"Finding Our Way: Being Christian in a Diverse World"

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Fall (Sept., Oct., Nov., 2006) 1011 North Main Street, Bloomington, Illinois 61701-1753 Journal of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Illinois & Wisconsin Volume 58, No 3 Our CCIW mission is - Growing Disciples congregations for healthy, vital ministry.
Issue Highlights
1 Regional Assembly Pre-Assembly Wkshp 2 Called to be Disciples of Christ - Listening Conferences In Region 3 Around IL/WI: Clergy News 4-5 Church News 6 Coming Events Listening Conferences Clergy Ethics Seminar So. IL Wms Ret. Common Place Walk Disciples Men Domestic Viol. Walk ATiiM Annual Conf. Wm Clergy Ret. Wm Gatherings 2007 R1-R8 Reconciliation
Special Edition 7 Mission News Honduras Report 8 Month of the Ministry Women in Ministry 9 Camp Walter Scott 2006 Camp Report Labyrinth Shelters North Side Chapel 10 General Church News Mix in 06 Report Disaster Recovery World Convention Heartbeats Capital Campaign 11 Regional Calendar Staff Phone Nos. & e-mail addresses Address Correction Information 12 Thanksgiving Special Offering Finding Our Way: Being Christian in a Diverse World Pre-Assembly WorkshopFriday, Nov. 9, 2006 Wyndham Lisle Hotel, Lisle, IL 10 am to 4:00 pm What does it mean to live in a post-Christian age? How can Chris- tians think about themselves in relation to followers of other religious
and spiritual traditions? How can Christians work effectively with others
in bringing about a more just, peaceful and sustainable world? Why
might the inter-religious movement be the salvation of mainline Protes-
tantism in the United States? How can Christians be faithful to the
gospel and relevant to the world? This workshop will look at the theological and practical options facing Christians, specifically, Protestants, in a post-Christian, religiously diverse content. Workshop Leader: Rev. Dirk Ficca , Executive Director of the Council for a Parliament of the Worlds Religions; member of Chicago Presbytery Cost: $35.00 (includes lunch) Registration Form: Regional website & Mission Opportunities Packet Sponsored by I. U. M. H. E.IL United Ministries in Higher Education Dirk Ficca CCIW 2006 Regional Assembly Get Assembly registration forms: (Deadline Oct. 18 for discount.) In Assembly Packet mailed to your church In the Mission Opportunities Packet On the CCIW website: www.cciwdisciples.org Reserve housing at: (Deadline Oct. 20 for special rate.) The Wyndham Lisle, 3000 Warrenville Rd, Lisle, IL By phone: 630-505-1000 mention the CCIW Regional Assembly for special rate. On the web: at www.wyndham.com *Saturday Breakfasts, 7-8:30 am *Saturday Luncheons, 12-1:00 pm Social ConcernsStill Point Theatre Women Dr. Daisy L. Machado Presentation MenDr. Timothy James
Transformation Ministries - YouthStill Point Drama Troupe; R. Wayne Calhoun Sr., Minister Eureka & Culver Stockton Students Of Evangelism, DOM * Tickets are necessary for all of these meals. 2
Called to be disciples of Christ

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under
heaven ... This text which begins the third chapter of Ecclesiastes is one of
my favorites. It has always been a
healing reading during significant
life passages like weddings and
funerals as well as ministry instal-
lations, building dedications, and
congregational closings. The
prophet reminds us life has a
rhythm and a cycle, that change is
always with us, and that no matter
where we are in these processes
or systems, God is always with us.

Those lines were the first thing which came to mind for me in May
at a emergency meeting the Gen-
eral Minister and President called
of the Christian Church Team
Leadership Conference (aka TLC).
This group essentially involves the
executive leadership of our Church
the general unit presidents and
officers, seminary presidents, and
regional ministers. The General
Board had commissioned a special
task force to study our crisis in
mission funding and Ill call it that
because it is and to make further
recommendations regarding our
distributive processes for the funds
received. It was a depressing and
disappointing meeting because
there are no easy solutions, quick
fixes, nor, it seems, imaginative
new ideas. We have been wres-
tling with these issues for most of
my tenure as a Regional Minister. In fact, I recently read an article by
renowned church consultant Loren
Mead where he said, as we begin
the 21 st century the important work of middle judicatories (aka
regions for us) will be under sig-
nificant pressure from two sources
severely diminishing financial
resources coupled with increased
demands of the office, especially in
the areas of congregational conflict
and ministerial misconduct. That
was not good news reading be-
cause it was so realistic about
whats been happening in my life.
This is a very real challenge before
us!

At TLC I also became painfully
aware, CCIW has run out of time
and money -- we no longer could
continue what we were trying to do
-- the time for radical change is
upon us! CCIW has always been
a generous region and among the
best supporters of Disciples Mis-
sion Fund. The new distribution
proposals will essentially mean a
20% cut in CCIWs share of the
Fund. While I also knew our con-
gregational giving was down for a
wide variety of reasons -- mostly
the pressures of increased local
expenses and declining member-
ships I had not seen its effect
cumulatively until a number liter-
ally jumped out at me in the meet-
ing. I came back home and
started doing some detailed statis-
tical studies. Essentially we are
down $300,000 from ten years
ago, but are still maintaining the
same clergy staffing levels and
larger programming. We have a
very gifted staff and they have
been working hard on our mission
initiatives to help turn things
around and to reverse decline
trends. It is beginning to show
some positive evidence, but not
enough to stop this hemorrhaging.
In addition to living with deficits
over these years, weve been mak-
ing cuts here and there until we are at bare bones but its still not
enough. Even though our vision
and mission plan call for a clergy
staff of six and weve been doing it
with five, our only and most imme-
diate option now is to reduce it fur-
ther to three. We can no longer
fund two of our clergy staff posi-
tions that is a painful thing to say
and do. This work literally now
feels impossible and some signifi-
cant cutbacks in programming will
simply have to occur.

Where? What? and How? are now the key questions in front
of us. We need the input from you
the donors our congregations
about what you can and will fund,
about what of our ministries are
essential and what now are less
so, and can a staff of three realisti-
cally do it. We need to dream
some additional options. Our Re-
gional Board in late September
and our Regional Assembly in No-
vember will have some tough deci-
sions to make. To gather your in-
put and answer your questions, we
are planning a set of fifteen two-
hour Listening Conferences
across the Region the first few
weeks of September. We hope
every congregation will commis-
sion two to four key leaders to be
present and provide input. A spe-
cial mailing has been sent out with
these details. And, in all this time
of transition and critical decision-
making, please lift up the whole
church as well as your regional
partners in earnest prayer. We are
entering a new season of church
life and we need both strength for
this difficult journey as well as
openness to Gods leading.



Dr. Herb Knudsen, Regional Minister & President 3 Pastoral Changes Amy & David Artman
resigned as Co-Pastors
of Catching Life Chris-
tian Church, Chicago,
IL, effective January 1,
2006. They have
moved to Arkansas.
David Jassman began
as Licensed Pastor for
First Christian Church,
Stanford, IL, May 30, 2006, and will be an entering student this Fall at Christian Theological Semi-
nary, Indianapolis, IN.
Todd Phelps began as Pastor of First Christian Church,
Albion, IL, July 1, 2006.
Peggy Stott will begin as Interim Minister for Lomax
Christian Church, Lomax, IL, September 1, 2006.
Kyu Suk Um resigned as Pastor of Evergreen Christian
Church, Arlington Heights, IL, effective June 30, 2006.
The remaining congregation has now merged with Chi-
cago Christian Church and ceased to exist as a new
church start.
Carolyn Watkins resigned as Pastor of Lomax Christian
Church, Lomax, IL, effective August 31, 2006. Rev. Wat-
kins has accepted a CPE training position as Chaplain at
St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN. We welcome Rev. Richard
Williams to Illinois United
Ministries in Higher Educa-
tion as Ecumenical Campus
Minister at Agape House at
the University of Illinois, Chi- cago Campus. Rev. Williams
began the position April 1,
2006. He has standing as a
Presbyterian minister. Deaths Rev. Dr. Connie Feightner, 64, former pastor of First
Christian Church, Vandalia, IL, passed away June 2,
2006 in Mt. Vernon, OH following a long illness. Memorial
services were held June 7 at First Christian Church,
Mount Vernon with Rev. Jamie Grump officiating. Dr.
Feightner had served pastorates in Ohio, North Carolina,
Texas, Vandalia, IL, and most recently, First Christian
Church (Disciples of Christ) in Mt. Vernon, OH. She is
survived by her husband, John T. Feightner, one daugh-
ter, one son, and two grandsons. Rev. Merrill Hershberger, 83, retired Disciples of Christ
pastor, died June 18, 2006 in Daytona Beach, FL. A me-
morial service was held June 24 at First Christian Church,
Daytona Beach. Rev. Hershberger served pastorates in
Illinois at Washburn Christian Church, Washburn, First
Christian Church, Vandalia, Glen Oak Christian Church,
Peoria, and 25 years at First Christian Church, Robinson.
He moved in 1976 to Daytona Beach, FL, where he
served First Christian Church, was Chaplain for the Good
Samaritan Center and served as Refugee Coordinator of the Florida Council of Churches. After retirement, Rev.
Hershberger served several Interim pastorates, includ-
ing First Christian Church, Vandalia, IL.
He received the Distinguished Flying Cross for ser- vice in the Army Air Corps during World War II. He
earned his BA degree from Eureka College and his BD
from Brite Divinity School, Texas Christian University.
Rev. Hershberger is survived by his wife, Betty, one daughter, one son, one son-in-law, five grandchildren,
and five great-grandchildren, a sister and a brother.
Daughter, Rev. Christine Miner, preceded him in death. Celebrations Rev. Theophilus M. Carroll, Minister Emeritus of First
Christian Church of Gurnee, IL, was honored in Jerusa-
lem on March 28, 2006 by the Minister of Tourism for
the State of Israel. This award was on the 49th anniver-
sary of Rev. Carrolls first visit to Israel in 1966. In pre-
senting the beautiful award, the Minister of Tourism
stated that he had not known anyone who had visited
Israel for 40 years consistently. During the past forty years, Theo has organized and led 32 tour groups to the Holy Land and has visited the
region on eleven additional occasions. His next
Disciples In the Holy Land tour is scheduled for Octo-
ber 2007. You may receive full information on the tour
(without obligation) by contacting him at (847) 249-9777
or writing to him at: PO Box 11, Waukegan, IL 60079. The Reverend Deborah Owen of Champaign, IL was
one of thirteen women recognized as a Valiant Woman
at the State Assembly of Church
Women United of Illinois in Springfield,
IL, April 26, 2006. She is the youngest
woman of the Champaign/Urbana Unit
to receive this award.
Rev. Owen is an ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of
Christ). She served for several years
as Associate Minister at University
Place Christian Church, Champaign,
IL, and has served in ecumenical campus ministry on
the University of Illinois, Champaign campus. Richard Williams I. U. M. H. E. Illinois United Ministries in Higher Educ. T.M. Carroll (lf., standing) admires award presented to him by
the Minister of Tourism for the State of Israel (rt., standing ).
Theos wife, Bo, (seated front table at rt. ) accompanied him. Deborah Owen 4 Church NewsAround Illinois & Wisconsin The World Outreach Team of First Christian Church,
Knoxville, IL extends a special ministry to veterans each
year by
taking Val-
entines
prepared
by the con-
gregation
and ele-
mentary
school chil-
dren to the
Veterans
Hospital in
Iowa City,
IA. The
ministry
was ex-
panded this year to include veterans in the Knox County
Nursing Home. Team members, Carolyn Smith, Kristin
Hillery, and Sonya Smith assisted the youth.
In June, the Arts & Inspiration Team of Knoxville First Christian Church also developed a unique idea for illus-
trating the rushing wind of Pentecost using kites. In the weeks leading up to Pentecost, the Sunday School
classes cut sails out of Tyvek, and decorated them with
images of Pentecostdoves, clouds, flames, and lips. At
an evening pizza party, adults cut dowels and strung kit
string. On Saturday afternoon before Pentecost Sunday,
team members decorated the sanctuary with red ribbon
and attached bridles to the kites to suspend them in flight
over the pews. Pentecost Sunday morning the sanctuary
was filled with vibrant images of the Spirit fluttering in the
breeze from the fans. After worship, the kites were taken
outside where adults and children enjoyed trying to get
them aloft.
Knoxville FCC member, Randall Blair, was supported by the church on his mission team trip to Port Arthur/
Beaumont, TX in March, 2006. Read his report in the
next issue of The Christian. Carolyn Smith, Randall Blair, & Dennis Neuhaus, FCC, Knoxville First Christian Church, Prineton, IL Welcomes Alan
Terlep as New PastorAfter a nearly year-long search
process, the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ),
in Princeton called Alan Terlep as their new pastor begin-
ning July 1st. Terlep was educated for ministry at the
University of Chicago Divinity School and is also working
on a doctorate in church history there. A native of Michi-
gan, he earned a bachelors degree from Oakland Uni-
versity and a masters degree in theology from the Catho-
lic Theological Union in Chicago.
This is the first church I've served as a pastor, and I really believe that this is where I belong, stated Terlep in
reflecting on his call from the congregation. From the
first time my family and I visited, we felt at home in the
church and this town."
After the retirement of longtime pastor Jon Olinger, the congregation undertook an extensive evaluation and
search process culminating in the call of Terlep. The
congregation focused on finding a dynamic individual
committed to the mission of the Church, with the potential
to understand and relate to a wide variety of community
members.
Alan brings a tremendous amount of passion, en- ergy, and enthusiasm to our church, said church mem-
ber Gerri Frank. You can really see how excited he is to
be coming here and he is extremely dedicated to serving
God and this church. Long Point Christian Church, Long Point, IL, held their 10th annual
Flower Sale
on May 12 &
13, 2006. Hun-
dreds of peo-
ple from all
over central
Illinois at-
tended the
event even in
the rain and
cold. Pro-
ceeds from the sale are used to support the churchs general fund. Jessica Krumrei, a member of Parkway Christian Church, Springfield, IL and a freshman at Culver- Stockton College, has been
awarded a Phillips University
Legacy Scholarship for 2006-07.
The undergraduate scholarship
is based on academic excel-
lence and Christian leadership
in the students church, vocation
and community. The Legacy Scholars program grants annual awards of up to $5,000
to full-time undergraduate students pursuing a liberal arts
education at any of the 17 colleges or universities affili-
ated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Jessica Krumrei Knoxville Christian Church youth who made and
delivered Valentines for veterans at the Knox
County Nursing Home: L to R: Will, Hanna,
Dulcie, Chelsie Lee, & Michael First Christian Church, Knoxville, IL celebrates Pentecost! 5 Churches United of the Quad City Area, Rock Island,
IL, received a $15,000 grant from Kraft Food - Oscar
Mayer division in
support of their Hun-
ger Program. The
Hunger Program in-
cludes 23 food pan-
tries and 3 meal sites
that serve Scott
County, Iowa and
Rock Island County,
Illinois, plus the CROP
Walk and Souper Bowl
of Caring!
Churches United acts as a community
team where issues of
wellness, quality of life
and faith are addressed and strengthened. Churches
United is also an information clearinghouse where indi-
viduals in need are directed to appropriate help agen-
cies. Youth of First Christian Church, Moline, IL joined
YouthWorks mission teams in the Quad Cities on June
20, 2006 for several projects. The day started with break-
fast and
devotions.
Then,
splitting
into work
groups,
half of the
First Chris-
tian team
worked
with
United
Neighbors,
removing
gang graf-
fiti in Dav-
enport, IA;
then, in
the after-
noon, working with youth at the Martin Luther King Center
in Rock Island, IL. The second part of the First Christian
team worked all day at the Humility of Mary House in
Davenport, IA, painting apartments for transitional resi-
dents. The First Christian group then met in the evening
for Pizza and a trip to Whitewater Junction water park
with the Youthworks mission youth. First Christian Church, Centralia, IL is celebrating
throughout this year the 150th anniversary of their
congregation, having been organized December 31,
1856. In a book, "Centennial Anniversary of First Chris-
tian Church of Centralia 1856-1956," belonging to Mr. &
Mrs. O.J. Bundy, is written this account of the beginning
of the congregation:
The old year was almost gone. The clock on the mantle ticked away its waning hours. At the stroke of mid-night, the New Year 1857 would burst upon the win-
try night. But the little group gathered in Central City was
not there to celebrate the coming of a New Year, still less
to hold a wake of the old. A church was being born and
history being made by the men and women in Central
City that night of December 31, 1856.
At this small gathering, the First Christian Church of Centralia had its birth. During those waning hours of
1856, nine people trudged through the bleak winter night
to be present when the church was born. Elder John A.
Williams came from Salem (some say Dix) to organize
the little church.
As part of the 150th Anniversary Celebration, First Christian Church had willing couples renew their vows Sunday, June,
11, 2006. Old
wedding
memorabilia
were on dis-
play in the
Fellowship
Hall. A recep-
tion was held
after the ser-
vice, complete
with cake and
punch. Veronica Njokui Muchiri, Woman-to-Woman Interna-
tional Guest for the Mix in 06 was a delightful guest and
speaker for
all who had
the opportu-
nity to meet
her during
her visits
around our
Region be-
fore and
after the
Mix in Indi-
anapolis.
She re-
turned
safely to
Kenya. Sue Gabel (left) presents a
$15,000 check to Melanie Jones
and Anne Wachal of Churches
United of the Quad City Area. The First Christian Church, Moline, IL, youth
mission team: Youth Minister: Timothy Polley,
Youth Leader Amanda Franzen, Sean Polley,
Jacob Nagle, Justin Ogle, John Duberud, Josh
Franzen, Gabe Preston, Kathleen Bowman, Ellen
James, and Lynne Polley (not pictured). Renewal of Wedding Vows at FCC, Centralia Carol Hutchcraft pre-
sents to Veronica a hand-
made quilt for an Aids
baby from Gibson City
FCC ladies. At FCC, Bloomington, IL, ladies
gather with Veronica. L to R:
Brenda Phillis, FCC, Veronica,
Barbara Thatcher, FCC, and
Kay Weir, Centennial Christian
Church, Bloomington. Veronica with Dorothy & Neil Sallee, hosts in Bloomington, and CCIW office staff (back row), Beth Zumwalt and Fay Bailiff 6 Coming Events Come, Fill Your Cup Southern Illinois Womens Retreat September 23-24, 2006 Camp Walter Scott Retreat Leaders: Melissa Meers & Friends
Bible Study Leader: Amanda Jassman Cost: Resident: Fri-Sun$60 Sat-Sun$50 Commuter: Sat-Sun$40 Sat only$30 Registration forms are on the regional website: http://www.cciwdisciples.org Frien dship & Fa ith Listening Conferences with CCIW Congregational Leaders Wed, Sept 6, 7-9 pm FCC, Janesville, WI Thurs, Sept 7, 7-9 pm FCC, Knoxville, IL FCC, Bloomington, IL Old State Rd CC, Charleston, IL Fri, Sept 8, 10-12 am Grace Comm. CC, Aurora, IL Sat, Sept 9, 10-12 am 15th Ave. CC, Rock Island, IL Crestview CC, Decatur, IL FCC, Lawrenceville, IL Mon, Sept 11, 10-12 am Arlington Hts. CC, Arlington Hts., IL
Mon, Sept 11 , 7-9 pm FCC, Rushville, IL FCC, Peoria, IL Parkway CC, Springfield, IL Sat, Sept 16, 10-12 am FCC, Quincy, IL Bethany Park CC, Rantoul, IL Sun, Sept 17, 3-5 pm FCC, Benton, IL Please choose the date and location most convenient for
you. Please let the Regional Office know the location/
date you have chosen and the number attending from
your congregation so we can make adequate prepara-
tions: Phone: 309-828-6293 E-mail: dana@cciwdisciples.org 2006 Clergy Ethics Seminars Legal Issues Clergy Face Last two sessions offered this year! 10 am4 pm; lunch provided (Sign-in begins at 9 am) Facilitator: Ms. Carla Fletcher
Cost: $30.00 Registration Deadline: Sept. 7 Sept. 14 First CC, 1001 S 8th Ave., Maywood, IL Sept. 15 First CC, 112 W 12th St., Gibson City, IL Registration Form on website : www.cciwdisciples.org ATiiM A ssociation of T rained i ntentional i nterim M inisters 15th Annual Conference October 4-5, 2006 Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center Utica, IL (near the junction of I-80 & I-39) Worship in Times of Transition Keynote Presenter: Maren Tiribassi Poet, author and workshop leader. She will also lead
a stand-alone session, Creating Creative Worship,
on Wednesday afternoon. Registration Form: in Mission Opportunities
Packet and on Website: www.cciwdisciples.org Putting the She in Shepherd Women Clergy Retreat October 9-11, 2006 Hawthorn Suites, Bloomington, IL Resource Speaker: Dina Emser Cost: $100.00 plus the cost of your room (covers all meals, except Tuesday evening out, materials and leadership) Registration: CCIW website & Mission Opportunities Pckt OTHER SEPT. DATES FOR YOUR CALENDAR SEPT 9, 2006 Common Place Walk/Run, Peoria Phone: 309-74-0627 commonplace@sbcglobal.net
SEPT 18, 2006 Disciples Mens Fish Fry Central Christian Church, Havana 6 pm at the Riverfront Park, Havna Reservations by Sept 8th to: Phone 309-543-3840 E-mail: fishfry.2006@yahoo.com SEPT 30, 2006 Domestic Violence 5K Walk Dove, Inc., Decatur www.doveinc.org Phone: 217-428-6616 Disciples Women Gathering Dates, 2007 March 31, 2007 Cerf Center, Eureka College, Eureka, IL
April 14, 2007 Four Seasons, Rend Lake, IL April 21, 2007 Holiday Inn, Rolling Meadows, IL April 28, 2006 Holiday Inn, Quincy, IL Honduras Regional Mission Team Returns Investing in a Beacon of Hope Education is our beacon of hope to this neighborhood. Supported by healthcare and nutrition,
education is the ray of Gods love to promote self es-
teem and dignity and to combat poverty and hopeless-
ness in Honduras. Linda Hanson, interim Dean of The-
ology at the Communidad Teologica de Honduras in La
Era, Tegucigalpa, Honduras, carefully explained the
reality of poverty in Honduras to our group of fourteen
guests from Illinois. Bruce Hanson, RN, showed our
group the clinic where he serves the community by pro- viding medical care to those in need. Office visits are 5
limpera to allow for the dignity of the people served; the medication is
free for those
who need it.
He showed
our group the
supply room
and the sup-
plies still
needing to
be organ-
ized. His
work is to support the 7 students and their families health concerns, providing
education in nutrition and health as well as treating their
illnesses. Our trip to visit these missionary partners of CCIW had consisted of hard work at the CCD Monte
Horeb retreat center where we worked on a dining hall
that will serve as an education center for at risk youth in
the Talanga area. From digging ditches and sifting sand
to making blocks, mortar and walls, our group experi- enced how each
part of a project
is built on the
others. Visits to
surrounding com-
munities intro-
duced us to cul-
ture and need in
Talanga and La
Ermita. Our Sat-
urday visit broad-
ens our under-
standing. The Communidad Teologica de Honduras, led by Rector Carlos Tamez, is
living the concept of serving the world in the most impov-
erished areas as a ministry to the neighborhoods needs
educationally, spiritually, and physically. Promoting a
theological culture in a country in need, in partnership
with the Christian Commission for Development and
sponsored in part thru World Vision, the Communidad
struggles to meet the large demand for its programs with
limited resources. Education normally ends about 6 th grade in Honduras for economic reasons. The $11 cost of
education after 6 th grade and transportation to school is difficult in a neighborhood that averages $1.50 per day,
especially in families with several children The Communi-
dad offers a preschool and kindergarten to about 40 stu-
dents, 7, 8, 9 and high school level classes to about 400
students, and pastoral education at the seminary to over
100 more pastors and church leaders. Most of the teach-
ers are volunteers, returning the education they received.
A technical school for youth at high risk will open soon to
provide training in electricity, auto mechanics, computer,
wood working, and beauticians. Most of the seminary and
higher education students attend on Saturday due to work obligations. Many students
bring their own desks to have a
place to sit. Textbooks, supplies,
and didactic materials are all in
limited supply. When asked what
we can do to help, Rector Tamez
asked us to spread the story of
their work, and for our prayers
and support when we go back to
our churches. We can do no less
to invest in this beacon of hope in
Honduras. Mark Rupe, Mission Team Member CCIW Mission Team at the Hansons: Karen McFadin,
Jane Latshaw, Bob Smith, Kayla Dishman, Laurie Shoup,
Ellen & Joe Culpepper, Sarah Todd, Bill Deck, Heather
Manwell, Mark Frakes, Rachelle Wisehart, and Mark Rupe. Bruce & Kesha Hanson show Ellen Culpepper the medical supply room. Block Layers build walls. Dr. Carlos Tamez, Rector of Seminary Traditionally, the Pension Fund of the Christian Church has asked congregations to celebrate ministry,
both ordained and lay, during October. It is a time to say
Thank You to those who serve as clergy in our midst
and to lift up ministry as a life vocation. It is a time to
celebrate the priesthood of all believers as we recognize
the many spiritual gifts needed to proclaim the Gospel
within our congregations and throughout the world.
This year we would like to lift up women in ministry in the CCIW Region. First, some statistics: Add to these figures all of the lay women serving in leadership positions in our congregations and you ac-
count for over half the membership of our churches.
Women serve Christs church with many gifts and re-
sources! We asked Rev. Beth Rupe to share with you
her journey from active lay woman to woman clergy.
My journey of discernment began in 1981 when our home congregation, Canton First Christian Church,
called a new associate minister. Within a year of his arri-
val, he began to talk to my husband, Mark, and me about
our potential as a clergy couple. I was immediately ex-
cited while Mark was far less enthusiastic but willing to
think about it. As I made plans for this future, I fre-
quently talked about how great it would be to serve a
church and how exciting it would be to be a clergy cou-
ple. After about six months, Mark told me that he had
been praying about our plan and that he did not feel the
call to ministry. I was disappointed and immediately felt
as if there was something missing. I talked to our pastor
and he assured me that if Mark did not feel a call to min-
istry God must have something else in mind for us.
Over the next few years, my journey of discernment included a brief stop in a nursing program where I discov-
ered that I do not have the gastric-intestinal constitution
for the sight of blood and infection of nursing but do have
a gift for listening and for facilitating people opening up in
conversation. This discovery led to my completing BS and MS degrees in psychology and to a nine-year career
as a mental health outpatient therapist. Eventually, I
found myself in Pastor Dean Bucaloss office, engaged in
a casual conversation about The History of God. This
conversation led to an intentional time of study and dis-
cernment as I devoured books on theology, church his-
tory, the writings of the mystics and learned to engage in
contemplative prayer. After months of study and conver-
sation, Dean asked if I had ever considered the ministry.
Like Samuel, who did not immediately recognize Gods voice, I also had to have my name called several
times. In January, 1998, I enrolled in my first seminary
class where I found God powerfully speaking to me. I
returned to IL confident in my call to ministry. My home
congregation confirmed this call, and I returned to Lexing-
ton Theological Seminary in Fall, 1999 as a full-time stu-
dent. I was ordained Feb.10 and graduated in May, 2002.
Since February, 2002, I have served as the pastor of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Carthage,
IL. As the pastor of a church in rural West Central Illinois,
I, along with our congregation, face the challenge of do-
ing ministry in an area of shrinking population and a de-
clining and uncertain economic environment. We struggle
with living out the reality of being an anti-racist, pro-
reconciling church in a place where there is both comfort
and threat in our isolation and homogeneity. We strive to
build on our congregations 140-year history while at the
same time never forgetting that God is constantly doing
new things and calling us to new places of ministry. We
struggle with remembering the story while facing the chal-
lenge of telling and living it in a changing culture. At
times, this reality is invigorating and at times, daunting.
I find a deep joy and blessedness with occasional moments of frustration thrown in - in the practice of minis-
try. I have found it a humbling experience to be present,
holding the hands of men and women as they have taken
their last earthly breath. I have found it a humbling experi-
ence to baptize new believers as they begin their journey
of discipleship, to share with couples as they plan and
celebrate weddings and anniversaries, and to welcome
babies into the church family. I have been stumped when
asked to offer prayers of dedication for community gar-
dens and a Relay for Life time capsule, and breathed a
sigh of relief when the right words seemed to come. I
have been amazed at the insights and spiritual yearning
of young people as they share in pastors classes and at
camp; I have been awed by the words of elders sharing in
Bible study and in prayer at the table. I have found that
the words through the grace of God which I gave in re-
sponse to ordination questions are indeed how I negoti-
ate the waters of ministry. In the midst of serving Gods
people, I am reminded that God is the source of my
strength and comfort, my hope and joy. I am reminded
each day of the power of Gods love and the necessity of
Gods justice in the midst of a world that is crying out for
spiritual fulfillment. I am reminded each day that the
sacred is right there in the midst of the ordinary; it is right
there waiting for those who have eyes to see. 8 Celebrate Ministry In October Total Women Clergy in CCIW Region 93 (c. 30%)[ 78 Ordained; 15 Licensed] Women Clergy Retired and not Serving (17),
or in Secular Employment (2) 19 Total Number of Women Clergy Currently Serving 74 [Ordained 63; Licensed 11] Women Clergy as Solo Pastors in Parish Ministry 27 [7 in Cong >150 mbrs; 20 in Cong <150 mbrs] Women Clergy as Co-Pastors in Parish Ministry 07 Women Clergy as Assoc. Pastors in Parish Ministry 14
Women Clergy serving as Interim Ministers 07 [6 Ordained; 1 Licensed] Total Women Clergy Serving in Local Cong. 55 [44 Ordained; 11 Licensed) Women Clergy serving in other Ministry Settings 19 [All Ordained] Hospitals = 6, Counseling = 4, Campus Ministry= 4, Higher Education= 2, Regional Ministry= 2, Social Justice Agency = 1 9 We had a successful summer camp season with some highs and lows--most of the outrageous highs were
the temperatures for a couple of camps, but we all sur-
vived. See our numbers for this season below. Benjamin Warren, our summer camp intern, spent nearly all summer at Camp Walter Scott. If you see Ben,
tell him how much you appreciate his work with the camp-
ers this summer.
Genesis camp this year was almost cancelled--this is such a great camp for 2 nd and 3 rd graders, we really could use your participation. Please consider this camp for 2 nd graders and especially 3 rd graders who have never been to camp.
The number of Summer Camp Kitchen Volunteers was down this year, but I would like to thank the ones
who gave up time to help us out: Kristina Sanderlin-- Genesis, Koinonia, Logos; Peggy Dixon--Koinonia; and Jim
Mathis--Koinonia. These folks were wonderful and very much appreciated. The LabyrinthThanks to a few hardy souls at Disciple/
Leadership Camp the meditation labyrinth on the north
side of the lake is finished. In spite of the heat, a group CAMP WALTER SCOTT NEWS of wonderful campers led by Mark Rupe were determined
to finish the labyrinth for us. It looks great! Thanks again
for the "sweat" equity. Jim and
Laura Hinrichsen and FCC-Paris
donated the funds to accomplish
this long-time dream. Paris FCC
also donated the funds for the new
chalice flowerbed at the dining hall. Roofing sheltersYes, we need
help again roofing two more shel-
ters before fall and winter get here-
-stay tuned for more information on the website and from
mailings. If you are a roofer or capable of learning, con-
tact Becky and she will let you know the date. Volunteers working on shelters We have a group of
men from Prairie Avenue Christian Church, Decatur
working on another version of screening shelters. They
would like to challenge other churches to "adopt" a shel-
ter and do the same. Thanks to these gentlemen for car-
ing and all the hard work. Volunteers renovate north side chapel A group from
First Christian Church, Paris spent one Saturday just be-
fore the camp season started renovating the north side
chapel. Looks great! Hope you get a chance to visit and
see all the hard work that was involved in preparing the
pews and cutting a new path into the chapel. The rest of the year We are looking forward to Labor
Day Family Camp on Labor Day weekend. The month of
August is quieter, but several weekends are booked up.
The weekends in the month of September are almost
completely booked with a couple of weekends with two
groups booked in simultaneously (Praise the Lord we
have the retreat house in usable condition). The week-
ends in October are filling up fast. November is com-
pletely full. December has a couple of weekend open-
ings. So as you can see we get a slight respite, but not
much. Guess that is what you call job security.
If you should visit the camp, you will notice that the shelters now have names and some new directional
signs have been erected. Koinonia camp helped paint
some of the directional signs.
Thanks to everyone who has supported Camp Walter Scott and given from the pocket or in "sweat" equity. Becky Lewis, Camp Manager Phone: 217-739-2332 or E-mail: campcciw@yahoo.com CAMP CAMPERS LEADERS Memorial Day Family
Camp CWS 44 1 Director GenesisCWS 8 1 Director 4 Counselors Exodus II - PP 97 20 Adults ShalomCWS 20 1 Director 5 Counselors 1 Intern CharismaUrsa 39 1 Director 8 Counselors Alpha OmegaCWS 51 1 Director 10 Counselors 1 Intern Exodus I - PP 14 6 Adults KoinoniaCWS 70 2 Directors 8 Counselors 1 Intern Grandparents & Me
CWS 16 1 Director 2 Helpers 1 Intern Disciples/Leadership
CWS 69 2 Directors 10 Counselors 1 Intern LogosCWS 116 2 Directors 14 Counselors 1 Intern ADDaMIWU 59 11 Adults Bridge BuildersNAPAD 14 3 Adults Labor Day FamilyCWS Regis. not in at press time. 1 Director Mix in 06 had 3,022 in attendance in Indianapolis,
IN, June 20-25. One hundred twenty-seven of those
were Illinois/Wisconsin Disciples women. Rev. Morris Finch, Jr. , Regional Minister of the Chris-
tian Church (DOC) in Michigan, retired May 31, 2006.
Rev. Jon Lacey is serving as part-time Acting Regional
Minister until an Interim Regional Minister can be called.
Dr. Ben Bohren was selected as the new Regional Min-
ister-President for the Christian Church (DOC) in North-
ern California-Nevada Region on July 29, 2006. He had
served as Transitional Regional Minister for the Region
for the previous 21 months.
New Program Launched to Aid Disaster Recovery Disciples congregations and regions
have joined in partnership with Disci-
ples Home Missions Office of Disci-
ples Volunteering and Week of Com- passion to launch a major, two-
year Disciples Disaster Recovery program
as part of a long-term response to hurricanes
Katrina, Rita and other recent tropical storms.
The goal of the Disciples Disaster Recov- ery Initiative is to send at least 750 Disciples
volunteer groups to mission sites in the Gulf Coast areas
that were devastated by weather disasters. Teams will
be sent from Sept. 1, 2006 to Aug. 30, 2008 to help repair
and rebuild homes and participate in other recovery ef-
forts. Disciples News Service World Convention has new mailing address and new website. Check out the World Convention new website at: http://www.worldconvention.org for news of the global church
and registration information for World Convention, 2008.
Send registration forms and donations to their new address:
1279 Brentwood Highlands Dr.,
Nashville, TN 37211. 10 General Church News Illinois/Wisconsin Disciples Women at Mix in 06 Beth Dobyns, CCIW Assoc. Regional Minister, in front. 11 The Christian (USPS 257-640) Periodical Postage Paid at Bloomington, IL 61701 Donation/Subscription $10 Published 4 times a year in March, June, September, December. Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Illinois/Wisconsin Postmaster: Send address changes to: The Christian 1011 North Main Street Bloomington, IL 61701-1753 Regional Staff:
Herbert L. Knudsen
Beth Dobyns
Burley F. Herrin
Christal Williams
Scott Woolridge Publisher
Managing Editor Herbert L. Knudsen Elizabeth G. Zumwalt Regional Minister/President Associate Regional Minister
Associate Regional Minister
Associate Regional Minister
Associate Regional Minister Regional Staff E-Mail Addresses Regional Clergy , Bloomington Office ( Eas t Area) Herb Knudsen, Regional Minister & President
Scott Woolridge, Associate Minister Administrative Staff, Bloomington Office
Fay Bailiff , Regional Administrator
Kathy Frus, Contract Staff, East Area ReDevelop.
Neil Sallee, Volunteer Accountant
Dana Worrell (Cap. Cmpgn., Men, Youth, MOPS)
Beth Zumwalt (Communications & Womens Min.) Regional Clergy, Urban/Metro Area
Christal Williams, Associate Minister Regional Clergy, West Area
Beth Dobyns, Associate Minister Regional Clergy, South Area
Burley Herrin, Associate Minister Camp Walter Scott
Becky Lewis, Camp Manager Regional Moderator
Ray Culver
Global Mission Partners
Bruce and Linda Hanson, serving in Honduras
Christian Church Foundation Representative
Deborrah Wray Phone: 800-668-8016 herb@cciwdisciples.org scott@cciwdisciples.org fay@cciwdisciples.org kathy@cciwdisciples.org neil@cciwdisciples.org dana@cciwdisciples.org bethz@cciwdisciples.org christal@cciwdisciples.org dobyns@cciwdisciples.org burley@cciwdisciples.org becky@cciwdisciples.org rbculvr2@OTBnet.com hondurashansons@mac.com dwray@ccf.disciples.org For Information or Assistance Call: Regional Office, Bloomington & East Area.
Regional Office, Bloomington Fax. Regional ClergySouthern Area ..
Regional ClergyWestern Area.
Regional ClergyUrban/Metro Area.
Camp Walter Scott.
Fax.
Web Site: http://www.cciwdisciples.org 1-309-828-6293
1-309-829-4612
1-217-682-5798
1-309-696-1364
1-630-291-7651
1-217-739-2332
1-217-739-2298 Next Issue: Winter, 2006 (Dec. 2006, Jan., Feb., 2007)) Deadline for news to the Regional office: Nov.1, 2006 Regional Calendar 14 15 16
16

17 18-19
20-22 23-24 26 27-28 29
30 3 4-5 Clergy Ethics Seminar,
Maywood FCC
Clergy Ethics Seminar,
Gibson City FCC
New Church Establish.-RO
Listening Conferences 10-12 am, Quincy FCC
1-3 pm, Rantoul, Bethany
Park CC Listening Conf., 3-5 pm Benton, FCC CCCC Senate, Hoopeston
FEI Road Trip, Granger
Community Church
So. IL Womens Ret.CWS
East Area LazarusRO
CRM Heartland Fellowship-
CCIW RO
Reg. Exec. Comm.RO
Regional Board-Centennial
CC, Bloomington October 2006 L & M ClergyRO
Interim Ministers Retreat 2-5 5
6 7
7


8
8 9
9

11


12,13 September 2006 Labor Day Family Camp- CWS L & M ClergyRO
Listening Conf.7-9 pm
Janesville, WI
Interim MinistersRO
Listening Conferences 7-9pm, Knoxville FCC 7-9pm, Bloomington FCC
7-9pm, Charleston Old
State Rd. CC Finance Comm.RO
Listening Conf.10-12 am Comm. CC, Aurora Anti-Racism TeamRO
Listening Conf.10-12 am Decatur, Crestview CC,
Lawrenceville, FCC
Rock Island, 15th Ave CC Listening Conferences 10-12 am, Arlington Hts CC 7-9 pm, Rushville, FCC
7-9 pm, Peoria, FCC
7-9 pm, Springfield, Parkway CCIW Staff Mtgs. 9-11 14
17 24-25 28 30 30,31 2
4
7 10 10-12




14 23-24
29-30 Electronic Version of The Christian To receive The Christian electronically.pdf
file you can download or read or print from
our website, e-mail: bethz@cciwdisciples.org
and request Electronic Version of The
Christian. Clergy Womens Retreat Hawthorn Suites, Bloomington Anti-Racism Team
FEI Bookstore, Bloomington
Ministry Comm.Eureka
Mission Committee/ Miracle
Day PlanningRO
ATiiMRO
CCIW StaffRO November, 2006 Interim MinistersRO
New Church Establish.RO
L & M ClergyRO
Pre-Assembly Workshop
CCIW Regional Assembly
Wyndham Hotel, Lisle





East Area LazarusRO
Thanksgiving- Reg. Offices Closed CCIW Staff Retreat, CWS The Christian - Published Quarterly by The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in IL & WI 1011 North Main Street, Bloomington, IL 61701-1753 Starting colleges, universities and theological institu- tions on the American frontier, Disciples have a spirited tradition of lib- eral arts education and leadership development designed to equip leaders for a changing
world. Thats why Ellen Blue, a professor at Phillips Theological Seminary, one of 21 educational institutions of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), took her class on the
road. The cross-disciplinary immersion offering in
New Orleans and other south Louisiana locations,
allowed students to see firsthand Hurricane Katrinas
devastation to learn how affected churches re-
evaluate their mission.

Beyond logistics of recovery, the students explored the theology of mercy and justice ministries. They learned how to help those impacted understand Gods activity in the midst
of disaster. Disciples undergraduate and theological institutions take seriously their church-
relatedness, and their global and ecumenical connections within and beyond the Christian
church (Disciples of Christ). These institutions respond
to the churchs leadership development needs on be-
half of all of us.

Disciples 14 colleges and universities serve 23,000 students. A wide variety of settings are available, from
large universities in metropolitan settings to smaller
colleges in more rural communities. Eureka College,
Eureka, IL, and Culver-Stockton
College, Canton, MO, are the closest
undergraduate schools to our Region.
Disciples-related colleges and univer-
sities take seriously their church-
relatedness and are committed to
strong, liberal arts, value-oriented, general education.
They emphasize spiritual faith and values, and work to
prepare students for life and leadership.
On the Eureka College website you will find this affirmation of the college by Rhea Edge, Associate
Professor of Art & Chair of the Fine and Performing
Arts. The arts have played a pivotal role at Eureka
College since it's founding in 1855. Nearly
40% of the student body gets involved in the
arts here in some significant way and there's
good reason for that - we're winners! Our
reputation is national and our students go on
to professional careers in the arts and attend
some of the finest graduate schools in the
country. We stress overseas study and in-
ternships but our specialty is YOU. That's right - YOU. YOU will always be a person -
an artist - to us and we will become your
friends and mentors for life. Check out our
scholarships - we want students who are in-
telligent AND talented. For quality, profes-
sionalism and a personal touch - this is the
Place.
Disciples-related theological education institutions are partners with the church in educating a ministry
for the 21st century. While related to the Christian
Church (Disciples of Christ), they are, at the same
time, globally and ecumenically connected. Currently,
seven theological institutions are affiliated with the
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), and three others
are associated with Disciples higher education. Those
specifically related to the CCIW Region are: Christian
Theological Seminary, Indianapolis, IN, Lexington
Theological Seminary, Lexington, KY, and Disciples
Divinity House at the University of Chicago, Chicago,
IL. Your gifts to the Thanksgiving Special Offering help Disciples prepare Spiritdriven leaders for todays min-
istry challenges. Offerings will be received in local con-
gregations on November 12 and/or 19, 2006 . Please give generously.

For more information on educational opportunities, colleges, universities, and theological institutions, visit
www.helmdisciples.org or call 314-991-3000. Thanksgivin g Special Offering 12

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