Front Page

Group Seeks to Help Churches Address Bioethics Issues

May 14, 2003, WASHINGTON - A working group of the World Council of Churches plans to carry several recommendations on bioethics to the organization's Central Committee in Geneva this summer. The working group would like to see the WCC encourage attention to "upstream questions," said Martin Robra, the council executive who works with the bioethics issue. Robra spoke at the end of the working group's May 10-13 meeting, hosted by the United Methodist Board of Church and Society. The United Methodist Church is a member and major supporter of the council. Upstream questions are not concerned with what to do about cloning or embryonic stem cell research, Robra explained. Those are "midstream questions," and they tend to dominate most of churches' discussions on genetics, he said. Rather, the working group seeks a discussion of "What has brought us here and what did we learn?" he said.

Dispute Panel Lifts Benke Suspension

May 12, 2003 – A dispute resolution panel has lifted the suspension of Dr. David Benke, who has returned to work as president of the Synod's Atlantic District. Benke was suspended last June by LCMS Second Vice President Wallace Schulz in response to complaints filed months earlier by 18 LCMS pastors and three congregations. The complaints said Benke's participation in "A Prayer for America," a post-Sept. 11, 2001, event at Yankee Stadium, constituted unscriptural worship with non-Christians, sin against the First and Second Commandments, public defense of false doctrine and violation of the Synod's Constitution and Bylaws. Benke appealed the suspension, which has now been lifted. The three-member panel's decision was unanimous.

Senate Should Ban Discrimination in Hiring, Church Exec Says

May 13, 2003, NEW YORK - The U.S. Senate should restore a prohibition against discrimination in hiring when it considers a major job training bill, according to a United Methodist executive. In a May 9 statement, the Rev. R. Randy Day, chief executive of the United Methodist Board of Global Ministries, called the removal of such a prohibition by the House of Representatives "retrogressive social legislation." The version of the Workforce Investment and Adult Education Act (H.R. 1261), passed May 8 by the House, would allow religious agencies with federal work force grants or contracts to discriminate in hiring on the basis of religious belief. Such action has been prohibited since the legislation was first introduced during the Reagan administration, Day pointed out.

General News

ELCA Publisher Releases Book on Homosexuality Perspectives

May 12, 2003, CHICAGO - A new book, "Faithful Conversation: Christian Perspectives on Homosexuality," has been released by Fortress Press, a division of Augsburg Fortress, the publishing house of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). The book was commissioned by ELCA seminary presidents, according to a news release from Augsburg Fortress. The 96-page paperback book "is aimed at engendering real reflection and conversation by providing Christians with the basic tools to engage the many dimensions of this question for themselves and with each other," according to the news release. The publication of the book coincides with the current ELCA Studies on Sexuality.

Tinder Mercies – Presbyterian Church Scorched but Undaunted after Arson Attack

May 9, 2003, LOUISVILLE - The dreaded call came at the suitably alarming hour of 1 a.m. An alarm-company dispatcher told the Rev. Malcolm Laing that his First Presbyterian Church was on fire. Say hello to every pastor's nightmare.

Grace Encountered During Visit to Death Row

May 13, 2003 – It could be a hospital emergency room. Bright recessed flood lamps, stainless steel stands for hanging IV bags and tubes, a portable stand and tray for other medical tools, a privacy curtain and, bathed in the yellow-green light - an empty hospital gurney. But no lives have been saved here. This is a killing room.

Thank You - Shukran
Abu-Akel Expresses Thanks for His Year as GA Moderator

May 15, 2003, ATLANTA - My heart is full of praise and adoration to the living God who loves us and came to us in Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, Palestine. My journey with you as the 214th Moderator of the General Assembly (2002) has been a gift for me-a gift to see and experience the power of the Holy Spirit in the Presbyterian Church (USA) in the United States, and around the world. Your regular prayers, love, and support have sustained me by the grace of God every day of my travels as I have shared in the ministry and mission of the PC(USA).

Job Stress Creates Mental Health Problems for Many Pastors

May 14, 2003 – For many years, the Rev. John couldn't admit to what he says "clouded my soul." "We pastors always think we're supposed to have it together," he says. But a year and a half ago, when he joined a midsize United Methodist congregation in North Carolina troubled by financial and other problems, John's depression worsened. Finally recognizing he needed help, he met with a pastoral counselor and found relief by confessing his feelings. His treatment continues, but he believes his progress will only encourage parishioners who perhaps are in a similar plight.

Mission-Minded about Multiculturalism
Conference Participants Envision a 'More Colorful' PC(USA)

May 9, 2003, SEATTLE, WA - Unlike most Indonesians, 36-year-old Musiko Ing Budi was raised in a Christian household. The son of Muslim parents who converted to Christianity before getting married, Budi attended seminary and became an ordained minister in a Presbyterian and Reformed denomination in his homeland. Budi, who emigrated to the United States two years ago, now leads an Indonesian-language service at First Presbyterian Church in Colton, CA.

Forum Addresses Racism, Need to Recognize 'Those Who Stayed'

May 15, 2003, DALLAS - Racism has "clogged the arteries" of the United Methodist Church, and like a heart-attack victim, the denomination must make changes in order to survive, according to an African-American church leader. "We look good, but we're not well," said Marilyn Magee, a staff executive of the United Methodist Board of Discipleship and former officer of the church's Black Methodists for Church Renewal caucus.

ELCA Sexuality Task Force Focuses on Science, Theology

May 13, 2003, CHICAGO - The Studies on Sexuality Task Force of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) called together theologians and behavioral and social scientists to gather information, opinion and theological perspective on research regarding sexual orientation when it met here April 25-27. The task force also reviewed study materials to guide the church's 5.1 million members talking about blessing same-gender relationships and whether or not to accept ministers in such relationships. At the direction of the 2001 ELCA Churchwide Assembly, the church is conducting a comprehensive four-year study on homosexuality and a six-year study on human sexuality. Current ELCA policy expects ministers to refrain from all sexual relations outside of marriage; there is no official policy on blessing same-gender relationships, precluding ministers in such relationships from ordained ministry.

Good News Plans Summer Event

May 15, 2003 – Good News, an unofficial evangelical caucus in the United Methodist Church, is planning a family-friendly event for July 24-26 in Columbus, Ohio. The "National Summer Celebration" at the Adams Mark Hotel in downtown Columbus was announced by the executive committee of the organization's board of directors. Speakers will include George G. Hunter III, the Rev. Joy Moore, the Rev. Robert Gagnon, George Mitrovich, the Rev. Dick McClain and the Rev. Scott Field.

Order 2004 Mission Yearbooks Now
Popular New Kids' Version Is Offshoot of Familiar Annual for Adults

May 16, 2003, LOUISVILLE - Orders are being accepted now for the 2004 editions of the Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study and the Children's Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study. This year's inaugural edition of a yearbook especially for kids was wildly popular, going through several printings. Those who order the Presbyterian Church (USA) publications early, by calling (800) 524-2612, can save nearly 50 percent. Both yearbooks also can also be purchased online at www.pcusa.org/marketplace. The common theme of the 2004 yearbooks is "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another." The theme links the books with the PC(USA)'s five-year, $40 million campaign to raise funds for church development in the United States and Puerto Rico and new mission personnel overseas.

Ad Hoc Group Releases Book on 'United Methodism at Risk'

May 13, 2003 – As United Methodists prepare for the 2004 legislative session that will determine future directions of the denomination, an ad hoc group of clergy and lay leaders has released a book addressing their concerns about attempts to restrict theological and social diversity. The book, United Methodism at Risk: A Wake-up Call, was published this spring by the Information Project for United Methodists, an unofficial group led by retired United Methodist Bishop C. Dale White and Beth Capen, a layperson from Kingston, N.Y. Financial sponsor was Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church in Minneapolis. Leon Howell, former editor of Christianity and Crisis magazine, is the author.

Rural Life Sunday Highlights 'Hands for Harvest, Hope'

May 13, 2003, WASHINGTON - "Hands for Harvest and Hope" is the theme of this year's Rural Life Sunday celebration, through which United Methodists focus on the denomination's rural heritage. Rural Life Sunday may be scheduled at any time by either the conference or the local church. Besides recognizing the denomination's rural roots, the observance addresses the ongoing crisis in rural areas of the United States and the world today, and affirms the interdependence of rural and urban communities.

Chaplain Performs Golf-course Wedding

May 13, 2003 – Blair and Jessica had planned a big wedding. She was going to be a June bride. United Methodist Air Force Chaplain Jack Stanley had planned a nice afternoon of golf to celebrate the retirement of an old friend. Their lives intersected on a sunny day in March because Blair (last name withheld because of an Air Force protection measure) had just received his deployment orders. Instead of a long white gown, Jessica got married in jeans and a sleeveless top. Instead of a tuxedo or suit, Blair wore his desert camouflage uniform. Instead of his clerical robe, Stanley wore a golf shirt and slacks.

Ecumenical News

Preparations for the WCC Assembly Are Underway; Lula Has Already Been Invited

May 13, 2003 – The president of Brazil, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, has already been invited to the next assembly of the World Council of Churches (WCC), which will take place in February 2006 in Porto Alegre. The WCC general secretary, Rev. Dr Konrad Raiser, extended this invitation during a meeting in Brasilia on 12 May 2003. "I should still be head of the government at that time; I hope I shall still be worthy of the invitation," said the Brazilian president, mindful of the fact that politics is a slippery area where critical support offered today may prove to be an embarrassment in the future.

WCC Seeking Proposals for Theme of its next Assembly

May 19, 2003 – The World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Dr Konrad Raiser invited people to propose possible themes for the Council's upcoming ninth assembly, to take place in Porto Alegre in February 2006. Raiser issued the invitation towards the end of an 11-17 May visit to Brazil. "The theme of the assembly should be relevant for Latin America and for Brazilian churches," he said.

Reclaiming the Vision of Alma Ata

May 20, 2003 – "Go back to the principles of primary health care: reviving Alma Ata is the most important step to ensure 'Health For All'," said a 16-18 May consultation in Geneva facilitated by the World Council of Churches (WCC) and the Peoples Health Movement. The Peoples Health Movement is a grassroots movement present in nearly 100 countries. The Geneva consultation, timed to take place just before the 56th World Health Assembly, reminded the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF and the international community about their promise to the people of the world. The promise - of 'Health for All by the Year 2000' - was formulated in an historic 1978 statement - the Alma Ata declaration.

Trinity Institute Explores Benedictine Spirituality

May 15, 2003 – The Benedictine way of life is alive, well and precisely relevant to shaping holy lives. That was the subtext underlying this year's annual conference of Trinity Institute, April 28-29. Addressing the conference theme, "Shaping Holy Lives," were the Most Rev. Rowan Williams, the new archbishop of Canterbury; Joan Chittister, outspoken author and former Benedictine prioress; Laurence Freeman of the Monastery of Christ the King, Cockfosters, London; and Kathleen Norris, poet and former Benedictine oblate. It was the first time that Williams had returned to Trinity since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. He preached at the opening Eucharist on the Benedictine value of "listening," and closed the conference with a "prosaic" look inside "God's Workshop."

Brazilian Catholic Church Offers Wholehearted Support for Upcoming WCC Assembly

May 16, 2003 – The Brazilian Roman Catholic Church is not a member of the World Council of Churches (WCC). But it has pledged its full support for the WCC's upcoming ninth assembly, slated to take place in Porto Alegre in February 2006. The pledge was made by Dom Sinisio Bohn, the Catholic bishop of the diocese of Santa Cruz do Sul, at a meeting with WCC general secretary Rev. Dr Konrad Raiser. Raiser is currently in Brazil visiting the city where the assembly will be held, and met with Bohn and representatives of WCC member churches.

Spanish News

Comenzaron los preparativos para la Asamblea del CMI Lula ya esta invitado

13 de mayo 2003 – El presidente Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva ya esta invitado a la prsxima Asamblea del Consejo Mundial de Iglesias (CMI), que se realizara en febrero de 2006 en Porto Alegre. El secretario general del CMI, Rev. Dr. Konrad Raiser, lo invits ayer durante una entrevista mantenida en el Palacio de Gobierno, en Brasilia. "Para esa fecha azn voy a estar en el gobierno: espero que en esa ipoca sea todavma merecedor de la invitacisn" -dijo el presidente brasileqo, consciente de que la polmtica es un terreno resbaladizo donde los apoyos crmticos de hoy pueden ser las situaciones embarazosas de maqana.

El CMI recibe propuestas de tema para su prsxima Asamblea

19 de mayo de 2003 – El secretario general del Consejo Mundial de Iglesias (CMI), Rev. Dr. Konrad Raiser, invits a las personas interesadas a realizar propuestas de tema para la IX Asamblea del Consejo. Raiser formuls pzblicamente la invitacisn durante los zltimos tramos de su visita a Porto Alegre, ciudad donde se realizara la Asamblea en febrero de 2006. "El tema de la Asamblea debe ser relevante para la realidad latinoamericana y para las iglesias brasileqas," seqals.

Iglesia Catslica brasileqa dara todo su apoyo a la prsxima Asamblea del CMI

16 de mayo de 2003 – Aunque no integra el Consejo Mundial de Iglesias (CMI), la Iglesia Catslica Romana brasileqa dara todo su apoyo a la IX Asamblea del CMI que tendra lugar en Porto Alegre en febrero de 2006. Asm lo afirms Dom Sinisio Bohn, obispo catslico de Santa Cruz do Sul, en un encuentro con el secretario general del CMI, Rev. Dr. Konrad Raiser, quien esta visitando la ciudad donde se realizara la Asamblea.

National News

United Methodists Continue Response to Storms

May 16, 2003 – The United Methodist disaster and development agency moved to meet widespread weather-related problems by providing five emergency grants plus disaster response workers for several storm-struck areas. Tornadoes and flash floods caused at least 43 deaths in Kansas, Missouri, Tennessee and Illinois in the first half of May. Tornadoes, floods and hail heavily damaged areas in those and other states.

United Methodists Help Jackson, Tenn., Recover from Storms

May 13, 2003, JACKSON, Tenn. (UMNS) - Some 386,354 people live in and around Jackson, and every last one of them has a story to tell about the killer tornadoes that ravaged the city and surrounding west Tennessee counties in early May. Some of the stories have happy endings. Some don't.

Yum! Hears from Taco Bell Protesters
Tomato Pickers Picket HQ of Fast-food Giant's Parent Company

May 16, 2003, LOUISVILLE - About 50 farm workers and supporters, including a number of Presbyterians, staged a protest on May 15 at the headquarters of the parent company of fast-foot giant Taco Bell. Carrying signs and banners and chanting "Boycott Taco Bell," members of the Florida-based Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) demanded higher wages and improved working conditions in the fields where tomatoes for the Mexican-style restaurant chain are picked.

International News

Mozambique Team Brings Ministry to U.S.

May 15, 2003, BURLINGTON, Vt. - Teams of Volunteers in Mission frequently go to African nations, helping build churches or homes. Now, for only the second time, a Volunteer in Mission team has come from the African nation of Mozambique to the United States - to build relationships, unity and faith. Eleven men and women - both clergy and lay - from the United Methodist Church's Mozambique Area, arrived in Burlington May 4 for a three-week visit. The team attended the Troy Annual Conference session and is spending time with congregations across the conference. The first Mozambique Volunteer in Mission team to the United States visited the Troy Conference in spring 1998.

Ethiopian Aid Critical as Millions Face Starvation

May 9, 2003 – Outside aid has made a big difference in Ethiopia, where more than 11 million people are at risk of starvation, but more is needed urgently - $350 million more, according to an aid delegation that has visited the East African country. We entered homes with literally nothing more than a cooking pot, a few utensils and well-worn mats on a dirt floor, said Kathryn Wolford, president of Baltimore-based Lutheran World Relief (LWR). Families had already depleted their seeds and sold their animals. I saw one child, age 3, who was the size of a 1-year-old ... and realized we were seeing what could happen more and more frequently if adequate food assistance and other support are not forthcoming.

Anglican Brothers Held Hostage in Guadalcanal

May 11, 2003 – The Most Revd Ellison Pogo, Archbishop of the Church of Melanesia, confirmed this morning that six Brothers from the Melanesian Brotherhood are still being held hostage by Harold Keke and his supporters in the Weathercoast bush of Guadalcanal. The brothers were first reported missing about a week ago.

Church Orphanage Offers Refuge to Cambodian Children

May 19, 2003 – Pani has spent half his life in a Cambodian orphanage, waiting for his parents to return. Five years ago, they went to look for work in neighboring Thailand, leaving him behind. Now 10 years old, Pani still waits in the community of Kbal Spean, Cambodia. He's being cared for through a program of the United Methodist Church - one that provides both physical and spiritual nourishment to children like him. Cambodia is one of the poorest nations. The orphan population in the Southeast Asian country has been estimated at more than 200,000. Many of the children were orphaned during the destructive reign of the Khmer Rouge, the name given to native Cambodian communists.

Middle East News

Bishop Griswold Makes Pastoral Call on Wounded Soldier

May 12, 2003 – During the April Executive Council meeting, held at a conference center near Baltimore, Presiding Bishop Frank T. Griswold took a few hours to visit U.S. Army private first class Donald R. Schafer at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center in northern Washington, D.C. The 23-year-old Schafer, an active Episcopalian and a member of St. Matthias' in Baltimore, is a tank operator. He arrived in Kuwait for six months of desert training in September of last year with the 2nd Brigade Combat Team of the 3rd Infantry Division (Mechanized) and was to have returned to the U.S. on March 23. But war intervened on March 21.

Church Leaders Address Middle East 'Road Map' Proposal

May 16, 2003, CHICAGO - Calling for "bold leadership," United States church and church organization leaders sent letters May 14 to the prime ministers of the Israeli and Palestinian governments to offer encouragement for the current Middle East peace plan. The letters were delivered two days prior to the first scheduled meeting between Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel and recently appointed Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas of the Palestinian Authority.

People in the News

Gay Cleric Rev. Troy Perry to Receive Doctorate from Episcopal Divinity School

May 13, 2003, WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA - Rev. Troy D. Perry, human rights activist and Founder of the predominantly gay Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC), will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity Degree from Episcopal Divinity School, Cambridge, MA, during graduation ceremonies on May 22, 2003. Metropolitan Community Churches is a Christian denomination with a positive outreach to the gay and lesbian community.