Staying Sane: Gun Laws that WorkJune 17Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Staying Sane: Gun Laws that Work The Mother Emanuel, Charleston, SC, shooting was four years ago today, June 17. The N.C. General… Continue Reading
Bright Light on Interfaith LifeJune 14Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Bright Light on Interfaith Life While the headlines tell us about very real instances of violence against faith communities (a synagogue… Continue Reading
Reaffirmation of Support for the LGBTQ+ CommunityJune 10North Carolina Council of Churches Reaffirmation of Support for the LGBTQ+ Community Approved unanimously on June 4, 2019 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches. In response to… Continue Reading
NC No Torture Releases Christian StudyMay 21Brian Wendelgass, NC No Torture Project Coordinator NC No Torture Releases Christian Study NC No Torture has launched its Christian study addressing North Carolina’s involvement in the CIA’s Rendition,… Continue Reading
North Carolina, Gethsemane and TortureApril 30Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director North Carolina, Gethsemane and Torture The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference introducing House… Continue Reading
Raleigh Report – April 29, 2019April 29George Reed, Former Executive Director Raleigh Report – April 29, 2019 Introduced Bills CRIMINAL JUSTICE HB 834 – Ban the Box would prohibit the state from asking… Continue Reading
Workers’ MemorialApril 26Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Workers’ Memorial Remarks delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director of the NC Council of Churches,… Continue Reading
Raleigh Report – April 22, 2019April 22George Reed, Former Executive Director Raleigh Report – April 22, 2019 INTRODUCED BILLS CRIMINAL JUSTICEHB 781 – Limitations on Use of Solitary Confinementactually contains several items related… Continue Reading
Lenten Guide – Easter SundayApril 21Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Lenten Guide – Easter Sunday Excerpted from the Council’s 2019 Lenten Reflection Guide for Lectionary Year C. Early on the first day of… Continue Reading
Medicaid Expansion: Doing the Right ThingApril 19Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Medicaid Expansion: Doing the Right Thing The people of North Carolina pay federal taxes. Our tax dollars help fund the 90 percent… Continue Reading
Lenten Guide – Good FridayApril 19Para Drake, NC No Torture Project Coordinator Lenten Guide – Good Friday Excerpted from the Council’s 2019 Lenten Reflection Guide for Lectionary Year C. “This is the covenant that I… Continue Reading
Sacrificial Lambs and ScapegoatsApril 18Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Sacrificial Lambs and Scapegoats Remarks delivered at the Witness for Peace footwashing ceremony at the gates of Aero Contractors earlier… Continue Reading
Lenten Guide – Maundy ThursdayApril 18Rachel Baker, Immigration Advocacy Program Coordinator Lenten Guide – Maundy Thursday Excerpted from the Council’s 2019 Lenten Reflection Guide for Lectionary Year C. Now before the festival of the… Continue Reading
Job Opening: Fund Development CoordinatorApril 16North Carolina Council of Churches Job Opening: Fund Development Coordinator The Council is hiring a full-time Fund Development Coordinator. The full job description is posted below… Continue Reading
Lenten Guide – Palm SundayApril 14Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations Lenten Guide – Palm Sunday Excerpted from the Council’s 2019 Lenten Reflection Guide for Lectionary Year C. After he had said this, he… Continue Reading
Raleigh Report – April 11, 2019April 11George Reed, Former Executive Director Raleigh Report – April 11, 2019 INTRODUCED BILLS CRIMINAL JUSTICE HB 587 – Repeal Death Penalty would abolish the death penalty, and… Continue Reading
Lenten Guide – Fifth SundayApril 7Jessica Stokes, PHW Regional Coordinator Lenten Guide – Fifth Sunday Excerpted from the Council’s 2019 Lenten Reflection Guide for Lectionary Year C. Six days before the Passover Jesus… Continue Reading
Raleigh Report – April 5, 2019April 5George Reed, Former Executive Director Raleigh Report – April 5, 2019 INTRODUCED BILLS CRIMINAL JUSTICE/PRISON REFORM HB 460/SB 545 – Fair Chance Hiring would require state agencies… Continue Reading
Experience NC in the NC 100-mile ChallengeApril 4Nicole Johnson, PHW Regional Coordinator Experience NC in the NC 100-mile Challenge What is the NC 100-mile challenge? It’s an initiative launched by North Carolina State Parks to… Continue Reading
Lenten Guide – Fourth SundayMarch 31Chris Pernell, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness Lenten Guide – Fourth Sunday Excerpted from the Council’s 2019 Lenten Reflection Guide for Lectionary Year C. From now on, therefore, we regard… Continue Reading
National Farmworker Awareness WeekMarch 25Rachel Baker, Immigration Advocacy Program Coordinator National Farmworker Awareness Week Today is the kickoff for National Farmworker Awareness Week (NFAW) – a week of action (March… Continue Reading
Raleigh Report – March 25, 2019March 25George Reed, Former Executive Director Raleigh Report – March 25, 2019 INTRODUCED BILLS ECONOMIC JUSTICE HB 422/SB 234 – Healthy Families & Workplaces/Paid Sick Days is similar… Continue Reading
A Prayer for TeachersMarch 25Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director A Prayer for Teachers The following words were delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland on Friday, March 22 as the… Continue Reading
Lenten Guide – Third SundayMarch 24Elizabeth Brewington, Opioid Response Program Coordinator Lenten Guide – Third Sunday Excerpted from the Council’s 2019 Lenten Reflection Guide for Lectionary Year C. At that very time there were… Continue Reading
The Gospel and Closing the Medicaid GapMarch 21Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director The Gospel and Closing the Medicaid Gap The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference earlier today… Continue Reading
A Call for AccountabilityMarch 20Para Drake, NC No Torture Project Coordinator A Call for Accountability Why was the North Carolina Commission of Inquiry 0n Torture convened, and what did it conclude… Continue Reading
Prayer for Raising WagesMarch 19Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Prayer for Raising Wages The following remarks were delivered by Jennifer Copeland as the opening invocation to the Raising Wages… Continue Reading
Lenten Guide – Second SundayMarch 17Susannah Tuttle, NCIPL Director Lenten Guide – Second Sunday Excerpted from the Council’s 2019 Lenten Reflection Guide for Lectionary Year C. After these things the word of… Continue Reading
Job Opening: Director of Finance and AdministrationMarch 12Lindsay Barth, Office Manager Job Opening: Director of Finance and Administration Update: This position has been filled. The Council is hiring a full-time Director of Finance and… Continue Reading
Methodism AmuckMarch 11Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Methodism Amuck We are a few weeks out from the 2019 Special General Conference of the United Methodist… Continue Reading
Raleigh Report – March 11, 2019March 11George Reed, Former Executive Director Raleigh Report – March 11, 2019 INTRODUCED BILLS GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION With the passing last month of the first anniversary of the… Continue Reading
Lenten Guide – First SundayMarch 10Karen Richardson Dunn, PHW Regional Coordinator Lenten Guide – First Sunday Excerpted from the Council’s 2019 Lenten Reflection Guide for Lectionary Year C. Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit,… Continue Reading
Lenten Guide – Ash WednesdayMarch 6Para Drake, NC No Torture Project Coordinator Lenten Guide – Ash Wednesday Excerpted from the Council’s 2019 Lenten Reflection Guide for Lectionary Year C. Shout out, do not… Continue Reading
North Carolina’s Role in TortureMarch 5Para Drake, NC No Torture Project Coordinator North Carolina’s Role in Torture North Carolina’s role in torture has come in the form of a government-private contract with a… Continue Reading
Raleigh Report – February 26, 2019February 26George Reed, Former Executive Director Raleigh Report – February 26, 2019 INTRODUCED BILLS ECONOMIC JUSTICE HB 46 – Economic Security Act of 2019HB 46 is a collection… Continue Reading
Gerrymandering Dooms Voter ID Amendment, Judge SaysFebruary 25Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate Gerrymandering Dooms Voter ID Amendment, Judge Says Editor’s note: This article has been updated to specify that the court ruling does not address… Continue Reading
Gail Phares to receive Faith Active in Public Life AwardFebruary 14Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Gail Phares to receive Faith Active in Public Life Award Each time the Council holds its bi-annual Legislative Seminar, we honor those whose public lives reflect… Continue Reading
Raleigh Report – February 12, 2019February 12George Reed, Former Executive Director Raleigh Report – February 12, 2019 The 2019 Long Session of the General Assembly is now in full swing. As a result… Continue Reading
PHW Collaborative and Mini-Grant Application Now OpenFebruary 7Michelle Peedin, Program Associate for PHW and NCIPL PHW Collaborative and Mini-Grant Application Now Open The Partners in Health and Wholeness Collaborative, Renewal, and Mini-Grant applications are now open! Each year… Continue Reading
Make a Way for the Children to ComeJanuary 28Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Make a Way for the Children to Come Closing remarks made by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at the Council’s Public Education Summit on Friday,… Continue Reading
More Truth About TortureJanuary 22Para Drake, NC No Torture Project Coordinator More Truth About Torture The decade-long struggle for truth and justice got a welcome boost this weekend with a powerful… Continue Reading
Task Force Seeks Input on NC’s Climate PlanJanuary 14Lindsay Barth, Office Manager Task Force Seeks Input on NC’s Climate Plan Article published January 11, 2019 by Antionette Kerr with Public News Service NC regarding NC Interfaith… Continue Reading
Advent Guide: Epiphany Sunday, January 6January 6North Carolina Council of Churches Advent Guide: Epiphany Sunday, January 6 Excerpted from My Soul Magnifies the Lord, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year C from the North Carolina… Continue Reading
Advent Guide: First Sunday after Christmas, December 30Dec 30, 2018North Carolina Council of Churches Advent Guide: First Sunday after Christmas, December 30 Excerpted from My Soul Magnifies the Lord, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year C from the North Carolina… Continue Reading
Advent Guide: Christmas Eve and Christmas DayDec 24, 2018North Carolina Council of Churches Advent Guide: Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Excerpted from My Soul Magnifies the Lord, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year C from the North Carolina… Continue Reading
Council Calls for Redistricting ReformDec 20, 2018North Carolina Council of Churches Council Calls for Redistricting Reform At its most recent meeting the Council Governing Board unanimously endorsed Fair Districts NC’s Five Principles… Continue Reading
Elections Oversight: No Place for SecrecyDec 18, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate Elections Oversight: No Place for Secrecy Update: After this article was written, Gov. Cooper did veto House Bill 1029, as he was urged… Continue Reading
Advent Guide: Third Sunday, December 16Dec 16, 2018North Carolina Council of Churches Advent Guide: Third Sunday, December 16 Excerpted from My Soul Magnifies the Lord, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year C from the North Carolina… Continue Reading
Human Rights, North Carolina, and 49 PeopleDec 13, 2018Para Drake, NC No Torture Project Coordinator Human Rights, North Carolina, and 49 People Monday, December 10 marked the 70th anniversary of the United Nation’s International Human Rights Day. As… Continue Reading
Advent Guide: Second Sunday, December 9Dec 9, 2018North Carolina Council of Churches Advent Guide: Second Sunday, December 9 Excerpted from My Soul Magnifies the Lord, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year C from the North Carolina… Continue Reading
A Solution for Depleted Soils and SoulsDec 6, 2018Sarah Ogletree A Solution for Depleted Soils and Souls Last Saturday, NCIPL Director Susannah Tuttle and I had the opportunity to attend a conference entitled… Continue Reading
Advent Guide: First Sunday, December 2Dec 3, 2018North Carolina Council of Churches Advent Guide: First Sunday, December 2 Excerpted from My Soul Magnifies the Lord, an Advent Guide for Lectionary Year C from the North Carolina… Continue Reading
Going Green this ThanksgivingNov 15, 2018Sarah Ogletree Going Green this Thanksgiving The food that we consume as a part of the Thanksgiving holiday impacts the health of… Continue Reading
Election Milestone on Path to ChangeNov 8, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate Election Milestone on Path to Change The first thing Gov. Roy Cooper did after he reported for work on Wednesday, Nov. 8,… Continue Reading
Vetting the Vote: Gun SanityNov 1, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Vetting the Vote: Gun Sanity As if we need to be reminded of the preponderance of guns and gun-related violence on… Continue Reading
Vetting the Vote: Public EducationOct 25, 2018Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach Vetting the Vote: Public Education Public education is a critical issue for Christians, and the midterm elections provide a significant opportunity… Continue Reading
The Courage is Already OursOct 22, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director The Courage is Already Ours Sermon originally delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland on Sunday, October 21 at Community United Church… Continue Reading
Immigrant Families Fear Proposed Public Charge RuleOct 19, 2018Rachel Baker, Immigration Advocacy Program Coordinator Immigrant Families Fear Proposed Public Charge Rule Earlier this year, a draft of the “public charge” rule was leaked. The final version from… Continue Reading
On the Ballot: Harmful Changes to State ConstitutionOct 18, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director On the Ballot: Harmful Changes to State Constitution Remarks originally delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference on Tuesday, October 16.… Continue Reading
Vetting the Vote: North Carolina’s Involvement in TortureOct 18, 2018Para Drake, NC No Torture Project Coordinator Vetting the Vote: North Carolina’s Involvement in Torture Every seat in the North Carolina General Assembly is being challenged in the upcoming election. Every… Continue Reading
Eagle Solar & Light Becomes First Solar Energy Lessor in North CarolinaOct 18, 2018North Carolina Council of Churches Eagle Solar & Light Becomes First Solar Energy Lessor in North Carolina On Monday, the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC) approved Eagle Solar & Light to become the… Continue Reading
Vetting the Vote: Climate ChangeOct 4, 2018Susannah Tuttle, NCIPL Director Vetting the Vote: Climate Change Hurricane Florence is proving to be the most devastating extreme weather event in the history of… Continue Reading
In God’s ImageOct 1, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director In God’s Image The following remarks were delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at the North Carolina Commission of… Continue Reading
Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: Shalom Community Christian ChurchSep 28, 2018Lindsay Barth, Office Manager Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: Shalom Community Christian Church Shalom Community Christian Church truly lives up to its name of spreading shalom throughout the community.… Continue Reading
Vetting the Vote: Support N.C. WorkersSep 27, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Vetting the Vote: Support N.C. Workers Sign Me Up! That was the rallying cry of delegates at the AFL-CIO state conference. Of… Continue Reading
Bright Spot: Perseverance Pays OffSep 24, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Bright Spot: Perseverance Pays Off Recently, two stalwart champions of justice, Christina Cowger and Allyson Caison, received the annual Joshua Heintz… Continue Reading
Vetting the Vote: Medicaid ExpansionSep 21, 2018Chris Pernell, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness Vetting the Vote: Medicaid Expansion With every seat in the NC General Assembly being contested this year, the Nov 6, 2018… Continue Reading
After the StormSep 20, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director After the Storm As the flood waters recede–slow as that is–our focus shifts from survival to recovery. Having weathered… Continue Reading
The Work AheadSep 20, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director The Work Ahead The following prayer was delivered this morning as the opening invocation of the AFL-CIO North Carolina… Continue Reading
When It Rains Voter SuppressionSep 19, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate When It Rains Voter Suppression It’s a truism that weather affects elections. Yes, many of us would slosh through a downpour… Continue Reading
Statement of Opposition to Constitutional AmendmentsSep 18, 2018North Carolina Council of Churches Statement of Opposition to Constitutional Amendments Approved unanimously on September 11, 2018 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches… Continue Reading
Vetting the VoteSep 13, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Vetting the Vote Most people pay attention during presidential election cycles and many of them come out to vote.… Continue Reading
Less is Not More with New Health Insurance ChangesAug 29, 2018Keegan Cheleden, Duke Divinity School Intern Less is Not More with New Health Insurance Changes The Trump Administration recently issued new rules regarding the length of short-term health insurance plans, temporary… Continue Reading
Confronting North Carolina’s Role in TortureAug 28, 2018Para Drake, NC No Torture Project Coordinator Confronting North Carolina’s Role in Torture The North Carolina Council of Churches announces a new peace initiative, N.C. No Torture, to encourage… Continue Reading
Welcome Sarah OgletreeAug 23, 2018Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations Welcome Sarah Ogletree The Council is excited to welcome Sarah Ogletree as an intern with NC Interfaith Power &… Continue Reading
Honor Students and Teachers with a Public Education SabbathAug 21, 2018Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach Honor Students and Teachers with a Public Education Sabbath Public schools stand in the breach between chaos and a thriving society. Public schools offer our… Continue Reading
Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: St. Matthews AME Zion ChurchAug 14, 2018Lindsay Barth, Office Manager Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: St. Matthews AME Zion Church Francine McLaurin has dedicated her life to focusing on the health and well-being of others. From… Continue Reading
Pushback Path Leads to CourtAug 13, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate Pushback Path Leads to Court A summer of hectic twists and turns has made it increasingly clear: The N.C. General Assembly’s… Continue Reading
Power Struggle has them ScramblingAug 2, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate Power Struggle has them Scrambling The drive by Republicans who control the N.C. General Assembly to enhance their already formidable power,… Continue Reading
Improving the State of North CarolinaJul 3, 2018Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate Improving the State of North Carolina “Woe to those who make unjust laws, to those who issue oppressive decrees”~Isaiah 10:1 The North Carolina… Continue Reading
Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: Real Life MinistriesJun 30, 2018Lindsay Barth, Office Manager Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: Real Life Ministries Real Life Ministries (RLM) truly lives up to their name through promoting a practical approach to… Continue Reading
Job Opening: NC No Torture Project CoordinatorJun 29, 2018Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations Job Opening: NC No Torture Project Coordinator UPDATE: This position has been filled. The Council is hiring a half-time (20 hours per week)… Continue Reading
Governor Faces a SqueezeJun 28, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate Governor Faces a Squeeze Depending on the context, it could be called poor sportsmanship. Or bullying. Or a flouting of… Continue Reading
1 Church/10 People/100 Miles/$1000Jun 26, 2018Nicole Johnson, PHW Regional Coordinator 1 Church/10 People/100 Miles/$1000 Have you noticed what happens when you step outside? Your breathing regulates, your mind clears, sometimes… Continue Reading
Familias Unidas, No DivididasJun 23, 2018Rachel Baker, Immigration Advocacy Program Coordinator Familias Unidas, No Divididas Just this week, the president signed an executive order ending the separation of families, but this… Continue Reading
Power Push’s Troubling TwistsJun 22, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate Power Push’s Troubling Twists The current leaders of the North Carolina General Assembly – top members of the state House… Continue Reading
Council Calls for More Support for Public EducationJun 22, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Council Calls for More Support for Public Education The North Carolina Council of Churches has unveiled our latest billboard. This time we set our… Continue Reading
Proposed Tax Amendment Doesn’t Make CentsJun 15, 2018George Reed, Former Executive Director Proposed Tax Amendment Doesn’t Make Cents By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Senate Bill 75 is on the move. It would put… Continue Reading
Council Welcomes Elizabeth Brewington to Partners in Health and WholenessJun 14, 2018Chris Pernell, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness Council Welcomes Elizabeth Brewington to Partners in Health and Wholeness The NC Council of Churches was recently awarded an eighteen-month grant to promote compassionate solutions, based… Continue Reading
Voter ID Follows Budget BulldozerJun 11, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate Voter ID Follows Budget Bulldozer North Carolina’s new state budget – now on a fast track to final enactment by the… Continue Reading
Council Launches NC Sanctuary CoalitionJun 11, 2018Rachel Baker, Immigration Advocacy Program Coordinator Council Launches NC Sanctuary Coalition The North Carolina Council of Churches and its allies across North Carolina invite others to join… Continue Reading
Welcome KeeganJun 9, 2018Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations Welcome Keegan Keegan Cheleden will be with the Council full-time this summer as an intern through Duke Divinity… Continue Reading
Support the Work of the CouncilJun 8, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Support the Work of the Council Dear Friends, Like Esther, the NC Council of Churches finds itself heeding the call “for such… Continue Reading
Defend Against the Implementation of 287gJun 7, 2018Rachel Baker, Immigration Advocacy Program Coordinator Defend Against the Implementation of 287g Earlier this week, Mijente, a new political home for Latinx and Chicanx organizing, launched their “Abolish… Continue Reading
Stranglehold Tightens Again for Immigrant FamiliesJun 5, 2018Rachel Baker, Immigration Advocacy Program Coordinator Stranglehold Tightens Again for Immigrant Families The draft of a new rule from the Department of Homeland Security was recently leaked to… Continue Reading
Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: Bryson City UMCJun 1, 2018Lindsay Barth, Office Manager Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: Bryson City UMC Catherine Gantt has been a member of Bryson City United Methodist (UMC) for almost 25 years.… Continue Reading
Support the Sanctuary MovementMay 31, 2018Rachel Baker, Immigration Advocacy Program Coordinator Support the Sanctuary Movement Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind,… Continue Reading
Raleigh Report — May 30, 2018May 30, 2018North Carolina Council of Churches Raleigh Report — May 30, 2018 By George Reed, Retired Executive Director The North Carolina General Assembly re-convened for its 2018 “short… Continue Reading
No More MottosMay 25, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director No More Mottos Hours after teachers marched on Raleigh to talk about funding needs for their schools, their students,… Continue Reading
Violence and GunsMay 23, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Violence and Guns Remarks delivered at the Community Conversation on Gun Violence on May 15, 2018 at Wake Forest… Continue Reading
A Prayer for the North Carolina General AssemblyMay 22, 2018Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations A Prayer for the North Carolina General Assembly This morning marked a historic day as the Council hosted their first legislative prayer breakfast at… Continue Reading
And May We Be ChangedMay 21, 2018Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach And May We Be Changed What will change because of May 16? Because of the Day of Advocacy for Public Education… Continue Reading
Council announces Faith Leaders for NC Children InitiativeMay 19, 2018North Carolina Council of Churches Council announces Faith Leaders for NC Children Initiative On the day Public School educators, administrators, staff, and their supporters gathered to make their voices… Continue Reading
Marching for Schools, and for ChildrenMay 18, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate Marching for Schools, and for Children They suited up in their red t-shirts, hoisted their homemade signs and coursed like a river… Continue Reading
May is Mental Health MonthMay 16, 2018Jessica Stokes, PHW Regional Coordinator May is Mental Health Month May is Mental Health Month. This offers intentional opportunity to think proactively about mental health, its… Continue Reading
Faith Leaders for North Carolina Children (FLFNCC)May 15, 2018Chris Liu-Beers, Former Program Associate Faith Leaders for North Carolina Children (FLFNCC) The NC Council of Churches has a long history of supporting public education and recently recommitted… Continue Reading
Because of JesusMay 15, 2018Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach Because of Jesus When the news reporter approached me, I was milling about in the grass, adjusting my pastoral… Continue Reading
Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: Faith and Victory Christian ChurchMay 14, 2018Lindsay Barth, Office Manager Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: Faith and Victory Christian Church Since 2011, Faith and Victory Christian Church (FVCC) has been promoting health and wholeness of the… Continue Reading
The Perfect Gift for Mother’s DayMay 10, 2018Lindsay Barth, Office Manager The Perfect Gift for Mother’s Day As Mother’s Day approaches, we honor, remember, and celebrate all of the strong women in our… Continue Reading
DEQ Announces the Creation of a Secretary’s Environmental Justice & Equity BoardMay 8, 2018Susannah Tuttle, NCIPL Director DEQ Announces the Creation of a Secretary’s Environmental Justice & Equity Board Last week North Carolina’s Department of Environmental Quality introduced members of the Secretary’s Environmental Justice and… Continue Reading
Building Up Our SchoolsMay 4, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Building Up Our Schools “Build a Church, then Build a School.” Chief among the instructions for John Wesley’s itinerant ministers… Continue Reading
Partners in Health and Wholeness Mini-Grant Cycle Now OpenMay 3, 2018Lindsay Barth, Office Manager Partners in Health and Wholeness Mini-Grant Cycle Now Open The Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) Summer Mini-Grant Cycle is now open. Mini-grants are a… Continue Reading
Doing the School-money ShuffleApr 30, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate Doing the School-money Shuffle When the N.C. General Assembly convenes on May 16, legislators will be “welcomed” by a throng… Continue Reading
Wise Folks Build Their House on the RockApr 27, 2018Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate Wise Folks Build Their House on the Rock Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness, and his upper rooms by injustice; who… Continue Reading
Politics of EatingApr 24, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Politics of Eating Sermon originally delivered at the Jack Crum Conference at Highlands United Methodist Church in Raleigh on… Continue Reading
Sustainability Goals Delay Duke University Plans for Power PlantApr 21, 2018Susannah Tuttle, NCIPL Director Sustainability Goals Delay Duke University Plans for Power Plant Duke University officials have announced the indefinite delay of plans to build a freestanding Combined Heat… Continue Reading
Pray and VoteApr 20, 2018Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach Pray and Vote The North Carolina Council of Churches believes that participating in our democracy is one critical component… Continue Reading
Partner Congregations Provide Sanctuary for Woman in Chapel HillApr 17, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Partner Congregations Provide Sanctuary for Woman in Chapel Hill Remarks delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a March 17 press conference in Chapel Hill… Continue Reading
The Second CommandmentApr 16, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director The Second Commandment When the news broke about the North Carolina Council of Churches billboard suggesting a connection between… Continue Reading
School Districts: Keeping It TogetherApr 13, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate School Districts: Keeping It Together Public education in North Carolina has its share of challenges, not the least of which has… Continue Reading
Council Posts Billboard about Gun ViolenceApr 5, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Council Posts Billboard about Gun Violence On your drive along I-85/40 outside of Mebane, look for our billboard on the side of… Continue Reading
Children and a Healthy Start to Life: Understanding Stress and Trauma’s ImpactApr 3, 2018Jessica Stokes, PHW Regional Coordinator Children and a Healthy Start to Life: Understanding Stress and Trauma’s Impact As I work with various communities, a returning issue I hear about is the first 2000… Continue Reading
Public Schools’ Call to Quality – For AllApr 2, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate Public Schools’ Call to Quality – For All It was perhaps the N.C. Supreme Court’s finest hour. In 1997, the high court held unanimously… Continue Reading
Lenten Reflection Guide: Easter SundayApr 1, 2018Lindsay Barth, Office Manager Lenten Reflection Guide: Easter Sunday Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” When the sabbath was over,… Continue Reading
Lenten Reflection Guide: Good FridayMar 30, 2018Yolanda Santiago-Correa, Duke Divinity School Intern Lenten Reflection Guide: Good Friday Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” My God, my God, why… Continue Reading
Soul of AppalachiaMar 29, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Soul of Appalachia Remarks originally delivered March 23 at The State of the Soul of Appalachia conference in Pipestem… Continue Reading
Lenten Reflection Guide: Maundy ThursdayMar 29, 2018Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations Lenten Reflection Guide: Maundy Thursday Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice.” Reflection written by Sabrina Rosario,… Continue Reading
Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: Brown’s Chapel UMCMar 27, 2018Lindsay Barth, Office Manager Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: Brown’s Chapel UMC Lynn Frost has been attending Brown’s Chapel United Methodist Church since she was a baby. Lynn… Continue Reading
Lenten Reflection Guide: Palm SundayMar 25, 2018Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations Lenten Reflection Guide: Palm Sunday Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” Be gracious to me, O Lord,… Continue Reading
Council hires new Program Coordinator for Immigration AdvocacyMar 23, 2018Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations Council hires new Program Coordinator for Immigration Advocacy The North Carolina Council of Churches must replace our veteran Immigration Program Director, Jennie Belle, who… Continue Reading
Critical Issues Seminar: The Wisdom of WomenMar 22, 2018Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations Critical Issues Seminar: The Wisdom of Women 2018 is shaping up to the be the Year of the Woman. From the halls of… Continue Reading
On the Hot Seat, Where She BelongsMar 19, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate On the Hot Seat, Where She Belongs Ordinary Americans – those of us not allowed to know the secrets of high-level espionage work… Continue Reading
Lenten Reflection Guide: Fifth Sunday in LentMar 18, 2018Jessica Stokes, PHW Regional Coordinator Lenten Reflection Guide: Fifth Sunday in Lent Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” Now among those who went… Continue Reading
Critical Issues Seminar: Wisdom of WomenMar 13, 2018Lindsay Barth, Office Manager Critical Issues Seminar: Wisdom of Women The NC Council of Churches’ 2018 Critical Issues Seminar will focus on women. The theme for… Continue Reading
NC Religious Leaders’ Letter Opposing Offshore Oil Drilling Delivered to DCMar 12, 2018Susannah Tuttle, NCIPL Director NC Religious Leaders’ Letter Opposing Offshore Oil Drilling Delivered to DC In response to President Donald Trump and Secretary of Interior Ryan Zinke’s proposal to auction off… Continue Reading
Lenten Guide: Fourth Sunday in LentMar 11, 2018Susannah Tuttle, NCIPL Director Lenten Guide: Fourth Sunday in Lent Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” You were dead through the… Continue Reading
PHW Expands and Welcomes New StaffMar 8, 2018Chris Pernell, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness PHW Expands and Welcomes New Staff The staff of the NC Council of Churches is delighted to welcome Josie Walker and Karen… Continue Reading
Statement Affirming the Ministry of Sanctuary by CongregationsMar 8, 2018Chris Liu-Beers, Former Program Associate Statement Affirming the Ministry of Sanctuary by Congregations Statement Affirming the Ministry of Sanctuary by Congregations Approved March 6, 2018 by the Governing Board… Continue Reading
Lenten Guide: Third Sunday in LentMar 4, 2018Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director Lenten Guide: Third Sunday in Lent Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” Then God spoke all… Continue Reading
Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: St. John AMEFeb 28, 2018Lindsay Barth, Office Manager Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: St. John AME St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church in Raleigh has been hard at work promoting health and… Continue Reading
Lenten Guide: Second Sunday in LentFeb 25, 2018Karen Richardson Dunn, PHW Regional Coordinator Lenten Guide: Second Sunday in Lent Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” You who fear the Lord,… Continue Reading
It’s Only 40 DaysFeb 19, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director It’s Only 40 Days Sermon delivered by Jennifer Copeland yesterday, Sunday, February 18 at Millford Hills United Methodist Church in… Continue Reading
What More Can Be Said?Feb 19, 2018Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach What More Can Be Said? Powerful voices have long narrated the story of guns in America. The media. The NRA. Outraged,… Continue Reading
Lenten Guide: First Sunday in LentFeb 18, 2018Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach Lenten Guide: First Sunday in Lent Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” Then God said to… Continue Reading
Class Sizes and More: An Awkward FinaleFeb 15, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate Class Sizes and More: An Awkward Finale As the General Assembly wraps up its weirdly timed and generally ill-conceived winter session, it would… Continue Reading
Lenten Guide: Ash WednesdayFeb 14, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Lenten Guide: Ash Wednesday Excerpted from the NC Council of Churches Lenten Guide, “Journey to Justice” We entreat you on… Continue Reading
Apply Today for a PHW Mini-GrantFeb 13, 2018Katie Withers, NC State MSW Intern Apply Today for a PHW Mini-Grant There are less than two weeks remaining to apply for a Partners in Health and Wholeness… Continue Reading
The Commission Came to TownFeb 13, 2018Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach The Commission Came to Town Only rarely does the United States Commission on Civil Rights hold hearings outside of Washington D.C.… Continue Reading
Be ReconciledFeb 9, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Be Reconciled Black History month is North Carolina Council of Churches’ history starting in 1935 because our history… Continue Reading
Job Opening: Program Coordinator for Sanctuary Sites and Immigration AdvocacyFeb 8, 2018Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations Job Opening: Program Coordinator for Sanctuary Sites and Immigration Advocacy Update: This position has now been filled. The Council is hiring a part-time program coordinator for… Continue Reading
Job Opening: Opioid Response Program CoordinatorFeb 6, 2018North Carolina Council of Churches Job Opening: Opioid Response Program Coordinator The Council’s Partners in Health and Wholeness initiative is hiring a full-time program coordinator to enhance… Continue Reading
With Rights at Stake, Judges Stand TallFeb 5, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate With Rights at Stake, Judges Stand Tall The pattern has become familiar – and a welcome pattern it is, even if brought about… Continue Reading
The Severity of the FluJan 29, 2018Jessica Stokes, PHW Regional Coordinator The Severity of the Flu This flu season is notably harsh and even deadly in some circumstances. According to North Carolina… Continue Reading
Looking for Help?Jan 23, 2018Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach Looking for Help? The Federal Government of the United States of America shut down at midnight on Friday. It… Continue Reading
Thumbs-up to Fairer DistrictsJan 22, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate Thumbs-up to Fairer Districts Progress in rooting out North Carolina’s gerrymandered voting districts hasn’t always occurred in a straight line.… Continue Reading
Medicare for AllJan 18, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Medicare for All Remarks originally delivered at the Medicare for All Rally held in Durham on Saturday, January 13.… Continue Reading
Jesus, Martin, and GillesJan 17, 2018Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach Jesus, Martin, and Gilles A reflection on Jesus of Nazareth (out of which nothing good comes)¹, the life and death… Continue Reading
Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: Bethel Christian AssemblyJan 15, 2018Chris Liu-Beers, Former Program Associate Partners in Health and Wholeness Spotlight: Bethel Christian Assembly Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) is highlighting some of our congregations across NC who are… Continue Reading
Words Make a WorldJan 13, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Words Make a World The words we hear form what we think. The words we say form what we do.… Continue Reading
U.S. Court: Those Districts Won’t FlyJan 12, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate U.S. Court: Those Districts Won’t Fly Grand constitutional questions in this country aren’t settled until the Supreme Court has its say, either… Continue Reading
Defending Temporary Protected StatusJan 10, 2018Yolanda Santiago-Correa, Duke Divinity School Intern Defending Temporary Protected Status On Monday, the Department of Homeland Security announced the decision to terminate the Temporary Protected Status… Continue Reading
Advent Guide: Baptism of the LordJan 8, 2018Chris Pernell, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness Advent Guide: Baptism of the Lord Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North… Continue Reading
Advent Guide: EpiphanyJan 6, 2018Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director Advent Guide: Epiphany Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North… Continue Reading
New Tax Law Will Harm EnvironmentJan 5, 2018Michelle Peedin, Program Associate for PHW and NCIPL New Tax Law Will Harm Environment The final version of the tax bill, passed in late December, will now open the pristine… Continue Reading
Council Offers Updated Sanctuary E-courseJan 5, 2018Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director Council Offers Updated Sanctuary E-course A growing movement of immigrant and faith communities have committed to doing what Congress and the… Continue Reading
N.C. Judges on TrialJan 4, 2018Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate N.C. Judges on Trial Well, here we go again. If the Republican-led General Assembly in 2017 focused on trying to… Continue Reading
That ResolutionJan 1, 2018Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director That Resolution We all do it and well we should–start the new year resolving to do better. Maybe… Continue Reading
Advent Guide: First Sunday After Christmas DayDec 30, 2017Nicole Johnson, PHW Regional Coordinator Advent Guide: First Sunday After Christmas Day Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North… Continue Reading
On the Fourth Day of ChristmasDec 28, 2017Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach On the Fourth Day of Christmas It has been a rough year for creche sets at our house. For our family, as… Continue Reading
Christ’s MassDec 25, 2017Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Christ’s Mass In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was… Continue Reading
Advent Guide: Christmas Eve and DayDec 24, 2017Josie Walker, PHW Regional Coordinator Advent Guide: Christmas Eve and Day Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North… Continue Reading
Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday, December 24Dec 23, 2017Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator Advent Guide: Fourth Sunday, December 24 Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North… Continue Reading
Welcome Mary ElizabethDec 21, 2017Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach Welcome Mary Elizabeth My name is Mary Elizabeth Hanchey and I joined the staff of the NC Council of… Continue Reading
Congress: Hands Off New Rule Protecting Families from Payday LendersDec 19, 2017Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Congress: Hands Off New Rule Protecting Families from Payday Lenders Originally appeared in the Durham Herald and signed by both Larry Hall, Secretary of the NC… Continue Reading
Supporting our Mental Health in the HolidaysDec 18, 2017Jessica Stokes, PHW Regional Coordinator Supporting our Mental Health in the Holidays The holiday season is a high-pressured time. The season’s greetings can bring unrealistic expectations, societal pressure,… Continue Reading
Advent Guide: Third Sunday, December 17Dec 16, 2017Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations Advent Guide: Third Sunday, December 17 Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North… Continue Reading
Policy Statement on the Public SchoolsDec 15, 2017North Carolina Council of Churches Policy Statement on the Public Schools Statement on the Public Schools Approved December 5, 2017 by the Governing Board of the North… Continue Reading
Vigil to End Gun ViolenceDec 14, 2017Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations Vigil to End Gun Violence This is my favorite time of the year. I’m a sap about all of it. I… Continue Reading
Executive Director Jennifer Copeland Receives Award from North Carolinians Against Gun ViolenceDec 14, 2017Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations Executive Director Jennifer Copeland Receives Award from North Carolinians Against Gun Violence Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director of the North Carolina Council of Churches, and Beth Messersmith, North Carolina… Continue Reading
An Important Reminder – Less than 5 Days Remain to Get Insurance through the Affordable Care ActDec 11, 2017Chris Pernell, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness An Important Reminder – Less than 5 Days Remain to Get Insurance through the Affordable Care Act If you do not have insurance through an employer or other group plan, the Affordable Care… Continue Reading
Advent Guide: Second Sunday, December 10Dec 9, 2017Jessica Stokes, PHW Regional Coordinator Advent Guide: Second Sunday, December 10 Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North… Continue Reading
NCIPL Testifies at EPA Hearing on Clean Power PlanDec 8, 2017Michelle Peedin, Program Associate for PHW and NCIPL NCIPL Testifies at EPA Hearing on Clean Power Plan Last week North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light spoke at the EPA public hearing in Charleston,… Continue Reading
Torture Inquiry Hits Close to HomeDec 5, 2017Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate Torture Inquiry Hits Close to Home The solid citizens of Johnston County, N.C. – in a fateful quirk of geography – for… Continue Reading
Hope for the Holidays: 2017 Advent Calendar to Defend Immigrants and RefugeesDec 4, 2017Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director Hope for the Holidays: 2017 Advent Calendar to Defend Immigrants and Refugees Last year, we created an Advent Calendar to Support Immigrants and Refugees. This year, as the… Continue Reading
Advent Guide: First Sunday, December 3Dec 2, 2017Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Advent Guide: First Sunday, December 3 Excerpted from A Season of Hope. An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year B from the North… Continue Reading
Jesus, Money, and TaxesDec 1, 2017Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Jesus, Money, and Taxes Remarks offered at a press conference on tax reform at the North Carolina State Capitol on… Continue Reading
Road Work Ahead: Jesus and TaxesDec 1, 2017Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations Road Work Ahead: Jesus and Taxes Jesus had a lot to say about money, possessions, care for those who are impoverished, and… Continue Reading
Winding Down National Diabetes Month with Partners in Health and WholenessNov 30, 2017Josie Walker, PHW Regional Coordinator Winding Down National Diabetes Month with Partners in Health and Wholeness It isn’t too late to practice prevention. In North Carolina alone, an estimated 750,000 people have… Continue Reading
Support the Council on Giving TuesdayNov 27, 2017Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Support the Council on Giving Tuesday Dear Friends, Last year when we sent out our fall appeal requesting financial support for the… Continue Reading
Advent Guide: A Season of HopeNov 25, 2017Jessica Stokes, PHW Regional Coordinator Advent Guide: A Season of Hope The theme for our Advent Guide this year is hope. After considering various themes, we chose… Continue Reading
Protect Dreamers This ThanksgivingNov 22, 2017Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director Protect Dreamers This Thanksgiving For many of us living in the United States, Thanksgiving is a time when we get together… Continue Reading
Thanksgiving NotesNov 22, 2017Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Thanksgiving Notes Psalm 100 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with… Continue Reading
Navigating the Health Insurance MarketplaceNov 18, 2017Lindsay Barth, Office Manager Navigating the Health Insurance Marketplace Open enrollment to sign up for or renew health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA)… Continue Reading
Tax Plan Twist: Churches, Charities, CandidatesNov 17, 2017Steve Ford, Volunteer Program Associate Tax Plan Twist: Churches, Charities, Candidates With Republicans on Capitol Hill and in the White House desperate to post a big legislative… Continue Reading
Faith and Health Summit RecapNov 13, 2017Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations Faith and Health Summit Recap Written by Council intern Katie Withers. Katie is a Master of Social Work student at North… Continue Reading
United for Puerto RicoNov 9, 2017Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations United for Puerto Rico Written by Council intern Yolanda Santiago-Correa. Yolanda is a Duke Divinity School student and was born… Continue Reading
Creating PeaceNov 6, 2017Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Creating Peace If we are not angry today, we have no faith. If we are not frustrated today,… Continue Reading
Democracy Under the Reign of GodNov 1, 2017Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director Democracy Under the Reign of God As I continue to follow court cases addressing Gerrymandering at both the federal level (Gill v.… Continue Reading
Honoring Farmworkers Who Died in the FieldsOct 30, 2017Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director Honoring Farmworkers Who Died in the Fields Yesterday farmworkers and farmworker allies from across the state came together to celebrate Día de los… Continue Reading
PHW Faith and Health Summit: Thank YouOct 30, 2017Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator PHW Faith and Health Summit: Thank You It has been a little over a week since our third PHW Faith and Health Summit,… Continue Reading
