Photos by Marissa Witkovsky-Eldred, Sharon Flaten, Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford, and Kim Boardman
“Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together.” ~Hebrews 10:24-25, NLT
There’s something special when we gather together, and something beautiful when we are united with one heart, mind, and vision. And we know it isn’t just about us. We believe the words of Jesus when he said that he is among us whenever two or more of us are gathered (Matthew 18:20).
It has been a blessing this year to see and hear about wonderful outcomes whenever we gather together. Congregations and districts have shared love in their communities, generously cared for vulnerable people, and witnessed to the gospel of peace.
Through the mission and ministry of the Church of the Brethren, people have gathered (in-person and virtually) to pray, worshipped God at conferences, learned through workshops and ministry trainings, served through volunteer opportunities, and grown in faith. United across many miles and around the world, we grow courageous disciples, love and serve one another, extend generosity and witness, and steward God’s blessings.
As we approach Giving Tuesday (December 2), we invite you to gather with us in love and purpose to support the work of the Church of the Brethren that builds faith and changes lives. Every gift helps us continue the work of Jesus as we join him in the neighborhood.
Members of the Welcoming HEART Ministry team sorting recyclables to raise funds for their work. Photo by Judy Minnich Stout
Welcoming heart ministry
By Judy Minnich Stout, member of San Diego (Calif.) First Church of the Brethren and the Welcoming HEART (Hope, Empathy, Admiration, Respect, Transparency) ministry
Who are our neighbors? Where do they live? Where do they go? Some have come from as far away as Mali, like a young cowherder speaking only Fulani with no literacy skills to speak of. Some have walked for months (even years) to reach the international border near our city—just a 20 minute drive from our Peace Campus and the San Diego First Church of the Brethren.
What do they need and what can we provide? Our leadership, made up of church members, has changed many times over the years but our ministry remains the same: provide shelter, guidance, a cup of cold water, a listening ear. Their stories are each unique. Some have lost family members along the route. Others have grown their families along the way. But the impulse never varies: they are seeking safety and a chance to make a better life for themselves and their families.
Our old buildings may have cracks and the occasional termite, but we are constantly thinking of how we can strengthen our outreach to the community in whatever form it takes. We have partnered with various refugee settlement agencies, and we have also taught our newly arrived neighbors how to get around by public transit and find the local food banks.
We have accompanied asylum seekers to their appointed case dates in federal court and even visited them in detention. Recently we saw one taken by ICE agents right from under our noses as she exited the courtroom. Soon thereafter we were able to visit her in detention, and this took great courage not only on our part but for her. Before seeing visitors, she was strip-searched, which was so unbearable that she didn’t want to have another in-person visit. Shortly thereafter she was released to us. Some observed that it was precisely because a church was visiting and monitoring that she was released (as so many others were not). This is not always a pretty picture, but it shows that we care about them and their futures.
We are currently upgrading our facility to better shelter asylum seekers and their families. We have found the nearby medical clinics that will care for their children. We assist families to get immunizations for their children and enroll them in local schools. And finally, when they are ready to move on to other lodgings, we help them pack up and get settled as best we can.
How are you serving your neighbors?
In the Church of the Brethren, we celebrate the work of congregations who serve their neighbors. Find more stories of churches being Jesus in the neighborhood at www.brethren.org/church. Learn more about the faith-building, life-changing work we do together at www.brethren.org/greatthings.
“Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.” —Mark 6:50
During this past year, the Church of the Brethren expanded work in South Sudan, approved a new Global Mission Development Fund, and responded to catastrophic disasters in North Carolina and Florida. The church held a first-ever L.E.A.D. Conference, brought renewed energy to Intercultural Ministries and translation efforts, connected with families through the Shine Everywhere initiative, and advocated for the rights of immigrants.
These are a few highlights from the range of ministries carried out by the Mission and Ministry Board and its staff in 2024. Despite challenges both near and far, we are buoyed by Jesus’ call to take heart.
The 2025 Annual Report describes work in the areas of Global Mission, Service Ministries, Discipleship and Leadership Formation, Organizational Resources, and the General Secretary’s Office. The work is guided by the board’s Strategic Plan, which comprises four strategies: pursue Christ’s call to discipleship, embody the biblical command to love our neighbors, seek God’s racial justice, and reclaim New Testament models of giving.
Brethren Disaster Ministries volunteer Ron Hawes (featured above): “I am looking forward to my next BDM volunteer opportunity.” Photo by Sammy Deacon
By Ron Hawes, Brethren Disaster Ministries volunteer from Paxton Church of the Brethren, Atlantic Northeast District
Over the past couple of years, I have wanted to volunteer so I can use my God given skills and my hands to help others. As an introvert, it can be difficult to move out of my comfort zone but earlier this year I had a conversation with Pastor Kirby Dubble at Paxton Church of the Brethren regarding volunteering for disaster missions. After our conversation, I looked on the Brethren Disaster Ministries(BDM) website for a volunteer opportunity this spring but could not find a time to fit my schedule. However, with God’s perfect timing, Pastor Kirby received an email regarding a short-term opportunity to serve in North Carolina in May. I was hesitant at first but when God says go, you go, and I am so thankful I did.
For my first volunteer opportunity with BDM I spent the week of May 11 based in Spruce Pine, N.C., helping to restore a flood damaged house in Green Mountain (about a 35-minute drive from Spruce Pine). The trip was well coordinated and the administrative team at BDM equips volunteers with all the information needed to have a successful trip, including a packing list to ensure that you bring everything you will need.
When I arrived in Spruce Pine at our housing location, I quickly learned how loving and welcoming all the BDM leaders and volunteers are. I cannot say enough about how their humility, caring, joyfulness, and love put my introvert tendencies at ease. The fellowship I experienced throughout the week was amazing. The coordination and leadership of Sammy Deacon and John Mueller was very appreciated.
While on site at the project house, the BDM project leadership team pairs volunteers with a specific job based on what they shared during the registration process. I worked on the plumbing team led by Doug Campbell who provided the instruction needed to successfully complete the tasks to get the house’s plumbing in order. Even if you do not have previous experience or skills, your hands are needed (Matthew 25:34-40) and you will learn new skills.
What I did not realize prior to this volunteer opportunity is how churches of different denominations work together to help restore lives in these disaster areas. The First Presbyterian Church in Spruce Pine blessed us with spaces for overnight accommodations, a kitchen for our excellent BDM household leaders Mary Mueller and Nancy Kopp to make nourishing meals, and the reception hall which provided more than ample space for breakfast, dinner, and fellowship. The Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church Disaster Ministries was our rebuilding partner. They provided equipment and building materials for the project as well as guidance on building codes. During the week, we enjoyed fellowship meals with both partners, which allowed for the opportunity to hear stories about how the people in the disaster affected areas were impacted by the flooding.
Please continue to pray for those impacted by flooding, tornadoes, wildfire, and other disasters months and years after they occur. Also pray for the BDM leadership and volunteers as they display God’s love through action. Overall, this experience has left me deeply moved and I am looking forward to my next BDM volunteer opportunity.
This reflection was originally featured in the summer issue of Bridgesproduced by Brethren Disasters Ministries. Learn more about Brethren Disaster Ministries and its volunteer opportunities at www.brethren.org/bdm. Support the volunteers who go when God says “go” at www.brethren.org/giveBDM.
International guests at the Global Mission Dinner, with Sharon Brugger Norton, executive director of Global Mission at the lectern. Speaking in the microphone is Daniel Mbaya, president of Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria. Photo by Donna Parcell.
Together we love and serve one another:
Remarks recorded by Frank Ramirez at the Global Mission dinner at Annual Conference 2025, originally published in Newsline.
Sharon Brugger Norton, executive director of Global Mission: “God has always chosen to partner with us. God does not choose to work alone. We need each other. We need our global Brethren as well.”
Daniel Mbaya, president of Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN, the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria): “Without God, the EYN would not be here today. . . . Your prayers and support have helped the church to grow in the midst of persecution.”
Etienne Nsanzimana, founding pastor and current president of the Rwanda Church of the Brethren “I love the Brethren church because of two things. What do you say? Love and peace. Peace and love is what I try to do in our Rwandan churches, and I have taught it to the people. Really, we can [teach] the world.”
A theme interpretation for the 2025 Mission Offering of the Church of the Brethren
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your servant—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” ~Matthew 20:26-28, NIV
Competition is a very human thing. It feels good when we are chosen first or when we are called the best at something. The world measures success by getting ahead, gaining power, and acquiring more. The ways of Jesus often challenge our human perspective of the world.
When the disciples were caught in a competition of their own, Jesus shared clearly about what greatness looks like in the kingdom of God. For Jesus, to be the greatest does not always mean winning, but helping others to thrive—not conquering others, but serving them. Just as Jesus loved and served his disciples, so also does he call us to serve one another.
Through the Global Mission of the Church of the Brethren, we are cultivating relationships with sisters and brothers around the world. Our work seeks to strengthen faith around the world for mutual upbuilding and meaningful partnership in mission. Through the ministries of each partner country and in how we work together, we live in the ways of Jesus and serve one another. We work with partners in the US and around the world to address human need—spiritual, physical, and communal.
The Global Church of the Brethren Communion includes churches in the US, Brazil, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Honduras, India, Nigeria, Rwanda, Spain, Uganda, and Venezuela. Global Mission also has a mission worker in South Sudan, and partners in Burundi, China, Ecuador, Kenya, Mexico, Tanzania, and Vietnam.
The Mission Offering supports the Core Ministries of the Church of the Brethren and includes Global Mission. Thank you for your partnership to help our sisters and brothers thrive in ministry around the globe. Together we serve one another as we join Jesus in the neighborhood.
By Traci Rabenstein, executive director of Mission Advancement
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love for the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ . . . But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” ~ Galatians 5:13-14, 22-25; NIV
Over the past year, I have found myself (more than once) wrestling with what it means to have the Holy Spirit of God dwell within me, within us as the people of God. Here is what I understand: the day we accept Christ is the day the Holy Spirit enters into our lives to dwell with us. From that point forward, the Spirit guides us through life, aiding in the interpretation of God’s word so that we might hear God’s “rhema” (God’s specific and special word to us) so that we can be drawn closer to God to know God more and more. The Holy Spirit provides us with actions and words to use in various situations so that the grace of God and love of Christ might draw others into God’s glory.
I’m not sure about you, but I regret that I can sometimes be quick to anger or focused on what I’m thinking and feeling instead of considering the needs of others. Neither of which, I’m convinced, are things that the Holy Spirit would lead me to act upon. I believe these are the kinds of “works of the flesh” that we are to avoid when we let the Spirit work in and through us.
The Galatians were a diverse people—heirs to a Celtic warrior past, immersed in a Hellenistic present with dialogue across religions, and living under Roman rule, all while navigating the new and challenging doctrines of early Christianity. Paul’s letter to the church in Galatia reveals a significant cultural and theological tension in which Jewish Christians were attempting to persuade Gentile converts that they needed to adhere to Jewish laws to express true faith in Christ. Paul’s forceful argument against this “different gospel” indicates the strength of the cultural and religious debate occurring among them. Paul reminded them that salvation is by God’s grace through faith in Christ Jesus and nothing else.
After sharing a list of the “works of the flesh,” Paul also shares the “fruit of the Spirit” as a contrast. In this way it is clear what is of God and what is not. It gives us insight into what life will look like if we give in to the desires of the flesh versus what our Christian life becomes when we give way to the leading and desires of the Holy Spirit.
Paul makes the difference even more stark as he mentions “the works” to describe the flesh versus simply saying “the fruit of” related to the Spirit. Works are something that you do, motivated by your flesh. But fruit is something produced through you by the Spirit as you respond to God’s prompting. The sources are different, and their outcomes are different. For fruit to be produced, the Holy Spirit must be included in every move we make if we truly want God to lead us, give us clarity about scripture, and empower us.
On a trip home to Pennsylvania, I made a stop in Kentucky. I usually enjoy hearing people share their stories wherever I go, but as I ate my meal at a Cracker Barrel that night, I was tired and wanted to get back on the road.
An older gentleman in bib overalls with large front pockets was sitting nearby, and it seemed that all the staff knew him. When I finished my meal and the waitress brought me a cup of coffee to go, she insisted that I meet Mr. Paul. I honestly didn’t want to meet Mr. Paul, but off I went with her to his table.
Our interaction was brief, sharing our names and where we’re from—and of course he knew someone from Pennsylvania. After a minute, he shared a funny joke with me, which gave me and others nearby a good laugh. Mr. Paul then said, “Thank you, Miss Traci, for letting me share to the end. Not many people do.” Had I not taken the time to go over and meet Mr. Paul, he, myself, and others would have missed the opportunity to be blessed. I’m grateful that the fruit of Spirit could be seen in action.
I pray that we all find those “Mr. Paul” moments where we turn away from our own desires, and instead lean into the Holy Spirit’s leading. And when we do so, may the grace of God and love of Christ be evident in us and produce good fruit.
As followers of Jesus in the Church of the Brethren, we aim to live by the Spirit and join Jesus in the neighborhood. Learn more about our mission and ministry at www.brethren.org/greatthings or support our work today at www.brethren.org/give.h
Left: President Expert Bukene with the grain mill funded by GFI. Top: Homemade bread. Guinea corn in Nigeria. Bottom: Porridge packets for sale. Photos by Jennifer Hosler and Chris Elliott
By Jennifer Hosler, director of the Global Food Initiative of the Church of the Brethren
Bread. Naan. Chapatis. Injera. Tortillas. Arepas. Tuwo, Oatmeal. Porridge. These foods are staples around the world, made from diverse grains (wheat, teff, maize, rice, oats, and others). Grains are the “staff of life” – central to almost every culture on earth. Grains are often used as the first solid food for babies, mixing rice or oatmeal or ground up maize to make a porridge. My own child started solid food with a blend of oats, amaranth, and quinoa. In northern Nigeria, small children sometimes eat kunun gyada, a rice-based porridge with groundnut (peanut) butter and tamarind, for a nutritious and protein-filled breakfast.
Since grains are crucial to diverse cultures and nutrition around the globe, the GFI deals with grains in many ways when working to end hunger and promote food security. Grants equip farmers to grow food (including staple grains) sustainably, using fewer resources and methods that benefit the farmer and the environment. GFI also funds grinding machines and mills, to help local communities grind and utilize the grain that they grow. For many places around the world, subsistence farmers grow their own grains and take that grain to a local grinding machine or mill when it is time to use it.
The Church of the Brethren in Burundi is seeing the ministry benefits of a local mill funded by GFI. At the 2024 Annual Conference, founding pastor Expert Bukene, president of the Church of the Brethren in Burundi, shared about the Abavukanyi Porridge or “Brethren Porridge.” Using the new grinding machine, the church leadership has developed a nutritional blend of grains that they are selling as Brethren Porridge in the community and also using it in the church’s nursery school. Brethren Porridge is known for its nutritional value; the proceeds from its sale go to support the church ministries. Beyond the Brethren Porridge, the grinding machine provides affordable grain grinding to the surrounding community, meeting a community need while also providing income to help sustain the church’s ministries.
Jesus declared himself to be the Bread of Life (John 6:35)—that which is central, nourishing, fulfilling, and empowering. Jesus also told his disciples to feed hungry people, saying, “They need not go away; you give them something to eat” (Matthew 14:16).
When we eat oatmeal, bake some bread, or otherwise use grains, nuts, or seeds in our households, we can consider our neighbors around the world who are subsistence farmers, whose livelihoods and nutrition depend on the grain that they grow by hand and grind in their local mill. I am grateful for the ministry of GFI, that we can walk alongside these neighbors—neighbors who may be across the globe, neighbors who may differ by ethnicity, language, or religious practice—and help give them something to eat. Thank you for supporting GFI through prayer and financial donations—we are doing this work together!
This reflection was originally featured in the newest issue of Sustenance, a publication of the Global Food Initiative. Learn more about this ministry of the Church of the Brethren at www.brethren.org/gfi or support it today at www.brethren.org/givegfi.
A reflection by Katelyn Hoffman, serving at Ferncliff Camp and Conference Center, Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) Unit #335
The last 9 months volunteering through the Brethren Volunteer Service program have been the most formative months of my life so far. Having just graduated from high school, leaving my home country of Germany to serve at Ferncliff Camp and Conference Center was the best decision I could have made for myself. In this time, I have already grown and learned so much in many ways.
One of the most important ways BVS has shaped my future is by helping me find my passion. A topic we discussed during orientation that really stuck with me was the idea of “finding your calling.” Throughout high school, I often felt overwhelmed and nervous about not knowing exactly what I wanted to do with my life. However, working at Ferncliff’s Nature Preschool has given me a sense of clarity and direction.
Working with kids has always been an interest of mine, and because I love the outdoors, Ferncliff’s nature preschool program was a perfect match. In my first few weeks at the camp, I had the opportunity to develop a variety of skills related to early childhood education, as well as gain experience teaching and guiding children in an outdoor setting.
This experience has helped me grow not only in my skills, but also personally. I’ve learned so much about myself and what it means to live in a community. Although the principles of living simply were an adjustment at first, it has deepened my appreciation and gratitude for everything I have. I am more aware and mindful of how rich I really am in life. This principle will shape the way I live for the rest of my life, and I am very glad to have this experience now.
Serving through BVS at Ferncliff has not only strengthened my love for working with children, but it has also helped me realize that this is the career path I want to pursue. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to grow within such a supportive community, and for the chance to discover both my strengths and my passion.
Katelyn is from Germany, but she has family ties to the Church of the Brethren in the US. Her father (from Germany) and her mother (a member of the Church of the Brethren) met while serving for a year of BVS in San Antonio, Tx. Her brother, Benjamin, also served at Ferncliff Camp and Conference Center in BVS Unit #331. Katelyn now carries on the family legacy of living a life of service.
This reflection was originally featured in the summer issue of The Volunteer, a publication by Brethren Volunteer Service. Learn more about Brethren Volunteer Service at www.brethren.org/bvs or support this Core Ministry of the Church of the Brethren at www.brethren.org/giveBVS.
Reflections from Discipleship and Leadership Formation
Young Adult Conference – May 23-25, 2025 38 young adults Anabaptism began 500 years ago when a group of young adults gathered and prayed for ways to follow Jesus in their rapidly changing world, and it continues today as 38 young adults from 9 states and the District of Columbia converged over Memorial Day weekend for the Church of the Brethren’s annual Young Adult Conference, hosted at Brethren Woods Camp and Retreat Center near Harrisonburg, Va. From Friday evening to Sunday morning, through sermons, small groups, service, and social activities, we unfolded the wisdom of Jeremiah 17:7-8, exploring how strong and well-nourished roots can fortify us in times of drought and heat, nurturing our growth and renewing the hope God gifts us. Attendees cherish the space to share their struggles, hopes, and talents with Christians of similar age and values, and also to simply have fun together. ~Luke Haldeman, 2025 attendee and member of the Young Adult Steering Committee
Christian Citizenship Seminar – April 5-9, 2025 24 students, advisors, and staff CCS is a wonderful opportunity—not only to meet new people and explore Washington, D.C.—but also to learn about yourself, your voice, and how to use it. This trip offered many chances to discover ways to advocate and make our voices heard. As youth, it’s important for us to recognize the power in our voices, and CCS helped me do just that. ~Kaia Pfeiff, 2025 participant
Clergywomen’s Retreat – February 10-13, 2025 More than 70 clergywomen I am deeply grateful to all who made the Clergywomen’s Retreat 2025 such a meaningful experience. The way Rev. Meghan Good guided us through various scenarios of love— showing how Jesus modeled and encouraged us to love in a way that benefits us and blesses others—was truly inspiring. The small group discussions were especially valuable, allowing us to connect as sisters in Christ, listen to each other’s concerns, and recognize that we may be facing similar challenges in our ministries. We were able to share wisdom and hope, strengthening our faith as we continue our journeys. ~Mayra Calix, 2025 attendee
L.E.A.D Conference – November 15-17, 2024 Around 100 participants and staff The very first Church of the Brethren L.E.A.D. (Listen – Equip – Adapt – Disciple) Conference took place at Ephrata (Pa.) Church of the Brethren in November of 2024. The event was sponsored by Discipleship and Leadership Formation. Through worship, keynote messages, and breakout sessions, the gathering encouraged, inspired, and equipped leaders to adapt and serve effectively in their ministry contexts. Our next L.E.A.D. Conference will be back at Ephrata on May 1-3, 2026. Church leaders of all positions (board members, treasurers, Sunday school teachers, pastors, deacons, etc.) are all welcome to come learn and grow with us so we can all be more effective in the congregations we serve. ~Nathan Polzin, executive director of Discipleship and Leadership Formation
Update from Intercultural Ministries The deportation defense response team—a partnership between Intercultural Ministries, On Earth Peace, districts, and many others—has answered prayers for many reasons. It includes many hands and brains for what is needed to help our churches, our brethren, and ourselves. Together we are able to discover the needs and navigate the sensitive issues collectively with compassion and understanding. Serving with this group of people doing this great work is immeasurable but incredible. Addressing matters related to immigration has broadened the scope of Intercultural Ministries. We have not only been offered the opportunity to serve well but to be Jesus in the neighborhood for our brothers and sisters with knowledge, empathy, compassion, love, and respect. ~Founa Badet, director of Intercultural Ministries
