies in his heart is completely different. Nobody can tell what lies in your heart but yourself.
“It is fundamentally important to understand that the prime role for faith formation in our system of belief lays on the family itself, then on peers, then on the leadership,” said El-Kady.
*Pinkston is the director of media relations for the United Methodist General Board of Discipleship (GBOD). She resides in Nashville, Tenn.
By Jeanette Pinkston*
AMMAN, JORDAN—In 2008, I traveled to Amman, Jordan with a group of twenty U.S. journalists representing the Associated Church Press, Evangelical Press Association and the Catholic Press Association.
Having just covered an interfaith panel on faith formation during the joint Preaching from the Center and Christian Educators Fellowship conferences in Albuquerque last fall, I was led to explore the role of Jordanian women in the faith formation of their children while on the Jordan press tour.
The role of Jordanian women in the faith formation of their children is remarkably similar to that of women in other faith traditions. Across the board, women are typically more influential in shaping the religious practice of children; Jordanian women are no different.
Lorain Rezeq works in the business center of a local hotel in Amman, Jordan. “Women are very influential in shaping the religious life of their children,” says Rezeq. “Because they are so close to their moms, moms influence their children from ages one to ten. The children follow their mothers everywhere. They are so close to them. When you hear a mother saying her prayer, you say ‘I am going to repeat it,’” says Rezeq.
Having just covered an interfaith panel on faith formation during the joint Preaching from the Center and Christian Educators Fellowship conferences in Albuquerque last fall, I was led to explore the role of Jordanian women in the faith formation of their children while on the Jordan press tour.
The role of Jordanian women in the faith formation of their children is remarkably similar to that of women in other faith traditions. Across the board, women are typically more influential in shaping the religious practice of children; Jordanian women are no different.
Lorain Rezeq works in the business center of a local hotel in Amman, Jordan. “Women are very influential in shaping the religious life of their children,” says Rezeq. “Because they are so close to their moms, moms influence their children from ages one to ten. The children follow their mothers everywhere. They are so close to them. When you hear a mother saying her prayer, you say ‘I am going to repeat it,’” says Rezeq.
Muslim woman with childrenFormer Ambassador to the United Nations, Hasan Abu Nimah agrees. According to Mr. Abu Nimah, director of the Royal Institute for Inter-faith Studies, a child will probably be more influenced by his mother than by his father because of the physical proximity to the mother, normally.
“But I can not really talk about any rules that define the role of women or the role of parents [in] shaping the religion of their children,” he said. “A child from Christian parents will normally be Christian, from Moslem parents will be Moslem, from mixed parents that’s difficult to say. You don’t have a rule that applies to every situation,” said Mr. Abu Nimah.
While Muslims are asked to practice their beliefs by performing certain acts of worship, actually doing so is a matter of choice, as in other religions. Some people are very strict in adhering to the religious practices of their faith, while others are not.
“I think it is safe to say that regardless of one’s faith or background, perhaps the most influential person or one of the two most influential, in the minimum, is the mother,” says Ihab Wl-Kady, Ph.D., of the Islamic Center and University of New Mexico. “On her shoulders, reality says [rests] the core of faith formation for the offspring — at least in the very first few years or stages of that persons life.”
El-Kady told a gathering of over 600 Methodist educators, lay, and clergy, that women shape the faith of their young, and because they represent half of the universe, they actually have a bigger hand in faith formation than male members of that faith.
“How a mother embraces her duties and embraces her faith will really reflect on how I will embrace my faith and go through it,” he said.
Mr. Abu Nimah says, “if a child is born to a Moslem mother and a Moslem father, the child will be Moslem. If the child is born to a Christian mother and Moslem father, (we have a lot of cross marriages here), that depends on the family itself. Sometimes they agree what the children will be when they have children. Sometimes they leave it to chance.”
Throughout our travels around Jordan, we found that in Muslim and Christian communities, women have a strong influence in the family, workplace, religion and society in general. As El-Kady suggests, one can obviously spend hours and hours talking about the rights and roles and duties of women in Islam. He says it is especially imperative for those who are foreign to Islam, or who are not Muslim to separate what is cultural from what is Islamic when viewing people practicing faith from a culture perspective like in the Gulf region or in North Africa.
“One needs to ask himself — or ask those who know Islam — what of these practices is actually cultural and what of these practices is actually Islamic?” said El-Kady.
While young children are trained in the rituals of Islam, Islam is not just the ritual; it is the faithful belief itself.
“Although we teach our children and start training them how to pray at the age of seven and start teaching how to actually fast at the age of ten, we don’t go through the entire day. We go through segments of the day and a little longer as the child grows older. Then the length of the fasting actually extends until hopefully when they reach puberty they can actually fast the entire month of Ramadan.
“But the training for the ritual itself is only the surface. This is what you see the child or the member of the faith actually doing. What lies in his heart is completely different. Nobody can tell what lies in your heart but yourself.
“It is fundamentally important to understand that the prime role for faith formation in our system of belief lays on the family itself, then on peers, then on the leadership,” said El-Kady.
*Pinkston is the director of media relations for the United Methodist General Board of Discipleship (GBOD). She resides in Nashville, Tenn.
Friday, May 01, 2009
New Executive Coordinator Named for the United Methodist Appalachian Ministry Network
Hagerstown, Maryland: “Linking Hands Across Appalachia,” the theme of the 2009 Appalachian Assembly, was literally present during the spring meeting of the UM Appalachian Ministry Network with members attending from southern New York, northeastern Mississippi and many conferences in between.
The excitement of the meeting centered on the selection of a new Executive Coordinator. A Search Committee, working since the beginning of 2009 interviewed seven of the twenty-one applicants and recommended Rev. Robert “Bob” Wilkins to replace the retiring staff person.
Wilkins is an elder in the West Virginia Conference most recently serving in an appointment as the director of a conference mission project, Heart and Hand House in Philippi, WV. He has served as a member of the Network representing grassroots mission projects. Wilkins holds a Doctor in Ministry from United Theological Seminary and has certification in Non-Profit Management from West Virginia University.
As Wilkins described what he saw as challenges for the region and the Network, he said, “an encourager and an enabler are the hand and glove that are needed.” In Wilkins, the Network feels that it has found those qualities as well as experience in ecumenical settings, working with government agencies and cooperative efforts. Goals of the Network will move forward with the direction of the one who brings these gifts to the organization.
The Network’s office will be located in Buckhannon, WV. The Upshur Cooperative Parish, will provide space for the office. The official transition will occur sometime later in the fall.
Wilkins replaces N. Sharon Leatherman, who is retiring. She is completing her 15th years with UMAMN as the Executive Coordinator. Leatherman plans to continue to assist the Network as a consultant and trainer while enjoying more time to spend with her family and other volunteer roles.
Hagerstown, Maryland: “Linking Hands Across Appalachia,” the theme of the 2009 Appalachian Assembly, was literally present during the spring meeting of the UM Appalachian Ministry Network with members attending from southern New York, northeastern Mississippi and many conferences in between.
The excitement of the meeting centered on the selection of a new Executive Coordinator. A Search Committee, working since the beginning of 2009 interviewed seven of the twenty-one applicants and recommended Rev. Robert “Bob” Wilkins to replace the retiring staff person.
Wilkins is an elder in the West Virginia Conference most recently serving in an appointment as the director of a conference mission project, Heart and Hand House in Philippi, WV. He has served as a member of the Network representing grassroots mission projects. Wilkins holds a Doctor in Ministry from United Theological Seminary and has certification in Non-Profit Management from West Virginia University.
As Wilkins described what he saw as challenges for the region and the Network, he said, “an encourager and an enabler are the hand and glove that are needed.” In Wilkins, the Network feels that it has found those qualities as well as experience in ecumenical settings, working with government agencies and cooperative efforts. Goals of the Network will move forward with the direction of the one who brings these gifts to the organization.
The Network’s office will be located in Buckhannon, WV. The Upshur Cooperative Parish, will provide space for the office. The official transition will occur sometime later in the fall.
Wilkins replaces N. Sharon Leatherman, who is retiring. She is completing her 15th years with UMAMN as the Executive Coordinator. Leatherman plans to continue to assist the Network as a consultant and trainer while enjoying more time to spend with her family and other volunteer roles.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Notes on the Role of Worshipping Communities amid Pandemic
Gary R Gunderson
Sr. Vice President for Faith and Health Methodist LeBonheur Healthcare, Memphis, TN.
What is the role of congregations when a community faces possible epidemic?
Contemplating a potential flu pandemic makes us all aware of the remarkable range and depth of community assets that protect the health of the population and provide comfort and care to those may fall ill. The United States has a particularly rich array of churches, mosques, temples and places of worship that represent nearly every faith tradition in the human experience. They have particular strengths that are especially valuable when trust, caring, comfort and confidence may be as important as our medical technologies in the face of epidemic disease. The particular strengths of congregations are certainly part of the community’s capacity to respond in crisis.
We never know when a new flu virus may emerge that creates new threats and challenges. Congregations develop the webs of trusted relationships all the time that turn out to be extremely useful in a crisis. Congregations have unique strengths which, when linked, the complementary strengths of healthcare and public health organizations can create a strong, resilient community capable of confronting many challenges.
Congregations in Memphis that are associated with the Congregational Health Network or the United Methodist Conferences are already linked to a broad set of connections that help you and your members find out what to do and where to go in crisis. Your Liaisons know the Methodist LeBonheur Healthcare navigators. They are always a good “first call” when confused. But your congregation has important strengths on its own that are important upon which to build in a time of community need.
The strength to accompany.
Faith entities commonly are welcomed into the lives of those who would otherwise be isolated. They tend to know which of their own members and neighbors may be likely to be confined at home or in institutions. They can often move across barriers of family, race, ethnicity, class and other distinctions to create the bonds of relationship across which valid information and help about pandemic flu might flow. Key questions to ask:
1. What likely-to-be overlooked people do we accompany already, such as the homebound elderly or adolescents estranged from school or family?
2. How might we form appropriate relationships of trust with others who may need us in crisis?
3. Do we have outreach or inreach committees that could be prepared to play an explicit role around a possible pandemic, such as prayer groups who may be tuned to care for others easily overlooked?
4. How might we act to ensure the public authorities know about these isolated people that might otherwise be bypassed by the community?
The Strength to Convene.
Faith entities often gather in very small and very large groups that cross many lines in order to care for people, or to discuss important moral issues. Sometimes faith leaders work together to form coalitions that are the building block of larger community efforts, such as we’ve seen recently in the wake of Katrina.
4. What groups is our congregation already part of that might help convene people in the context of pandemic flu?
5. How might we work with other faith leaders to help create a network of trust and confidence that can extend the capacity of public agencies?
6. Are there particular groups in the community that might need special attention or preparation, such as recent immigrants? Could we help convene to ensure they are included in community planning?
The Strength to Connect.
Worshipping communities gather people from many backgrounds, ages and interests. These relationships build significant networks of trust that are crucial in the context of emergencies, which often face breakdowns in normal lines of coordination. These complex relationships often extend into neighborhoods and groups that may not even be visible to high level formal authorities. Thus faith groups can be crucial connectors in pandemic conditions and prevent the instinct to work alone.
7. Let your members know about the numerous connections members already have to multiple agencies and institutions in your community.
8. Notice to what agencies your members work in and provide some level of leadership. These may be especially useful when formal lines of relationship are damaged or stressed by crisis.
9. Personal relationship augments the formal lines of collaboration among institutions. Consider having different members become familiar with the kinds of paperwork or policies that might govern access to services in a time of crisis so they can help others who may need assistance.
Strength to Frame or Story.
Worshipping communities often are trusted to get the story correct, to place disturbing or difficult information in the context of a hopeful and compassionate framework. A pandemic may create swirls of rumor and fear that make effective community response difficult. From crucial “simple” information such as where to access vaccine, to potentially complex and controversial instructions for quarantine, faith groups will be expected to get the story correct. Public sources of information are not trusted by some groups, who may look instead to faith leaders and congregations.
10. Do we know where to get timely and accurate information about flu and health challenges?
11. Have we considered what kind of theological or ethical issues may need to be addressed around pandemic flu? If needed, where would we seek trusted advice from other faith leaders facing similar challenges?
12. Have we considered how we will communicate to all age groups and their caregivers, including children, parents and those that may be isolated?
Strength to give Sanctuary.
From ancient times houses of worship have been considered to be sanctuaries in times of crisis. Faith groups extend that meaning to include the idea of providing safe space for for making available vaccine and health services, care and comfort for those that are ill and to those that may care for them.
13. How might our building be useful to the community as a safe space amid flu?
14. Are there things we should prepare for to make sure our building is as safe and accessible as neighbors may expect it to be? Do we need to consider having masks and other sanitary aids on hand?
15. Should we plan on ensuring that we are able to secure resources and material that may be needed to provide safe shelter in crisis?
16. Should we think about how our pattern of public gatherings may need to be altered in light of the potential risks of infectious spread? Should we prepare policies in advance so that people will know whether our public gatherings are proceeding as planned or in an altered form?
Strength to Bless.
While public institutions have legal authority to enforce public policies, worshipping groups have a special power to offer blessing, comfort and encouragement. Pandemic flu has the potential to make people fearful, inflaming old prejudices and divisions. Faith leaders should focus on holding up community values of trust, inclusion, fairness and compassion, on which all public policies rest.
17. How might we form open relationships now with groups most likely to face exclusion or isolation in the context of pandemic?
18. How can we anticipate the pattern of fears most likely to arise in pandemic and practice messages aimed at alleviating those fears in advance?
Strength to pray and offer ritual.
Worshipping communities worship. In a time of pandemic faith groups will face challenges to continue to offer up prayer, rituals of many kinds that undergird the hope, trust and compassion of their members and the community.
19. How can we plan to offer worship and participation in key rituals even when faced by pandemic?
20. Can we anticipate the need for new kinds of ceremonies or, perhaps those less commonly used in non-pandemic times?
21. Should we consider meeting with other faith leaders to think about interfaith services that may be appropriate amid pandemic?
Strength to Endure.
All of our faith traditions have seen many other pandemics and catastrophes before. This historical perspective is a great strength. While we prepare to protect the community and its vulnerable members, our faith leaders can be confident that this potential pandemic will be endured and survived as have many others.
22. Are we familiar with how our faith tradition has responded to other pandemics and large scale challenges?
23. Are there particular revered leaders whose memory may offer relevant guidance to us amid another pandemic season?
24. In what way can we learn from other generations who have faced difficult times? How did they do it? What sustained and encouraged them?
By focusing on the strengths of our worshipping communities, our preparations for pandemic conditions build on the foundations that have stood against fear and panic many times before, offering our community reality-based encouragement that lets us go about the work of prevention and care that honors God’s hope for us all.
Gary R Gunderson
Sr. Vice President for Faith and Health Methodist LeBonheur Healthcare, Memphis, TN.
What is the role of congregations when a community faces possible epidemic?
Contemplating a potential flu pandemic makes us all aware of the remarkable range and depth of community assets that protect the health of the population and provide comfort and care to those may fall ill. The United States has a particularly rich array of churches, mosques, temples and places of worship that represent nearly every faith tradition in the human experience. They have particular strengths that are especially valuable when trust, caring, comfort and confidence may be as important as our medical technologies in the face of epidemic disease. The particular strengths of congregations are certainly part of the community’s capacity to respond in crisis.
We never know when a new flu virus may emerge that creates new threats and challenges. Congregations develop the webs of trusted relationships all the time that turn out to be extremely useful in a crisis. Congregations have unique strengths which, when linked, the complementary strengths of healthcare and public health organizations can create a strong, resilient community capable of confronting many challenges.
Congregations in Memphis that are associated with the Congregational Health Network or the United Methodist Conferences are already linked to a broad set of connections that help you and your members find out what to do and where to go in crisis. Your Liaisons know the Methodist LeBonheur Healthcare navigators. They are always a good “first call” when confused. But your congregation has important strengths on its own that are important upon which to build in a time of community need.
The strength to accompany.
Faith entities commonly are welcomed into the lives of those who would otherwise be isolated. They tend to know which of their own members and neighbors may be likely to be confined at home or in institutions. They can often move across barriers of family, race, ethnicity, class and other distinctions to create the bonds of relationship across which valid information and help about pandemic flu might flow. Key questions to ask:
1. What likely-to-be overlooked people do we accompany already, such as the homebound elderly or adolescents estranged from school or family?
2. How might we form appropriate relationships of trust with others who may need us in crisis?
3. Do we have outreach or inreach committees that could be prepared to play an explicit role around a possible pandemic, such as prayer groups who may be tuned to care for others easily overlooked?
4. How might we act to ensure the public authorities know about these isolated people that might otherwise be bypassed by the community?
The Strength to Convene.
Faith entities often gather in very small and very large groups that cross many lines in order to care for people, or to discuss important moral issues. Sometimes faith leaders work together to form coalitions that are the building block of larger community efforts, such as we’ve seen recently in the wake of Katrina.
4. What groups is our congregation already part of that might help convene people in the context of pandemic flu?
5. How might we work with other faith leaders to help create a network of trust and confidence that can extend the capacity of public agencies?
6. Are there particular groups in the community that might need special attention or preparation, such as recent immigrants? Could we help convene to ensure they are included in community planning?
The Strength to Connect.
Worshipping communities gather people from many backgrounds, ages and interests. These relationships build significant networks of trust that are crucial in the context of emergencies, which often face breakdowns in normal lines of coordination. These complex relationships often extend into neighborhoods and groups that may not even be visible to high level formal authorities. Thus faith groups can be crucial connectors in pandemic conditions and prevent the instinct to work alone.
7. Let your members know about the numerous connections members already have to multiple agencies and institutions in your community.
8. Notice to what agencies your members work in and provide some level of leadership. These may be especially useful when formal lines of relationship are damaged or stressed by crisis.
9. Personal relationship augments the formal lines of collaboration among institutions. Consider having different members become familiar with the kinds of paperwork or policies that might govern access to services in a time of crisis so they can help others who may need assistance.
Strength to Frame or Story.
Worshipping communities often are trusted to get the story correct, to place disturbing or difficult information in the context of a hopeful and compassionate framework. A pandemic may create swirls of rumor and fear that make effective community response difficult. From crucial “simple” information such as where to access vaccine, to potentially complex and controversial instructions for quarantine, faith groups will be expected to get the story correct. Public sources of information are not trusted by some groups, who may look instead to faith leaders and congregations.
10. Do we know where to get timely and accurate information about flu and health challenges?
11. Have we considered what kind of theological or ethical issues may need to be addressed around pandemic flu? If needed, where would we seek trusted advice from other faith leaders facing similar challenges?
12. Have we considered how we will communicate to all age groups and their caregivers, including children, parents and those that may be isolated?
Strength to give Sanctuary.
From ancient times houses of worship have been considered to be sanctuaries in times of crisis. Faith groups extend that meaning to include the idea of providing safe space for for making available vaccine and health services, care and comfort for those that are ill and to those that may care for them.
13. How might our building be useful to the community as a safe space amid flu?
14. Are there things we should prepare for to make sure our building is as safe and accessible as neighbors may expect it to be? Do we need to consider having masks and other sanitary aids on hand?
15. Should we plan on ensuring that we are able to secure resources and material that may be needed to provide safe shelter in crisis?
16. Should we think about how our pattern of public gatherings may need to be altered in light of the potential risks of infectious spread? Should we prepare policies in advance so that people will know whether our public gatherings are proceeding as planned or in an altered form?
Strength to Bless.
While public institutions have legal authority to enforce public policies, worshipping groups have a special power to offer blessing, comfort and encouragement. Pandemic flu has the potential to make people fearful, inflaming old prejudices and divisions. Faith leaders should focus on holding up community values of trust, inclusion, fairness and compassion, on which all public policies rest.
17. How might we form open relationships now with groups most likely to face exclusion or isolation in the context of pandemic?
18. How can we anticipate the pattern of fears most likely to arise in pandemic and practice messages aimed at alleviating those fears in advance?
Strength to pray and offer ritual.
Worshipping communities worship. In a time of pandemic faith groups will face challenges to continue to offer up prayer, rituals of many kinds that undergird the hope, trust and compassion of their members and the community.
19. How can we plan to offer worship and participation in key rituals even when faced by pandemic?
20. Can we anticipate the need for new kinds of ceremonies or, perhaps those less commonly used in non-pandemic times?
21. Should we consider meeting with other faith leaders to think about interfaith services that may be appropriate amid pandemic?
Strength to Endure.
All of our faith traditions have seen many other pandemics and catastrophes before. This historical perspective is a great strength. While we prepare to protect the community and its vulnerable members, our faith leaders can be confident that this potential pandemic will be endured and survived as have many others.
22. Are we familiar with how our faith tradition has responded to other pandemics and large scale challenges?
23. Are there particular revered leaders whose memory may offer relevant guidance to us amid another pandemic season?
24. In what way can we learn from other generations who have faced difficult times? How did they do it? What sustained and encouraged them?
By focusing on the strengths of our worshipping communities, our preparations for pandemic conditions build on the foundations that have stood against fear and panic many times before, offering our community reality-based encouragement that lets us go about the work of prevention and care that honors God’s hope for us all.
Swine/Novel Flu Facts, April 2009
What is Swine/Novel Flu?
Swine flu is a contagious respiratory disease that affects pigs and can be transmitted to humans. The current strain is a new variation of an H1N1 virus, which is a mix of human and animal versions.
Why should I be concerned?
Because of a recent outbreak of swine/novel flu in Mexico and some cases in the U.S., we are taking precautions to increase public safety and limit the virus.
How common is swine/novel flu infection in humans?
In the past, CDC received reports of approximately one human swine flu virus infection every one to two years in the U.S., but from December 2005 through February 2009, 12 cases of human infection with swine influenza have been reported.
What are the symptoms of swine/novel flu in humans?
The symptoms of swine/novel flu in people are expected to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal flu and include fever, tiredness, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
How does swine/novel flu spread?
Though not common, flu viruses may be spread directly from pigs to people and from people to pigs. Human infection with flu viruses from pigs are most likely to occur when people are in close proximity to infected pigs.
Human-to-human transmission of swine/novel flu can also occur in the same way as seasonal flu occurs in people, which is mainly person-to-person transmission through coughing or sneezing of people infected with the virus. People may become infected by touching something with flu virus on it (like secretions from the nose of an infected person) and then touching their mouth or nose.
How can human infections with swine/novel flu be diagnosed?
A respiratory specimen would generally need to be collected within the first 4 to 5 days of illness or in some cases, 10 days or longer. Identification as a swine/novel flu influenza A virus requires sending the specimen to the State or CDC for laboratory testing.
What medications are available to treat swine/novel flu infections in humans?
CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza) for the treatment of infection with swine/novel flu viruses. At this time, there are no vaccines available.
What is Swine/Novel Flu?
Swine flu is a contagious respiratory disease that affects pigs and can be transmitted to humans. The current strain is a new variation of an H1N1 virus, which is a mix of human and animal versions.
Why should I be concerned?
Because of a recent outbreak of swine/novel flu in Mexico and some cases in the U.S., we are taking precautions to increase public safety and limit the virus.
How common is swine/novel flu infection in humans?
In the past, CDC received reports of approximately one human swine flu virus infection every one to two years in the U.S., but from December 2005 through February 2009, 12 cases of human infection with swine influenza have been reported.
What are the symptoms of swine/novel flu in humans?
The symptoms of swine/novel flu in people are expected to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal flu and include fever, tiredness, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
How does swine/novel flu spread?
Though not common, flu viruses may be spread directly from pigs to people and from people to pigs. Human infection with flu viruses from pigs are most likely to occur when people are in close proximity to infected pigs.
Human-to-human transmission of swine/novel flu can also occur in the same way as seasonal flu occurs in people, which is mainly person-to-person transmission through coughing or sneezing of people infected with the virus. People may become infected by touching something with flu virus on it (like secretions from the nose of an infected person) and then touching their mouth or nose.
How can human infections with swine/novel flu be diagnosed?
A respiratory specimen would generally need to be collected within the first 4 to 5 days of illness or in some cases, 10 days or longer. Identification as a swine/novel flu influenza A virus requires sending the specimen to the State or CDC for laboratory testing.
What medications are available to treat swine/novel flu infections in humans?
CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza) for the treatment of infection with swine/novel flu viruses. At this time, there are no vaccines available.
Center for Disease Control Quick Reference Guide for Public Information on Infection Control -- Resources for Public Information on Swine/Novel Flu and Infection Control
General Swine Flu Information
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/habits.htm?s_cid=swineFlu_outbreak_internal_003
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/key_facts.htm:
Provides facts about Swine Influenza
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/swineflu_you.htm
Swine Flu and You: Provides answers to questions about Swine Influenza
http://www2a.cdc.gov/podcasts/player.asp?f=11226
Swine Flue Video Podcast: In this video, Dr. Joe Bresee, with the CDC Influenza Division, describes swine flu - its signs and symptoms, how it's transmitted, medicines to treat it, steps people can take to protect themselves from it, and what people should do if they become ill.
http://www2a.cdc.gov/podcasts/player.asp?f=11072
All you have to do is wash your hands Podcast: This Podcast teaches children how and when to wash their hands properly.
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/rss/
Swine FLu RSS feed: Receive automatic updates on Swine Flu from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention right on your desktop or browser.
http://www.pork.org/PorkScience/Documents/PUBLICHEALTH%20influenza.pdf
INFLUENZA: Pigs, People and Public Health: Public Health Fact Sheet from National Pork Board
The National Swine Flu Situation Page (tm). Content on the page updates automatically and contains information from multiple web sites in one location. CDC, health, maps, RSS news feeds and more.
http://www.vuetoo.com/vue1/Situationpagenews.asp?af=&sit=4540&z=&np=&tp=14
Flu Information for Children/Parents & Child Care Providers
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/flugallery/2008-09/parents_guide.htm
The Flu: A Guide for Parents: Questions and answers about the flu, how to protect your child, treatment, and more
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/infectioncontrol/childcaresettings.htm
Preventing the Spread of Influenza (the Flu) in Child Care Settings: Guidance for Administrators, Care Providers, and Other Staff: Flu recommendations for schools and child care providers
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/school/qa.htm
Questions and Answers: Information for Schools: Printable version of answers to questions commonly asked by school administrators, teachers, staff, and parents
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/infantcare.htm
Protecting Against the Flu: Advice for Caregivers of Children Less Than 6 Months Old: Research has shown that children less than 5 years of age are at high risk of serious flu-related complications.
http://www.cdc.gov/germstopper/home_work_school.htm:
Fact Sheet on stopping germs at home and school
http://www.cdc.gov/ounceofprevention/
Ounce of Prevention: Tips and streaming video for parents and children about the steps and benefits of effective hand washing
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/flugallery/index.htm
Center for Disease Control Free Flue Materials: This year’s seasonal flu materials are free for download—no printed versions are available. They may be printed on a standard office printer, or you may use a commercial printer. Emphasis remains on outreach to high-risk groups, as well as parents of all children, health care workers, and people in the workplace.
Prevention Methods
http://www.cdc.gov/cleanhands/
Clean Hands Saves Lives: Keeping hands clean is one of the most important steps we can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others.
http://www.cdc.gov/handhygiene/
Hand Hygiene in Healtcare Setting: Guideline for Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Settings - 2002.
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5605a4.htm
Hand washing to reduce Disease: Recommendations to Reduce Disease Transmission from Animals in Public Settings
http://www.bam.gov/teachers/epidemiology_hand_wash.html
BAM! Body and Mind, Teacher's Corner: In this activity, students will conduct an experiment on washing their hands. They will learn that "clean" hands may not be so clean after all and the critical importance of washing their hands as a way to prevent the spread of disease.
http://www.cdc.gov/CDCTV/HandsTogether/
Center for Disease Control TV - Put Your Hands Together: (Video) Scientists estimate that people are not washing their hands often or well enough and may transmit up to 80% of all infections by their hands
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/covercough.htm
Cover your Cough Posters: Stop the Spread of Germs that Make You and Others Sick! ... Printable formats of "Cover Your Cough". Posters only available as PDF files.
http://www.cdc.gov/germstopper/materials/home_work_school.pdf
Center for Disease Control flu information: Stopping Germs at Home, Work and School. Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a tissue. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/school/pdf/qa.pdf
Questions and Answers: Information for Schools: Information about preventing the spread of flu in schools
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/school/
Information for Schools & Childcare: Cover Your Cough Materials. View larger image. See the Cover Your Cough page on this site for poster and flyer formatted for use in schools.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/stopgerms.htm
Stopping the Spread of Germs: Stop the Spread of Germs Healthy habits at home, work, & school; Printable Materials, flyers & posters, Cover Your Cough, Germ Stopper Poster.
http://www.cdc.gov/germstopper/materials.htm
Center for Disease Control - Be a Germ Stopper; Posters and Materials: For Community and Public Settings Like Schools and Child Care Facilities). ... Cover Your Cough also available for health care settings.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/infectioncontrol/resphygiene.htm
Cough Etiquette in Health Care Settings: Tips to prevent the spread of germs from coughing; Information about Personal Protective Equipment Demonstrates the sequences for donning and...
http://www.pandemicflu.gov/plan/tab4.html/
Workplace Planning: Includes flyers and posters, in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Chinese...
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/workplace/
Seasonal Flu Information for Workplaces & Employees: Resources for Workplaces & Employees
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pandemic/preparednesstools.htm
Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Tools for Professionals: Resources to help hospital administrators and state and local health officials prepare for the next influenza pandemic.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/patiented.htm
Patient Education Materials: This season’s materials reflect outreach to high-risk groups, including caregivers and parents of infants...
School Materials and Posters
Germ Stopper Materials
"Be a Germ Stopper" posters and screensavers. Simple reminders for good hygiene for use in classrooms, cafeterias or laminated for bathrooms. See the Stop the Spread of Germs site at www.cdc.gov/germstopper.
Cover Your Cough Materials
See the http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/covercough.htm Cover Your Cough page on this site for poster and flyer formatted for use in schools.
"It's a SNAP" Toolkit
Program materials to help prevent school absenteeism Activities for school administrators, teachers, students and others can do to help stop the spread of germs in schools. See the handcleaning section of the "It's a SNAP" site at www.itsasnap.org/snap/about.asp.
General Swine Flu Information
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/habits.htm?s_cid=swineFlu_outbreak_internal_003
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/key_facts.htm:
Provides facts about Swine Influenza
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/swineflu_you.htm
Swine Flu and You: Provides answers to questions about Swine Influenza
http://www2a.cdc.gov/podcasts/player.asp?f=11226
Swine Flue Video Podcast: In this video, Dr. Joe Bresee, with the CDC Influenza Division, describes swine flu - its signs and symptoms, how it's transmitted, medicines to treat it, steps people can take to protect themselves from it, and what people should do if they become ill.
http://www2a.cdc.gov/podcasts/player.asp?f=11072
All you have to do is wash your hands Podcast: This Podcast teaches children how and when to wash their hands properly.
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/rss/
Swine FLu RSS feed: Receive automatic updates on Swine Flu from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention right on your desktop or browser.
http://www.pork.org/PorkScience/Documents/PUBLICHEALTH%20influenza.pdf
INFLUENZA: Pigs, People and Public Health: Public Health Fact Sheet from National Pork Board
The National Swine Flu Situation Page (tm). Content on the page updates automatically and contains information from multiple web sites in one location. CDC, health, maps, RSS news feeds and more.
http://www.vuetoo.com/vue1/Situationpagenews.asp?af=&sit=4540&z=&np=&tp=14
Flu Information for Children/Parents & Child Care Providers
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/flugallery/2008-09/parents_guide.htm
The Flu: A Guide for Parents: Questions and answers about the flu, how to protect your child, treatment, and more
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/infectioncontrol/childcaresettings.htm
Preventing the Spread of Influenza (the Flu) in Child Care Settings: Guidance for Administrators, Care Providers, and Other Staff: Flu recommendations for schools and child care providers
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/school/qa.htm
Questions and Answers: Information for Schools: Printable version of answers to questions commonly asked by school administrators, teachers, staff, and parents
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/infantcare.htm
Protecting Against the Flu: Advice for Caregivers of Children Less Than 6 Months Old: Research has shown that children less than 5 years of age are at high risk of serious flu-related complications.
http://www.cdc.gov/germstopper/home_work_school.htm:
Fact Sheet on stopping germs at home and school
http://www.cdc.gov/ounceofprevention/
Ounce of Prevention: Tips and streaming video for parents and children about the steps and benefits of effective hand washing
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/flugallery/index.htm
Center for Disease Control Free Flue Materials: This year’s seasonal flu materials are free for download—no printed versions are available. They may be printed on a standard office printer, or you may use a commercial printer. Emphasis remains on outreach to high-risk groups, as well as parents of all children, health care workers, and people in the workplace.
Prevention Methods
http://www.cdc.gov/cleanhands/
Clean Hands Saves Lives: Keeping hands clean is one of the most important steps we can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others.
http://www.cdc.gov/handhygiene/
Hand Hygiene in Healtcare Setting: Guideline for Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Settings - 2002.
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5605a4.htm
Hand washing to reduce Disease: Recommendations to Reduce Disease Transmission from Animals in Public Settings
http://www.bam.gov/teachers/epidemiology_hand_wash.html
BAM! Body and Mind, Teacher's Corner: In this activity, students will conduct an experiment on washing their hands. They will learn that "clean" hands may not be so clean after all and the critical importance of washing their hands as a way to prevent the spread of disease.
http://www.cdc.gov/CDCTV/HandsTogether/
Center for Disease Control TV - Put Your Hands Together: (Video) Scientists estimate that people are not washing their hands often or well enough and may transmit up to 80% of all infections by their hands
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/covercough.htm
Cover your Cough Posters: Stop the Spread of Germs that Make You and Others Sick! ... Printable formats of "Cover Your Cough". Posters only available as PDF files.
http://www.cdc.gov/germstopper/materials/home_work_school.pdf
Center for Disease Control flu information: Stopping Germs at Home, Work and School. Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a tissue. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/school/pdf/qa.pdf
Questions and Answers: Information for Schools: Information about preventing the spread of flu in schools
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/school/
Information for Schools & Childcare: Cover Your Cough Materials. View larger image. See the Cover Your Cough page on this site for poster and flyer formatted for use in schools.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/stopgerms.htm
Stopping the Spread of Germs: Stop the Spread of Germs Healthy habits at home, work, & school; Printable Materials, flyers & posters, Cover Your Cough, Germ Stopper Poster.
http://www.cdc.gov/germstopper/materials.htm
Center for Disease Control - Be a Germ Stopper; Posters and Materials: For Community and Public Settings Like Schools and Child Care Facilities). ... Cover Your Cough also available for health care settings.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/infectioncontrol/resphygiene.htm
Cough Etiquette in Health Care Settings: Tips to prevent the spread of germs from coughing; Information about Personal Protective Equipment Demonstrates the sequences for donning and...
http://www.pandemicflu.gov/plan/tab4.html/
Workplace Planning: Includes flyers and posters, in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Chinese...
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/workplace/
Seasonal Flu Information for Workplaces & Employees: Resources for Workplaces & Employees
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pandemic/preparednesstools.htm
Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Tools for Professionals: Resources to help hospital administrators and state and local health officials prepare for the next influenza pandemic.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/patiented.htm
Patient Education Materials: This season’s materials reflect outreach to high-risk groups, including caregivers and parents of infants...
School Materials and Posters
Germ Stopper Materials
"Be a Germ Stopper" posters and screensavers. Simple reminders for good hygiene for use in classrooms, cafeterias or laminated for bathrooms. See the Stop the Spread of Germs site at www.cdc.gov/germstopper.
Cover Your Cough Materials
See the http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/covercough.htm Cover Your Cough page on this site for poster and flyer formatted for use in schools.
"It's a SNAP" Toolkit
Program materials to help prevent school absenteeism Activities for school administrators, teachers, students and others can do to help stop the spread of germs in schools. See the handcleaning section of the "It's a SNAP" site at www.itsasnap.org/snap/about.asp.
Monday, April 27, 2009
VBS kids TREK across God’s beautiful world
Transform, Rejoice, Experience & Know God with the Society of St. Andrew’s free VBS mission project featuring “Go Green” facts
Each day during Vacation Bible School, students are “sent” on a mission adventure with the Society of St. Andrew’s new VBS mission project, “TREK.” The adventures put them on the front line of learning the importance of eating healthy, sharing with others, and using their hands to help God’s hungry children.
“TREK Mission Adventure” is offered at no cost by the Society of St. Andrew (SoSA), Advance #801600 and Resolution #4093 of the United Methodist Church. It is designed to supplement VBS programs and can be easily adapted to any VBS theme.
This year’s program features daily “Go Green” facts with such information as how much it costs the U.S. to dispose of all its food waste. Daily activity sheets for all ages also contain short scripturally based stories, facts about hunger and SoSA’s hunger-relief ministry, potato trivia, and pencil activities.
“Through this program our kids learned about hunger … and things they can do to help,” said the VBS director of St. John’s UMC, Kansas City, MO, regarding last year’s Vacation Bible School.
In addition to the fun and educational aspects of these daily “mission adventures,” the goal for each VBS is to raise enough through student offerings for the Society of St. Andrew to save and donate 1,000 pounds of fresh produce that will end up on the plates of hungry Americans. At about a nickel a pound, that’s a goal of $50.
The Society of St. Andrew’s national hunger-relief ministry uses thousands of volunteers to glean (save) excess fresh vegetables and fruits that are perfectly good and nutritious but can’t be sold because of market factors. Instead of letting this food go to waste, SoSA ships it to agencies throughout the nation that feed the hungry, and does it at a cost of a little over 5¢ a pound! “It’s a simple and effective way to obey Jesus’ command to feed the hungry, while also being good stewards of our nation’s abundance,” explained The Rev. Jennifer Vestal Moore, SoSA’s director of church relationships.
The VBS director at Athens First UMC in Athens, GA, last year said, “We sent home your handouts each day to reinforce the focus and to educate parents and children about hunger. The kids talked about how much better they would feel helping others versus buying another toy.”
Last year 157 churches used the Society of St. Andrew’s VBS mission project. The children attending VBS enthusiastically answered Jesus’ call to feed the hungry by donating $36,846 – enough to provide more than 2.1 million servings of food to hungry men, women and children! On average, each participating VBS raised more than four-and-half times the goal of $50.
All materials are free and available now. Order a sample kit today. There is no obligation. Call Rev. Moore at the Society of St. Andrew, 800-333-4597; email church@endhunger.org; fax your request to 434-299-5949; or order online at http://www.endhunger.org/vbs.htm. If your materials do not arrive within two weeks of placing your order, please call the Society of St. Andrew.
More information about the Society of St. Andrew and its hunger relief ministry, including the Gleaning Network, Potato & Produce Project, Harvest of Hope, and Hunger Relief Advocate programs, is available at www.endhunger.org.
Transform, Rejoice, Experience & Know God with the Society of St. Andrew’s free VBS mission project featuring “Go Green” facts
Each day during Vacation Bible School, students are “sent” on a mission adventure with the Society of St. Andrew’s new VBS mission project, “TREK.” The adventures put them on the front line of learning the importance of eating healthy, sharing with others, and using their hands to help God’s hungry children.
“TREK Mission Adventure” is offered at no cost by the Society of St. Andrew (SoSA), Advance #801600 and Resolution #4093 of the United Methodist Church. It is designed to supplement VBS programs and can be easily adapted to any VBS theme.
This year’s program features daily “Go Green” facts with such information as how much it costs the U.S. to dispose of all its food waste. Daily activity sheets for all ages also contain short scripturally based stories, facts about hunger and SoSA’s hunger-relief ministry, potato trivia, and pencil activities.
“Through this program our kids learned about hunger … and things they can do to help,” said the VBS director of St. John’s UMC, Kansas City, MO, regarding last year’s Vacation Bible School.
In addition to the fun and educational aspects of these daily “mission adventures,” the goal for each VBS is to raise enough through student offerings for the Society of St. Andrew to save and donate 1,000 pounds of fresh produce that will end up on the plates of hungry Americans. At about a nickel a pound, that’s a goal of $50.
The Society of St. Andrew’s national hunger-relief ministry uses thousands of volunteers to glean (save) excess fresh vegetables and fruits that are perfectly good and nutritious but can’t be sold because of market factors. Instead of letting this food go to waste, SoSA ships it to agencies throughout the nation that feed the hungry, and does it at a cost of a little over 5¢ a pound! “It’s a simple and effective way to obey Jesus’ command to feed the hungry, while also being good stewards of our nation’s abundance,” explained The Rev. Jennifer Vestal Moore, SoSA’s director of church relationships.
The VBS director at Athens First UMC in Athens, GA, last year said, “We sent home your handouts each day to reinforce the focus and to educate parents and children about hunger. The kids talked about how much better they would feel helping others versus buying another toy.”
Last year 157 churches used the Society of St. Andrew’s VBS mission project. The children attending VBS enthusiastically answered Jesus’ call to feed the hungry by donating $36,846 – enough to provide more than 2.1 million servings of food to hungry men, women and children! On average, each participating VBS raised more than four-and-half times the goal of $50.
All materials are free and available now. Order a sample kit today. There is no obligation. Call Rev. Moore at the Society of St. Andrew, 800-333-4597; email church@endhunger.org; fax your request to 434-299-5949; or order online at http://www.endhunger.org/vbs.htm. If your materials do not arrive within two weeks of placing your order, please call the Society of St. Andrew.
More information about the Society of St. Andrew and its hunger relief ministry, including the Gleaning Network, Potato & Produce Project, Harvest of Hope, and Hunger Relief Advocate programs, is available at www.endhunger.org.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Statement by Bishops of The United Methodist Church on news that President Obama will take up immigration reform in 2009
We join other religious leaders in thanking President Obama for placing immigration reform on his political agenda for 2009. As United Methodists we believe that immigration is a human rights issue that needs serious attention. We stand firmly in believing that the inherent value of all immigrants means that all of their civil liberties should be respected and maintained regardless of their legal status. We believe, however, that our present immigration policies violate these basic rights.
We encourage President Obama to work for comprehensive immigration reform that would…
.Provide a pathway to citizenship for immigrants;
.Reunify immigrant families that have been separated by immigration itself or due to work place raids and ensuing indefinite detentions and deportations;
.Increase the number of visas for short-term workers to come into the United States to work in a safe, legal, and orderly way.
.Extend legal protection to all workers who come to stay for a certain period of time as well as for those who stay permanently including the right to bargain for higher wages, to protest against poor working conditions, and to preserve their human rights as workers, be they documented or undocumented;
.Eliminate privately-operated detention centers, which are not regulated by the federal or state governments, and end all indiscriminate raids.
We stand ready to assist President Obama in this mighty work of comprehensive immigration reform that would truly serve the common good.
Bishop Minerva G. Carcaño
Bishop of the Phoenix Area
of The United Methodist Church
and Chair of the United Methodist
Task Force on Immigration
Bishop Gregory Palmer
President of the Council of Bishops
of The United Methodist Church
and Bishop of the Illinois Area
Bishop Kenneth L. Carder
Professor of the Practice of Christian
Ministry Duke Divinity School
Bishop Jane Allen Middleton
Bishop of the Harrisburg Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Elaine J.W. Stanovsky
Bishop of the Denver Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Judith Craig,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Hope Morgan Ward
Bishop of the Mississippi Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Joe A. Wilson,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Roy I. Sano,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Peter D. Weaver
Bishop of the Boston Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop C. Joseph Sprague,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop George W. Bashore,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Elías G. Galván,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Joel N. Martinez,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop S. Clifton Ives,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Robert T. Hoshibata
Bishop of the Portland Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Susan Murch Morrison,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Richard J. Wills, Jr.
Bishop of the Nashville Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop William Boyd Grove,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Jesse R. DeWitt,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar
Bishop of the New Jersey Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Felton Edwin May,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Julius C. Trimble
Bishop of the Iowa Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Sharon Zimmerman Rader,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Warner H. Brown, Jr.
Bishop of the San Francisco Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Grant Hagiya
Bishop of the Seattle Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Jeremiah Park
Bishop of the New York Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Marshall L. Meadors, Jr.,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
We join other religious leaders in thanking President Obama for placing immigration reform on his political agenda for 2009. As United Methodists we believe that immigration is a human rights issue that needs serious attention. We stand firmly in believing that the inherent value of all immigrants means that all of their civil liberties should be respected and maintained regardless of their legal status. We believe, however, that our present immigration policies violate these basic rights.
We encourage President Obama to work for comprehensive immigration reform that would…
.Provide a pathway to citizenship for immigrants;
.Reunify immigrant families that have been separated by immigration itself or due to work place raids and ensuing indefinite detentions and deportations;
.Increase the number of visas for short-term workers to come into the United States to work in a safe, legal, and orderly way.
.Extend legal protection to all workers who come to stay for a certain period of time as well as for those who stay permanently including the right to bargain for higher wages, to protest against poor working conditions, and to preserve their human rights as workers, be they documented or undocumented;
.Eliminate privately-operated detention centers, which are not regulated by the federal or state governments, and end all indiscriminate raids.
We stand ready to assist President Obama in this mighty work of comprehensive immigration reform that would truly serve the common good.
Bishop Minerva G. Carcaño
Bishop of the Phoenix Area
of The United Methodist Church
and Chair of the United Methodist
Task Force on Immigration
Bishop Gregory Palmer
President of the Council of Bishops
of The United Methodist Church
and Bishop of the Illinois Area
Bishop Kenneth L. Carder
Professor of the Practice of Christian
Ministry Duke Divinity School
Bishop Jane Allen Middleton
Bishop of the Harrisburg Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Elaine J.W. Stanovsky
Bishop of the Denver Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Judith Craig,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Hope Morgan Ward
Bishop of the Mississippi Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Joe A. Wilson,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Roy I. Sano,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Peter D. Weaver
Bishop of the Boston Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop C. Joseph Sprague,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop George W. Bashore,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Elías G. Galván,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Joel N. Martinez,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop S. Clifton Ives,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Robert T. Hoshibata
Bishop of the Portland Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Susan Murch Morrison,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Richard J. Wills, Jr.
Bishop of the Nashville Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop William Boyd Grove,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Jesse R. DeWitt,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar
Bishop of the New Jersey Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Felton Edwin May,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Julius C. Trimble
Bishop of the Iowa Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Sharon Zimmerman Rader,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Bishop Warner H. Brown, Jr.
Bishop of the San Francisco Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Grant Hagiya
Bishop of the Seattle Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Jeremiah Park
Bishop of the New York Area
of The United Methodist Church
Bishop Marshall L. Meadors, Jr.,
Retired
The United Methodist Church
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Social justice agency saddened by shooting deaths
U.S. Congress urged to create 'effective gun legislation' to stop increasing violence.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United Methodist General Board of Church & Society (GBCS) expressed sadness at the “unnecessary and heartbreaking” gun-related violence of the past weekend in the United States.
Fourteen people, including the alleged perpetrator died at the American Civic Assn. in Binghamton, N.Y., on Friday. On Saturday, three Pittsburgh police officers were shot and killed while answering a domestic dispute.
Last year, The United Methodist Church’s highest policy-making body adopted a resolution that declared “the need to prevent the incidence of firearm-related injury and death is an issue of increasing concern and a priority public health issue.” In the resolution on “Gun Violence,” the denomination calls for social policies and personal lifestyles that bring an end to senseless gun violence.
GBCS’s statement, signed by Jim Winkler, top executive of the agency, points out that the shootings in Binghamton were “particularly sad” because the majority of those killed were refugees. They were “immigrants who had fled war-torn and violent parts of the world to come to the safety of the United States only to meet a violent death,” the statement emphasizes.
GBCS states that its sadness at the tragic loss of life is equaled by its “continued disappointment” at the inability of the U.S. Congress “to enact necessary, common-sense gun regulations.” The statement cites several necessary issues for Congress to address: instituting background checks on all gun sales, including at gun shows; limiting bulk sales of guns intended to be illegally sold; and reinstating the ban on sale of military assault weapons to civilians. GBCS contends these would help lessen the increasing violence associated with the current absence of “effective gun regulations.”
“In the face of mounting killings due to gun violence, it is imperative for Congress to take action,” states GBCS, the denomination’s social justice agency. “In the interest of public safety, we cannot afford to allow the power of the gun lobby and its efforts to ensure ownership without responsibility to keep Congress silent and inactive.”
The General Board of Church & Society is one of four international general program agencies of The United Methodist Church. The agency’s primary areas of ministry are Advocacy, Education and Leadership Formation, United Nations and International Affairs, and resourcing these areas for the denomination. It has offices on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., and at the Church Center at the United Nations in New York City.
The statement on gun violence follows.
GBCS Statement on Shooting Deaths in Binghamton, N.Y., and Pittsburgh, Pa.
The General Board of Church & Society of The United Methodist Church is saddened by the gun-related violence of this past weekend. Fourteen persons died in the shooting at the American Civic Assn. in Binghamton, N.Y., on Friday, and three police officers were killed on Saturday while answering a domestic dispute call in Pittsburgh, Pa. These tragic events are unnecessary and heartbreaking, and our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims’ families.
What is particularly sad about each of these events, which occurred just hours apart, is that the majority of those killed in Binghamton were refugees. These immigrants had fled war-torn, violent, and poverty-stricken parts of the world to come to the safety of the United States only to meet a violent death.
In Pittsburgh, the accused murderer lay in wait for the police. He was wearing a bullet-proof vest and used an assault weapon.
Theologian William Sloane Coffin has said we are in a “world awash with weapons.” The United Methodist Church believes, “the need to prevent the incidence of firearm-related injury and death is an issue of increasing concern and a priority public health issue. The United Methodist Church is among those religious communions calling for social policies and personal lifestyles that bring an end to senseless gun violence” (2008 Book of Resolutions, “Gun Violence”).
Our sadness at the tragic loss of life is equaled by our continued disappointment at the inability of Congress to enact necessary, common-sense gun regulations. Background checks on all gun sales, including those at gun shows, limiting the bulk sales of guns intended to be illegally sold, and reinstating the ban on military assault weapons to civilians would be necessary steps to start. These steps would help lessen the increasing violence associated with the current absence of effective gun regulations.
In the face of more and more mass killings due to gun violence, it is imperative for Congress to take action. In the interest of public safety, we cannot permit the power of the gun lobby and its efforts to ensure ownership without responsibility to keep Congress silent and inactive.
As followers of Jesus the Peacemaker, we yearn for leadership of those who will restore safety and security in our public spaces. The right to own guns should be measured by the enormous responsibilities attached to it.
It is clear from the increasing gun violence in the United States that these responsibilities are not being taken seriously. Therefore, it is incumbent upon Congress to take action and ensure that these responsibilities and regulations be enacted.
Jim Winkler
General Secretary
General Board of Church & Society
The United Methodist Church
April 7, 2009
U.S. Congress urged to create 'effective gun legislation' to stop increasing violence.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United Methodist General Board of Church & Society (GBCS) expressed sadness at the “unnecessary and heartbreaking” gun-related violence of the past weekend in the United States.
Fourteen people, including the alleged perpetrator died at the American Civic Assn. in Binghamton, N.Y., on Friday. On Saturday, three Pittsburgh police officers were shot and killed while answering a domestic dispute.
Last year, The United Methodist Church’s highest policy-making body adopted a resolution that declared “the need to prevent the incidence of firearm-related injury and death is an issue of increasing concern and a priority public health issue.” In the resolution on “Gun Violence,” the denomination calls for social policies and personal lifestyles that bring an end to senseless gun violence.
GBCS’s statement, signed by Jim Winkler, top executive of the agency, points out that the shootings in Binghamton were “particularly sad” because the majority of those killed were refugees. They were “immigrants who had fled war-torn and violent parts of the world to come to the safety of the United States only to meet a violent death,” the statement emphasizes.
GBCS states that its sadness at the tragic loss of life is equaled by its “continued disappointment” at the inability of the U.S. Congress “to enact necessary, common-sense gun regulations.” The statement cites several necessary issues for Congress to address: instituting background checks on all gun sales, including at gun shows; limiting bulk sales of guns intended to be illegally sold; and reinstating the ban on sale of military assault weapons to civilians. GBCS contends these would help lessen the increasing violence associated with the current absence of “effective gun regulations.”
“In the face of mounting killings due to gun violence, it is imperative for Congress to take action,” states GBCS, the denomination’s social justice agency. “In the interest of public safety, we cannot afford to allow the power of the gun lobby and its efforts to ensure ownership without responsibility to keep Congress silent and inactive.”
The General Board of Church & Society is one of four international general program agencies of The United Methodist Church. The agency’s primary areas of ministry are Advocacy, Education and Leadership Formation, United Nations and International Affairs, and resourcing these areas for the denomination. It has offices on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., and at the Church Center at the United Nations in New York City.
The statement on gun violence follows.
GBCS Statement on Shooting Deaths in Binghamton, N.Y., and Pittsburgh, Pa.
The General Board of Church & Society of The United Methodist Church is saddened by the gun-related violence of this past weekend. Fourteen persons died in the shooting at the American Civic Assn. in Binghamton, N.Y., on Friday, and three police officers were killed on Saturday while answering a domestic dispute call in Pittsburgh, Pa. These tragic events are unnecessary and heartbreaking, and our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims’ families.
What is particularly sad about each of these events, which occurred just hours apart, is that the majority of those killed in Binghamton were refugees. These immigrants had fled war-torn, violent, and poverty-stricken parts of the world to come to the safety of the United States only to meet a violent death.
In Pittsburgh, the accused murderer lay in wait for the police. He was wearing a bullet-proof vest and used an assault weapon.
Theologian William Sloane Coffin has said we are in a “world awash with weapons.” The United Methodist Church believes, “the need to prevent the incidence of firearm-related injury and death is an issue of increasing concern and a priority public health issue. The United Methodist Church is among those religious communions calling for social policies and personal lifestyles that bring an end to senseless gun violence” (2008 Book of Resolutions, “Gun Violence”).
Our sadness at the tragic loss of life is equaled by our continued disappointment at the inability of Congress to enact necessary, common-sense gun regulations. Background checks on all gun sales, including those at gun shows, limiting the bulk sales of guns intended to be illegally sold, and reinstating the ban on military assault weapons to civilians would be necessary steps to start. These steps would help lessen the increasing violence associated with the current absence of effective gun regulations.
In the face of more and more mass killings due to gun violence, it is imperative for Congress to take action. In the interest of public safety, we cannot permit the power of the gun lobby and its efforts to ensure ownership without responsibility to keep Congress silent and inactive.
As followers of Jesus the Peacemaker, we yearn for leadership of those who will restore safety and security in our public spaces. The right to own guns should be measured by the enormous responsibilities attached to it.
It is clear from the increasing gun violence in the United States that these responsibilities are not being taken seriously. Therefore, it is incumbent upon Congress to take action and ensure that these responsibilities and regulations be enacted.
Jim Winkler
General Secretary
General Board of Church & Society
The United Methodist Church
April 7, 2009
Friday, April 03, 2009
Nashville Clergy Issue United, Community-wide Call to Action to Obtain Federal Aid for Metro Nashville General Hospital
Services to Community, Education for Physicians, and Jobs in Local Economy Are Threatened by Reductions in Local & State Funding
Nashville clergy have issued a united, city-wide call to action to secure federal aid for Metro Nashville General Hospital. Clergy members announced their effort on behalf of the hospital at a news conference on March 31. Among the people participating in the news conference were (left to right) Reverend Jerry Maynard II; Reverend Henry Blaze, Progressive Baptist Church; Reverend Judi Hoffman, Edgehill United Methodist Church; and Reverend Jay Voorhees, Antioch United Methodist Church. More than 70 Nashville clergy have already signed a declaration of support to secure federal funding for Metro Nashville General Hospital
Nashville, TN – Nashville clergy have announced a united, city-wide call to action to secure federal aid for Metro Nashville General Hospital as the hospital faces reductions in local and state funding that threaten the hospital’s unique role as a provider of medical care to thousands of Nashvillians and as an education partner with Meharry Medical College. During a news conference on March 31, Reverend Henry Blaze, Progressive Baptist Church, and Reverend Judi Hoffman, Edgehill United Methodist Church, said that more than 70 Nashville clergy have already signed a united declaration of support to seek and secure federal funding for Metro Nashville General Hospital. They urged Nashville citizens and community, business, civic, and health care leaders to join them in this effort.
Bishop Jerry Maynard, Cathedral of Praise, said, “Health care is a matter of justice and morality. We talk about Nashville being a great city. However, our city’s greatness must include access to healthcare for all of our people. If our city fails to provide this, Nashville falls short of greatness no matter how many businesses move here or how many tourists visit.”
“Metro Nashville General Hospital faces a financial crisis that threatens the city’s healthcare infrastructure. Because of the economy, Nashville has an increasing number of uninsured residents who need to know that their city has not forgotten them and their need for access to a hospital. Metro Nashville General Hospital is our city’s safety-net for acute care medical services,” said Rev. Blaze.
Metro Nashville General Hospital serves more than 30% of the uninsured patients in the city. The hospital incurred $70 million in expenses for uncompensated care in 2008, while receiving $34 million from Metropolitan Government as a subsidy for the indigent care services.
Rev. Judi Hoffman explained, “We know that the State of Tennessee and Metro Government of Nashville Davidson County face tough economic times. However, we believe that our city has a moral obligation to operate a fully accredited public safety net hospital to serve the health care needs of Nashvillians.”
Need for a Fully Accredited In-patient Facility
The clergy stressed that it is crucial that Metro Nashville General Hospital continue to operate as a fully accredited, in-patient facility.
“We can be proud of the network of primary care clinics that operate in our city. However, people who have acute illnesses need to receive care in a hospital. Without Metro General Nashville Hospital, there would be nowhere for them to go,” said Rev. Hoffman.
Rev. Hoffman also noted that without this accredited in-patient facility, the education of hundreds of Meharry medical and dental students is threatened because of the unique partnership between Metro Nashville General Hospital and Meharry Medical College.
The clergy stressed that the hospital’s funding crisis could have a long-term impact on the health of the nation because the training for thousands of future physicians could be curtailed. They noted that the Metro General – Meharry Medical College partnership is a unique national health care resource that is deserving of federal financial support.
United Methodist Minister Fred Cloud, seen here with Pastor Maurice Harris of the Hosea Community Church, is one of the United Methodist ministers speaking up for Metro General Hospital.
Meharry Medical College is the largest private, comprehensive historically black institution for educating health professionals and scientists in the United States. Metro Nashville General Hospital serves as Meharry’s principal teaching facility. The Meharry-General Hospital partnership is part of the nation’s health education infrastructure.
Hospital’s Economic Impact
Freda Player, Change that Works Tennessee, spoke at a public rally following the March 31 news conference. Addressing more the 100 people who attended the rally, she pointed out that the hospital has an annual budget of $95 million and a payroll of over 700 employees.
“The hospital is a major employer in Nashville. In the current economic situation, where would 700 people find jobs in our city? Federal funding for Metro Nashville General Hospital is important for many economic reasons.”
Seay-Hubbard United Methodist Church pastor Kennard Murray, conversing here with the Rev. Jay Voorhees, also is supporting financial aid for Metro General Hospital.
Reverend Jay Voorhees, Antioch United Methodist Church, summarized the clergy’s reasons for undertaking this effort. He said, “We have faith that many people will join us in this effort because we know this city and its people. We believe that:
. Nashville is a caring, compassionate community that wants to provide quality care to people in need in an accredited facility;
. Nashvillians want to help their neighbors when they lose their jobs and provide the assurance that you can receive acute care health services if needed;
. Nashville is doing a good job in providing primary care services in health clinics, but needs to continue to operate an acute care hospital to serve clinic patients; and
. The people of Nashville and its leaders will join us in working to secure federal funds for the continued operation of Metro Nashville General Hospital because it is the moral and right thing to do.”
For information about the Nashville clergy’s Declaration of Support, visit http://www.faithleadersforall/of us.com or call 481-9246.
Services to Community, Education for Physicians, and Jobs in Local Economy Are Threatened by Reductions in Local & State Funding
Nashville clergy have issued a united, city-wide call to action to secure federal aid for Metro Nashville General Hospital. Clergy members announced their effort on behalf of the hospital at a news conference on March 31. Among the people participating in the news conference were (left to right) Reverend Jerry Maynard II; Reverend Henry Blaze, Progressive Baptist Church; Reverend Judi Hoffman, Edgehill United Methodist Church; and Reverend Jay Voorhees, Antioch United Methodist Church. More than 70 Nashville clergy have already signed a declaration of support to secure federal funding for Metro Nashville General HospitalNashville, TN – Nashville clergy have announced a united, city-wide call to action to secure federal aid for Metro Nashville General Hospital as the hospital faces reductions in local and state funding that threaten the hospital’s unique role as a provider of medical care to thousands of Nashvillians and as an education partner with Meharry Medical College. During a news conference on March 31, Reverend Henry Blaze, Progressive Baptist Church, and Reverend Judi Hoffman, Edgehill United Methodist Church, said that more than 70 Nashville clergy have already signed a united declaration of support to seek and secure federal funding for Metro Nashville General Hospital. They urged Nashville citizens and community, business, civic, and health care leaders to join them in this effort.
Bishop Jerry Maynard, Cathedral of Praise, said, “Health care is a matter of justice and morality. We talk about Nashville being a great city. However, our city’s greatness must include access to healthcare for all of our people. If our city fails to provide this, Nashville falls short of greatness no matter how many businesses move here or how many tourists visit.”
“Metro Nashville General Hospital faces a financial crisis that threatens the city’s healthcare infrastructure. Because of the economy, Nashville has an increasing number of uninsured residents who need to know that their city has not forgotten them and their need for access to a hospital. Metro Nashville General Hospital is our city’s safety-net for acute care medical services,” said Rev. Blaze.
Metro Nashville General Hospital serves more than 30% of the uninsured patients in the city. The hospital incurred $70 million in expenses for uncompensated care in 2008, while receiving $34 million from Metropolitan Government as a subsidy for the indigent care services.
Rev. Judi Hoffman explained, “We know that the State of Tennessee and Metro Government of Nashville Davidson County face tough economic times. However, we believe that our city has a moral obligation to operate a fully accredited public safety net hospital to serve the health care needs of Nashvillians.”
Need for a Fully Accredited In-patient Facility
The clergy stressed that it is crucial that Metro Nashville General Hospital continue to operate as a fully accredited, in-patient facility.
“We can be proud of the network of primary care clinics that operate in our city. However, people who have acute illnesses need to receive care in a hospital. Without Metro General Nashville Hospital, there would be nowhere for them to go,” said Rev. Hoffman.
Rev. Hoffman also noted that without this accredited in-patient facility, the education of hundreds of Meharry medical and dental students is threatened because of the unique partnership between Metro Nashville General Hospital and Meharry Medical College.
The clergy stressed that the hospital’s funding crisis could have a long-term impact on the health of the nation because the training for thousands of future physicians could be curtailed. They noted that the Metro General – Meharry Medical College partnership is a unique national health care resource that is deserving of federal financial support.
United Methodist Minister Fred Cloud, seen here with Pastor Maurice Harris of the Hosea Community Church, is one of the United Methodist ministers speaking up for Metro General Hospital.Meharry Medical College is the largest private, comprehensive historically black institution for educating health professionals and scientists in the United States. Metro Nashville General Hospital serves as Meharry’s principal teaching facility. The Meharry-General Hospital partnership is part of the nation’s health education infrastructure.
Hospital’s Economic Impact
Freda Player, Change that Works Tennessee, spoke at a public rally following the March 31 news conference. Addressing more the 100 people who attended the rally, she pointed out that the hospital has an annual budget of $95 million and a payroll of over 700 employees.
“The hospital is a major employer in Nashville. In the current economic situation, where would 700 people find jobs in our city? Federal funding for Metro Nashville General Hospital is important for many economic reasons.”
Seay-Hubbard United Methodist Church pastor Kennard Murray, conversing here with the Rev. Jay Voorhees, also is supporting financial aid for Metro General Hospital.Reverend Jay Voorhees, Antioch United Methodist Church, summarized the clergy’s reasons for undertaking this effort. He said, “We have faith that many people will join us in this effort because we know this city and its people. We believe that:
. Nashville is a caring, compassionate community that wants to provide quality care to people in need in an accredited facility;
. Nashvillians want to help their neighbors when they lose their jobs and provide the assurance that you can receive acute care health services if needed;
. Nashville is doing a good job in providing primary care services in health clinics, but needs to continue to operate an acute care hospital to serve clinic patients; and
. The people of Nashville and its leaders will join us in working to secure federal funds for the continued operation of Metro Nashville General Hospital because it is the moral and right thing to do.”
For information about the Nashville clergy’s Declaration of Support, visit http://www.faithleadersforall/of us.com or call 481-9246.
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