Follow NCC on Social Media! | | | | | NCC Onboards New Communications Officer: Amanda Dowd | | Amanda Dowd is a media and communications professional with a background in humanities education and media production. She holds an MA in Film and Media Production from American University and advanced degrees in humanities from the University of South Florida.
Her work spans strategic communications, video production, graphic design, and storytelling, with professional experience in higher education, public media, and nonprofit organizations.
Amanda is particularly interested in exploring the intersection of culture, community, and advocacy through accessible, mission-driven media. | | WCC Hosts First in Series of
Prayer for Peace | | | | By Amanda Dowd
NCC Communications Officer | On Thursday, March 26, the World Council of Churches hosted The Global Prayer for Peace in the Middle East online, bringing together the ecumenical community from across the globe, including Australia, Kenya, Lebanon, and the United States. Words of welcome were offered by Professor Michel Abs, general secretary of the Middle East Council of Churches. He reminded participants that “we are one world and one human family … united and called to serve,” urging them, above all, never to lose hope, trusting that “the love of Christ can transform suffering and division into reconciliation and unity.” The prayer brought together church leaders from around the world, offering prayers of lament, peace, comfort, and hope. An especially moving moment came during the Prayers of Intercession led by youth from the region, among them Maria Bzdigian of the Armenian Evangelical Church of Nor Marash in Lebanon, who prayed for peace, stating, “God, I come to You not as someone strong, but as a young person in a place that feels heavy”. Bzdigian asked God to give courage “to keep hoping, to choose kindness over anger, patience over fear, and hope over despair,” and for peace to spread from Lebanon throughout the Middle East and the hurting world. The prayer concluded with participants reciting the Lord’s prayer in their many languages, followed by a closing prayer for peace. WCC General Secretary Rev. Prof. Dr. Jerry Pillay closed the program, expressing gratitude to those who joined from around the world. He shared that the global prayer arose from requests by WCC member churches for prayer amid ongoing conflict. Inspired by strong encouragement from regional church leaders, the WCC has since launched a Season of Prayer for Peace, beginning with the Middle East and extending to other countries affected by war and instability.
Watch the full recording of the prayer here: https://youtu.be/hXwLtwnufRo For a written summary of the themes and voices shared during this gathering, read: “Global Prayer for Peace in the Middle East: We Are One World and One Human “Family" | | | | Prayer for Peace: Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania March 22–28, 2026 | | View of the Riga Cathedral and the Daugava river in the capital city of Latvia, seen from the tower of the Saint Peter's Church in Riga Old Town. Photo: Albin Hillert/LWF | We are thankful for: preservation of the distinct cultural practices, literature, music and natural resources in these countries. the faithful witness of Christians during times of persecution and for those who survived times of occupation. how these countries peacefully became independent after 1918 and 1991. new-found freedoms that the people here have experienced, that they might be used for the good of all.
We pray for: peaceful relations with Russia and among all the ethnic groups in these lands. the healing of old wounds remaining from 20th century struggles. just economic development that benefits all citizens in these countries, and for those who live and work abroad. governmental leaders and all people, that they might together strive for justice, peace and the well-being of all.
| | Prayer for Peace: Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia March 29–April 4, 2026 | | A woman lays her hand on a book of hymns during Sunday service at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Pozdišovce, Slovakia. Photo: Albin Hillert/LWF | A woman lays her hand on a book of hymns during Sunday service at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Pozdišovce, Slovakia. Photo: Albin Hillert/LWF We are thankful for: the faithful witness of Christians here through the centuries, especially in times of occupation and persecution the peaceful resolution of disputes the distinctive cultural contributions and resources in these lands the religious freedom and ecumenical cooperation that is growing.
We pray for: greater respect for the Roma people and others who are marginalized and who lack adequate livelihoods in these lands welcoming and engaging those of other faiths and ethnicities growth in spiritual as well as physical health democratic governance that advances God's justice and peace for all.
Read more here. | | WCC Gravely Concerned over Report of Crimes Against Ukrainian Children | | Taganrog, Russia: Children walk through the Romashka sports and recreation complex in Zolotaya Kosa, southwest Russia near the border to Ukraine. Romashka hosts several hundred refugees from the Donbas region in Ukraine, most of them children from orphanages in the Donbas region of Ukraine, relocated as Russia started its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC | World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay expressed grave concern over the findings of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine regarding the deportation and transfer of Ukrainian children.
"Such actions deprive children of their families, language, culture, and homeland, inflicting deep psychological and spiritual harm,” said Pillay. “These actions are a shocking violation of the God‑given dignity of every child and of the sanctity of family bonds.”
Pillay further emphasized that the deliberate removal and relocation of children for political or ideological purposes is fundamentally incompatible with international law, morality, and Christian values.
According to the report by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine to the UN Human Rights Council, thousands of children have been taken from Ukrainian territory under Russian occupation, many removed from institutions and families without the consent required by international humanitarian law and still not returned years later. | | | WCC Releases Message on Peace
and Healing in a Time of Conflict | | Photo: Marcelo Schneider/WCC
The World Council of Churches Commission of the Churches on Health and Healing released a pastoral message titled, “Peace and Healing in a Time of Conflict: A Call for Reconciliation.”
The message notes that, across the world today, countless communities live under the shadow of war and conflict. “The scale of human suffering is staggering and still growing,” notes the message. “In 2024 alone, an estimated 160,000 people were killed in organized violence, while more than 123 million were forcibly displaced, the highest number in recorded history.”
Millions more live with injuries, grief, and trauma, notes the message. “Yet numbers alone cannot convey the true weight of what is unfolding,” the text reads. “We face not only crises of violence, but crises of health, dignity, and humanity.”
The message emphasizes that health is central to reconciliation, concord, and peace. “Conflict is not only a geopolitical failure but also a spiritual crisis: a breaking of sacred relationships and mutual accountability with each other,” reads the message. “Globally, an estimated 22 percent of people living in conflict-affected settings suffer from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder—suffering that extends far beyond the individual and weakens the social fabric itself.”
Read the full letter here. | | NATI-RETI Registration
Open Until April 15 | | The National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA, in partnership with the Canadian Council of Churches, will host the North America–Turtle Island Regional Ecumenical Theological Institute (NATI-RETI) on August 3–16, 2026, with sessions in Detroit, Michigan, and Toronto, Ontario.
NATI-RETI 2026 is a fully immersive residential theological learning program designed as a pilgrimage across borders — bringing together emerging Christian leaders from the United States and Canada for deep theological reflection and spiritual fellowship.
This initiative marks a significant renewed chapter in cross-border collaboration, creating a shared platform to engage the deep intersections of faith and public life, and to nurture the visible unity of the church.
NATI-RETI is designed to nurture the visible unity of the church and to emphasize the deep relatedness of justice and mission to that unity—equipping participants to reimagine the church’s witness in a polarized world. A diverse cohort of students and emerging leaders will help model the unity the ecumenical movement seeks to deepen.
For more information, visit the NATI-RETI website, or contact: Keith Swartzendruber — US co-director, NATI-RETI Keith.swartzendruber@nationalcouncilofchurches.us
Matthew Markay — US co-director, NATI-RETI Matthew.markay@nationalcouncilofchurches.us | | | Join Love Forward Together
Moral Monday on March 30 | | | | Tax Assistance Tools Available | | Only three weeks remain in the primary filing season! As the April 15 deadline approaches and many VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) sites reach capacity, many people know that a truly free, easy-to-use virtual service is critical for helping people file. Here are some simple steps for outreach:
1. Utilize Outreach Toolkits to communicate in ways that work best for your residents/ clients. Materials are available in English and Spanish.
2. Request a custom referral link (a link unique to your organization) to use in your outreach.
3. Track your impact! Once you’ve signed up, Code for America will grant you access to a data dashboard so you can view data from your referral link(s). This will include key metrics like # of homepage views, # of returns accepted, and the estimated refunds received. Questions? Email outreach@getyourrefund.org. | | Early Bird Registration Ends April 6! EAD Gathers in Nation's Capital
April 20–22, 2026 | | This year, the nation faces massive upheaval and multiple crises. But Christians remain hopeful as we persevere in the midst of fear and uncertainty. Be in Washington D.C., April 20–22, 2026, and draw on shared faith traditions to inspire one another and call on Congress to commit to “Protecting People, Peace, and Planet!”
Through worship, workshops, solidarity, and Congressional visits, the hope is to bring together a diverse group of Christians to remind Congress of the shared responsibility to care for all that belongs to God. Learn more at advocacydays.org. Full and partial need-based scholarships are available. | | | UCC Aids Hawaii Conference Churches in Flooding Aftermath | | |
| The Next Generation of Christian
Civic Leaders Application Due April 15 | | This summer, high school students from across the country will gather in Washington, D.C., for CCPL’s immersive program at the intersection of Christian faith and civic life.
Public Good Generation equips rising juniors, rising seniors, and graduating high school students with the tools, confidence, and community they need to pursue healthy political engagement and public service. During this transformative week (July 6-11, 2026), students will: Meet with legislators and decision-makers on Capitol Hill Hone essential skills for life and career through exhilarating, challenging projects and friendly competitions, including the creation of issue advertisements and participation in town hall discussions Learn practical frameworks for communicating convictions with humility Explore Washington, D.C.'s monuments and museums Build friendships with Christian peers passionate about civic life Stay on American University's campus with dedicated mentors
| | | Blessed Tomorrow Upcoming Events | | Faith + Climate Film Series Caring for the Earth: Stories from Faith Communities Get a glimpse of how people of faith respond to today’s climate challenges with courage, compassion, and conviction. Stay tuned for the full film series to spark meaningful dialogue, strengthen your congregation, and turn shared concern into collective action.
Each full episode will include a free toolkit with scripture, prayers, discussion prompts, practical next steps, and everything you need to lead a study, engage youth, or mobilize your community. | | Watch the trailer for Faith + Climate Film Series, Caring for the Earth: Stories from Faith Communities | | Register Today: The National Faith + Climate Forum
on April 25th | | Join Blessed Tomorrow on Saturday, April 25, for the National Faith + Climate Forum, a powerful nationwide gathering that brings people of faith together to care for creation and advance climate justice. This free, live-streamed event will be experienced at in-person gatherings across the country, creating space for connection, learning, and faithful action rooted in shared values. Individuals are also welcome to join the livestream from the comfort of their own homes. Join an individual, or go further by hosting a local watch party at your congregation or community space. Host locations can receive up to $500 to support your event while bringing this transformative forum to your community. | | 2026 Advocacy Summit, April 14–15 | | | Join the Armenian Assembly of America for the 2026 Advocacy Summit and advocate for pro-Armenian issues on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC.
This is an opportunity to connect with advocates from across the country and help strengthen relations between the United States and Armenia. | | | CMEP, Partners Mobilize for Joint Advocacy Summit May 5–7 | | With a regional war now in place, civilians across several countries have been killed or displaced. While the world is focused on Iran, Palestinians in Gaza continue to be killed by Israeli military operations. In the West Bank, Israeli settlers are targeting Palestinian communities with impunity. That is why Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP) is mobilizing 500 U.S. Christians to Washington, DC, for a faith-rooted Joint Advocacy Summit on May 5–7, 2026.
This two-day Advocacy Summit will equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and courage to speak directly to their members of Congress about U.S. policy toward Israel and Palestine, and the region as a whole.
Get more information here. | | One Home, One Future Offers Free
Earth Day 2026 Tabling Kits | | In honor of Earth Day, Wednesday, April 22, OHOF celebrates the wonders of creation and renews our call as caretakers of this planet.
Note: All One Home One Future participants are entitled to a free 2026 Earth Day Tabling Kit.
Join One Home One Future today to reserve your Earth Day Kit! onehomeonefuture.org/join | | STATE/REGIONAL COUNCIL NEWS | | NY State Council Announces
New Executive Director (Acting) | | Rashida Tyler Named Acting Executive Director Founded in 1893, the New York State Council of Churches, a shared purpose, rooted in faith and committed to serving congregations and communities across New York State, announces Rashida Tyler as Executive Director (acting).
Over the past three years, Rashida has served as deputy executive director and project manager of the Interfaith Affordable Housing Collaborative, where her leadership has already left a lasting mark. | | North Carolina Council Announces Executive Director's Retirement/Search | | With gratitude and admiration, the North Carolina Council of Churches shares that Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland will retire after more than a decade of faithful and courageous leadership. In a message to the Council community, she shared: I’d been thinking about the best time to retire, but always there was one more thing I wanted to be a part of, an upcoming election cycle, the Council’s 90th Anniversary celebration, landing one more grant for the council’s important work. Finally, I realized there would always be one more thing because that’s the nature of the council. Click here to read her full letter. As she prepares for retirement, the council has launched a national search for its next executive director. A search committee is seeking a leader who will carry this work forward. (See listing under Employment Opportunities below.) | | | | | | | Friendship Press Release March 31! | $19.99
Real transformation doesn’t come from maintaining the status quo; it comes from asking what if, taking a risk, and stepping into the unknown with courage and creativity. In Dream, Dare, Disrupt, Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups offer a roadmap for ministry that’s unafraid of failure, fueled by playful experimentation, and ready to follow wherever God leads.
Whether you’re leading a congregation, launching a new ministry, or wondering how to move forward in a changing world, Dream, Dare, Disrupt will empower you to lead with imagination, align your gifts with God’s calling, and cultivate a culture where big ideas can take root and grow.
Ministry has never been about playing it safe. Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups give you permission to dream big, trust God, and try something new.
Get the companion workbook here! | | More from Friendship Press… |
|
|
|
