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Antoinette Scully

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‘Organizers have never changed the world without groups of people who trusted them to hold that future imagining.’

On Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024, Jim Bridgeman was ordained at Lancaster (Pa.) Church of the Brethren. We always celebrate when someone accepts the call of God to serve the church as a minister, and Jim is no exception. That is, for one important detail: Jim is 93 years of age.

Seven Church of the Brethren districts in the midwest and plains regions partnered to hold an online workshop titled "Changing Mindsets for Ministry" on Feb. 22, with about 80 people participating. The event featured Jeff MacDonald, a journalist and pastor from the Boston area, as keynote speaker.

The World Council of Churches (WCC) has joined global faith leaders in signing a joint letter calling on G20 finance ministers to take decisive action on the escalating global debt crisis. Released ahead of the G20 Finance Ministers' Meeting, the letter—co-signed by WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay—warns of the devastating consequences of unsustainable debt on vulnerable populations. Nearly half the world’s population lives in countries where debt payments exceed spending on health, education, and climate resilience.

A transformative story of hope – from street boy to pastor

[Office of the Archbishop of York] Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell has expressed concern over the decision by the United Kingdom’s government to cut Official Development Assistance (ODA) from 0.5% to 0.3% of gross national income, following the prime minister’s announcement of increased defense spending. While acknowledging the need for investment in national security, Cottrell has questioned whether reducing vital aid funding is the right approach. He said “Defense and development are not competing priorities; they are complementary. Properly used, development funding helps prevent conflicts, tackle instability and build a safer, more just world. Cutting aid in this way risks exacerbating the very crises that lead to insecurity.” This decision comes at a time when global need is rising and of the impact this will have across some of the poorest communities in the Anglican Communion. Cottrell is urging that the government ensures that increases in defense spending include robust investment in preventative diplomacy and conflict resolution mechanisms. “True security is not only about military strength — it is also about addressing the root causes of conflict, poverty, and instability,” he said. “I am asking that the government conduct a full assessment of how these aid cuts will affect existing U.K.-funded development programs and to take every possible step to shield the world’s most vulnerable from the consequences of this decision. “

[Melbourne Anglican] At-risk young people are being equipped with valuable life skills to help them transition into independent living, thanks to a community initiative at Footscray Anglican parish. The workshops focus on car maintenance and safety and are run in partnership with Concern Australia, a youth charity that works with disadvantaged young people across Melbourne. Footscray vicar the Rev. Nigel Pope said the church was excited to use its facilities to give hospitality and welcome to young people. “This initiative is about more than just skills — it’s about fostering belonging, support and a sense of community,” he said. Young people who participated said the program was fun and they learned a lot. They said they liked that the instructor was non-judgmental toward silly questions. “They made it fun to learn everything,” one participant said. “It was a great program run by good blokes and I enjoyed it very much,” said another. Footscray assistant curate the Rev. Kezha Angami said practical skills like car maintenance can make a real difference in people’s lives. “We hope these workshops will not only teach but also build confidence and community,” he said. Concern Australia chief executive Judith Atkinson said the partnership with Footscray was an exciting extension of the range of workshops and programs they already provide across Melbourne. “It will be a great way to help build positive community connections for young people as they transition to adulthood,” she said. Funding for the pilot program was provided by Maribyrnong City Council. Concern Australia grew out of projects initiated by the Rev. John Smith more than 40 years ago. It provides a range of services to young people including employment skills, housing and homelessness outreach.

<article class="media media--image display--large"> <div class="image-container"> <div class="field field-media-image"> <img loading="eager" width="430" height="323" alt="" class="lazyload" data-src="/sites/default/files/styles/default_mobile/public/2025-02/fyi-graphics_2025-2-24_network-birthday.jpg?itok=kCw90_yv" /> </div> </div> </article> <br /> The CRC Network launched in February 2010. Today God continues to use this space to build online community and support ministry leaders.

For decades, the United States has been a beacon of hope for those fleeing violence and persecution. Since 1975, more than 3.7 million refugees have found safety and a new home in America, where they have contributed to the nation’s culture, workforce and economy. Welcoming refugees is deeply rooted in U.S. values, and history shows that when refugees integrate and ... Read More

<article class="media media--image display--large"> <div class="image-container"> <div class="field field-media-image"> <img loading="eager" width="430" height="323" alt="Gather San Diego participants reflect on where God is at work in the CRC" class="lazyload" data-src="/sites/default/files/styles/default_mobile/public/2025-02/crc-news_2025-2-26_last-chance-to-gather.jpg?itok=SQ9qXtLJ" /> </div> <div class="field field-image-caption">Gather San Diego participants reflect on where God is at work in the CRC</div> </div> </article> <br /> With only three Gather events remaining, people are invited to register as soon as possible for their last chance to participate.