Disciples News

Strengthening Ministry & Leadership for Disciples

Our Vision: We exist to nurture & support Disciples seminary students at Eden, to enhance covenant relationships

between local Disciple congregations and Disciple students at Eden, and to foster leadership development in the

Disciples of Christ.

You should let everyone know about
> it. It's www.anysoldier.com The site gives you specific information from
> actual soldiers as to where you can send letters of support, letters of
> thanks, and care packages to them over there. It is not a scam and a
> person's efforts go straight to the soldiers in the field. I ordered the
> free mailing packages and forms necessary to send packages to the soldiers
> from the U.S. Postal service. Now all I'll have to do is pack them with
> goodies (from the $0.99 store) and mail them. Not that I can even afford
> to, but it is just too moving when I view the site. I wish I could send
> everyone everything requested like babywipes and chapstick, simple things
> and pleasures here at home we take for granted. It is just a wonderful
> website. If you don't already know about it, please take some time and
> check it out so you can feel comfortable telling the church about it.
> Maybe someone there would like to help the soldiers too.

Place pecans in zipper baggie and let children beat them with the wooden spoon to break into small pieces.

Explain that after Jesus was arrested, He was beaten by the Roman soldiers.

Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl.

Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus' followers, and the bitterness of our own sin.

So far, the ingredients are not very appetizing. Add cup sugar.

Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him.

Beat on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed.

Explain that the color white represents--in God's eyes--the purity of those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus.

Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto a wax paper covered cookie sheet.

Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus' body was sealed.

Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF. Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door.

Explain that Jesus' tomb was sealed.

GO TO BED! Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight.

Jesus' followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed.

On Easter morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked surface and take a bite. T

he cookies are hollow! On the first Easter, Jesus' followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty.

New Orleans Mission Trip June 6-12 Don Miller youth & adults 30 $225/245

Chi Rho Current River Canoe June 27-July 1 Matthew Keith 6–8 16 $190/210

1 Early Bird Registrations must be postmarked by April 30, 2010 in order to qualify for the discounted (bold) fee. Registrations postmarked after April 30 will be

2 Family Camp has no late fee, however early registration is requested to ensure cabin space and adequate staffing.

Dear Disciples in Christ,
After some thought we've asked and been given the opportunity to speak at
the Disciples Benevolent Services Board Meeting in March about future plans
on the ECHO Campus. That meeting will take place on March 19 on the ECHO
campus. We will have 1/2 hour at the meeting beginning at 11:00 a.m.. We
have attached a letter with our questions and concerns.
We invite you to add your name to the letter if you are in support of it.
You are also welcome to come or send a representative to the DBS Board
Meeting for this 1/2 hour. You may send your email response to either of us
by Monday, March 15th. Penny
Ross Corona is as member of DBS Board and will be present as well.
Thank you!
Peace,
Rev Margie Pride
Rev Derrick Perkins

Greetings in the name of Christ! First we want to thank you for all that you’ve been doing on our behalf during a time of transition in our mission of providing services to the neediest among us. These have not been easy times in our communities or the churches, even among those of us who are part of The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). We are also grateful to the staff of Disciples Benevolent Services.

We write to raise questions about the campus known as ECHO. Recently we had the opportunity to hear about what is currently happening at the ECHO campus. President Dennis Hagemann, Chief Operating Officer CB Ellis and other staff introduced agencies currently renting space at ECHO to ministers and members of Disciple churches. These organizations, AHEC, Better Family Life, Northside Community School and UJAMMA, (all non-for-profit organizations) are clearly providing important services to the community around ECHO.

However this meeting left us with questions and concerns. It does not appear that there is any long range plan for the campus. Over a year ago the Steering Committee set forth some directions. Since then these plans have dramatically changed. It was decided that Affordable Senior Housing was not possible at this time on the campus. In the absence of this program, other groups have been allowed to rent space on the property. There has been no effort to go back to area churches for advice and counsel about what could done or should be done on the campus. Community groups and neighborhood associations have not been polled to access the needs in the community surrounding the campus. Currently there is no Disciples presence on the campus which means Disciples aren’t doing any mission in the neighborhood. Throughout this process, rumors persist that DBS is willing to sell the property to the highest bidder without any thought to how this may impact this community which is one of the neediest in the St Louis metropolitan area.

As ministers and members of Christian Churches in the St Louis area, we propose that area churches be given the opportunity to assess and develop long range plans for serving in the community of ECHO. Knowing that a Disciples presence is needed in the community to offer a witness and insure the maintenance of the property, we would expect Disciples Benevolent Services to move their offices to the ECHO campus. We would also ask that the Disciples Benevolent Services Board commit to ending the discussion of selling the property for the next 5 years while long range plans are developed and implemented.

We look forward to the opportunity to discuss this with Board and the staff. The invitation to follow Jesus invites us into relationships with the neediest among us. At this time when many are struggling so much, the church needs to be feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and those imprisoned. What an opportunity we have to serve on the ECHO campus, let’s seize it!

Volunteer Voice

Alex Morse is a Church World Service Volunteer in the Dominican Republic as well
as a former Global Mission Intern of Global Ministries. In this brief note, Alex
updates us all on the fantastic work being done in Haiti by the Social Services
of the Dominican Churches (SSID), another great partner organization of Week of
Compassion as well as Church World Service and the ACT Alliance. Alex highlights
the best ways North Americans can put their resources to use in Haiti's recovery.
For more about the great work being done by SSID, Alex also encourages those who want to follow his work

by subscribing to his email
newsletter by emailing him at Alex.P.Morse@gmail.com. [mailto:Alex.P.Morse@gmail.com]
Hello Everyone,
It has been almost two months now since the 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti,
and since I arrived here to work with Social Services of the Dominican Churches.
The last month has been interesting getting to see how different non-governmental
organizations are responding to the needs, and learning about all the different
parts that go into responding to a massive disaster. I have also been involved
in working with SSID's new project that they have with Church World Service and
Christian Aid, where we are providing food, water, and shelter to 2,000 people.
That is in addition to the other 23,000 people that we are supporting in five other
camps.
On top of all the demands of feeding and providing shelter to 2,000 people, we are
also trying to meet SPHERE standards in the process. SPHERE is a set of minimum
standards that humanitarian groups try to meet in response to disasters or refugee
situations. For example, we are trying to provide 2,100 calories of food per person
per day, three liters of drinking water per day, adequate shelter from the rain,
and mattresses for sleeping. The idea is that by following these standards, risk
of disease and malnutrition can be reduced, and it also helps to protect the dignity
of people living in the emergency camps. When there is not adequate food or water,
people can be forced into desperate situations, and are prone to abuse from those
with resources.
The last time I was in Jimani working on our project I was surprised to run into
two Disciples pastors organizing a mission trip. I was grateful to hear that they
have been advised by Global Ministries not to come. First, the situation in Haiti
for now has been incredibly peaceful, but the situation is not stable and could
quickly change. Second, much of the work that needs to be done in the rebuilding
of Haiti at this point requires either the skills of very experienced specialists
working on infrastructure projects, or physical labor, which can and should be done
by the Haitians as they should be as involved as possible in the rebuilding of their
country. Mission groups responding to emergencies often do not have the required
skills (unless it is a team of doctors or civil engineers), and are often less able
to do construction or clean up projects as they aren't used to building with local
materials or able to speak the language, and so they only distract from the work
at hand.
After meeting with the pastors I began to wonder what it would cost to send down
a mission group, and what those resources would be able to buy if put into the
hands of a responsible organization like SSID. Having worked on the budget for
our camps that feed 2,000 people every day, I have a good estimate of the costs
of supplying an emergency camp, and after a little research I was able to put together
an estimate of the costs for a a group of 12 people to come from Chicago and work
for one week in Haiti. Assuming that they stay in the cheapest hotels, a no frills
mission trip for 12 to Haiti would cost around $10,986.60 without covering any budget
for projects.
For the cost of a group of 12 to visit we could:
Feed 2,000 people for 6 days.
Feed 13,200 people for 1 day.
Provide shelter for 1,569 families (about 5,000 people).
Provide clean drinking water for one month to 4,171 people.
or
Provide sheets and mattresses for 304 people.
As satisfying as it is to work alongside our Haitian brothers and sisters, at this
point the money is more urgently needed, as supplies can be purchased easily here
in the Dominican Republic. I hope those considering mission trips right now to
Haiti or Chile will take these numbers into consideration, and decide whether supporting
a grassroots project is a better use of resources than what a trip would cost.
From my perspective, the answer is pretty clear.
Please continue to lift up Haiti in prayer as the rainy season begins, and for those
suffering right now in Chile.
Alex Morse
Church World Service Volunteer in the Dominican Republic
Chile Update
Week of Compassion responded immediately to the earthquake in Chile with solidarity
grants to our Global Ministries partners and by contributing to the initial $15,000
grant sent by Church World Service for relief efforts.
ACT and CWS members in Chile have pulled together to form the Inter-Church Emergency
Committee Chile 2010. The groups' main goal is to respond in a coordinated way
as ACT members and serve the most affected communities. Participating denominations
and agencies are: Methodist Church of Chile, Evangelical Lutheran Church, Mision
Apostolica Universal Church, FASIC, SEPADE, EPES and CLAI Chile.
A CWS assessment is currently under way, and we will contribute once their appeal
is issued. If you would like to contribute to the relief effort, you can now designate
gifts for earthquake relief in Chile on our
~~~

Thank you for your continued vigilance in these affected regions. Week of Compassion
stands with the people of Haiti, Chile, and all over the world-and we stand with
our faithful congregations in North America who dare to step out and respond with
Courageous Compassion. For all of you who celebrated Week of Compassion over the
last week, for those of you who will give in the coming weeks or who gave at some
other point throughout the year, we thank you, and we are thankful for you.

Earthquake Strikes Chile, Triggers Tsunamis: Week of Compassion Reaches out to
Partners

A devastating magnitude-8.8 earthquake struck Chile early this morning, Saturday,
February 27, 2010, shattering buildings and bridges, killing at least 78 people
and setting off a tsunami that threatened every nation around the Pacific Ocean
- roughly a quarter of the globe.
Messages of compassion, concern and support have been sent to Rev. Ulises Muñoz,
Obispo Iglesia Pentecostal de Chile; Rosario Castillo, Educación Popular en Salud
(EPES); Dora Canales, Comunidad Teológica de Chile, Disciples/UCC-Global Ministries
Partners, and Elena Huegel, missionary with Global Ministries.
Praise be to God, we have received news from the Bishop of the Pentecostal Church
of Chile, who has not heard of any deaths of church members. There was some damage
of homes in Curico and Talca, but homes were not destroyed. Elena Huegel, our beloved
friend and missionary, was in the mountains at Centro Shalom with the whole staff.
Everyone is well and they are on their way down from the mountain. Please keep
them all in your thoughts and prayers.
Church World Service emergency response staff have also been in contact with colleagues
on the ground in Chile, who report their people are safe. CWS has worked in Chile
to provide emergency preparedness training and assistance to the country's sizable
population of Colombians, displaced to Chile by conflict. CWS works with two Chilean
agencies, FASIC (Fundacion de Ayuda Social de las Iglesia Cristianas) and IMECH,
the Methodist Church of Chile.
As part of the international ACT Alliance network, CWS will work to provide emergency
assistance such as food, water and shelter to those affected by this disaster.
CWS staff continue to be in contact with people in Chile and colleagues in other
ACT Alliance agencies to ensure a timely and responsible response. CWS staff are
also preparing for a tsunami response in Hawaii should any be needed.
Week of Compassion emergency solidarity grants were immediately authorized for three
Global Ministries partners in Chile and Church World Service to support relief initiatives.
Week of Compassion and Global Ministries staff are monitoring the unfolding disaster
situation and will continue to update you as we receive more information.
How Can You Help?
1.　Pray for the people of Chile, their leaders, our partners, and emergency
response workers.
2.　Please help the people of Chile by sending or donating on-line gifts to
Week of Compassion, designated for Chile Earthquake and Tsunami Relief.
Thank you for your ongoing support, trust, and courageous compassion. We continue
to trust in God's ubiquitous presence and love.
+++++++

"Do You Love Me? Feed My Sheep!
A Week of Compassion Reflection on John 21:15-19
Feed My Sheep

How do we love well? To love well speaks to the quality of our love, not the quantity.
I don't believe Jesus was asking Peter how much he loved him, but simply, how did
he love him. How do we, then, as followers of Jesus the Christ, love well?
"Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" What is Jesus really asking
Peter here? Peter, caught a bit off guard, says, "Of course, Lord, you know that
I love you." Jesus responds by saying, "Ok then, feed my lambs."
A second time Jesus says to Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter responds
again, perhaps a bit more frustrated, "Yes, Lord, you know that I do!" This time
Jesus says, "Then tend my sheep." Tend my sheep. We're not only feeding now, but
tending, caring for the whole animal, not little lambs any longer, but full-grown
sheep.
Tend my sheep, Jesus said. Take care of one another; accompany your sisters and
brothers on the journey to healing. Commit to them for the long haul.
But Jesus asks Peter yet a third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" This
time Peter gets totally exasperated. "Lord, you know everything; you know that I
love you!" to which Jesus says, "Ok then, feed my sheep. For very truly I tell
you, when you were younger, you used to fasten your own belt and go wherever you
wished. But when you grow up, you will stretch out your hands and someone else
will fasten a belt around you and lead you to where you do not want to go." After
this he finished his inquisition of Peter by saying, "Follow me."
Follow me. Yet we find it challenging just to follow the news! Feed my sheep, Jesus
said. To love me is to follow me. To follow me is to care deeply, effectively and
appropriately for others, and this means standing up for those the world has forgotten
and speaking out for those who are in misery and poverty. To love me is to follow
me; this also means doing the unpopular and the misunderstood. It can even mean
risking our very lives.
Do you love me? What Jesus is actually asking Simon Peter is, "Do you agape me?"
Agapan, in New Testament Greek, is a verb meaning sacrificial, redemptive love,
often understood as the highest form of love. "Do you love me in this way, Peter?"
And he responds, "Yes Lord, you know that I am your friend; I have such affection
for you," using the Greek verb philein. But this kind of love between friends or
even family is not necessarily agape love. Jesus asks again, "But do you love me?
You're not hearing me! What is the quality of your love, Peter?" After all that
time being a disciple of Jesus, after all that work and commitment, Jesus asks him
only then to follow him. Follow me, he says to Peter. If you love me, follow me.
Give all that you have right back to God. This is what it means to love me well.
It is often a long, painstaking, arduous journey to learn to follow Christ. It takes
courageous compassion. It takes a commitment. It takes sacrificial giving so that
others may not suffer but have enough. That's loving well. On your own journey of
discipleship, what is the quality of your love? Do you love Christ the way Christ
loves you?, with a love so powerful that it rises out of the rubble? a love so pure
that even in the darkness and total chaos, surrounded by post-earthquake debris,
it sings songs of praise to God all night long? a love so profound it leads you
to the cross?
Do you love him? Do you love him? Do you love him?
Love well. Feed Christ's sheep. Please give sacrificially to this year's Week of
Compassion Special Offering so that we are able to meet the needs of God's people
each and every day

Disciples News Service
February 24, 2010

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

In this issue:

    * Lexington Theological Names Gillett To New Position
    * Temporary Immigration Is Available For Haitians In The U.S.
    * College Athletes Excel At Sports & Christian Witness
    * Faith-Based Supporters Of Health Care Reform Deliver Letter To The President And Congress
    * National City Christian Church's Gift: Daily Lenten Devotional, The 50th Edition
    * Disciples Teens Invited To Christian Leadership Conference
    * Wabash Pastoral Leadership Program Seeks Indiana Participants
    * Disciples Young Adults Try To Create More Multicultural And Inclusive Church
    * Registration Ongoing For Convocation's 21st Biennial Session
    * Disciples Mission Fund Advocate Training And Other Pre-events To Open 2010 Quadrennial Assembly
    * Registration Still Open For Study On Stewardship In Small Churches
    * Phillips Theological Honors Professor Imbler With Chair
    * Midway College Awarded $100,000 For Nursing Education
    * Disciples Visit India; Make Documentary Of Their Trip
    * Beaumont Texas Congregation Goes Green To Help Community

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

LEXINGTON THEOLOGICAL NAMES GILLETT TO NEW POSITION
Charisse L. Gillett has been named as vice president of administration and special projects at Lexington Theological Seminary. Gillett's duties for the new position include supervising student recruitment and working on admissions and scholarships. She also will partner with the Pension Fund of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in creating programs and materials to help improve ministers' wellness.

"Dr. Gillett's background and passion make her an excellent choice to take on this dual role," said James P. Johnson, president of Lexington Theological. Gillett earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Northern Iowa, and holds a Doctor of Education degree from Northern Illinois University. She is married to Donald K. Gillett II, senior pastor at East Second Street Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Lexington, Ky. For more, see: www.lextheo.edu/2010/02/dr-charisse-gillett-joins-lts-staff/

TEMPORARY IMMIGRATION IS AVAILABLE FOR HAITIANS IN THE U.S.
Disciples Home Missions' Refugee and Immigration Ministries program has prepared information to help Haitians in the United States understand the new Temporary Protected Status (TPS) that is now available to many of them. TPS is an immigration status that is available to many Haitians who were already in the United States when the earthquake struck Haiti.

This information about TPS has been prepared to help Disciples Haitians and Disciples congregations working with Haitians in their community better understand TPS and the complicated nature of applying for TPS, but it is not meant to replace the advice of a competent legal representative. The English version of the information is now available and a French translation will be available soon at: www.discipleshomemissions.org/RIM/index.htm.

COLLEGE ATHLETES EXCEL AT SPORTS & CHRISTIAN WITNESS
While big college sports get most of the attention, student athletes at the 17 colleges and universities associated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) are quietly making their own mark. For instance, Barton College fields outstanding golf teams that have reached the pinnacle of their sport year after year. Transylvania University's men's soccer team came within one goal of reaching the Final Four of the NCAA tournament and a runner at Lynchburg College was named "Cross Country National Athlete of the Year."

Additionally, Chapman University has a couple of student athletes who are dedicated as much to their Christian witness as they are to their achievement in sports. To read more, see:
www.disciples.org/tabid/58/itemid/540/Student-Athletes-at-Disciples-Institutions-Thrive.aspx

FAITH-BASED SUPPORTERS OF HEALTH CARE REFORM DELIVER LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT AND CONGRESS
A faith-based Health Care Reform Now letter was delivered today to the US President and Congress on the eve of the President's Bipartisan Health Care Summit, as well as an ad placed in The Hill newspaper. The letter was signed by numerous heads of communions, including General Minister and President Sharon Watkins and more than 145 national, state and regional organizations (including Disciples Home Missions and Disciples Justice Action Network). It is also signed by over 4000 individual religious leaders and people of faith. "With families having no insurance, workers losing their insurance, and people dying due to lack of insurance, we cannot wait any longer," said Watkins. "Now is the time for our leaders to put aside the partisan politics and do their best to pass affordable, quality health care for all."

For more information, see: www.faithfulreform.org and
www.faithfulreform.org/storage/frhc/docs/sign-on%20letter%2002-24-10.pdf

NATIONAL CITY CHRISTIAN CHURCH'S GIFT: DAILY LENTEN DEVOTIONAL, THE 50TH EDITION
For the last 50 years, National City Christian Church, your Disciples witness in Washington, D.C., has provided for members and friends a Lenten Devotional. The devotional is written by members of the congregation and members of the Board of Trustees of the National City Christian Church Foundation.

To receive daily devotions by e-mail, sign-up by sending an e-mail to cwalsh@nationalcitycc.org or access the full guide at www.nationalcitycc.org and click under "Resources."

DISCIPLES TEENS INVITED TO CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
Are you in high school and want to serve the church? Already serving but want to learn how to continue? Then consider attending "Here I Am: A Conference in Christian Leadership," which will take place June 11-13 at Culver-Stockton College in Canton, Mo. High school students completing grades 10, 11, and 12 are invited to attend a weekend of leadership development, worship, food, and fun.

Todd Adams, associate general minister and vice president of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), will be the keynote speaker. Christal Williams, associate regional minister in Illinois and Wisconsin, is the featured preacher. Music will be provided by Paul Svenson, www.dadsongbook.com. To register, go to www.culver.edu/hereIam or direct questions to Brent Reynolds at 573-288-6420 or breynolds@culver.edu

WABASH PASTORAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM SEEKS INDIANA PARTICIPANTS
Talented young pastors in Indiana with leadership potential are encouraged to apply for the Wabash Pastoral Leadership Program.

Eighteen younger pastors of Christian congregations in the state who have demonstrated during their first five to 10 years of ministry a high potential for significant leadership will be named Wabash Pastoral Fellows. Beginning in January 2011, they will participate in a series of meetings and conversations with outstanding leaders, and two study tours over a two-year period.

For additional information or to nominate a pastor, contact Raymond B. Williams, LaFollette Distinguished Professor in the Humanities emeritus at Wabash College or Verity A. Jones, by email at pastorleader@wabash.edu, by phone at 765-361-6327, or by mail at Wabash College, 301 W. Wabash Av., Crawfordsville, Ind. 47933.

DISCIPLES YOUNG ADULTS TRY TO CREATE MORE MULTICULTURAL AND INCLUSIVE CHURCH
A major initiative involving young adult Disciples to address the issues of becoming a truly multicultural and inclusive church was proposed by a planning committee on January 29-30 in Indianapolis. The project would bring young adults together for hands-on exposure to diverse cultural and racial experiences through a series of work trips to different Disciples mission stations across the United States.

The creation of this planning committee was one of the major recommendations made by the March 2008 Consultation on "Becoming a Multicultural and Inclusive Church." The planning team's mandate was to develop a substantive conversation among young adult Disciples on the issues of multiculturalism and diversity within the life of the church and society. For more, see:
www.disciples.org/tabid/58/itemid/541/Disciples-Young-Adult-Initiative-to-Address.aspx

REGISTRATION ONGOING FOR CONVOCATION'S 21st BIENNIAL SESSION
Registration is underway for the 21st Biennial Session of the National Convocation of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The gathering will take place July 29-Aug. 1 in Oklahoma City. The theme for the biennial session is "Saved to Serve: Live All Out," based on Hebrews 9:14. The meeting will be centered at the Renaissance Oklahoma City Convention Center Hotel.

Planned activities at the 21st Biennial Session include a golf outing July 28, early morning praise services July 30 and 31, and an awards banquet on Aug. 1. The National Convocation is an expression of the church that is positioned to promote racial harmony. It was established to point the emerging Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) toward racial inclusiveness and unity across racial lines. To register or for further information, see www.disciples.org/convo

DISCIPLES MISSION FUND ADVOCATE TRAINING AND OTHER PRE-EVENTS TO OPEN 2010 QUADRENNIAL ASSEMBLY
If you are considering attending the 2010 Quadrennial Assembly, this information is for you. Do you want to learn how the Christian Church supports ministry and mission around the world? Are you curious about the daily lives of missionaries in lands and cultures far away? Are you the type who thrives on "getting your hands dirty for Jesus"? You can get a 'quick start' on Quadrennial activities by becoming involved with several pre-events June 20-23, preceding the Quadrennial, which takes place in Greensboro, N.C., June 23-27.

Three pre-events will take place before the Quadrennial Assembly, including "Become a Disciples Mission Fund Advocate," June 22-23; "Become a Ministry and Mission Interpreter (MMI)," June 21-23; and "Build a Habitat for Humanity House" beginning with dinner on Sunday, June 20 through June 23. The Disciples Mission Fund training will include the opportunity to learn about ways our Church supports ministry and mission around the world and to understand how we fund our regions, general ministries and institutions of higher education. For more information about the Quadrennial or to register, visit: www.quadrennial.org

REGISTRATION STILL OPEN FOR STUDY ON STEWARDSHIP IN SMALL CHURCHES
Disciples are invited to participate in several discussions covering various ways to enhance the stewardship strategies of small/rural congregations. Registration is winding up for the course, which will take place March 1-29, and be held in an online, weekend workshop format. The instructor will be Ed Taylor, pastor of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Gibson City, Ill.

The course will place particular emphasis on stewardship education and programs that are unique to the small church. Taylor, the instructor, has served as pastor of churches in Iowa and Nebraska. He also has been director of stewardship with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and executive director of the Ecumenical Stewardship Center. To register or get more information, visit:
msr-crm.org/coursesevents/certificate/upcoming-online-courses/stewardship-strategies-for-your-congregation/

PHILLIPS THEOLOGICAL HONORS PROFESSOR IMBLER WITH CHAIR
The Phillips Theological Seminary Board of Trustees has honored John M. Imbler with the Stephen J. England Chair. Imbler is executive vice president and associate professor of the history of Christianity and Disciples studies at the seminary. England was a Disciples biblical scholar and the second dean of the College of the Bible at Phillips. He had a passion for ecumenicalism.

Imbler has been a PTS faculty member since 1993. He received his doctorate in divinity from Columbia College, and is scholar of American Christianity, particularly the history of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). He has authored Beyond Buffalo: Alexander Campbell on Education for Ministry, among other publications. He is an ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). To learn more, see:
www.disciples.org/Portals/0/PDF/DNS/2010/20100224-PTSImbler.pdf

MIDWAY COLLEGE AWARDED $100,000 FOR NURSING EDUCATION
Midway College has received a $100,000 U.S. Department of Education grant for its nursing education program. The grant will allow the college to purchase equipment and renovate laboratories. It was secured with the help of U.S. Sen. Jim Bunning, and will enable Midway to double the number of students in its nursing program, which awards associate degrees.

Midway College, located in Midway, Ky., has an enrollment of about 1,800 students. As the area grows, "the Midway College Nursing and Health Science Center will strive to meet the needs of health professionals in the region and nation," said Barbara Kitchen, nursing division chair at Midway College. For more, go to:
www.disciples.org/Portals/0/PDF/DNS/2010/20100224-MidwayCollegeGetsGrant.pdf

DISCIPLES VISIT INDIA; MAKE DOCUMENTARY OF THEIR TRIP
Several Disciples from the Christian Church in Georgia are taking part in two People to People Pilgrimages to the Christian Hospital in Mungeli, India this winter. The first group left in mid-January. Another group traveled to the Asian country earlier this month. The Disciples are making a documentary about the hospital and the Rambo Memorial English School. They worked with the Mungeli Christian Hospital staff and our Global Ministries missionaries, Anil and Teresa Henry. To view a trailer of that work and other video, visit: www.gadisciples.org/Mission/Mungeli_2010.htm

BEAUMONT TEXAS CONGREGATION GOES GREEN TO HELP COMMUNITY
First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Beaumont, Texas, has initiated a Green outreach program that includes several projects designed to help the community. The program, called "Caring for God's Creation," created a garden project to assist the homeless, developed re-usable shopping bags containing the church's logo, a recycling program, and remodeled a rest area in the church that is powered by solar panels.

"The goal of Caring for God's Creation is to joyfully commit to preserving and cultivating God's good Earth as our common residence," said Brenda Griffin Warren, senior pastor at First Christian in Beaumont. "Caring for God's Creation is part of the heritage of mainstream Christian worship." To learn more about this initiative, see:
www.disciples.org/Portals/0/PDF/DNS/2010/20100224-BeaumontTX.pdf

+++++++

"Beyond the CNN Effect": Week of Compassion - Around the World, Around the Year

Steve Cranford, a retired Disciples minister and member of Bethany Christian Church
in Tulsa, Oklahoma, sent us this great reminder:
"We have responded generously to the Week of Compassion's relief efforts in Haiti,
and we are glad to know that our church is involved in providing life-saving assistance
to those suffering people.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if, for the remainder of this year, there were no more
earthquakes, no floods, no hurricanes, no tornadoes, no tsunamis? Wouldn't it be
wonderful if, for the remainder of this year, there were no more violent conflicts,
no more refugees fleeing from their homes? Wouldn't be wonderful if there were no
more famines, if no more children died of starvation?
But when has there ever been such a year? From bitter experience, we know that there
will be more natural disasters and human conflicts that create more suffering. And
we want to be there. We want to be there so we can extend the compassion of Jesus
Christ. We will be there through the Week of Compassion.
Every year in February the Christian Church receives a special offering that creates
a rapid response fund so that when disaster strikes, whenever and wherever people
hurt, whether in Oklahoma or in the far corners of the earth, we are there.
That's why we give to the Week of Compassion."
Steve gets it exactly right. Our Compassion Response Fund gives us flexibility and
the ability to act quickly. Within 24 hours of the earthquake in Haiti, funds had
been wired to Global Ministries, enabling them to respond to the relief efforts
of CONASPEH, a grassroots ecumenical council of churches in Haiti, and to the Ecumenical
Foundation for Peace and Justice (the House of Hope in Port au Prince), as well
as to Church World Service and ACT International.
Your contributions to the appeal for earthquake relief in Haiti have been generous.
We've raised over $1.3 million. However, in order to respond to the immediate needs
that emerge whenever a disaster strikes--whether it's on the scale of Hurricane
Katrina, the earthquake in Haiti, or a windstorm that never makes the news, but
does serious damage to a neighborhood--we need your continued Courageous Compassion.
Likewise, because of your faithful giving, we are able to accompany communities
in places as diverse as El Salvador, Armenia, even North Korea, as they seek to
develop new sources of sustenance and self-support.
To the alleviation of suffering due to disaster and chronic poverty, we are able
to respond effectively because of your continued, courageous support.
This is cause for celebration! This is what YOU have done, through your gifts to
Week of Compassion!
If you have given to the appeal for Haiti, thank you so very much. Consider making
a difference in yet another way--with a gift to this year's Week of Compassion Special
Offering. It is a way that we as Disciples can share God's love with the entire
world: where systems, structures, and hopes have been broken, we can contribute
to new life by stepping out with communities in Courageous Compassion.
Rick Santos
Video Update from Earthquake Survivor, Rick Santos, IMA World Health
IMA World Health is WoC's primary partner organization providing health and medical
assistance to those in great need. Many of you have assembled IMA Medicine Boxes
or Safe Motherhood Kits for the Congo or for Haiti. Medicine Boxes are in great
demand in Haiti currently; follow the link for more information [http:
IMA's Director, Rick Santos, was one of our ecumenical colleagues in Haiti at the
time of the earthquake. Rick was trapped under the rubble for 55 hours, but made
it home. He recently recorded this message for Week of Compassion about the ongoing
relief effort. We are so appreciative of Rick and his entire staff at IMA World Health; they are
such an important partner for us Disciples!
+++++++

"From dust you were made
and to dust you will return."
Donate to Haiti Relief
Every year, when Lent rolls around, something about these words, spoken during the
imposition of Ashes on Ash Wednesday, gets to me.
If you're like me, you're often so overtaken by work and daily stresses that you
zoom through life on auto-pilot, and any contemplation about what it means to be
alive-any time taken to consider our mortality-feels like a luxury.
This year, thoughts of dust bring up images of rubble and dust in Haiti. The massive
devastation there has raised our awareness of what it means to be mortal, vulnerable,
and in need. The Generosity of Disciple congregations, individual church members,
and people who, looking for a way to help, found Week of Compassion, has been staggering.
The reports of the response our partners have engineered on the ground have been
breathtaking.
Mortality. Dust. Generosity. Life.
These are the things that are swirling around my head as we head into Lent.
This Sunday is not only the first Sunday of Lent, but it is the first of the two
Sundays set aside for our Week of Compassion special offering. This offering funds
our general Compassion Response Fund-an important part of Week of Compassion's ministry
that allows us to respond immediately, efficiently, effectively, and for the long
haul. Because of the Generosity of Disciple Churches across the country in 2009,
we were able to wire $10,000 for earthquake relief to Haiti from the Compassion
Response Fund within 24 Hours of the first report.
Because of your generosity, we can respond before the dust has even cleared.
And because of your faithfulness, we'll be there long after the last news crew packs
up to go.
We're not only your disaster relief mission fund, but we are your sustainable development
mission fund as well. Chronic poverty, disease, refugees leaving war-torn villages-these
are more than just abstract issues. They affect people as profoundly as devastating
earthquakes, and we address them because of what you give on any Sunday throughout
the year. From water projects in Kenya and Zimbabwe to agricultural development
in Nicaragua and Armenia and North Korea, your gifts through Week of Compassion
make a remarkable difference in the lives of people working for a better life.
Whether it's through ongoing recovery and rebuilding work on the Gulf Coast or
supporting our Refugee and Immigration Ministries help our congregations set up
a home for a just-arrived family from Bhutan, we can be present thanks to your gifts.
Week of Compassion is around the world, around the year.
While our lives spin madly onward, in the van heading to soccer practice, the plane
headed to the next meeting, the combine pulling in the last bit of the harvest,
and at the helm of the grocery cart in the checkout line, we can pause-turning our
fleeting time into sacred time, and our gifts into life abundant. We can pray.
We can give.
We can make a difference.
We invite you to help us continue to make a difference-not only in the lives of
those suffering in Haiti, but also in the lives of those all over the world who
are also still in need. Give generously to our Week of Compassion special offering
so that when the next disaster strikes, we will once again be ready to respond,
thanks to you and your courageous compassion.
- Brandon Gilvin, Associate Director
+++++++

Disciples News Service
February 10, 2010

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

In this issue:

* Missionaries Share Their Experiences Following Haitian Earthquake
* Disciples Women To Continue Publishing Just Women Magazine
* See Video From Haiti For Global Ministries' Area Office Executive
* 2010 Quadrennial Assembly Promises An Attractive Program
* Donald D. Reisinger, President Emeritus Of Disciples Seminary Foundation, Dies
* Disciples Resettled More Than 1,200 Refugees Last Year
* Young Adults Sought To Serve As Summer Peace Interns
* Peacemakers Conference Calls Young Adults To Kansas City
* Ministerial Student Grants Applications Due April 1
* California Pastor Jon Mccauley Smith Finishes In Top 10 Of National Writing Contest
* Bethany College Launches Project For Haiti Earthquake Relief
* Hispanic Ministries Institute Set For Texas Christian University
* Phillips Theological Seminary Lecture Series Free To The Public
* Westar Institute Names Disciple As Interim Executive Director
* Chapman University To Host Founders Day Activities

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

MISSIONARIES SHARE THEIR EXPERIENCES FOLLOWING HAITIAN EARTHQUAKE
Patrick and Kim Bentrott, Global Ministries missionaries in Haiti, spoke to numerous staff and community persons today at the Disciples Center in Indianapolis. The Bentrotts were in Haiti on Jan. 12 when a massive earthquake shook the country. Kim is a physician and teacher and is partnered with the National Spiritual Council of Churches of Haiti (CONASPEH), a grass-roots organization of Protestant churches and organizations that also assists with community education and health care. Patrick advises CONASPEH on theological education and diaconal projects and programs. The Bentrotts recently returned to the United States but hope to return to Haiti in the next several months. To see photos from today's presentation, go to: snurl.com/docbentrottgallery. To read the Bentrott's blog of their life in Haiti, both before and after the earthquake, visit: www.kimandpatrick.blogspot.com

DISCIPLES WOMEN TO CONTINUE PUBLISHING JUST WOMEN MAGAZINE
Just Women magazine, a quarterly publication for Christian women, recently mailed out its winter issue and welcomes new subscriptions. The periodical was founded in 2009 as a partnership between International Disciples Women Ministries (IDWM) and DisciplesWorld Inc. IDWM provided the seed money to develop and publish the magazine. DisciplesWorld, Inc. provided the expertise and infrastructure to launch and publish it.

DisciplesWorld Inc., publisher of the independent journal DisciplesWorld, announced that it was closing and dissolving in December. Just Women, however, will now be published by IDWM. "We will continue to share articles that will strengthen women's faith, promote justice and minister to the spirit, body and soul," said IDWM President Judy Row. To find out more about Just Women and subscriptions, go to:
www.disciples.org/tabid/58/itemid/527/Disciples-Women-To-Continue-Publishing.aspx

SEE VIDEO FROM HAITI FOR GLOBAL MINISTRIES' AREA OFFICE EXECUTIVE
Felix Ortiz, Global Ministries area office executive for Latin America and the Caribbean, recently visited Haiti, the Hispaniola-island nation that suffered a devastating earthquake on Jan. 12. The disaster killed more than 200,000 people, injured more than 200,000 and left more than a million homeless. Haiti President Rene Preval initially described the earthquake's aftermath as 'unimaginable.'

The GM video includes updates about two Global Ministries partners following the earthquake: CONASPEH and House of Hope. Ortiz also gives a historical perspective on the country's political and social situation prior to the latest situation. To view the video, go to: www.disciples.org/tabid/708/Default.aspx

2010 QUADRENNIAL ASSEMBLY PROMISES AN ATTRACTIVE PROGRAM
Disciples women will not want to miss the 2010 Quadrennial Assembly that will be held June 23-27 in Greensboro, N.C. Women are already registering for the event which will include the opportunity to hear well-known speakers and be involved in mission activities.

Speakers who will headline the event include Vashti McKenzie, bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church; retired attorney and Disciples leader Joanne Kagiwada; Disciples pastor Evelyn Nieves; Executive Director for Week of Compassion Amy C. Gopp; General Minister and President Sharon Watkins; and Sharyn Dowd, pastor for spiritual formation and mission engagement at First Baptist Church in Decatur, Ga. Mission outreach will include opportunities to make or donate blankets, and participate in a blood drive. Assembly goers also will collect books and purses for a local women's shelter, as well as prepare Church World Service hygiene kits that will be used to replenish the supplies depleted by the earthquake in Haiti.

Musician Laura Hall has written a theme song for the assembly entitled "Awaken to the Presence." To learn more about Quadrennial and to register go to: www.quadrennial.org

DONALD D. REISINGER, PRESIDENT EMERITUS OF DISCIPLES SEMINARY FOUNDATION, DIES
A Disciples pastor who had wide influence in the life of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) has died. Donald D. Reisinger was president emeritus of the Disciples Seminary Foundation. He joined the foundation as dean in 1962, and over the next 38 years built DSF into a ministry that served hundreds of students.

Reisinger received his bachelor's and master's degrees from Butler University and a divinity degree from Christian Theological Seminary. He developed relationships with the Claremont School of Theology and later the Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley and the San Francisco Theological Seminary/Southern California. He also helped to accumulate several million dollars in permanent funds for ongoing ministry. In addition, he served on numerous church boards in the life of the church. A memorial service will be held on Feb. 21 at First Christian Church in Pomona, Calif. To learn more, see:
www.disciples.org/tabid/58/itemid/526/Donald-D-Reisinger-President-Emeritus-Of-Discipl.aspx

DISCIPLES RESETTLED MORE THAN 1,200 REFUGEES LAST YEAR
Refugees from Afghanistan, Burma, Cuba and Iraq were among the 1,251 people resettled through the Disciples Refugee and Immigration Ministries program in 2009. The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is one of the six denominations that resettles refugees through the Church World Service Immigration and Refugee Program. Disciples helped to place approximately 11 percent of CWS's caseload.

Those Disciples who promote the work of Week of Compassion in congregations are encouraged to share with them the ministry that Week of Compassion makes possible through funding Refugee and Immigration Ministries in Disciples Home Missions. View a report about the congregations involved in refugee and immigration ministries in 2009 at: www.discipleshomemissions.org/rim

YOUNG ADULTS SOUGHT TO SERVE AS SUMMER PEACE INTERNS
Young adults who will be age 21 or older no later than June 1 are invited to participate in the Disciples Peace Fellowship Summer Peace Internship program. Interns will receive training in peace education, current political and cultural conflicts, and the theological study of Christian approaches to peace and justice. Peace interns also travel across the country serving as peace educators and justice advocates.

The Disciples Peace Fellowship internship program is in its 35th year. Former peace interns have become advisors to White House staff and congressional committees. Some have gone on to serve as internationally-recognized disaster relief specialists, teachers, ministers, and professors at Ivy League colleges, among other prominent careers. Applications are due no later than Feb. 19, 2010. To find out more, go to: dpfweb.org

PEACEMAKERS CONFERENCE CALLS YOUNG ADULTS TO KANSAS CITY
Disciples will take up several relevant topics on peace issues at a Young Adult Peacekeepers Conference next month. The conference will take place March 11-14 at Community Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Kansas City, Mo. The Keynote speaker will be Janetta Cravens Boyd, senior minister at University Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Seattle, Wash.

Participants in the conference will have an opportunity to attend afternoon workshops and action groups focusing on topics dealing with peace issues. The conference will be located on historic Kansas City Country Club Plaza, which is within walking distance of several restaurants and other businesses. A registration discount is available until March 1. For more, visit:
dpfweb.org/news/2010/1/26/latest-details-released-for-young-adult-peace-conference.html

MINISTERIAL STUDENT GRANTS APPLICATIONS DUE APRIL 1
Disciples seminarians are invited to apply for Ministerial Student Grants, a program of Higher Education and Leadership Ministries (HELM) providing up to $3,000 for selected M.Div. students to support research projects, educational experiences outside the student's institution, study-related travel, or other opportunities. For guidelines and an application, visit: www.helmdisciples.org/helm/10/HELM-MSG.htm

CALIFORNIA PASTOR JON McCAULEY SMITH FINISHES IN TOP 10 OF NATIONAL WRITING CONTEST
A California Disciples pastor placed in the top 10 of a national writing contest. An entry by Jon McCauley Smith, pastor of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Palo Alto, Calif., placed in the 78th Annual Writer's Digest Writing Competition. Smith's article, derived from Mark 9:2-32, was entered in the inspirational category. The top 10 winners from each category in the competition were listed in the December 2009 issue of Writer's Digest magazine.

'I wrote "Aharon's Father" from the point of view of the father and son. I wanted to fill them with the emotions and strengths that I had learned from loving my special son,' said Smith, a former English teacher whose eldest son is autistic. To read an interview of Smith about his talent and passion for writing, visit:
www.disciples.org/tabid/58/itemid/525/The-lifeshaping-power-of-words.aspx

BETHANY COLLEGE LAUNCHES PROJECT FOR HAITI EARTHQUAKE RELIEF
Bethany College is sponsoring several initiatives to benefit the victims of the Haitian earthquake. In partnership with International Relief and Development, the college has implemented a program entitled 'Bethany: Hands to Haiti.' The program will raise money for earthquake relief through a variety of activities, including a raffle, a fashion show and a 'Wear Red for Haiti' day.

'Hands to Haiti' organizers hope to raise $10,000 by the end of the semester. International Relief and Development was founded by Bethany College alumnus and Board of Trustees member Arthur B. Keys Jr. Its mission is to reduce the suffering of the world's most vulnerable groups. To learn how to become involved, see:
www.bethanywv.edu/about-bethany/news/bethany-colleges-hands-to-haiti-raises-support-f

HISPANIC MINISTRIES INSTITUTE SET FOR TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
Brite Divinity School will host the Hispanic Ministries Institute from June 6-11 at Texas Christian University in Ft. Worth, Texas. Classes that will be offered include Christian Education; New Testament; Hispanic/Latino Theology; Church Administration; Christian/Hispanic Spirituality; and History, Theology, and Polity, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

To find out more about this opportunity for a theological education in Spanish, including information about registration, meals and housing, go to:
www.disciples.org/Portals/0/PDF/DNS/2010/20100210-HispanicMinistriesInstitute.pdf

PHILLIPS THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY LECTURE SERIES FREE TO THE PUBLIC
Phillips Theological Seminary is offering a free lecture series entitled 'Faith Matters.' Designed for the general public and church leaders, each of the 1½-hour lectures will take place on Monday evenings at Southern Hills Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Edmond, Okla., from Feb. 15 through March 8.

The lecturers for the series include Gary E. Peluso-Verdend, president of Phillips Theological Seminary, Nancy Claire Pittman, associate professor and director of the doctor of ministry program at PTS, John. L. Thomas Jr., assistant professor and associate dean for contextual education and church relations at Phillips, and Susanna Weslie Southard, instructor of Hebrew Bible at the seminary. For more, see: www.ptstulsa.edu

WESTAR INSTITUTE NAMES DISCIPLE AS INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
A Disciple has been selected as the interim executive director of Westar Institute, a non-profit research and educational institute dedicated to the advancement of religious literacy. Chuck Jones, founder and chief executive officer of NonProfit Communication Strategies, was named to the position Jan. 20. Westar Institute sponsors the Jesus Seminar, a group of approximately 150 individuals, including scholars in biblical studies, religious studies and related fields.

Jones has a bachelor's degree from Freed-Hardeman University and a master's degree from Harding University Graduate School of Religion. He is married to Erin Reed Cooper, associate minister at Sandy Springs Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Atlanta, Ga. Disciples university and seminary professors have been involved with the Jesus Seminar since its founding 25 years ago. For more, see: westarinstitute.org/Mission/News/Feb2010News.html

CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY TO HOST FOUNDERS DAY ACTIVITIES
Chapman University will host a special two-day Founders Day event on March 19-20. Marcus Borg, Canon Theologian at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Portland, Ore. will be the guest speaker. Borg also is professor emeritus in the philosophy department at Oregon State University. He has authored 18 books, including Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time, Reading the Bible Again for the First Time, and The Heart of Christianity, all best sellers.

Borg will offer lectures, discussion sessions and a sermon. Chapman alumni are invited to all events, as well as youth and their families who might be interested in a Chapman education. For more, go to: www.chapman.edu/churchrelations/founders.asp

* * * * *

Week of Compassion Special Offering
Received in most congregations on February 21 and 28, 2010
Visit www.weekofcompasison.org for more information.

+++++++

Haiti Update; Ecu-Build in Iowa;1,251 Refugees Resettled
Donate to Haiti Relief!
Greetings from Week of Compassion! As we continue to keep the people of Haiti in
our prayers, we also continue to receive more and more news about the situation
on the ground. Chris Herlinger, Church World Service Communications Officer, has
filed a number of excellent reports that help further nuance what has been reported
by U.S. news outlets. In his most recent report, Herlinger writes the following:
...Patience is certainly needed now, nearly a month after the devastating 12 January
earthquake and at a time when "coordination and distribution remain difficult, overall
public interest in Haiti may be waning but needs will remain for months to come,"
said Dirk Salomons, the director of the humanitarian affairs program at Columbia
University in New York City.
Blain, an ACT/LWF staffer, knows something about the need for patience. A recent
distribution in Gressier, located some 20 kilometers west of Port-au-Prince, got
out of control when local police demanding tents refused to do much to calm a crowd.
During the 30 January incident, Blain and the other ACT/LWF staffers did their best
to maintain order and continue the distribution and their stated goal of assisting
the most vulnerable, including families with pregnant women and young children.
Eventually the crowd got unruly, a policewoman fired two shots in the air and the
distribution ended. The young ACT/LWF staff was disappointed and frustrated.
By contrast, a distribution a day earlier elsewhere had gone perfectly, Blain said,
while another the next day at the Santa Teresa camp in Port-au-Prince also went
off without problems.
Why the differences? One was that, unlike those in Santa Teresa, Gressier residents
had not received any assistance up until then -- they were simply tired and angry.
Another was the presence in Santa Teresa of a police officer who calmly urged the
crowd to be patient and said he would personally stop the distribution if problems
began.
The officer, Harry Brossard, said the tactic seemed to work, and it stemmed from
his own desire to see food distributed to those who needed it. "We need food for
these people," he said.
The crowd in Santa Teresa also seemed to be more patient and understanding than
the crowd in Gressier about the need for distributions to target the most vulnerable.
"I think they have to think about the other people (eventually)," said Willy Louis,
a security guard. "But it's no problem for me. Pregnant people and the disabled
should come first."
Marie Dany F. Volter, 34, who like Blain and the overwhelming majority of aid workers
here is Haitian, said first-time distributions like that in Gressier "are never
easy." That is particularly the case in a situation where aid is urgently needed
and it may not be easy to work out all details in advance with the local partner.
. ."
The full report will soon be available.
Other recent reports from Herlinger include the following:
Haiti: Food is key, now and into the future.
Haiti: After basics, many survivors need post-trauma care. The work goes on in Haiti, and it also goes on here in the United States. Week of
Compassion, Disciples Volunteering, and Church World Service are currently helping
organize a building project in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Josh Baird of Disciples Volunteering
sent us the following information about the upcoming build:
Volunteers Needed for Cedar Rapids "Ecu-Build"
In 2008, when Cedar Rapids, Iowa, experienced historic flooding that destroyed more
than 5,000 homes, it was clear that the recovery would take years. While much progress
has been made, the recovery has only just begun for too many families and individuals.
That is why Church World Service is coordinating the work of at least 10 denominations
to bring a focused effort to neighborhoods in need of assistance - and your help
is needed! Disciples Volunteering (DV) and Week of Compassion (WoC) are calling
for volunteers to serve alongside ecumenical partners in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, repairing
homes damaged by the flood. DV and WoC have joined in this mission to bring hope,
healing, and a helping hand to Cedar Rapids. Please consider serving for a week
in May, repairing homes and rebuilding lives that were damaged nearly two years
ago. Volunteers are needed May 2 - May 22. For more information or to register,
contact Brenda Tyler at 888-346-2631.
1,251 Refugees Resettled
We also join in celebration with Disciples Refugee and Immigration Ministries. Through
Week of Compassion's support, 1,251 persons who fled persecution in their own countries
were given the opportunity for a new life last year. This critical ministry, directed
by Jennifer Riggs, helps coordinate a variety of resettlement efforts all over the
United States. RIM's report is available here [http://r2
For more information about your church getting involved in refugee resettlement,
contact Jennifer by email [mailto:jriggs@dhm.disciples.org] or phone: 888.346.2631
toll free or 317.713.2643 direct.
Week of Compassion Special Offering
The actual Week of Compassion Special Offering is scheduled for February 21-28.
If you have not received your materials for this important week, please be in contact
with Elaine [mailto:ecleveland@woc.disciples.org]. It is because of your generosity
that we are able to respond in immediate, effective and faithful ways to so much
human need all over the world. And it is because of YOU that we are able to engage
in this important ministry of compassion. We are sharing resources and changing
lives. Praise be to God!
Where in the World Has WoC Been This Week?
DISASTER RESPONSES:
Haiti, earthquake relief
Haiti, medical needs
U.S., 2010 winter storms
DEVELOPMENT AND LONG-TERM RECOVERY & REHABILITATION:
Zambia, food security
Mozambique, food security
Kenya, water wells
Zimbabwe, water wells
Croatia, peace-building and non-violence education
+++++++

To read more about Week of Compassion's relief efforts, please visit our website.
[http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103003656497&s=5968&e=001RgrVoWTc2loojlkXgUhzcfj33ojNdCgLQ3D2PuQR3Nq82WRFDbPetum

Zdk5Eq1vi7ek6Cy_upGOwMbZmD3dNHONRxUt4X90PAcLjR6we4gcLc1gQtBX8Y24xOXB8Cd5H]
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Please Watch The Latest Video Update From Executive Director Amy Gopp
Donate to Haiti Relief [http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103003656497&s=5968&e=001RgrVoWTc2lohurPdu24kY2jbF2AD7bY_q

MMgdgaNqbziqk9lS_l1PjcTdWgotCB3cjBqjcZx2jAc8TybHQcpevWSmK0SqCNKHsUTzLTsaJY=]
A Video Update with photos taken in the days following the Earthquake by Global
Ministries' Felix Ortiz and featuring an update on relief efforts by Week of Compassion
Executive Director Amy Gopp is now available on the Week of Compassion Web Page.
Check it out Here... [http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103003656497&s=5968&e=001RgrVoWTc2lpko

ExGd--LQJ3keJhphxxDFIL4PSL7dkPGTPHIoxkvhiBaCe9hKZ04IJYL_YjIaJA0MvZMZt]
Video update from Amy Gopp [http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103003656497&s=5968&e=001Rgr

LACZExGd--LQJ3keJhphxxDFIL4PSL7dkPGTPHIoxkvhiBaCe9hKZ04IJYL_YjIaJA0MvZMZt]
Need Earthquake Response Worship Resources? Click here. [http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103003656497&s=5968&e=001

KwnQmyfPrHuSKjr5J16BWwziDsDqjR-aLH0mUZOhfwSLSDzYLO6_sUoLLNVTAqTkZ2c6f5wROrmB2wSW0QUXILG1vt_a7BjU5cxpX]
^+++++++

Children practice capoeira on January 24 in a camp for homeless families in the
Belair section of Port-au-Prince. The program, run by Viva Rio, a Brazilian nongovernmental
organization, is designed to help children affected by the quake recover their emotional
well-being. Photo by Paul Jeffrey/ACT Alliance.

News from "House of Hope" and the Haiti Assistance Income Tax Relief Act

Polycarpe Joseph is Director of FOPJ (Ecumenical Foundation for Peace and Justice).
Through Global Ministries and Church World Service, Week of Compassion supports
FOPJ´s program "House of Hope," a community-based educational program for children
performing domestic work ('restavek' work) in Carrefour-Filles, Port-Au-Prince.
This account was sent to Week of Compassion by Martin Coria, Church World Service
Regional Coordinator for Latin America and the Caribbean, who recently met with
Polycarpe.
Though he is still coming to terms with the earthquake himself, Polycarpe Josephas
and his 17-person staff team are still finding the ability to serve others in need
day after day. All but two members of the staff lost their homes, and are making
do living on the streets and in parks. Every day in the middle of the street and
surrounded by destroyed buildings, they prepare and serve a hot meal for some 600
people. "We need rice, beans, sardines, cooking oil, sugar and water. Thanks to
another CWS partner, SKDE, we just found a safe place where to store food items.
Before, we had to keep small quantities in different places for security reasons.
"Some food items can be purchased in Port-au-Prince but prices skyrocketed. A sack
of rice cost $200 before the Earthquake, $400 two days ago. We need 3 (50 kilogram)
sacks of rice to feed 600 people every day."
FOPJ is a community-based project that provides education and recreational activities
for 125 children (aged 6-13) working as domestic servants for families in this neighborhood
of Port-Au-Prince. FOPJ was part of a 15-member network of Haitian agencies with
similar programs serving more than 2000 children.
When the earthquake struck, dozens House of Hope children were at the program. Today
the building is destroyed but all 125 children served by the program are alive.
"Other colleague projects of our network have lost between 20 and 60 kids," Polycarpe
reports, "The roofs of classrooms full of kids fell down."
Polycarpe went on to say "Food is essential, but we must also work on emotional
recovery very soon, now. There will be a lot of people with mental illnesses as
a result of the earthquake".
That is why this week a group of Haitian volunteer social workers started supporting
FOPJ staff in working with children.
"Children should play, sing, dance." Because lack of facilities, activities are
taking place in open spaces.
Polycarpe has heard many people in Port-Au-Prince express a desire to leave the
desolation of Port-Au-Prince and move to the countryside. In order to do so, they
need support-both for transportation and for settling in the host communities.
Among the many things that have made an impression on Polycarpe is the rapid response
and signs of solidarity from partners in the Dominican Republic. He also mentioned
the important role of faith and churches now and in the future of Haiti, "the churches
have to do important theological and pastoral work. God is life and hope. God loves
life; God doesn't destroy it. Churches need to work to promote people´s active engagement
in reconstruction efforts and healing processes.
"And we all need to pray for dry weather because heavy rains in Port-Au-Prince would
be a second disaster."
Through Church World Service and Global Ministries, Week of Compassion has helped
FOPJ with emergency funds to purchase food items locally, donated food items transported
from Santo Domingo, and support for emotional and psychological recovery of the
staff. CWS health and school kits and larger quantities of food are being transported
to FOPJ, now that a safe place for storage has been established.
Haiti Assistance Income Tax Relief Act
The Senate and House have unanimously passed legislation that allows taxpayers to
deduct cash charitable contributions to aid victims of the devastating earthquake
in Haiti. The bill was signed by President Obama on Friday, January 22, 2010. This
includes contributions to local congregations designated for Week of Compassion
Haiti Relief.
Under this law, a donor who makes a cash contribution for the relief of Haitian
earthquake victims after January 11, 2010 and before March 1, 2010 can take a tax
deduction for the gift for either 2009 or 2010. The law refers to this as an "acceleration"
of the contribution deduction, since it may be claimed on the tax return filed for
2009, even though given in 2010.
Churches that receive gifts from members are not required to issue a second contribution
letter to members who choose the accelerated method. Members who make gifts to their
church for Week of Compassion Haiti Relief and who choose the accelerated contribution
method are required to keep their own record of the contribution. When their 2010
statement is issued from the congregation, the donor is expected to modify their
deduction on their 2010 Tax Forms. Members who took the accelerated method are
advised to keep a second copy of the 2010 contribution statement from the church
with their 2009 tax records.
The law addresses the Federal contribution deduction. Donors will need to check
their own states' for conformity and should consult with their tax advisor.

Disciples News Service
January 28, 2010

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

In this issue:

    * Week Of Compassion's Emergency Response To Haitian Earthquake Crisis Continues
    * DisciplesWorld Makes Announcement About Final Issue Of Magazine; Posts Frequently Asked Questions Document
    * Disciples Congregation In Indiana Turns Sale Of Church Into Blessing For Many
    * Effie Burford, Former Division Of Overseas Ministries Board Member And Missionary Dies
    * Transformational Regional Minister Sought For The Christian Church In Pennsylvania
    * Former Chief Editor At Christian Board Of Publication Herbert Lambert Dies
    * Transylvania University Student Gets Education At Global Warming Conference
    * Robert Welsh To Keynote Eureka College's Founders' Day
    * Christian Churches Together Issues Prayer For Victims In Haiti And Egypt
    * Christian Theological Seminary Remembers Benefactor, Ruth Lilly
    * United Church Of Christ To Host Second 'Web University' In February
    * New Executive Director Hired For Inman Christian Center

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

WEEK OF COMPASSION'S EMERGENCY RESPONSE TO HAITIAN EARTHQUAKE CRISIS CONTINUES
Week of Compassion continues to partner with numerous humanitarian agencies to support relief work in Haiti. The earthquake that struck the Caribbean nation on Jan. 12 has killed more than 150,000 people, injured another 250,000 and left 1.5 million homeless. Working in close partnership with Church World Service and Action by Churches Together (ACT) Alliance, the generous gifts and offerings made by Disciples are helping to provide food, water, medical supplies and temporary shelter. Aid is getting through. Despite media reports, WoC Executive Director Amy Gopp says longstanding partnerships in the region are facilitating the flow of supplies to many who need it. To view an ACT Alliance YouTube video on Haiti, go to: www.tinyurl.com/acthaiti.

Week of Compassion also asks that Disciples continue to be creative, resourceful and discerning about ways to best assist the people of Haiti. Brandon Gilvin, Associate Director of WoC, reminds Disciples that a very specific skill set is required of volunteers assisting with relief efforts, and that a system of support for individuals or church volunteers to provide on-site aid has not yet been developed. Week of Compassion continues to welcome your contributions. To donate and to find out ways various churches are helping, visit Week of Compassion's Haiti Relief page at www.weekofcompassion.org/haiti

DISCIPLESWORLD MAKES ANNOUNCEMENT ABOUT FINAL ISSUE OF MAGAZINE; POSTS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS DOCUMENT
DisciplesWorld announced this week that the final issue of the magazine is on its way to subscribers. The independent monthly journal launched in 2002 announced its closure and dissolution in December. (Follow this link to read the initial announcement: www.disciplesworld.com/newsArticle.html?wsnID=16242). At that time, a special designated grant was made to the magazine on the condition that it be used only for the design, printing, writing, and mailing of a final issue. This grant, from a Donor Advised Fund with the Christian Church Foundation specifically requested by Joe and Nancy Stalcup, is making it possible to notify all subscribers of the dissolution, to say farewell with some grace and care, and to generate advertising income which can be used to meet financial obligations. "We are incredibly grateful for this generous grant from two of the magazine's earliest supporters," said Verity A. Jones, publisher and editor. For updates on the dissolution process, including a new Frequently Asked Questions document, visit: www.disciplesworld.com.

DISCIPLES CONGREGATION IN INDIANA TURNS SALE OF CHURCH INTO BLESSING FOR MANY
An Indiana Disciples congregation has found a way to make joy out of sadness. First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in South Bend has distributed three-fourths of the money it received from the sale of its building to a number of church-related causes. The 160-year-old congregation was forced to sell its cavernous facility when membership dropped from a high of about 400 to 35. But all was not lost. The church gave $257,000 from the proceeds of the sale to the Christian Church Foundation, which has created a permanent fund with interest supporting the congregation's chosen causes in perpetuity. The church also divided another $128,000 among three Disciples congregations and several charities.

"To maintain a large building like that was taking all of our money that we had saved, and we were about to run out, so the decision was made a year and a half ago to sell the building," said John Chenoweth, president of the congregation. Among the Disciples churches that were gifted by First Christian were Central Christian Church in Elkhart, First Christian Church in Mishawaka, and Southside Christian Church in South Bend. To learn more, see:
www.disciples.org/tabid/58/itemid/509/Sale-of-160YearOld-Indiana-Disciples-Church.aspx

EFFIE BURFORD, FORMER DIVISION OF OVERSEAS MINISTRIES BOARD MEMBER AND MISSIONARY DIES
A former Disciples missionary to Thailand and Division of Overseas Ministries board member has died. Effie Lois Stamps Burford died on Jan. 18. She was 82. Burford served as a volunteer missionary in Bangkok, Thailand from 1990-1991. Prior to her work in Thailand, she was a Division of Overseas Ministry board member, and later its vice-chair. She also was vice-chair of the National Convocation and a trustee at Earlham College in Richmond, Ind.

Burford graduated from Butler University with an A.B. degree in Spanish in 1950. She earned a Master of Arts degree in Religion from Butler in 1952. She was a Disciple and a lay minister for more than 50 years. Burford traveled extensively to many countries in Africa, South America, the Caribbean and Asia. She also taught in the Indianapolis Public Schools system for 32 years.

Next to her love for the church was her love for her sorority, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, which she joined in 1968. In the mid-70s she led an excursion to the African continent with fellow Sorors and established the first African chapter. She also was inducted into the Tougaloo College Hall of Fame in 1991 and the Jarvis Christian College Hall of Fame in 1996. To learn more, see:
www.disciples.org/tabid/58/itemid/510/Reverend-Effie-Burford-19272010.aspx

TRANSFORMATIONAL REGIONAL MINISTER SOUGHT FOR THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH IN PENNSYLVANIA
The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Pennsylvania is searching for a Transformational Regional Minister to provide spiritual leadership in a region that is culturally diverse, committed to youth and fully engaged in a transformation process. The region is led by a Regional Board, transformation team and executive committee. This position is for a three-to-four-year term, with potential for long-term ministry.

A candidate profile should be submitted through the Office of Search and Call, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), P.O. Box 1986, Indianapolis, Ind. 46206 by midnight Feb. 15. Inquiries should be directed to: cccjeffmoore@verizon.net.

FORMER CHIEF EDITOR AT CHRISTIAN BOARD OF PUBLICATION HERBERT LAMBERT DIES
A former vice president and chief editor of the Christian Board of Publication, Herbert H. Lambert, has died. Lambert of Elmira, N.Y., died Jan. 18. He was vice president and chief editor of the Christian Board of Publication 1971-1989, and is the author of Getting Inside The Bible and more than 30 study courses for use in Protestant churches. He also served on the committee on publication and distribution for the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible.

Lambert was a graduate of Bethany College, where he earned an A.B. degree, magna cum laude, in 1950. He received a Master of Divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary in 1953. He served churches in a number of states. "All of us at the Christian Board of Publication offer gratitude for his life and ministry," said Cyrus N. White, president and publisher at CBP, Chalice Press and Lucas Park Books. For more, go to:
www.disciples.org/tabid/58/itemid/511/Rev-Herbert-H-Lambert.aspx

TRANSYLVANIA UNIVERSITY STUDENT GETS EDUCATION AT GLOBAL WARMING CONFERENCE
Transylvania University senior Lauralee Crain got the experience of her life at the recent United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Demark. Crain was one of 18 youth leaders from the United States chosen to play a part in urging world governments to reduce pollution and greenhouse emissions. "I see the experience as something that has changed me forever," said Crain, who is majoring in anthropology.

Although no legally binding agreement was forged among attending governments at the Dec. 7-18 conference, which included the U.S. and Canada, the participating countries recognized that climate change is one of the greatest challenges of the present and that actions should be taken to minimize temperature increases. Crain was able to attend meetings, observe briefings by U.S. negotiators, and blog about her experiences at the conference. To learn more, see: transy.edu/news/arch_story.htm?id=549&obj=index

ROBERT WELSH TO KEYNOTE EUREKA COLLEGE'S FOUNDERS' DAY
The President of the Council on Christian Unity, Robert K. Welsh, will be the keynote speaker at the 155th Founders' Day Convocation at Eureka College. Welsh, the chief ecumenical officer for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), will address the convocation on Feb. 5, one day before the actual founding of Eureka on Feb. 6, 1855. The title of his address is "A View from God's Balcony."

On Feb. 6, the college will celebrate the 99th anniversary of the birth of Ronald Reagan. Reagan, the 40th president of the United States and Eureka's most famous alumnus, graduated from Eureka in 1932. Tours to campus sites related to the former president will be led by his eldest son, Michael Reagan. To find out more about Founders' Day events, call 877-892-7823, visit www.reagan.eureka.edu or go to:
www.eureka.edu/news/releases/spring10/founders_day.htm

CHRISTIAN CHURCHES TOGETHER ISSUES PRAYER FOR VICTIMS IN HAITI AND EGYPT
In the wake of two recent tragedies, Christian Churches Together issued a "Pastoral Prayer of Comfort and Hope for Haiti and Egypt" during its meeting in Seattle, Wash., on January 12-14. Christian Churches Together expressed its grief over the devastation and loss of life caused by the Jan. 12 earthquake in Haiti, and by a drive-by shooting attack that killed seven people as Coptic Christians were leaving a midnight Mass on Coptic Christmas Eve in southern Egypt Jan. 6.

The Christian Churches Together in the USA (CCT-USA) released a statement saying, in part, "We lament the use of violence in the name of God. In the midst of the world's suffering, we pray for God's compassionate and healing spirit." CCT is a fellowship of Christian churches and traditions in the United States, with national leaders from five Christian families - African American, Evangelical/Pentecostal, Historic Protestant, Orthodox and Roman Catholic. To read CCT'S pastoral prayer, visit:
www.disciples.org/Portals/0/PDF/DNS/2010/20100119-PastoralPrayerHaitiEgypt.pdf

CHRISTIAN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY REMEMBERS BENEFACTOR, RUTH LILLY
A notable philanthropist who did much for Disciples-related institutions is being fondly remembered. Ruth Lilly, who died on Dec. 30 at the age of 94, will be especially missed by Christian Theological Seminary, whose library benefited greatly from her gifts. That library continues to receive assistance from the Ruth Lilly Library Acquisition Endowment. Lilly was the great-granddaughter of Eli Lilly, the American industrialist, entrepreneur and founder of Eli Lilly and Co.

"Christian Theological Seminary is thankful to be among the organizations touched through Ms. Lilly's generosity," said Christian Theological President Edward L. Wheeler. We will strive to always live up to her noble standards and high ideals." For more, go to: www.cts.edu/images/documents/Ruth%20Lilly.pdf

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST TO HOST SECOND 'WEB UNIVERSITY' IN FEBRUARY
Disciples who want to advance their knowledge about communicating in the Internet-age are invited to the second "United Church of Christ Web University." The meeting will take place Feb. 26-27 in Phoenix, Ariz. It is designed to help congregations with limited financial resources and technical expertise improve their websites at low cost, use social networking more effectively for evangelism and youth ministry, and learn the latest tools for online fundraising. Regional staffs are also welcome to attend.

"The event is for beginners as well as more advanced learners. A free professional phone consultation to help congregations improve their websites also will be available to participants. Registration is ongoing. More information is available at: ucc.org/vitality/web-university

NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR HIRED FOR INMAN CHRISTIAN CENTER
Sandra E. Imery, a former official with United Way, has become the next executive director of the Inman Christian Center. The center, located in San Antonio, Texas, serves children and families with childcare services, after school mentoring and recreation, and parenting education, among other services. Inman also owns and manages six adult housing residential units for seniors. Imery's appointment was effective Jan. 1.

Imery most recently worked for United Way for the past 12 years. She served there as children's issue council associate. She holds a Master of Science degree in guidance and counseling. The Inman Christian Center was founded in 1913 by the Christian Women's Board of Missions of the Christian Church. To get more, go to:
www.disciples.org/tabid/58/itemid/512/Inman-Christian-Center-Hires-New-Executive.aspx
+++++++

Compassion and Aid Received in Haiti
If you've been watching the news, you've inevitably heard about the difficulties
of getting aid, supplies, and medical care to those affected by the earthquake
in Haiti.
While it is true that the delivery of aid has been hampered by many factors, including
infrastructure-related challenges, Week of Compassion can assure you that aid is
reaching many of those who need it.
Martin Coria, Church World Service Regional Coordinator for Latin America and the
Caribbean, now based in the Dominican Republic and working closely with Servicio
Social de Igelesias Dominicana (SSID), noted that with pre-positioned CWS kits
and blankets, SSID was able to provide relief to the victims of Haiti's massive
earthquake in the first twenty-four hours of the disaster. On Wednesday, January
13, SSID sent a flight with supplies to Port-au-Prince, and their staff was able
to see the needs firsthand and quickly provide the most crucial supplies and assistance.
Since then, CWS has established a storage and distribution center in the Dominican
Border Town of Jimani, and has begun to provide assistance for Haitians who may
try to enter the neighboring Dominican Republic.
Thanks to you, we have helped make possible the following CWS aid and supplies:

* An air-freight arrived on Jan 22 in Santo Domingo. The shipment contained 500
CWS blankets; 1,125 baby kits, 10,595 hygiene kits; 720 tubes of toothpaste; and
25 flashlights with batteries.

* A second shipment, by ocean ship, is to arrive in Santo Domingo on Feb. 2. It
contains 500 light-weight CWS blankets; 13,325 hygiene kits; and 375 baby kits.

* Another shipment is also expected to arrive in Santo Domingo on Feb. 2 with 2,950
blankets; 3,150 baby kits; and 7,215 hygiene kits.

* An air shipment of 60 cartons of IMA World Health
medicine boxes is expected to arrive in Santo Domingo today, January 26. Each box
contains enough essential medicines and medical supplies to treat the routine ailments
of about 1,000 adults and children. Coria also reports that:

* The Episcopal Church of Jimaní has given its building to be used as long as needed
for doctors, rescue teams, visitors and volunteers. There are 30 mattresses and
secure space to store supplies. This will serve as the hub for CWS and partner operations.
A storage/supply center for 100 containers has been established.

* A first aid clinic and emergency room has been located in the Christian School
of Parisien, in Haiti, some 8 kilometers from the Haitian/DR border - about two
hours from Port-au-Prince. There is space and capacity for no more than 30 patients
at a time, and it is secure.

* Food and supply distribution sites have been established across the border through
Haitian churches and managed through different Haitian non-profit organizations
and community leader associations. The hub of a five-center distribution network
is located in Pétionville.Disciple Don Tatlock, CWS Latin America and Caribbean
program manager, continues work with distributing supplies to those in Port-au-Prince,
noting the strength of CWS's already-existing relationships in helping to determine
priorities for CWS distributions.
Likewise, through Church World Service's participation in the larger ACT Alliance
international ecumenical partnership, Week of Compassion donations have gone to
the construction of temporary water systems, the provision of water purification
materials, tents and food packages.

We continue to lift up the people of Haiti, all those on the ground working for
the recovery effort, and all those who have offered their resources to aid with
the relief effort. Week of Compassion is committed to Haiti for the long term. Once
the news cameras are gone and the celebrity telethons are long forgotten, we will
still be at work in Haiti. Thank you for making that possible.
+++++++

Haitian Refugee Resettlement, Orphan Adoption, and Temporary Protection for Haitians
in the United States

As news outlets report on the earthquake in Haiti, three of the issues consuming
the headlines are refugee resettlement, adoption of Haitian orphans, and Temporary
Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians in the United States. Jennifer Riggs, Director
of Refugee and Immigration Ministries, a ministry funded by Week of Compassion and
administered by Disciples Home Missions, offers the following important information:
The U.S. government is constantly reassessing the situation and changing its plans
about how to deal with the crisis as related to Haitians in the United States and
Haitians who may try to come to the United States. The following is the current
situaion on these issues.
1. No Haitians are being considered by the U.S. government for resettlement into
the United States. In fact, efforts are underway to prevent Haitians from getting
in boats and attempting to come to the United States on their own. If any Haitians
do make it to the United States, they will most likely be placed in the Krome detention
center in Miami or in tent cities nearby and will not be allowed to be resettled.
Guantanamo Bay is being prepared to receive those who are picked up by the U.S.
Coast Guard on their way to Florida.
2. There is no program for the care of or adoption of Haitian orphans into the United
States. A few orphans have been allowed into the country because they lived in American-run
orphanages and/or were already in the process of being adopted by Americans. These
were children who were orphans before the earthquake. In all disaster situations,
children are never sent to another country until there is certainty that their parents
and other relatives are not alive. It is possible that in the future there may be
a program for the adoption of Haitian orphans, but that would be months away. If
such a program was developed, the preferred location for the placement of those
orphans would be within Haitian communities in the United States.
3. Haitians living in the United States may now apply for Temporary Protected Status
(TPS). They have only six months (from 1/21/10) to apply for TPS and have to have
been in the Unites States as of 1/12/10. Refugee and Immigration Ministries (RIM)
is consulting attorneys and beginning to prepare information to help Disciples Haitians
determine whether or not applying for TPS would be a good decision in their individual
situations. Church World Service is working to determine which of its refugee resettlement
offices could provide legal assistance for Haitians in filling out the proper forms.
In the next few weeks, RIM will make available a guide to help Haitians think through
their options, understand the requirements of TPS, and know where and how to apply
for TPS.
The crisis in Haiti is complex, touching on each aspect of the work and witness
of Week of Compassion gifts -- Relief, Development, and Refugee issues are all at
the heart of the long-range response to which we are committed. We will continue
to update you on all aspects of our ministry as the relief, refugee and development
mission fund of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Thank you so much for
your work and generosity. It is truly an honor to partner with each and every one
of you.
+++++++

Haiti: One Week Later

It is during times such as these that we learn what it truly means to live in faith,
hope, and love.
Week of Compassion's partner agencies on the ground in Haiti and across the border
in the Dominican Republic are responding to the crisis. Your generous gifts are
making a significant difference in the relief efforts. There are challenges, but
there have also been fantastic accomplishments in the immediate aid efforts in
Haiti. We will keep you updated in a variety of ways,
-- please check it often for updates, resources, photos and stories. We want to
know what your church is doing to help us respond to the tragedy, so please send
us your updates, too.
Partner Efforts:

* Don Tatlock, a Church World Service responder and member of the Christian Church
(Disciples of Christ), reports that much of the initial response has involved searching
and identifying survivors. Sanitation and security issues have pushed many people
from Port-au-Prince into rural areas, as well as toward the border with the Dominican
Republic. Such migration is making it difficult, at times, to verify the survival
of some local partners and colleagues.
Travel logistics continue to be very complicated, as the road running from the Dominican
border to Port-au-Prince, already difficult to travel, is even more overwhelmed
than usual. In order to ease the flow of aid, the United Nations is currently working
to organize air transport for Aid Groups in order to transfer supplies and Aid personnel
between the border and Port-au-Prince, as well as transporting supplies from Port-au-Prince
to outlying areas affected by the quake, many of whom have received no aid.
* Our partners at Action by Churches Together (ACT International) have a rapid response
team on the ground. Social Services of the Dominican Churches (SSID) is providing
staff support, office space, and logistical support to ecumenical responders. The
response will not only include relief in Port-au-Prince and rural areas affected
by the earthquake, but as displaced persons may soon migrate toward the Dominican
border, the response may well include providing services to meet their needs. .
* Additionally, Haitians in America currently facing deportation have received Temporary
Protected Status for 18 Months, as well as the potential for Haitian refugee resettlement.
Florida and New York, two states with significant Haitian populations, are gearing
up for both repatriation and the extension of stay for those under Temporary Protected
Status. The ACT appeal will include funds for repatriation aid and assistance.
* Church World Service has thus far concentrated its efforts on helping distribute
its disaster response kits, so Disciples Churches should keep those donations coming!
CWS is also helping to support local partners that meet the needs of children by
providing baby and hygiene kits and other support.
Pray-Pay-Stay: Responding as a Congregation, Region, or Individual:
We have received so many notes from across the country, detailing the ways you have
all given and responded.
The needs have not changed drastically. The need for CWS baby and hygiene kits is
ongoing, as is the need for donations of blankets to Church World Service for emergency
response
We also continue to field questions about the need for on the ground volunteers.
The needs on the ground require very specific skill-sets, and there is absolutely
no system of support for individuals or church volunteer groups at this time.
The US Department of Health and Human Services is requesting the aid of some medical
professionals through the medical reserve corps. There is a credentialing process,
and again, the needs and requested qualifications, including fluency in French or
Creole, are quite specific. However, HHS also encourages interested medical professionals
to seek credentials, as this buoys their roster in the event of other needs for
disaster response. Those with requisite skills can seek credentials here ].
Except for this specific instance, it is not time for volunteering in Haiti. Once
our partners alert us to opportunities, we will pass that information along.
For the time being, we ask you to be creative, resourceful, and discerning. Please
check out the great things being done by Disciples Churches, worship resources,
and other opportunities available on our Haiti page If nothing else, remember that we have many Haitian Disciple Churches here in the
United States. Pray for them. Send a card of support their way. If they are in your
community, organize with your church a time of fellowship and support with our fellow
Disciples.
In the midst of this terrible disaster, we have seen great things from you. Thank
you, thank you, thank you. Keep up the amazing work, and let us know how we can
be supportive.
Peace,
Brandon Gilvin

Your Gifts Already at Work in Haiti
Through the largest global alliance of Christian humanitarian agencies, Action by
Churches Together (ACT), Week of Compassion is already on the ground in Haiti.
Your generous gifts and offerings are already at work. In the chaos of aid distribution,
ACT Alliance members, including Church World Service (CWS), are managing to get
food, temporary shelter, water cleaning materials and expertise to the Haitian capital.
Prospery Raymond, country manager for ACT member Christian Aid, reports he is concerned
there may not otherwise be enough food in the country to last more than a few days.
The streets are still thronged with homeless people, walking for hours to find
food and water. As well as widespread destruction of homes, schools and other buildings,
major damage has been done to key water, electricity and road systems. Port-au-Prince's
heavily congested airport is finally allowing some aid to get through.
Proud to be part of one of the largest alliances working on relief in Haiti, Week
of Compassion is grateful for our partners in the ACT Alliance. Currently, there
are four member church agencies working in-country:

* Christian Aid reports it has started distributing food and tents, hygiene kits,
blankets, jerry cans and water purifiers to 15,000 people in eight communities,
targeting areas getting little help from other agencies. It has also sent in a
medical team through a specialist healthcare organization. CA hopes to source food
from markets in Haiti if possible, but all other items will definitely need to come
in from outside. The team in Haiti is co-coordinating with colleagues in the Dominican
Republic to source materials there where possible.
* Lutheran World Federation is constructing a camp for ACT members at its compound,
with additional space for member staff. Cooking facilities are provided, and Internet
connection is good. Water supply is problematic. LWF plans to recruit supplementary
staff.
* Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe has programmed delivery of 15 tons of food relief together
with Caritas Germany.
* Lutheran World Relief plans to send a shipment of food products.
* Church World Service and Christian Aid offices are ready to serve as a base for
receiving emergency items. ACT member staff in Santo Domingo is on the way to Haiti,
including CWS staff member Don Tatlock.
* Norwegian Church Aid is prioritizing water sanitation equipment and psychosocial
work. It has sent a team of water engineers, a communicator and a logistician.
Two Norwegian advisors with expertise in gender and children's' protection are
also going.ACT members report that buildings remain very fragile and continue to
collapse. Rain has compounded the situation of the million people without shelter.
The border with the Dominican Republic remains insecure. Health risks of contagious
diseases are getting serious. Other towns are also badly affected and many areas
outside Port-au-Prince remain unexplored. A number of staff from ACT members in
the country remain unaccounted for-we are still searching for them since the earthquake.
The United Nations has launched an appeal for $562 million intended to help three
million people for six months. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon describes the situation
as one of the worst humanitarian crises in decades and implored for calm in the
beleaguered capital. The number of dead is still unknown, with estimates ranging
from 50,000 to 200,000, the BBC reports.
In the midst of this horrific tragedy, we can be comforted knowing that we are doing
something. We are already there, thanks to our amazing partnerships. We are not
helpless. Together, we can do so much. God is there, too. Even in the rubble.
Let us keep the faith. Thank you for your courageous compassion at such a time as
this.
^+++++++

Haiti Search and Rescue Efforts Underway
Friday, January 15, 2010
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Miracles do abound. We are absolutely thrilled that the
delegation from the Tennessee Region who had traveled to Haiti are on their way
home today. Praise be to God!

Likewise, late last night, I received word that our colleagues
Rick Santos and Sarla Chand from Interchurch Medical Assistance (IMA) World
Health were found and rescued. I could hardly believe my eyes when I
actually saw Sarla on CNN -- being carried out of the rubble alive. According to
Church World Service colleagues, they survived by sharing lollipops
that Rick had bought for his two young sons. Trapped under the rubble of
the hotel, this is how they found sustenance. They have been sent by
helicopter to the U.S. Embassy and will be evacuated from there.

Another IMA World Health colleague, Dr. Bill Clemmer, whom
Sandra Gourdet, Area Executive for Africa, and I just visited in the Congo late
last November, also sent this word. "The group was attending an NTD (neglected
tropical diseases) workshop at the Hotel Montana in Port au Prince at the time
of the earthquake that reportedly buried over 200 persons in that particular
hotel. Yesterday afternoon, after three days without word, we were starting
to lose hope. Last night a French rescue team found a group of survivors
that were buried under the cement but protected in an enclave between two
columns. A handful were pulled from the rubble including Rick and
Sarla. There are few dry eyes in our office this morning. Our hearts are heavy for
the significant devastation and loss of life in
Haiti ...but we are so thankful for wonderful news!"

Our colleagues Sam Dixon from the United Methodist Committee on
Relief (UMCOR) and Cliff Rabb were also found trapped beneath the rubble of the
hotel but as of yet have not been extracted. Please continue to
keep them in your prayers.

Many
of you have asked about people volunteering to go to Haiti. At this
point, please know that the most effective, efficient and immediate way
to help is to send donations to Week of Compassion. Second, continue to
encourage all of your churches to assemble emergency kits
(and hygiene)
for CWS- this is a wonderful hands-on project for people
of all ages. Many of you have already organized kit-assembling events at your
churches this weekend. We would encourage you all to contact local media
outlets to gain as much media exposure as possible. The more emergency
kits we are able to provide, the more people we will help in Haiti.

It is not necessarily helpful at this time to travel to
Haiti. The airport in Port au Prince is currently overwhelmed, and it is
difficult, if not impossible, for folks to get in or out. The
Haitian-Dominican border may open this weekend, but nothing is guaranteed in a
crisis like this. Our CWS colleague and fellow Disciple, Don Tatlock, has
been in close touch with me; he is now in the Dominican Republic. Our
partner in the Dominican Republic, the Servicios Sociales de Iglesias Dominicanas,
SSID, has already airlifted material
aid to Haitiand will continue to do so. They are
equipped and on the ground able to immediately react.

In addition, our ACT Alliance implementing
partner organizations, Norwegian Church Aid (NCA), Christian Aid, Lutheran
World Federation (LWF), Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe(DKH), and Interchurch Organisation
for Development
Cooperation (ICCO), are already in Haiti and operational. Your dollars are
already at work.

THANK YOU for your generous gifts of
compassion. Please remind folks that 100% of what you give to Week of
Compassion goes directly to Haiti Earthquake Relief efforts. 100%. We are
doing an amazing thing here -- together. And this is only the beginning of the
recovery. Let us continue on, in prayer, in hope and with courageous
compassion.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Disciples News Service
January 14, 2010

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I am writing this message on behalf of our General Minister and President, Sharon Watkins. Even though Sharon is on sabbatical, she has been keeping a close eye on the situation in Haiti.

Sharon and I request your prayers for the people of Haiti, for our Global Mission Partners, and our missionaries who need not only our prayers, but also our resources. I also request your prayers for Dr. Glen Stewart, Regional Minister of the Christian Church in Tennessee, who is in Haiti with a delegation from the Tennessee region.

At the time of writing, they are safe and have arrived at the U.S. Embassy in Haiti. My understanding is that the U.S. State Department and the Tennessee Congressional Delegation are working to arrange their return. At the same time a delegation from the Oklahoma and the Great River Regions are on the other side of the island in the Dominican Republic. While they felt the earthquake, they did not have any damage.

In addition to these groups, I would urge you to pray for the Haitian communities within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). We have about 100 Haitian churches. These are anxious days and moments for many of them who have family and friends on the island. Charlie Wallace from New Church Ministries has traveled to be present with our Haitian churches in Florida.

As you can imagine, communication to and from the island is very limited. Week of Compassion, Global Ministries and others have been using all of their available resources and technology to connect with our missionaries and partners.

Yesterday afternoon, Rev. Amy Gopp, Minister of Compassion, participated in a phone call with Church World Service. This conference call provided additional information regarding the resources, needs and opportunities for service.

If you or your congregation are compelled to offer financial resources in support of our relief efforts and our partners, I invite you to give at www.weekofcompassion.org or send a check to Week of Compassion, 130 E. Washington St., Indianapolis, Ind., 46204; noted for Haiti or earthquake relief. Week of Compassion has already sent an initial grant to Global Ministries / Overseas Ministries in support of our missionaries and partners, as well as Church World Service.

WoC Haiti Response
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Week of Compassion continues to respond to the horrific devastation caused by the
earthquake in Haiti. I've had the privilege of watching so many of you from all
over the country (and a couple from outside the U.S.) come together and respond
to the great need caused by the earthquake in Haiti. Thank you, thank you, thank
you -- so much. Here is the latest report detailing our ecumenical response to
the crisis:

*
Church World Service (CWS) is currently planning a two-pronged response. The first
includes a bilateral response with two of our partner organizations on the ground
in Haiti. Second, CWS will be coordinating a response with Christian Aid as part
of the response of Action By Churches Together (ACT) International. Currently,
a team of communicators, including the CC(DOC)'s Don Tatlock, Church World Service
liaison for Central America and the Caribbean, is on its way to assess the situation,
supply Week of Compassion and other partners with information, and help develop
the most appropriate response.
*
Our historic partner from the Dominican Republic, Servicios Sociales de Iglesias
Dominicanas (SSID), will be transporting material supplies such as tarps, as well
as CWS blankets, hygiene kits, and baby supply kits. This delivery will empty the
shelves of the CWS warehouse. Congregations and individuals are highly encouraged
to help out by putting together kits to replenish the supply. It's easy, quickly
done, and can be a great project for church groups of just about any age. Instructions
and a list of contents are available at this site
*
Lutheran World Relief, which currently chairs the ACT Forum in Haiti, is coordinating
the overall ACT response, and is working with Norwegian Church Aid, which is currently
assessing the situation on the ground, to provide water sanitation and water delivery
in Haiti.
By giving to Week of Compassion, you have already become part of this response.
Your willingness to step up and provide much needed resources to the people of Haiti
is inspiring, and I'm incredibly heartened by your generosity.

Some other things to note:

* This Sunday would be a great opportunity for your churches to take up a special
offering for the Week of Compassion response to Haiti. If you choose to do so, please
make sure that church members make their checks out to the local church indicating
that it is for Week of Compassion. This will allow your church to combine all of
the gifts and send one check to Week of Compassion, expediting the delivery of
these gifts to our partners on the ground.

* We've received word that the delegation from the Christian Church in Tennessee
that was visiting Haiti is safe. There is very little communication from them otherwise,
though we have heard that their guesthouse was destroyed by the earthquake. Please
pray for their safety and well-being. The delegation from the Great River Region
is also fine; they are currently in the Dominican Republic. Global Mission Intern
Erin McKinney, who works with our partner Caminante in the DR, is with the group
and is also safe.
* The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) has more than 40 Haitian Churches in
the United States and Canada. As is the case for many people living in Diaspora,
news like this from home can be devastating and can affect close family members.
Please keep our churches and all Haitian Americans in your prayers. We have been
in touch with our Haitian churches and their pastors already today.

There are still many unknowns -- in terms of the safety of many of those affected,
in terms of the response, and the long-range affect this will have in Haiti. The
United States government will be taking a key role in the recovery, with corporations
such as UPS and FedEx chipping in aid delivery services. There is much to do among
these unknowns. Thank you for courageously responding. Thank you for compassionately
responding. We will keep you updated as more information emerges. We're grateful,
as always, to be able to partner with all of you in this important ministry.
Peace,
Brandon
^+++++++

Disciples News Service
January 13, 2010

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

In this issue:

    * Disciples Appeal For Assistance Following Haitian Earthquake Disaster
    * Interreligious Delegation Urges U.S. To Assume Lead Role In Mid-East Peace Initiative
    * Sign Up Now To Take Advantage Of Early Registration For Pastors' Conference
    * GMP Watkins Named As One Of President Obama's 10 Most Important Faith Leaders
    * Council On Christian Unity Will Celebrate 100 Years During 2010
    * Lilly Endowment National Clergy Renewal Program Offers Sabbatical Support To Churches
    * Gary Holloway To Become Executive Director Of World Convention
    * Claremont Will Host National Conference On New Technologies
    * Lynchburg College Upgrades Systems To Save On Energy Bills
    * 2010 Applications Available For The HELM Leadership Fellows Program
    * New Camp For Autistic Children Will Open At Christmount
    * GLAD Alliance Leaders Draft "Statement Of Calling"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

DISCIPLES APPEAL FOR ASSISTANCE FOLLOWING HAITIAN EARTHQUAKE DISASTER
Disciples and their partner agencies have started emergency relief efforts for the people of Haiti in response to widespread devastation caused by a powerful earthquake that struck the country yesterday.

Week of Compassion has authorized funds to be sent through the Division of Overseas Ministries/Global Ministries to its partners in the area, and is in the process of conducting an initial assessment, said Amy Gopp, executive director of Week of Compassion. WoC is working closely with Church World Service, ACT International, and IMA World Health in coordinating its response.

To read a Week of Compassion update, go to: www.weekofcompassion.org. Gifts for emergency relief can be made through Week of Compassion at: https://secure.groundspring.org/dn/index.php?aid=6566

Haitian President René Préval described the scene in his country as "unimaginable," with about 3 million people affected and the death toll expected to reach into the thousands.

Global Ministries reports that missionaries Patrick and Kim Bentrott and their son are doing well. A group of about 11 people from Tennessee who were in Haiti on a mission trip have texted family members that they too are safe. The group includes members of Woodmont Christian Church and Glen Stewart, regional minister in Tennessee. Global Ministries is awaiting word from a major partner, Patrick Villier, president of CONASPEH. Villier's organization serves 6000 grassroots congregations, which are among the poorest of the poor in the country. To follow updates about the situation in Haiti on Global Ministries webpage, visit:
globalministries.org/news/lac/haiti-earthquake-what-we.html

INTERRELIGIOUS DELEGATION URGES U.S. TO ASSUME LEAD ROLE IN MID-EAST PEACE INITIATIVE
A delegation of 15 U.S. Christian, Jewish and Muslim religious leaders, including General Minister and President Sharon Watkins, recently returned from a visit to the Middle East united in their pursuit of peace for that region with a new sense of urgency. The trip in mid-December was organized by the National Interreligious Leadership Initiative (NILI). The returning delegation promised to push for active, fair and firm U.S. leadership to restart negotiations for peace between Israel and Palestine.

The NILI delegation wants the Obama administration and Congress to be catalysts, along with Egypt and other parties, in achieving a sustainable ceasefire in the Middle East. "We all pray to the one, merciful God that these negotiations will succeed and that prisoners will be released," said Watkins, "and we call on our government to work urgently to restart negotiations and move forward in 2010 toward Arab-Israeli-Palestinian peace." To read more, see:
globalministries.org/news/mee/pdfs/NILITripStatement-Dec-2009.pdf

SIGN UP NOW TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF EARLY REGISTRATION FOR PASTORS' CONFERENCE
The 2010 Pastors' Conference is shaping up to be an outstanding opportunity for Disciples clergy and other church leaders to gather, learn and rest. Participants will meet Sept. 21-23 in San Diego, Calif. at the Doubletree Mission Valley Hotel. Those who act now can take advantage of early bird registration discounts which end April 1.

Renowned author and theologian, Diana Butler Bass will be the keynote speaker at the conference. Bass is an expert on congregations that are progressive, mainline, revitalizing and growing spiritually, as well as numerically. Her work in the areas of mission, context and transformation are key to church revitalization.

The inclusive registration fee for the conference covers two nights lodging (Sept. 21-22), four meals, and complimentary transportation to and from the San Diego airport. Register now. For more details, go to: https://secure.disciples.org/ogmp/pastorsconference/registration/

GMP WATKINS NAMED AS ONE OF PRESIDENT OBAMA'S 10 MOST IMPORTANT FAITH LEADERS
General Minister and President Sharon Watkins has been named as one of U.S. President Barack Obama's 10 most important faith leaders, according to U.S. News and World Report. Watkins joins a number of well-known religious leaders on the list, including Jim Wallis, president and executive director of Sojourners.

Watkins is described as the first woman leader of a mainline Protestant denomination, and the person who was asked by Obama to become the first woman to preach at the National Prayer Service during his inauguration. The President also appointed Watkins to be a member of the Advisory Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships. To read more see:
www.usnews.com/listings/obama-faith-leaders/1-introduction

COUNCIL ON CHRISTIAN UNITY WILL CELEBRATE 100 YEARS DURING 2010
The Council on Christian Unity will be celebrating its centennial anniversary with a number of activities throughout 2010. CCU President Robert Welsh is encouraging all expressions of the church to participate in several upcoming opportunities that will celebrate past achievements and focus on where God is calling the Disciples of Christ in their ecumenical life and witness in coming years.

The Council on Christian Unity Board has identified three goals for this 100th anniversary year. They are to celebrate the best of Disciples tradition as a people of unity; to look seriously and critically at the ecumenical movement today and where God is calling it in the coming years; and to focus on the education and formation of a new generation of Disciples for service to and leadership in the ecumenical movement. For more details, see:
www.disciples.org/ccu/PDF/News%20Release%20on%20100th%20Anniversary.pdf

LILLY ENDOWMENT NATIONAL CLERGY RENEWAL PROGRAM OFFERS SABBATICAL SUPPORT TO CHURCHES
The Lilly Endowment is again offering pastors an opportunity to step away from their responsibilities for a period of renewal and reflection. A primary goal of the 2010 National Clergy Renewal Program is to strengthen congregations by allowing their leaders time for intentional exploration and spiritual contemplation. Christian congregations may apply to the endowment for grants of up to $50,000.

Up to $15,000 of the Lilly Endowment grants can be used to pay for worship and pastoral care support while the pastor is away, as well as for renewal activities within the congregation. Pastors who apply for the grants are invited to include their families in the renewal activities. Deadline for submission of proposals is June 21. To find application materials and more information on all aspects the sabbatical program, go to: www.clergyrenewal.org

GARY HOLLOWAY TO BECOME EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF WORLD CONVENTION
Gary Holloway has accepted a position to become executive director of The World Convention. Holloway is currently the Ijams Professor of Bible at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tenn. He will start in his new position on a part-time basis in February, and begin serving full-time in August. The World Convention sponsors a global gathering of Christians in the Stone Campbell movement every four years, which includes the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Churches of Christ, and Christian Churches/Churches of Christ.

Holloway stated that he is leaving his longtime academic career to serve as executive director of the convention primarily because of the call from Christ that all who believe in him should be one (John 17:20-23). "On the night he was betrayed, that is what Jesus prayed for," stated Holloway. "The World Convention is a ministry of prayer for unity. And if we pray for unity, we must be prepared for God to work through us for unity." For more, go to:
www.disciples.org/Portals/0/PDF/DNS/2010/20100113-GaryHolloway.pdf

CLAREMONT WILL HOST NATIONAL CONFERENCE ON NEW TECHNOLOGIES
Disciples pastors, lay leaders and theologians who want to better understand new ways of communication will likely want to participate in a two and a half-day conference hosted by Claremont School of Theology in Claremont, Calif. Entitled "Theology After Google," the conference will take place at Claremont March 10-12. Theologians with expertise in the use of traditional media, such as sermons, books, and academic articles will join with those who use new media, including blogging, podcasts and YouTube posts, to present the sessions.

The conference is designed to encourage theologians and church leaders to think about ways to use emerging media to reach today's church and society. One goal will be to teach conference participants how to enhance traditional ways of communicating by the church with emergent new media technologies. To learn more, visit: www.disciples.org/Portals/0/PDF/DNS/2010/20100113-TheologyAfterGoogle.pdf

LYNCHBURG COLLEGE UPGRADES SYSTEMS TO SAVE ON ENERGY BILLS
Water conservation, lighting upgrades, and changes to heating and air conditioning systems are all part of the changes administrators at Lynchburg College will soon introduce to help lower annual energy bills. The improvements will cost $4.65 million and decrease the college's energy costs by $583,000 annually. Lynchburg believes that it will recoup its investment for the upgrades in about eight years.

The energy improvements were approved after a campus-wide audit was conducted to determine how energy could be saved. It is estimated that the project will reduce carbon dioxide output in the amount of 5,348 metric tons per year - equal to planting 1,215 acres of trees per year; saving 607,000 gallons of gasoline; or powering 741 homes annually. For more information, go to: http://www.lynchburg.edu/x23089.xml

2010 APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE FOR THE HELM LEADERSHIP FELLOWS PROGRAM
The HELM Leadership Fellows Program nurtures college students for transformational leadership in the church and the wider human community. Students beginning at a four-year college this fall can download an application at:
www.helmdisciples.org/aid/2010-11_HELM_Leadership_Fellows_application.pdf.

If you know of a student heading to a four-year college this fall whom you believe has leadership potential for the church and the world, contact HELM to have information on applying for the program sent to that student. All application materials must be postmarked by March 15, 2010.

NEW CAMP FOR AUTISTIC CHILDREN WILL OPEN AT CHRISTMOUNT
Christmount, which serves as a camp, conference, and retreat center for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), has announced the creation of Camp Lakey Gap, a summer camp for children with autism. Christmount is located in Black Mountain, N.C. Camp Lakey Gap will continue the services of a summer camp program for autistic individuals that previously had been run by the Autism Society of North Carolina for 12 years.

The Christmount Board of Directors supported a staff decision to hire a camp director and continue the autism camp at the board's November 2009 meeting. The camp's programs will be geared toward helping campers be more independent while they are involved in different activities. Activities also will be aimed at strengthening self-help, communication and social skills among campers, while giving a week-long break to their families and caregivers. Camper applications are now available. To find out more, visit: www.christmount.com

GLAD ALLIANCE LEADERS DRAFT "STATEMENT OF CALLING"
A gathering of 12 Disciples leaders from the Gay, Lesbian and Affirming Disciples Alliance met in Washington, D.C., recently to discuss the organization's future. The group drafted a "statement of calling" for the organization and identified next steps around its areas of priority. The Alliance also discussed strategies for hiring a fulltime staff person to help it move into a new era. A summer retreat of the full alliance will be held July 16-18. To read more, visit:
www.disciples.org/tabid/58/itemid/498/GLAD-Alliance-Leaders-Take-Bold-Steps.aspx

Million People Affected in Haiti
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A 7.0 magnitude earthquake devastated the island nation of Haiti yesterday afternoon.
By all approximations, as many as 3 million people have been impacted by this devastating
quake. Week of Compassion is responding.
Through Global Ministries, we will be responding to our partner organizations in
Port-au-Prince, CONASPEH and the House of Hope. At this time, communication is
still very difficult, but we are receiving reports via text messages and social
networking sites. There has not been any contact made, yet, with Patrick Villier
of CONASPEH. We are holding him, his family and all the churches who are a part
of CONASPEH in our hearts and prayers.
We have also been in touch with our ecumenical partners through Church World Service,
many of whom are also our Global Ministries partners. This morning, via Skype, I
was able to touch base with Martin Coria, Regional Coordinator for CWS Latin America
and Caribbean. Martin shared with me that the staff of SKDE, another of our partner
organizations there, is fine. Some were slightly injured, but otherwise everyone
is in relatively good physical condition. Church World Service is coordinating
a conference call this afternoon for all its member communions so we can best coordinate
our relief efforts. An initial appeal has already been issued.
ACT International has already had its first conference call this morning, and will
be issuing an appeal today or tomorrow. As you know, ACT is the largest alliance
of Christian humanitarian agencies in the world.
WoC is responding through all of these channels to provide the most immediate, efficient
and effective response to this horrible disaster as humanly possible.

Thank you to so many of you who have already responded. We are so blessed to be
able to come together as a community of faith to respond to the overwhelming needs
of our sisters and brothers in Haiti. They are in our hearts and prayers. This is
an absolutely desperate situation.

The following information regarding the safety of our Global Ministries staff and partners has been obtained from the Global Ministries website:

Global Ministries has received a call from the family of Kim and Patrick Bentrott indicating that they and their son are fine. We also received news from the Disciples Tennessee Region group letting us know that they are fine. We have not been able to contact Patrick Villier, the president of CONASPEH, to learn about the situation of the staff and building. We will post any news that we receive immediately on this webpage, so please check back throughout the day.

Gifts for emergency relief can be made through One Great Hour of Sharing, Week of Compassion or directly through Global Ministries with the designation "Haiti Emergency". You can follow the links below:

Penny is at a meeting in Festus this morning but asked me to pass this information on to all of you. She will send out more information when she is back in the office. You may also visit http://globalministries.org/news/lac/haiti-earthquake-what-we.html for continued updates.

Disciples News Service
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DON'T MISS THE OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN UPCOMING WEBINARS ON MACC

There's still time to participate in one of three webinars to learn information about the work of the Mission Alignment Coordinating Council (MACC). The next webinar is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 12 from 11:00 - noon EST. Two additional webinars have been added, Thursday, Jan. 14 from 2 - 3 p.m. EST and Tuesday, Jan. 19 from 2 - 3 p.m. EST.

"People have found the webinars to be informative and a good way to learn next steps associated with the MACC process," said Associate General Minister and Vice President Todd Adams, who facilitates the sessions. "Additionally, participation in the webinar and subsequent survey will help to shape the future direction of mission and ministry in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)."

Four MACC webinars, or Internet conferences, took place in December and early January. The sessions offer information from the Proposal 9 Working Group, one of nine focused areas of the MACC. The sessions also provide an update on the progress of the eight other proposals and a brief introduction to the overall process. If you are unable to participate in one of the webinars, you can access information from the Dec. 11 session online at: www.disciples.org/macc.

Participants will need to pre-register for the upcoming hour-long sessions. To view the webinar schedule and pre-registration details, see: www.disciples.org/macc

Anyone lacking Internet access can contact the Office of the General Minister and President at 317-713-2444 and request a printout of the MACC presentation.

The MACC was authorized by the General Board in 2008.
+++++++

What Gifts Do You Bring?
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I always dread this time of year, when the decorations come down, the ornaments
are put away, and the Christmas music is again replaced with the radio's latest
pop hits. I try to put this inevitable part of the season off as long as I possibly
can--but eventually it comes, that terrible moment when I realize that I simply
can't deny it any longer.
Christmas is over.
Yes, it's come to an end, this magical season. I am overcome with the post-holiday
blues, suck it up, make the trek back down to the basement to come up with the boxes...Pack
it up, Amy! I say to myself. Christmas will roll around again next year; it always
does...
But before I actually go downstairs to my basement, I do have one more day of Christmassing.
Today is Epiphany, when the wise astrologers from the East came to visit the Christ-Child.
Today is actually the 12th--and final--day of Christmas. As we all know so well,
they came bearing gifts--luxurious, precious gifts--for the newborn King. Thus,
I wonder, too, what gifts might I bring? What gifts might I offer to Christ this
year?
When I was in the Congo this past November, I preached in a church-on-stilts in
a fishing village. Folks set up a camp of sorts along the Congo River where they
could fish and make some semblance of a living. Fishing means surviving for most
of the members of this community.
After I preached my sermon, translated into the local language of Lingala, I sat
back down in my seat and proceeded to watch the members of the church dance forward
their offerings. I was overcome by their joy in doing so. I'm serious when I say
that they danced their offerings forward. They were thrilled-delighted-overjoyed
that they had something to give! This was the highlight of the worship experience!
Praise be to God for the opportunity to give what we have!
And just when I thought it was over, the marvelous African beat continued and they
kept dancing. They were invited to give another offering--another offering? I thought.
This would never fly in our churches at home! This time they brought forward their
gifts for me, the preacher. What? Me? An offering for me?? I could hardly believe
it. Their tradition to offer gifts of gratitude for the one who shared the word
of God was overwhelming to me. Never has this happened to me in all my travels and
visits to preach the Gospel! Wow!
So I graciously--despite my incredulousness--accepted the three fish that were brought
forward. And the long branch of plaintains; the oranges; the money. I felt strange
about accepting it, I'll admit. But I know that to honor the giver you honor the
gift. This is what Week of Compassion is all about.
Honoring the giver and the gift-this is also the best way to honor the receiver.
Friends, I honor you this Epiphany. I honor you for the gifts you bring. I honor
you for the offerings you bring to Week of Compassion. I honor you for offering
what you have. Most of all, I honor you for giving the best gift of all: yourselves.
You are your best offering.
Happy 2010!
+++++++