Northern Plains District
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December 15, 2009
DISTRICT NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. ADVENT/CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM DISTRICT STAFF
2. MESSAGE FROM MARGE SMALLEY, DISTRICT MODERATOR
3. DENNIS DOUD TO RETIRE AS OTTUMWA’S PASTOR
4. MARILYN KOEHLER TO SERVE AS INTERIM PASTOR AT OTTUMWA
5. DAVID LOVEALL TO SERVE AS INTERIM PASTOR AT SHELDON
6. MEMBERSHIP TASK FORCE SEEKS INPUT
7. DISTRICT CHURCHES REACH $5,000 HEIFER PROJECT GOAL
8. DES MOINES YOUNG ADULT GROUP
9. DISTRICT BOARD THANK YOU TO LIBERTYVILLE AND OTTUMWA
10. NATIONAL YOUTH CONFERENCE (NYC) UPDATE
11. REGIONAL YOUTH CONFERENCE – APRIL 9-11, 2010
12. REBUILDING FLOOD DAMAGED HOMES IN CEDAR RAPIDS
13. MARGE AND DALE SMALLEY’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY
14. IN OUR PRAYERS – FAMILY OF ELLEN MILLER
15. NEWS FROM SISTER CONGREGATIONS
16. DEVOTIONAL BOOK PROJECT AT FAIRVIEW CHURCH
17. ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2010 – LOGO AND MODERATOR’S BLOG
18. WHERE YOUR HEART IS, THERE YOUR MONEY SHOULD BE AS WELL
19. CHURCH REPORTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS
20. DISTRICT DOCUMENTS ON-LINE
21. CALENDAR OF EVENTS
22. DISTRICT STAFF CONTACT INFORMATION
1. ADVENT/CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM DISTRICT STAFF
May the hope, peace, joy and love of Jesus Christ be with you and your congregation this season of Advent and Christmas.
It is a blessing working with so many wonderful churches and people.
Thank you for all your prayers, support, and participation.
Nancy Davis (Secretary), Lois Grove (Leadership Development),
Matt and Betsy Kueker (Camp Managers), Barbara Lewczak (Camp Program Director,
Tim Button-Harrison (District Executive).
2. MESSAGE FROM MARGE SMALLEY, DISTRICT MODERATOR
Greetings and blessings to my Christian family and friends throughout the Northern Plains District.
I hope this moderator update finds all of you blessed as you prepare your hearts for the Holy Season of celebrating our Lord’s Birthday. I am writing this as Dale and I prepare to travel to visit kids, grandkids, and a new great-grandchild over this Thanksgiving weekend. At this time of thanksgiving I feel so thankful and blessed and challenged to serve you as your moderator.
The program committee has met and set some tentative plans for District Conference. We will be holding our 2010 conference at our Church of the Brethren Camp on July 30, 31, and August 1. Our theme will be LET GOD. The L will stand for Lighten up, the E for Energize (via the Holy Spirit), and the T will stand for Tell OUR stories. And Sunday will be the kick off to go home and Go Out Disciples which will be led by the Youth.
My major thinking behind this theme is that we continually need to open our hearts and prepare for our walk with Christ. Thus lighten up via the Holy Spirit. The “Tell our story” focus will be Saturday. We want YOU to “tell the story” of your church treasures, your church saints, the people who have been doing the work of Christ in a quiet loving way but never have been recognized as a treasure or saint, and maybe would not think of their extra work as special. But we know many of our churches would be sadly lacking if these persons were not doing such good deeds. Sunday we want the youth to give us their vision of going out to be disciples and their hope for the Church of the Brethren.
I would like to be able to visit in every church and all people but since I am committed to be in the pulpit most Sundays I am hoping that we can set up some area meeting in late spring or early summer. I and some district people could travel to the 4-6 different areas of the district to listen to you and share the district’s work and dreams for all of us. I am also available for any midweek meetings.
As we all prepare our hearts to celebrate advent and Christmas, I pray that you will find time to grow closer to Our Lord and I also pray that your walk with the Lord will be blessed and a blessing. I ask you to continue to pray for your district leaders who are also praying for all of you.
Blessings to you all. Marge Smalley.
3. DENNIS DOUD TO RETIRE AS OTTUMWA’S PASTOR
On December 13, the Ottumwa congregation celebrated the ministry of Dennis Doud, who will retire as Ottumwa’s pastor the end of the month. Dennis began serving as pastor of the Ottumwa congregation in January 2007. Dennis and his wife Cheri will be living in their home in Moravia, IA. Cards and notes of thanks for Dennis’ ministry may be sent to Dennis Doud, 2738 645th Avenue, Moravia, IA 52571.4. MARILYN KOEHLER TO SERVE AS INTERIM PASTOR AT OTTUMWA
Beginning this January, Marilyn Koehler will serve as Interim Pastor of the Ottumwa Church of the Brethren. Marilyn follows Dennis Doud who began serving as Ottumwa’s pastor in 2007 and is retiring the end of the year.Marilyn is a licensed Church of the Brethren minister, enrolled in the Training In Ministry (TRIM) program of the Brethren Academy for Ministerial Leadership. She has been a member of the Fairview Church of the Brethren since 1958 and has worked as a School Principal, Superintendent and Teacher in Missouri and Iowa, as well as serving as Adjunct professor at three universities. In 1980, Marilyn served as Moderator of Northern Plains District. Her husband is David and they have three children, Darrell, Duane and Deanna.
Send notes of support and encouragement to Marilyn Koehler at marilyn_k@hughes.net (there is an underscore “_” between “marilyn” and “k” in her email address) or 502 Wall St., Udell, IA 52593.
5. DAVID LOVEALL TO SERVE AS INTERIM PASTOR AT SHELDON
The Sheldon congregation has called David Loveall to serve as its interim pastor beginning December 7, 2009. Since November 2005, when John Elder left Sheldon to serve the Garden City (Kansas) Church of the Brethren, the congregation has had a variety of pulpit supply ministers.
David has been an ordained minister in the Reformed Church in America (RCA) since 1981 and has served RCA congregations in Iowa and New York as well as providing pulpit supply for a variety of different congregations. Since 1989 he has also worked with people with disabilities at Village Northwest Unlimited in Sheldon. He received his Master of Divinity degree from Western Theological Seminary(Holland, MI) in 1980. David’s wife is Muriel and they have three children, David II, Rebecca and Jonathan.
Send notes of support and encouragement to David Loveall at loveall@q.com or 1631 N. 2nd St., Sheldon, IA 51201
6. MEMBERSHIP TASK FORCE SEEKS INPUT
The New Church Development Committee has called together a Task Force on Membership to develop guidelines and identify resources for pastors, congregations, and new church projects within the District to use in conducting membership classes for perspective new members. The 10-member Task Force is comprised of individuals representing the perspectives of pastors, deacons, people involved in new church projects, members of the various commissions of the District Board, as well as an individual with expertise in denominational resources. The Task Force has met two times to date and is in the process of gathering resources on membership in the Church of the Brethren as well as looking at various formats which have been used for membership education.
As the Task Force carries forth its work, it invites pastors in the District to share their practices with regard to the preparation of individuals for church membership. Some questions to organize responses are:
1. What is the goal/purpose of membership education in your congregation?
2. What resources do you use?
3. What format do you use (e.g., providing classes during the Sunday School hour, using class time other than Sunday morning, using mentoring relationships, holding weekend retreats, etc.)?
4. What topics do you cover?
5. How many sessions or contact hours are involved?
Also, the Task Force would like individual members and congregational leaders to provide feedback on these questions: What was the most useful or helpful part of your membership training in the Church of the Brethren? What have been the “best practices” in your congregation for educating persons on the meaning of membership in the Church of the Brethren?
The Task Force would like to gather your input in preparation for its next meeting to be held in Ames, Iowa, on January 9, 2010. Please email or mail all responses to Tim Button-Harrison at nplainscob@sprintmail.com or to 1211 Clark Avenue, Ames, IA 50010 by January 6, 2010. Thank you in advance for the wisdom, experience and guidance you will bring to the work of the Task Force.
(The Task Force consists of Doyle Harper, David Oliver, Tim Button-Harrison, Kathy Mack, David Kerkove, Paul Coffman, Lucinda Douglas, Rhonda Pittman Gingrich, Linda Lantz and Kim Hill Smith.)
7. DISTRICT CHURCHES REACH $5,000 HEIFER PROJECT GOAL
At the 2008 District Conference, the Panther Creek Church of the Brethren distributed “quarter tubes” to each congregation and challenged churches to collect quarters and send money to the District designated for Heifer Project. The goal was to raise $5,000 to purchase an “ark.” At the November District Board meeting it was reported that we had passed the $5,000 mark and the decision was made to send our first $5,000 to Heifer Project in honor of the two Panther Creek women, Lois Banwart and Marilyn Hoy, who helped to initiate this projected. Marilyn’s husband, Randy Hoy, made the quarter tubes that were distributed to our churches. Thank you to all who have contributed to this cooperative mission project.
Churches are invited to continue collecting quarters and sending checks to the District, designated for Heifer International, so we can pool our donations together toward our next Northern Plains District “ark.”
8. DES MOINES YOUNG ADULT GROUP
Stover Memorial is hosting a CoB Young Adult group which meets once a month in our church house. We have decided as a group to meet for fun, fellowship, and Bible Study. At this time our functions are scheduled on a month-to-month basis after looking at our collective schedules. The next get-together is January 24 at 4:30 at 4100 6th Ave. As part of our coming together as a group we have a room that we would like to make our own. If you have beanbags, large pillows, or other items that we could use to decorate our room please contact Pastor Barbara 515-240-0060 or bwlewczak@netins.net. Please let us know of any young adults who are living, working, or attending classes in the Metro area so that we may invite them to our get-together. We have a site on Facebook as well, at Stover CoB Young Adults.
9. DISTRICT BOARD THANK YOU TO LIBERTYVILLE AND OTTUMWA
The District Board met November 6-7 at our Libertyville and Ottumwa churches. Special thanks to Laverna Sincox and Nancy Oliver for coordinating housing, meals, and other logistics for the Board visit. The Libertyville congregation provided the Friday noon and supper meals and the Ottumwa congregation provided Saturday breakfast and lunch. The two congregations worked together to provide housing to Board members. Libertyville’s pastor, Gordon Oliver, offered devotions for the Board Friday evening and Ottumwa’s pastor, Dennis Doud, offered devotions on Saturday morning. Thanks you, friends, for your hospitality!
10. NATIONAL YOUTH CONFERENCE (NYC) UPDATE
Date: July 17-July 22, 2010 in Fort Collins, CO. Who: All youth who have completed ninth grade through one year of college. Theme: “More than Meets the Eye” – from 2 Corinthians 4:6-10, 16-18. Registration for NYC opens January 5, 2010, at 8:00 p.m. central time. For details go to www.brethren.org/nyc.
The NYC website will have a preview of the registration page in December. Take a look at the link before registration so you know what fields are required and what options are available. One thing you will need to know when you register is your church code. Go to http://www.brethren.org/churchcode and search for your congregation’s code. Click on the name of your congregation to find the church code. Before anyone can register, each person has to create a personal username and password on http://www.brethren.org/. You will need to login before you are able to register for NYC. (We will be better able to communicate with you if we have an email address for each participant who is registering.) Registration cost opens at $425 and increases to $450 after February 15. Registration closes April 5. If you have any questions feel free to call Audrey Hollenberg and Emily LaPrade, coordinators, at 847-742-5100 ext. 246 or email us at 2010nyc@brethren.org.
Bus transportation for Northern Plains youth and adult advisors is being planned. Contact Barbara Lewczak with any questions and your plans for attendance at 515-240-0060 or bwlewczak@netins.net.
11. REGIONAL YOUTH CONFERENCE – APRIL 9-11, 2010
Where: McPherson College, McPherson, KS. Theme: Fully Alive: Taking Hold of the Life that is Really Life. Scripture: John 10:10. Guest Leader: Paul Grout, 2001 Annual Conference Moderator, former pastor of Genesis Church of the Brethren (Putney, VT), founder of “A Place Apart” retreat center.12. REBUILDING FLOOD DAMAGED HOMES IN CEDAR RAPIDS
Brethren will join with others this spring for an ecumenical rebuild of flood damaged homes in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Scheduled for April 12-May 21, 2010, the project is being coordinated by Church World Service and its supporting denominations and will involve working through two local programs: Linn Area Long Term Recovery Coalition and Block by Block.
Several from Northern Plains District participated in the November 16-17 planning meeting in Cedar Rapids: Dick and Karen Williams (District Disaster Response Coordinators); Jim Goodrich (Pastor of the Cedar Rapids Brethren/Baptist Church); Tim Button-Harrison (District Executive). Also Zach Wolgamuth of the national office of Brethren Disaster Ministries. For more information contact Dick and Karen Williams, rlwkmw@iowatelecom.net or 641-667-3862.
13. MARGE AND DALE SMALLEY’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY
The Children of Dale and Marge Smalley Invite you to a celebration of 50 years of marriage. Saturday, January 23, 2010, 1-4, Beaver Community Center, Beaver, IA. Marge is pastor of the Beaver Church of the Brethren/United Methodist and is the current District Moderator.14. IN OUR PRAYERS – FAMILY OF ELLEN MILLER
Please be in prayer for the family of Ellen Miller. Ellen died on November 29, 2009, at Hillcrest Retirement Community in LaVerne, CA where she has lived for many years. Ellen’s husband, Paul, served as pastor of the Panther Creek Church of the Brethren from 1944-1965. Paul was also a summer intern at the Lewiston, Sheldon and Iowa River churches. Ellen’s children are Phil Miller of Warrensburg, MO and Judy Woodruff of LaVerne, CA. Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 19th at 2:00 at the LaVerne Church of the Brethren. The contact person for the family is Judy Woodruff, 3608 York Circle, LaVerne, CA, 91750. The family has chosen these memorials for Ellen: LaVerne Church of the Brethren, On Earth Peace Assembly, Hillcrest Good Samaritan Fund.
15. NEWS FROM SISTER CONGREGATIONS
Cedar Rapids - The Cedar Rapids church once again participated in the annual community Holiday DeLight Parade December 5th. Their children will present a Christmas program on December 13 following their Christmas Dinner.
English River - The English River congregation has collected several special offerings for holiday outreach. They served a soup supper along with their Hanging of the Greens service November 28.
Fairview - The Fairview choir participated in the county-wide ecumenical Christmas Musicale December 6. Both the choir and children will have prominent roles in the Christmas program during the morning worship December 20 beginning at 10:00 a.m. That evening will be devoted to caroling to neighbors and shut-ins.
Hammond Aenue - The Hammond Avenue congregation has been focusing on different ways of worshiping God, including a major focus on our music. We recently had a visit from Aaron Wardle who enlightened us on ways to make our music more 'fruitful' if you will. Second, we are experimenting with 'ways of worship' such as clapping, raising your hands, dancing etc. and last, we are learning ways in which we can lead others to Christ. Furthermore, Pastor Terry has been working with everyone on finding their specific areas of talent and interest and ways in which we can use these to minister to others. James and I are kept quite busy with the band and teach the preschool class every Wed evenings. Hope all is well with you and yours, we had a great time at camp. (Shared by Linda Heimbuck)
Ivester - Many choirs at Ivester are practicing to share in the various Advent programs. Twelve women have participated in cutting, sewing and tying comforters/blankets during November. These will be given to Seeds of Hope in early December. In addition, 10 flannel blankets have been started for the pediatrics ward of Marshalltown Hospital.
Kingsley - The Kingsley Women’s Fellowship had a lunch out on December 2 followed by their Bible study on the “Five Scrolls.” Their initial Christmas celebration was the Hanging of the Greens service was November 29. A carry-in dinner on December 20 and a Christmas Eve service with communion will also highlight the season.
Lewiston - The Lewiston congregation provided cookies for the community’s annual “Cookie Walk”. Cookies were sold by the pound, and proceeds benefited their mission outreach. They joined together for an Advent Breakfast December 6 for festivities and fellowship. They are planning a Christmas Eve service for the area.
Ottumwa - On December 13, the Ottumwa congregation celebrated the ministry of Dennis Doud of will retire as pastor the end of the month. Dennis began serving as pastor of the Ottumwa church in January 2007. (See article on Dennis Doud)
Also, the Ottuwma church has called Marilyn Koehler to serve as interim pastor beginning in January. (See article on Marilyn Koehler.)Prairie City - The Prairie City congregation approved the suspension of the current congregational structure at their November business meeting and the implemented the development of a new structure using a guide provided by the Denomination, This is anticipated to be a two-year process. The congregation went Christmas caroling on December 6.
Sheldon - Sheldon Church of the Brethren is recording its services. Those interested in listening to church service may do so by going to www.worship.sheldonbrethren.org A companion church bulletin may be found in the church publication section of the together section of the church's main website, www.sheldonbrethren.org. (Shared by Alan Cox)
Also the Sheldon congregation has called David Loveall to serve as interim pastor. His first Sunday was December 6th. (See article on David Loveall)South Waterloo - The South Waterloo church has a Mitten Tree for hats, mittens, gloves, scarves which will be shared with their neighboring Orange School, the Salvation Army, and Goodwill. In addition, an Acts of Kindness Tree offers a variety of ideas/suggestions of ways to share an “act of kindness” this Advent season. Their Church Board participated in a retreat reflecting on spiritual blessings and evaluating how we as a congregation can carry out the mission of God’s love in our community. The children’s Christmas program “Lead the Way to Christmas” will be performed during the worship service December 13th. The congregation plans to go Christmas caroling December 20.
New web address for the church -- http://southwaterloochurch.org/default.aspx
16. DEVOTIONAL BOOK PROJECT AT FAIRVIEW CHURCH
The Nurture Commission at the Fairview Church challenged the congregation to write short thoughts on scripture for an Advent devotional booklet this fall. Writers were reminded that the meditations were to be original (or cite sources of quoted materials). The booklet was printed and distributed November 29. Fairview invites her sister congregations to pick up the challenge for Lent and next Advent. The following year we can trade books with other congregations and encourage and nurture one another.
17. ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2010 – LOGO AND MODERATOR’S BLOG
The logo for the 2010 Annual Conference of the Church of the Brethren was released this week by the Annual Conference Office. Designed by Debbie Noffsinger, the logo illustrates the 2010 theme from John 14:15. The Conference takes place July 3-7 in Pittsburgh, Pa. A theme statement from moderator Shawn Flory Replogle is available online, go to www.cobannualconference.org/pittsburgh/theme.html. (Newsline)
Moderator Shawn Flory-Replogle has been blogging about Annual Conference at http://macbrethren.org/blog/ The top two “movies” are from the November meeting of the Program and Arrangements Committee in Pittsburgh of which Diane Mason (Fairview) is a member.
18. WHERE YOUR HEART IS, THERE YOUR MONEY SHOULD BE AS WELL
Can the Church grow if we do not give our support? Can we be the Church together without supporting the work of the Church beyond our own community? Did you know that if we each gave just $50 a year to the District, we could grow our ministry together? Almost half of our budget goes to support the Executive Director within our district and as he serves the larger church. The cost to support the district work is about 25% of the budget. Almost 10% of the budget goes to support ministerial training in the district. The remaining 15% of the budget goes to our work in outreach, stewardship and nurture. What can you give? Whether you can give $5 or $500, it will help the church grow. You can make a difference. Send your tax deductible gift to Northern Plains District, PO Box 493, Ankeny, IA 50021-0493.
19. CHURCH REPORTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS
Forms A and B are due back to the Yearbook Office by December 31, 2009. The 2009 statistical form is due by February 1, 2010. If you need these forms please let Nancy Davis know at npofficesecretary@earthlink.net.Checks received in the District Office by December 31, 2009 will be credited in this year’s financial report. Any checks received after this date for 2009 will be credited in the 2010 financial report as giving for the prior year.20. DISTRICT DOCUMENTS ON-LINE
Northern Plains District pamphlet available here.
District Executive Report to 2009 District Conference available here.
21. CALENDAR OF EVENTS
January 6, Central Iowa Brethren Pastors Meeting, 10-1, Stover COB
January 9, New Church Development Committee, 10:30-3:00, Ames First Christian Church
January 17, District Executive meeting with Fairview COB
January 19-22, District Executive professional training event, Durham, NC
January 23, Smalley 50th Celebration, 1-4, Beaver Community Center
January 23-28, Council of District Executives Winter Meeting, FL
January 24, Des Moines Brethren Young Adults, 4:30, Stover COB
January 28, Brethren Pastors Meeting, noon, South Waterloo COB
February 5-6, District Board Meeting at Worthington and Sheldon
February 27-March 1, Fairview COB Renewal Weekend with 2008 COB Moderator David Shumate
March 22, Day of Prayer for Immigration Reform
April 1, Maundy Thursday – Love Feasts
April 4, Easter
April 9-11, Regional Youth Conference, McPherson College in Kansas
April 12-15, Council of District Executives West Meeting
April 12 – May 21, Cedar Rapids Rebuild of Damaged Homes
April 14, Panther Creek Church hosts McPherson College Choir
April 30-May 1, District Board (tentative location: Greene/Fredericksburg)
May 18-19, Iowa Ecumenical Leaders Annual Retreat, Cedar Falls, IA
May 20-22, Church Planting Conference, Bethany Seminary, Richmond, IN
July 3-7, Annual Conference, Pittsburgh, PA
July 17-22, National Youth Conference, Ft. Collins, CO
July 30-August 1, District Conference, Camp Pine Lake, Eldora, IA
---- 2011 ----
July 2-6, Annual Conference, Grand Rapids, MI
---- 2012 ----
July 7-11, Annual Conference, St. Louis, MO
22. DISTRICT STAFF CONTACT INFORMATION
Tim Button-Harrison, District Executive, 1211 Clark Ave., Ames, IA 50010, 641-485-5604, nplainscob@sprintmail.com
Nancy Davis, Office/Financial Secretary, P.O. Box 493, Ankeny, IA 50021, 515-964-4816, npofficesecretary@earthlink.net
Lois Grove, Leadership Development, 6 Grenville St., Council Bluffs, IA 51503, 712-326-8266, grove19@msn.com
Matt and Betsy Kueker, Camp Managers, 23008 W Avenue, Eldora, IA 50627, 641-939-5334, camppinelake@heartofiowa.net
Barbara Lewczak, Camp Program Director, 26505 195th St., Minburn, IA 50167, 515-240-0060, bwlewczak@netins.net
Northern Plains District Website, www.northernplainsdistrict.com/
Camp Pine Lake Website, www.camppinelake.com
Church of the Brethren Website, www.brethren.org
Past issues of the
District News and Announcements
below....
OCTOBER 26, 2009
DISTRICT NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
“District News and Announcements” is sent to Church of the Brethren members in the Northern Plains District. District Leaders, Commission, Committees, and those appointed to specials ministries are asked to share information related to their programs and activities. Local churches are also encouraged to share news and invitations. Send information to:
Tim Button-Harrison, District Executive, nplainscob@sprintmail.com
Nancy Davis, Secretary, npofficesecretary@earthlink.net
1. SENIOR HIGH RETREAT – OCTOBER 31- NOVEMBER 1
2. CELEBRATION OF COMMON SPIRIT FELLOWSHIP STATUS
3. BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF LEADERSHIP—Rizpah
4. BIRTHDAY CARD SHOWER FOR HAROLD AND LOUISE SMITH
5. ANNIVERSARY OPEN HOUSE FOR OLIVERS
6. CHRISTINE SHELLER LICENSING – DECEMBER 13
7. NEWS OF SISTER CHURCHES
8. HEIFER INTERNATIONAL JOB OPPORTUNITIES
9. DISTRICT DOCUMENTS ON-LINE
10. CALENDAR OF EVENTS
11. DISTRICT STAFF CONTACT INFORMATION
1. SENIOR HIGH RETREAT – OCTOBER 31- NOVEMBER 1
Please join us for a Senior High Retreat at Camp Pine Lake Saturday October 31 10am through Sunday November 1 2am. We will be worshiping with Ivester on Sunday morning and participating in leadership of the service. Our mission project will be helping with camp repairs and working at the mission in Eldora. Bring normal camp items, your instruments, ideas for worship, snacks to share, games, lots of energy, and a friend. Please RSVP to Barbara at bwlewczak@netins.net or 515-240-0060. Cost: $35.00.
2. CELEBRATION OF COMMON SPIRIT FELLOWSHIP STATUS
Common Spirit Church of the Brethren extends an invitation to join them in celebrating their new Fellowship status on November 1, 2009, from 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The celebration will be held at the Open Circle Church of the Brethren (2400 Highland Dr., Burnsville, MN) and will include entertainment provided by musicians from within the District, a simple meal of homemade soup and bread, and worship from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information, contact Brenda Petry at 612-724-0264 or at commonspirit@gmail.com.
3. BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF LEADERSHIP—Rizpah
From Lois Grove, Minister of Leadership Development
Sometimes it takes an obscure, powerless woman to point us in the right direction. No, I’m not talking about Susan Boyles, the Scottish singer who wowed the world with her rendition of the ballad, “I dreamed a Dream,” but Rizpah, the concubine of the deposed King Saul. 2 Samuel 21:1-14 is where we find her story—the story of a woman who was able to affect change, particularly in the life of King David, simply by being who she was and doing what she could do. I would invite you to read this story to witness how a grief-stricken, powerless woman can gently reprimand a mighty king by expressing her love and grief in the only way she knew how.
The cycle of revenge played out here is that Saul attempted to wipe out the Gibeonites because of something they did to Joshua hundreds of years earlier. Later, David asks God why famine is so prevalent in the land and God replies that it is due to “bloodguilt” on Saul for killing the Gibeonites. In consultation with the Gibeonites (notice the consultation was not with God) David decides “justice” can be accomplished by killing the seven sons of Saul. It is interesting to note that this act of getting even did not lift the famine.
Rizpah, the mother of two of these seven sons, publicly displays her grief and mourns for her dead family members by sitting on top of a mountain for six months, shooing off the birds and wild creatures so they would not eat the dead bodies. (Proper burial of the body is a sacred act in Hebrew culture). David’s reaction to this outpouring of love and grief was shame and recognition of how far he had strayed from God’s purpose for his life. He orders that the seven sons, and also Saul and Jonathan, have a proper burial—and guess what? at THIS point the famine is lifted from the land.
With acts of violence and hatred going on all around her, Rizpah led by doing the right thing, acting with courage and love, and was able to change a king’s heart and break a cycle of violence.
Blessings as you lead with courage and love to change the things that need changing around you.
4. BIRTHDAY CARD SHOWER FOR HAROLD AND LOUISE SMITH
Harold Smith, retired pastor of the Maxwell congregation, will be celebrating his 80 birthday this Friday October 30, and his spouse Louise will be celebrating her 80th on November 14. Harold and Louise are living in Newton Kansas while he is receiving cancer treatments. They are members of the Stover Memorial (Des Moines) Congregation. Your bothers and sisters of Stover are requesting a card shower for Harold and Louise's birthdays. It would mean so much to them to hear from their friends in Northern Plains. Greetings may be sent % Wayne Burns, 212 E 8th, Newton, KS 67114.
5. ANNIVERSARY OPEN HOUSE FOR OLIVERS
Gordon and Betty Oliver will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary with an open house from 2-4 p.m. on Saturday, November 28 at the Libertyville Church of the Brethren, 1425 230th St., Batavia, IA 52533. Gordon is pastor of the Libertyville church. Everyone is invited. Cards may be sent to Gordon and Betty Oliver, 13729 120th St., Douds, IA 52551.
6. CHRISTINE SHELLER LICENSING – DECEMBER 13
Christine Sheller’s service of licensing to the ministry will be held during worship on December 13 at the Ivester Church of the Brethren. Christine is in the Master of Divinity program through Bethany Theological Seminary and is currently doing her supervised ministry placement with Iowa Peace Network in Des Moines. Notes of encouragement and support may be sent to her at 4112 6th Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50313 or emailed to shellch1@bethanyseminary.edu.7. NEWS OF SISTER CHURCHES
CEDAR RAPIDS - The Cedar Rapids congregation has been highlighting various mission opportunities during the month of October. Iowa Hope, Operation Christmas Child, World Mission Offering, and World Vision were highlighted in their October newsletter.
ENGLISH RIVER - $500 worth of food was packaged for ‘Kids Against Hunger” at English river on October 17. Their Blanket offering was collected October 18th. On October 25, they will hold their Fall Council Meeting. The congregation has a new webpage which you can find at http://www.englishriverchurchofthebrethren.org/.
FAIRVIEW - Several from the Fairview church participated in the county-wide CROP Walk October 11. The Deacons will be initiating a “Shepherding Ministry” in October. The congregation will resume its Sunday evening study of the Truth Project October 25. The Nurture Commission is asking members to write meditations which will be collected into their own Advent Devotional Booklet.
IVESTER - A new opportunity for singers at Ivester has been initiated on the second Sundays of each month. The congregation has a special worship for peace on September 20.
KINGSLEY - A special offering for World Missions was collected by the Kingsley congregation October 4. They continue to support the programs of both the UCC and the CoB.
LEWISTON - The Preaching Team at Lewiston will host a breakfast October 24 for those involved in leading and planning worship. They will be collecting an offering to benefit Brethren Volunteer Service on October 18. The congregation celebrated the Love Feast October 4.
PANTHER CREEK - Panther Creek hosted a Central-Iowa gathering of Brethren for Love Feast October 4. Members from Peace Church (Council Bluffs), Dallas Center, Stover Memorial, Ankeny, Panora, and Beaver congregations attended. The Fall Council meeting at Panther Creek will be October 18 following a carry-in dinner. There are new email addresses for Panther Church: panthercreek@dwx.com and for Pastor Dave: dkerkove@panthercreekchurch.org
PRAIRIE CITY - A new ministry will begin at Prairie City called Edible Outreach which will meet the first Wed. night of each month at the church. Bible Explorers continues on Wednesday nights for preschool – 5th grade. They are collecting food items for the local food pantry.
SOUTH WATERLOO - The South Waterloo church reminds you to check out their website: www.swcob.org
A church-wide garage October 2&3 provided funds for their church budget. The women’s fellowship will fill gift bags for residents of Harmony House on October 21. Wednesday night activities include Kid’s Club, PEP and Youth Activities, choir and Praise Team rehearsals.
8. HEIFER INTERNATIONAL JOB OPPORTUNITIES – Ruth Clark
If you are interested in possibly working for Heifer International put jobs@heifer.org on your email address list. The time is too short from when a job is announced until the offer is withdrawn to publicize through the District Newsletter.
9. DISTRICT DOCUMENTS ON-LINE
Northern Plains District pamphlet available here.
District Executive Report to District Conference available here.
10. CALENDAR OF EVENTS
---- 2009 ----
October 31, District Program Planning Committee, Camp Pine Lake
October 31 – November 1, Senior High Retreat, Camp Pine Lake
November 1, District Celebration of Common Spirit (Minneapolis, MN) Church of the Brethren, 3:30-6:30 p.m., at Open Circle Church
November 6-7, District Board meeting at Libertyville and Ottumwa
November 8, English River Church of the Brethren, Installation of Pastor Diana Lovett, 10:30 a.m.
November 10, 9:00 p.m., Conference Call, Membership Task Force of New Church Development Committee
November 13-15, Progressive Brethren Summit, Elizabethtown College in Pennsylvania
November 14, South Waterloo COB Board Retreat led by DE
November 18, 10 a.m., Central Iowa Brethren Pastors, Ankeny COB
November 21, District Nominating Committee meeting
November 21, Ethics Training for Ministers, 1:00 - 3:30 p.m., Ankeny COB
November 28, 2-4 p.m., Gordon and Betty Oliver’s 50th Anniversary Open House, Libertyville COB
December 13, 10:15 a.m., Licensing Service for Christine Sheller, Ivester COB
---- 2010 ----
January 9, New Church Development Committee, 10:30-3:00, Ames First Christian Church
January 19-22, District Executive professional training event
January 23-27, Council of District Executives Winter Meeting
February 5-6, District Board (tentative location: Worthington/Sheldon)
February 27-March 1, Fairview COB Renewal Weekend with 2008 COB Moderator David Shumate
April 1, Maundy Thursday – Love Feasts
April 4, Easter
April 12-15, Council of District Executives West Meeting
April 30-May 1, District Board (tentative location: Greene/Fredericksburg)
May 18-19, Iowa Ecumenical Leaders Annual Retreat, Cedar Falls, IA
May 20-22, Church Planting Conference, Bethany Seminary, Richmond, IN
July 3-7, Annual Conference, Pittsburgh, PA
July 17-22, National Youth Conference, Ft. Collins, CO
August 6-8, District Conference (tentative date)
---- 2011 ----
July 2-6, Annual Conference, Grand Rapids, MI
---- 2012 ----
July 7-11, Annual Conference, St. Louis, MO
11. DISTRICT STAFF CONTACT INFORMATION
Tim Button-Harrison, District Executive, 1211 Clark Ave., Ames, IA 50010, 641-485-5604, nplainscob@sprintmail.com
Nancy Davis, Office/Financial Secretary, P.O. Box 493, Ankeny, IA 50021, 515-964-4816, npofficesecretary@earthlink.net
Lois Grove, Leadership Development, 6 Grenville St., Council Bluffs, IA 51503, 712-326-8266, grove19@msn.com
Matt and Betsy Kueker, Camp Managers, 23008 W Avenue, Eldora, IA 50627, 641-939-5334, camppinelake@heartofiowa.net
Barbara Lewczak, Camp Program Director, 26505 195th St., Minburn, IA 50167, 515-240-0060, bwlewczak@netins.net
Northern Plains District Website, www.northernplainsdistrict.com/
Camp Pine Lake Website, www.camppinelake.com
Church of the Brethren Website, www.brethren.org
FEBRUARY 19, 2010
DISTRICT NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
“District News and Announcements” is sent to Church of the Brethren members in the Northern Plains District. District Leaders, Commissions, Committees, and those appointed to specials ministries are asked to share information related to their programs and activities. Local churches are also encouraged to share news and invitations. Send information to:
Tim Button-Harrison, District Executive, nplainscob@sprintmail.com
Nancy Davis, Secretary, npofficesecretary@earthlink.net
1. APPEAL FOR HAITI RELIEF SUPPLIES AND FUNDS
2. PANTHER CREEK SERVING AS KIT COLLECTION CENTER
3. ONEALS SERVING WITH BRETHREN DISASTER MINISTRIES
4. CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS FOR CEDAR RAPIDS BUILD BLITZ
5. DISTRICT BOARD HIGHLIGHTS
6. CHILDREN’S DISASTER SERVICES WORKSHOP IN MINNEAPOLIS
7. NATIONAL YOUTH CONFERENCE UPDATE
8. DES MOINES (STOVER) YOUNG ADULT GROUP
9. FAIRVIEW SPIRITUAL RENEWAL WEEKEND RESCHEDULED
10. PANTHER CREEK INVITATION TO SPECIAL EVENTS
11. SOUTHEAST IOWA CLUSTER NEWS
12. CENTRAL IOWA CLUSTER NEWS
13. NORTHEAST IOWA / SOUTHEAST MINNESOTA CLUSTER NEWS
14. NEWS FROM SISTER CONGREGATIONS - Cedar Rapids, English River, Fairview, Ivester, Open Circle, Panther Creek, Peace, Prairie City, Root River, South Waterloo
15. CAMP PINE LAKE HAPPENINGS
16. INVITATION FROM NEW CHURCH DEVELOPMENT & RENEWAL COMMITTEE
17. ANNUAL CONFERENCE ONLINE REGISTRATION OPENS FEBRUARY 22
18. CALENDAR OF EVENTS
19. DISTRICT STAFF CONTACT INFORMATION
1. APPEAL FOR HAITI RELIEF SUPPLIES AND FUNDS
The Church of the Brethren is appealing for funds and relief supplies for Haiti earthquake survivors, including Hygiene Kits, Baby Care Kits, Tarps, and a specially designed Family Household Kit. For information on the Church of the Brethren Haiti Response, go to http://www.brethren.org and explore the links under “Haiti Response.” You will find details on kit assembly, a bulletin insert, video clips, and a link for online donations.
2. PANTHER CREEK SERVING AS KIT COLLECTION CENTER
The Panther Creek Church of the Brethren near Adel, IA is serving as our District’s collection center for Church World Service Kits for Haiti relief. Brethren Disaster Ministries will coordinate pick-ups of the kits the first of March and first of April. Panther Creek is planning to assemble 250+ hygiene and school kits in February and March and invites other congregations to match their number in total so that 500+ kits can be delivered in March. The current count is 300+ hygiene kits, 5 baby kits, and 65 school kits. These have come, so far, from Panther Creek, Ivester, Open Circle, Hands of Christ, Root River, Lewiston, and Living Peace. If you have any questions, please contact the Panther Creek church office at 515-993-4096. 3. ONEALS SERVING WITH BRETHREN DISASTER MINISTRIES
On January 14, 2010, the Dallas County Newspaper ran an article on the volunteer work and plans of Alan and Denise Oneal with Brethren Disaster Ministries. The Oneals are members of Panther Creek Church of the Brethren and will serve as site coordinators for the Cedar Rapids Ecumencal Rebuild effort this April and May. To see the article, click here.
4. CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS FOR CEDAR RAPIDS BUILD BLITZ
Brethren Disaster Ministries is starting projects in Cedar Rapids in April. It is called Ecumenical Build Blitz and is in cooperation with several other denominations. The Church of the Brethren has been asked to provide at least 10 volunteers each week. The blitz will last for 6 weeks – April 11 through May 21.I have only heard from a few congregations about the Congregational coordinator I asked for in the District News and Announcements recently. I have mailed each congregation a form called Volunteer Skills assessment. Minimum age of workers is 16 years of age. I would like for each congregation to ask the members who would volunteer to help to place their name on this and what their experience level is. Also someone should be considered a team leader and listed on the top of the form. That would be my contact person. The volunteers of the Church of the Brethren will be housed in the Cedar Rapids Baptist/Brethren Church building. There is sleeping quarters, showers, and a kitchen to prepare meals. The ideal process is to arrive in Cedar Rapids on Sunday evening for orientation work during the daytime for a week and leave for home on either Friday evening or Saturday morning. However if you can’t work for the entire week it can be arranged to work for a shorter time. You will be working with volunteers of other denominations during the day. On Tuesday evenings there will be a fellowship meal at St Wenceslaus Church with all volunteers present. There will be approximately 140 workers. The morning and evening meals will be served in the host Church. Funds are available to help with travel expenses to travel to Cedar Rapids. All meals from Monday morning through Friday evening will be provided as well as lodging at no charge. I am asking each congregation to pick a team leader or congregational co-ordinator and get the skills assessment filled out and send a copy to me as soon as possible. If there are questions, you may e-mail or call me. Richard Williams, District Disaster Coordinator, rlwkmw@iowatelecom.net, 641-667-3862, P.O. Box 145 Ollie IA 52576. 5. DISTRICT BOARD HIGHLIGHTS
The February 5-6 meeting that was scheduled to be held at our Sheldon and Worthington churches was cancelled due to hazardous driving conditions. Instead the Executive Committee met by telephone on February 5 and the Board met by phone on February 6.
During its phone meeting on February 6, the Northern Plains District Board decided to hold its next meeting on April 30-May 1 at the Church on Northland (Cedar Rapids Brethren/Baptist Church) and to devote Saturday to volunteering with the flood rebuilding project. The Board also decided to purchase and begin assembling a District Tool Trailer for use in Brethren Disaster Ministries projects and also for use in special service projects of congregations within our district. Funds for the trailer come from a generous donation from the Mon-Dak Area Committee upon its closure last summer, as well as from the Big Sky congregation (Froid, MT), along with other gifts of churches and individuals. 6. CHILDREN’S DISASTER SERVICES WORKSHOP IN MINNEAPOLIS
Children’s Disaster Services is offering a workshop to train volunteers in Minneapolis on Feb. 26-27. Children’s Disaster Services is a Church of the Brethren ministry working cooperatively with FEMA and the American Red Cross to provide care for children and families following disasters. The program has been meeting the needs of children since 1980. Cost for attending the workshop is $55.
Children’s Disaster Services volunteers provide a calm, safe, and reassuring presence in the midst of the chaos that follows disaster by setting up and operating special child care centers in disaster locations. Parents are then able to apply for assistance and begin to put their lives back together, knowing their children are safe.In recent years, Children’s Disaster Services volunteers spent some 12,000 hours caring for thousands of children affected by flooding and ice storms in the Midwest, Hurricanes Gustav and Ike, the Metrolink train accident in southern California, and California wildfires. A Critical Response Childcare Team provided care for families of airplane crash victims following the crash of Continental Connection Flight 3407 in which 50 people were killed near Buffalo, N.Y.Information learned at the Volunteer Workshop can be beneficial to anyone working with children. The workshop trains participants to understand and respond to children who have experienced a disaster. Designed for people who have a heart and passion for children, the training will help participants recognize and understand the fears and other emotions children experience during and following a disaster. Participants also learn how child-led play and various art mediums can start the healing process. Participants will experience a simulated shelter, sleeping on cots and eating simple meals.Once the training is completed, participants have the opportunity to become a certified Children’s Disaster Services volunteer by providing two personal references and a criminal and sexual offender background check.Although many volunteers are motivated by faith, Children’s Disaster Services Volunteer Workshops are open to anyone over 18 years of age.
The Children’s Disaster Services office may be contacted at cds@brethren.org or 800-451-4407 ext. 5. Go to www.childrensdisasterservices.org for more information about the program.7. NATIONAL YOUTH CONFERENCE UPDATE
The deadline to get a discount registration of $425 for National Youth Conference (NYC) has been extended to March 1. The fee will increase to $450 after that date. This Church of the Brethren conference for senior high youth and adult advisors will be held in Fort Collins, Colo., on July 17-22. Register by logging in to http://www.brethren.org/ and then going to www.brethren.org/nycreg . Questions should be directed to the Youth and Young Adult Office at 2010nyc@brethren.org or 800-323-8039 ext. 246. 8. DES MOINES (STOVER) YOUNG ADULT GROUP
The next young adult Bible Study will be on Sunday, March 7 at Stover Church at 4:30 p.m. Amanda Steele will be leading that session. And we will have another young adult Bible Study right after church on Sunday, March 28 at Stover. This will also be a time for us to plan for a worship service we’re organizing near the end of the school year. A pizza movie and game night is also being planned for April 17th.If you are interested in these activities or know of young adults living in the Des Moines area interested in or connected with the Church of the Brethren, please contact Jess Hoffert (jess.hoffert@drake.edu) and/or Barbara Lewczak (bwlewczak@netins.net) 9. FAIRVIEW SPIRITUAL RENEWAL WEEKEND RESCHEDULED
Greetings, Brothers & Sisters. Since this is the Iowa-Witer-That-Won’t-Quit… Fairview has RESCHEDULED our Spiritual Renewal Weekend. Rather that Feb 27-Mar 1, we will happily host David Shumate this fall – OCTOBER 16-18. Thank you for noting the February Date we had publicized earlier… please spread the news of our new date to those in your congregation/district. We hope you can join us in October. Diane Mason (on behalf of Fairview)
10. PANTHER CREEK INVITATION TO SPECIAL EVENTS
April 16, 7:00 p.m., McPherson College Choir, Panther Creek Church of the Brethren. Housing needed for 65+ persons. Cookies needed for after the meal.April 25, 25th Anniversary Panther Creek Handbell Choir Concert, “Handbells and Harmony”, 11:30-1:00 hamballs dinner. 1:30 concert.11. SOUTHEAST IOWA CLUSTER NEWS
The Churches of the Brethren located in Southeast Iowa met together in their “Cluster Meeting” at the Ottumwa Church on Sunday afternoon, January 24, for a time of discerning, discovering, and discussion about spiritual gifts. Diana Lovett of the English River congregation led a process to individually discern God-given strengths and gifts. Participants spent time in scripture discovering how these gifts were used in the early church and also discussed with one another how their gifts can be used in the church today. There was a light carry-in supper and a joint worship service following the afternoon discussions. This process was very helpful to each church member. Church Boards, Deacons, and Nominating Committees were especially encouraged to attend.
12. CENTRAL IOWA CLUSTER NEWS
The pastors of the Central Iowa cluster meet on a monthly basis for professional and spiritual support. This year they have met on January 6 (Stover) and February 10 (Ankeny) and their next meeting is scheduled for March 3 from noon to 3:00 at the Stover Memorial Church of the Brethren in Des Moines.For the past two years the central Iowa churches have held Love Feast together on the first Sunday of October (World Communion Sunday) meeting at the Panora Church in 2009 and the Panther Creek Church in 2010.13. NORTHEAST IOWA / SOUTHEAST MINNESOTA CLUSTER NEWS
The pastors of our congregations Northeast Iowa and Southeast Minnesota gathered at the South Waterloo Church of the Brethren on January 28th. Special thanks to the Women’s Fellowship of South Waterloo for providing the noon meal. The next meeting of this pastors group will be at noon on March 18 at the South Waterloo Church. 14. NEWS FROM SISTER CONGREGATIONS
CEDAR RAPIDS
January 31 is the 3rd Annual Chili Cook Off at the Cedar Rapids church. A prize will be awarded for the “best chili” and the All Church Talent Show will follow the supper.The youth of the Cedar Rapids church enjoyed a ski trip to Afton, MN. The congregation has begun a six week series on “Life on Purpose. An All Church Birthday party is planned for February 28. Their church will host volunteers coming to help rebuild Cedar Rapids following the floods of 2008.
ENGLISH RIVER
Despite the howling winds and zero visibility driving conditions, the Men & Boys Fish Fry at the English River church was well attended. All 100 pounds of ocean perch was cooked and eaten by the ninety people who were there. The entertainment for the evening was two foreign exchange students from the former Soviet Union. The English River youth will be holding a soup supper February 13 to raise funds to finance their trip to National Youth Conference. The congregation is collecting items for Hygiene Kits to be sent to Haiti.FAIRVIEW
After sending a heifer to HPI using the 2008 Quarter Tube, Fairview has gotten it out again and plans to send a “flock of sheep” by Easter in remembrance of the “Lamb of God” from the cradle to the resurrection.
Past Annual Conference moderator, David Shumate, will be the guest speaker at Fairview’s rescheduled Spiritual Renewal weekend – October 16-18. He will be speaking Saturday, Sunday, and Monday on topics from the Sermon on the Mount. Evening worship is at 7:00 each night with Saturday & Monday preceded by supper at 6:00. Sunday morning worship is at 10:45 and a lunch follows. All are invited to come and join in the fellowship and worship.
IVESTER
The Ivester Youth sponsored a Chili Supper to raise funds for their trip to National Youth Conference. They also collected food for “Souper” Bowl Sunday. The Ivester congregation has been asked to be the sponsoring church for a Michael Card concert April 18 which will benefit the Foods Resource Bank. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. and doors open an hour earlier.
The Ivester Congregation reminds Eighteen-year old Conscientious Objectors to War: Do not register on the Internet, but go to the post office and fill out the registration card. Above your signature write “I am opposed to participation in war in any form because of my moral and religious beliefs.” Photo copy the card for your records before mailing. Selective Service microfilms the registration and enters it into the computer. More information can be obtained on the web site www.centeronconscience.orgOPEN CIRCLE (Burnsville, MN)
Two weeks ago we submitted a grant application to the county for monies that have been made available to neighborhoods and organizations to create or expand community gardens. Although we have had a small raised-bed garden for Open Circle folks who need a garden space, this grant would allow us to set aside a larger piece of land for up to 20 plots, fence it in, and install a water line out to it.
The garden would be a community garden: open to church members, neighbors who need a plot of land, and especially those living in nearby and mostly low-income apartments. It would be part of phase two of our effort take out beautiful 2.5 acres of turf lawn and turn it into a church and community asset with wildflower gardens, prairie grasses, the rain garden and a community garden.
The community garden will be a community-run garden. Those who garden there will organize themselves and make decisions about allocation of plots, rules of the garden, etc. The overall landscaping plan with the community garden lay out is available to view online. (From Jay Steele on Open Circle’s February 1 e-Newsletter)
PANTHER CREEK
On Sunday, January 24, Alan & Denise Oneal shared about their experiences in Chalmette, LA during the morning worship service.
Panther Creek youth enjoyed snow tubing and zipfy sledding February 7. A Valentine’s Day Italian Dinner is planned for February 14. Proceeds from the Freewill Offering will help offset the cost of the Panther Creek Retreat in August. A family Game Night is planned for February 27. The congregation is assembling Valentine’s Care Packages for College Students that include cookies, candy, highlighters, “Post-It Notes”, hot chocolate, microwave popcorn and other small items.
PEACE CHURCH (COUNCIL BLUFFS)
There will be a time change for our Easter Sunday Service only. We will have a breakfast at 8:30 a.m. with worship at 9:30 a.m. All are welcome if in the area. (Gary Gahm, Nurture Chair, Peace COB).PRAIRIE CITY
The Prairie City congregation received three new members in December. The church is assembling Hygiene Kits for Haiti. ROOT RIVER
Through their monthly food drive, the Root River congregation donated over 200 pounds of food to their local food pantry in 2009. Their church farm and Ladies Fellowship contributed $1050 to Foods Resource Bank last year. They, too, are working on assembling Hygiene Kits for Haiti.SOUTH WATERLOO
Wednesday night activities continue at the South Waterloo church. A fellowship meal, Kid’s Club, PEP, and Youth Activities round out the evening. A new Sunday School class “Exploring the Christian Faith through the Eyes of the Brethren” – will help participants examine their faith and roots. A Saturday class on Habits of Faith “Spiritual Disciplines” will be led by Pastor Dave will be starting February 20. 15. CAMP PINE LAKE HAPPENINGS
Man vs. Nature River Trip. Camp Pine Lake and Pastor Tim Peter (Prairie City COB) invite men young and old for a weekend trip down the Iowa River. Start Time: 5 p.m., Friday, May 14. End Time: Noon, Sunday, May 16. Ages: All ages, men under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Friday includes dinner, campfire and just time to hang out. Saturday is a full-day trip down the river, concluded with campfire cooking. Fees: $35/person. Register online at www.camppinelake.com or contact camppinelake@heartofiowa.net or (641) 939-5334.
Paint at Camp = $$ for NYC Trip. District youth, their families and friends are invited to help camp paint hail damaged cabins and earn $$ to fund the NYC trip. Anyone who shows up to paint and support the youth Saturday, April 17 will be ‘paid’ hourly for their work. All proceeds will be paid to the District NYC fund. Email camppinelake@heartofiowa.net or call (641) 939-5334 with questions or to RSVP. Lunch provided. Start Time: 9 a.m. End Time: 5 p.m.Camp Work Day - Saturday, May 1. Start Time: 9 a.m. End Time: 5 p.m.Come help camp get ready for the season! A combination of spring cleaning and work projects. Lunch provided. Email camppinelake@heartofiowa.net or call (641) 939-5334 with questions or to RSVP.
Keep up to date by going to http://www.camppinelake.com/news.php
16. INVITATION FROM NEW CHURCH DEVELOPMENT & RENEWAL COMMITTEE
The New Church Development and Renewal Committee would like to invite each church to participate in Plant Generously, Reap Bountifully, the New Church Planting Conference at Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Indiana from May 20-22.We challenge each church to send one or more participants and use the information for your specific congregation. Car-pooling can be arranged by contacting members of the New Church Development and Renewal Committee listed below. District funds are available to cover costs of participants. Barbara Lewczak, from the Stover Memorial Church in Des Moines, has attended and offers these insights: “Great fellowship, music, worship, spiritual awakening! Well worth the time and resources! The best 4 days I have experienced as part of the Church of the Brethren!” Marlene Neher attended as part of the past Ivester Pastoral Team. She sates, “The two workshops I attended were very inspiration and uplifting. Our pastoral team came back from the first with several ideas which we used to enhance our worship time at church….if more people attend, possibly more effect and excitement will be generated in the local congregations.”
For information and to register, go to this link or type www.brethren.org/churchplanting in your web address bar. We pray for faith in this journey together. Please contact any one of us with your questions and desire to register for this event.
Barbara Lewczak (bwlewczak@netins.net), Ida VanWeston (vanclan@swwnet.com), Betty Kingery (ljackart@iowatelecom.net), Alice Draper (alicefarms@heartofiowa.net), Lucinda Douglas (nightowl21@q.com), Kim Hill-Smith (khsmith@uswireless.com), Doyle Harper (dharper@shive-hattery.com), Tim Button-Harrison (nplainscob@sprintmail.com), Kathy Mack (kmack@magnaspeed.net).
17. ANNUAL CONFERENCE ONLINE REGISTRATION OPENS FEBRUARY 22
Registration for the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference and Conference housing will open at www.brethren.org/ac this Monday, Feb. 22, at 12 noon (Central time). The 2010 Conference is planned for July 3-7 in Pittsburgh, Pa., with leadership by moderator Shawn Flory Replogle.
To register on Monday after 12 noon (Central time), please go to www.brethren.org/ac Pastors and congregational leaders, please share this information with your church members.
A Conference packet is available online (click here) and may be helpful to have on hand during the registration process. The packet includes schedule and fee information, more about the Conference hotels, details on children's and youth activities, meal events, insight sessions, special speakers, opportunities to earn continuing education credits, and much more.
In order to get your choice of the six Conference hotels, be sure to register immediately on Monday afternoon or evening. Remember that utilizing the hotels in the Annual Conference room block contributes money to the rental costs for the Convention Center and meeting room spaces.
For more information about the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, go to www.cobannualconference.org. (Chris Douglas, Director of the Conference Office)
18. CALENDAR OF EVENTS
February 22, Beginning of online registration for 2010 Annual Conference
February 26-27, Children’s Disaster Services Workshop, Minneapolis
March 1, Deadline for “early bird” registration for National Youth Conference
March 3, Central Iowa Brethren Pastors, noon-3:00, Stover COB
March 7, Young Adult Meeting/Bible Study at Stover Church (Des Moines), 4:30 pm.
March 18, NE IA/ SE MN Pastors meeting at South Waterloo COB, noon
March 22, Day of Prayer for Immigration Reform
March 28, Young Adult Meeting/Bible Study at Stover Church (Des Moines), after worship
April 1, Maundy Thursday – Love Feasts
April 4, Easter
April 9-11, Regional Youth Conference, McPherson College in Kansas
April 12-15, Council of District Executives West Meeting
April 17, Camp Painting Day Fundraiser for National Youth Conference
April 12 – May 21, Cedar Rapids Ecumencial Build Blitz
April 16, McPherson College Choir, Panther Creek COB, 7 p.m.
April 25, 25th Anniversary Panther Creek COB Handbell Choir Concert, “Handbells and Harmony”, 11:30-1:00 hamballs dinner, 1:30 concert.
April 30-May 1, District Board in Cedar Rapids, Ecumenical Build Blitz
May 1, Camp Pine Lake Work Day, 9-5
May 2, Stover COB Music Festival, 4 p.m.
May 14-16, Man vs. Nature River Trip, Camp Pine Lake
May 20-22, Church Planting Conference, Bethany Seminary, Richmond, IN
May 29-31, National Young Adult Conference, Camp Blue Diamond, Petersburg, PA
June 25-27, Young Adult Get-Together at Camp Pine Lake
July 3-7, Annual Conference, Pittsburgh, PA
July 12-16, Junior Youth Camp
July 17-22, National Youth Conference, Ft. Collins, CO
July 23-24, Primary Overnight Camp
July 27-30, Youth Camp
July 30-August 1, District Conference, Camp Pine Lake, Eldora, IA
August 2-6, Middler Camp
September 4-6, All Ages Camp
September 18, Brethren Heritage Day at Camp Pine Lake, Eldora, IA
October 16-18, Fairview COB Renewal Weekend with 2008 COB Moderator David Shumate
---- 2011 ----
July 2-6, Annual Conference, Grand Rapids, MI
---- 2012 ----
July 7-11, Annual Conference, St. Louis, MO
19. DISTRICT STAFF CONTACT INFORMATION
Tim Button-Harrison, District Executive, 1211 Clark Ave., Ames, IA 50010, 641-485-5604, nplainscob@sprintmail.com
Nancy Davis, Office/Financial Secretary, P.O. Box 493, Ankeny, IA 50021, 515-964-4816, npofficesecretary@earthlink.net
Lois Grove, Leadership Development, 6 Grenville St., Council Bluffs, IA 51503, 712-326-8266, grove19@msn.com
Matt and Betsy Kueker, Camp Managers, 23008 W Avenue, Eldora, IA 50627, 641-939-5334, camppinelake@heartofiowa.net
Barbara Lewczak, Camp Program Director, 26505 195th St., Minburn, IA 50167, 515-240-0060, bwlewczak@netins.net
Northern Plains District Website, www.northernplainsdistrict.com/
Camp Pine Lake Website, www.camppinelake.com
Church of the Brethren Website, www.brethren.org
JANUARY 19, 2010
DISTRICT NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
“District News and Announcements” is sent to Church of the Brethren members in the Northern Plains District. District Leaders, Commissions, Committees, and those appointed to specials ministries are asked to share information related to their programs and activities. Local churches are also encouraged to share news and invitations. Send information to:
Tim Button-Harrison, District Executive, nplainscob@sprintmail.com Nancy Davis, Secretary, npofficesecretary@earthlink.net
1. BRETHREN DISASTER MINISTRIES PROJECT IN CEDAR RAPIDS 2. CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN WEBPAGES FOR HAITI 3. INVITATION TO MAKE HYGIENE KITS
ARTICLES FROM BRETHREN NEWSLINE:
4. EMERGENCY DISASTER FUND GRANTS GO TO HAITI RELIEF 5. BRETHREN DELEGATION FROM US ARRIVES IN HAITI 6. HAITIAN BRETHREN CHURCH LEADER REPORTED MISSING 7. NEWS FROM HAITIAN BRETHREN 8. BRETHREN SERVICE CENTER SHIPPING SUPPLIES TO HAITI 9. GRANT FOR REFUGEE EFFORT IN NEW YORK 10. DOMINICAN BRETHREN RESPOND
1. BRETHREN DISASTER MINISTRIES PROJECT IN CEDAR RAPIDS
The BDM will be starting some rebuild projects in Cedar Rapids in April and May. I would like for each congregation in the Northern Plains District to select someone to be the Congregational Disaster Coordinator.
This would be the contact person for me to get the people to go to Cedar Rapids. We will be working with non Brethren groups at times. Would be a good time to meet many other people both from our denomination and others.
There will be work for people with various skill levels.
I am willing to visit your Church to talk with you about this work if you would like.
If you could get me the names, mail address, E-mail address, and telephone number of the contact person I would greatly appreciate it.
Send this information to: Richard Williams, P.O. Box 145, Ollie, IA
52576-0145 or rlwkmw@iowatelecom.net or 641-667-3862.
Thank You in advance for your cooperation.
Richard Williams, District Disaster Coordinator
2. CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN WEBPAGES FOR HAITI
These shortcut URLs have been created for easier navigation of the Brethren Disaster Ministries Haiti earthquake webpages. They are not case-sensitive.
www.brethren.org/HaitiEarthquake
www.brethren.org/HaitiDonations
www.brethren.org/HaitiPrayers
3. INVITATION TO MAKE HYGIENE KITS
Pastor Dave Kerkove of Panther Creek Church of the Brethren reports that the Panther Creek Church is putting together hygiene kits to send to Haiti.
If other churches are doing the same please email Nancy Davis at npofficesecretary@earthlink.net so that cooperative arrangements might be made for the kits to be delivered to New Windsor or Elgin. For information on assembling kits go to www.churchworldservice.org/kits.
4. EMERGENCY DISASTER FUND GRANTS GO TO HAITI RELIEF
Two grants have been given from the Church of the Brethren’s Emergency Disaster Fund (EDF) for the Haiti earthquake relief effort. The grants total $50,000, and had been bolstered by the more than $16,500 that already has been given through the Haiti donations page at the denominational website as of yesterday evening.
An EDF grant of $25,000 has been given for Brethren Disaster Ministries and Church of the Brethren work in Haiti following the earthquake. The grant will provide for travel and support of assessment teams from the US working in Haiti; support for the Haitian Church of the Brethren members impacted in Port-au-Prince; initial response activities developed by the response team; and a grant to partner with SSID through the Dominican Church of the Brethren.
An EDF grant of $25,000 has been given to the Church World Service earthquake appeal. The money will support cooperative efforts with CWS, and will help in the provision of immediate relief assistance that may include material resources, temporary shelter, food assistance, and health services.
Church World Service released a situation report on the earthquake yesterday, saying that "the global humanitarian effort...faces enormous challenges, given difficult logistics, collapsed infrastructure, and rising tensions." The situation report cited statements from authorities that looting has been reported in parts of Port-au-Prince, and as of yesterday power remained out, food supplies were dwindling, telecommunications were rarely functioning, and most medical facilities in the city had been severely damaged. The report cited a tentative casualty estimate from the Haitian Red Cross of about 45,000 to 50,000.
Today a report from the ACT Alliance global network of churches and related agencies said Haiti's capital "looks like a war zone," and that one million people are without shelter. The ACT statement appeared in Ecumenical News International, the news service of the World Council of Churches.
"Thousands of people in Port-au-Prince--injured, hungry, and desperate--have spent days outdoors...without food or shelter," ACT said. "Desperate Haitians have blocked streets with corpses in anger. Food is stocking up at the airport, but has not yet been distributed."
CWS has issued an appeal for $200,000 for its relief effort; the Church of the Brethren has given $25,000 toward that total from its Emergency Disaster Fund. CWS is sending funds to local partners in Haiti as it continues to assess the situation. CWS-supported efforts will include the construction of temporary water systems, providing water purification materials, tents, and food packages. Additional efforts will be announced once assessments are completed.
SSID, which also partners with CWS in the Dominican Republic, is sending pre-positioned CWS Kits and Blankets from its warehouse in Santo Domingo, the capital city of the DR.
Don Tatlock, CWS Latin America and Caribbean program manager, is coordinating the CWS efforts in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Tatlock also has a relationship with the Church of the Brethren, having been at the center of food assistance projects that the church’s Global Food Crisis Fund has sponsored in Guatemala, Nicaragua, and the DR.
CWS is pressing the US government to grant "Temporary Protected Status"
to Haitians, allowing them to remain in the United States for at least 18 months as part of a comprehensive response to the current humanitarian crisis. CWS noted that Haiti’s current circumstances fall well within the criteria for granting the status, since it may be granted when requested by a foreign state that temporarily cannot handle the return of nationals due to an environmental disaster. The special status has been granted in similar situations to nationals of Honduras and Nicaragua after Hurricane Mitch in
1998 and to Salvadorans after an earthquake in 2001.
5. BRETHREN DELEGATION FROM US ARRIVES IN HAITI
A Church of the Brethren delegation of mission and disaster relief leaders from the US is to arrive in Haiti today to do assessment begin the church’s response to the massive earthquake that hit Port-au-Prince area last Tuesday.
The delegation includes Ludovic St. Fleur, coordinator of the Church of the Brethren mission in Haiti and pastor of Eglise des Freres Haitiens (Haitian Church of the Brethren) in Miami, Fla.; Roy Winter, executive director of Brethren Disaster Ministries; Jeff Boshart, coordinator of the church’s current hurricane rebuilding project in Haiti; and Klebert Exceus, Haiti consultant for the hurricane rebuilding project.
6. HAITIAN BRETHREN CHURCH LEADER REPORTED MISSING
Also today, a key Haitian Brethren church leader has been reported
missing: Pastor Ives who leads one of the three Brethren congregations in Port-au-Prince and is moderator of Eglise des Freres Haitiens (Church of the Brethren in Haiti).
News also has been received that some members of Pastor Ives’
congregation have lost their lives, and that the church building of at least one Brethren congregation in Port-au-Prince has collapsed.
7. NEWS FROM HAITIAN BRETHREN
The news from the Haitian Brethren in Port-au-Prince was received from Pastor Sauyeux, pastor of a Brethren congregation in Descubierta, the Dominican Republic. He passed the news along to Irvin Heishman, DR mission coordinator for the Church of the Brethren, and Tom Crago, a Church of the Brethren member currently in the DR.
Pastor Sauyeux "went into Haiti to check on the Church of the Brethren churches there," wrote Heishman and Crago in an e-mail. "His report is that Pastor Ives is missing. The church in Del Matre collapsed and some church members have died. The other two pastors (in the Port-au-Prince area) are known to be okay. Members are living in the street and it rained today.
There is disorder, with looting."
Pastor Ives was described today as the "spiritual leader" of the Haitian Brethren by Jay Wittmeyer, executive of Global Mission Partnerships for the Church of the Brethren. He expressed deep concern for Ives’ wellbeing and that of his congregation.
Many of the Church of the Brethren members from the Port-au-Prince area have been able to relocate in northern Haiti with family, added a report from Roy Winter at Brethren Disaster Ministries.
Other news has been received from Haitian Brethren through family members in the United States who are living in the Miami and Orlando areas of Florida, and in New York. From some informal reports, it appears that numerous members of Haitian Brethren congregations in the US may have lost family members in the earthquake, and that many have not yet heard from family living in Haiti.
8. BRETHREN SERVICE CENTER SHIPPING SUPPLIES TO HAITI
The Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md., is beginning shipments of relief materials to Haiti. The Church of the Brethren’s Material Resources staff at the center, led by director Loretta Wolf, are working to coordinate shipments being made ready for Haiti on behalf of IMA World Health, Church World Service (CWS), and Lutheran World Relief.
"Church World Service has arranged for one air shipment and one ocean shipment," Wolf reported in an e-mail today. "The air shipment contains
14,743 pounds of blankets, baby kits, hygiene kits, flashlights, and toothpaste. It will be picked up today. The ocean shipment is one 40-foot container with blankets, baby kits, and hygiene kits. The container will leave New Windsor tomorrow. Initial plans are for the container to enter through the Dominican Republic. We are currently receiving medicines and packing medicine boxes for IMA."
9. GRANT FOR REFUGEE EFFORT IN NEW YORK
Brethren Disaster Ministries has requested a grant from the Emergency Disaster Fund of $5,000 for the Haitian First Church of New York, which is a Church of the Brethren congregation, and the New York Disaster Interfaith Services. The grant will fund the establishment of a family assistance center to assist Haitians relocating to the US following the earthquake.
The center will offer refugees a variety of services including help from the American Red Cross, chaplains, mental health services, resettlement support in the form of housing vouchers, casework services, and an Internet café to assist with communication.
10. DOMINICAN BRETHREN RESPOND
The Mendoza church in the Dominican Republic gathered together on this first Sunday following the earthquake in Haiti to grieve and comfort one another in the face of the terrible losses. Thge church is part of the Church of the Brethren in the DR.
Many wept as the congregation sang in Haitian Creole, "When peace like a river attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll." One woman fell to the floor in a convulsion of wailing and sorrow. The gathering felt like a mass funeral service given that most of the 400-plus members were grieving personal losses and also the collective story of so many deaths of loved ones in Port-au-Prince.
Many have still not heard news of their loved ones and are terribly worried. Others know of injuries and destruction of family property.
"We will not fear, though the earth give way…and the mountains quake"
(Psalm 46:2-3). This was Pastor Ernst Merisier’s text as he comforted his grieving congregation. "God is our stability (refuge and strength) in an unstable world," he said. In this world, everything is unstable and unworthy of trust. "Nevertheless," he said, "we can put our faith in the salvation offered through Jesus Christ because He is 'rock-solid.'" A special offering to help victims of the earthquake was collected by the members of the congregation.
Other Brethren churches in the Dominican Republic are responding as well with offerings and collections of food. National Dominican leaders have begun setting goals for a coordinated relief effort using funds granted by Brethren Disaster Services.
-- Irvin Heishman is co-coordinator of the Church of the Brethren’s mission in the Dominican Republic.
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