Subject: NCC Newsletter – November 14, 2025

Weekly News Updates from the National Council of Churches

NCC Newsletter

NOVEMBER 14, 2025

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Communications Officer

Overview

The National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA (NCC) is seeking a talented professional to drive the external and internal engagement of our ecumenical, justice, and advocacy agenda. This position offers an exciting opportunity to lead and implement strategic communications initiatives, from conception to execution, aimed at promoting our vision, mission, and values. The Communications Officer will be responsible for managing the organization’s overall communications and marketing strategy, including written and verbal communications, media relations, and relationship building with key contacts in Washington, D.C.

 

Responsibilities 

  • Develop and implement a comprehensive external/internal communications and marketing strategy that aligns with our objectives and appeals to both current and potential supporters. 

  • Create compelling written and visual content for various communication channels, such as statements, newsletters, website, blogs, and news releases. 

  • Manage media relations by cultivating relationships with journalists, composing news releases, responding to media inquiries, and arranging interviews. 

  • Actively seek and establish relationships with key contacts and influencers in the Washington D.C. area and nationally to further the organization’s advocacy efforts and communications goals. 

  • Collaborate with the internal team to develop effective messaging strategies for campaigns, initiatives, and events. 

  • Provide support and guidance to team members on communications-related tasks, ensuring consistency in brand messaging and organizational voice. 

  • Monitor and analyze communication efforts through metrics and performance indicators, making data-driven decisions to enhance outreach and engagement efforts. 

  • Stay informed about current advocacy trends, Christian issues, and policy developments, both nationally and globally, to facilitate effective communication on relevant topics. 

  • Occasionally represent the organization at conferences, events, and in meetings with external stakeholders. 

Requirements 

  • At least 4–7 years’ experience in communications with the ability to develop and execute strategic communications plans. 

  • Strong written communication skills with the ability to craft compelling narratives (persuasive copy, news releases, newsletter content, proofread/edit materials for publication with a variety of communications channels, including e-mail, website, media, blogs, video, and print). 

  • Proven experience in media relations and brand development. 

  • Knowledgeable about Capitol Hill and Washington, D.C., with existing contacts in government, faith-based organizations, or media outlets. 

  • Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills with the ability to work independently and collaboratively to build consensus among team members and external partners. 

  • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team. 

  • Highly organized and detail-oriented, able to manage multiple priorities and deliver projects within established deadlines. 

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and content management systems. Design capability and/or experience with Adobe Creative Suite is a plus. 

  • Demonstrated experience in strategic planning and execution (e.g., crisis response, advocacy, and online campaigns). 

  • Agility, patience, flexibility, and a sense of humor are helpful. 

  • Background/experience in religious/ecumenical organizations preferred. 

  • Knowledge of advertising/marketing principles is a plus. 

  • Experience in podcasting/production is a plus. 

  • Joining our team as a Communication Officer offers a unique opportunity for a motivated and passionate individual to drive impactful external and internal communications strategies that advance our organization’s goals. If you are dedicated to utilizing your skills and experience to make a difference toward positive social change, we would love to hear from you! 

Job Classification 

Full-time, exempt. Work is generally conducted Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. This is a hybrid position with at least one to two days in the office. Occasional travel; evening and weekend availability may be required. Eligible for paid time off and retirement benefits. Salary Range: $75,000 – $85,000, DOE 


About NCC 

Since its founding in 1950, the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA has been a leading force for ecumenical cooperation among Christians in the United States. The 37 NCC member communions represent a diverse spectrum of Protestant, Anglican, Orthodox, Evangelical, historic African American, and Living Peace churches, comprising more than 30,000 congregations and their 35 million members. 


Location 

Washington, D.C. 


How to Apply 

Submit a cover letter and resume. Please include several writing samples or a portfolio demonstrating your proficiency in written communications, project management/implementation, campaigns, and media knowledge to jobs@nationalcouncilofchurches.us. Writing samples should be your own and not generated by artificial intelligence.


*This information is also attached to this email as a PDF for download.

NCC Health & Wellness

Hurricane Melissa Response Resources (NCC Website)

NCC emergency response page of resources related to Hurricane Melissa disaster relief.

•  • • • • • •


Government Shutdown Resources

Click this link to open the full document in your browser! Below are only the topic headlines; the full document offers many links which may be helpful! This work by CuraLinc Healthcare is gratefully appreciated!


Emotional and practical assistance can help you navigate this uncertain time and protect your overall wellbeing. These resources are updated as new information becomes available and are as accurate as possible. However, due to the ever-changing nature of the situation, please note that some third-party providers may discontinue their services.

  • Food

  • Health and wellbeing

  • Financial assistance

  • Children

  • Pets

  • Phone and internet

  • Auto

  • Career

  • Other resources

Search the Shutdown Assistance Map for additional resources and assistance.


State-specific Resources

Outside the DC area, states with the highest total number of federal employees impacted by the government shutdown are California, Texas, and Florida.

•  • • • • • •

Skinner Leadership Institute

List of Vital Resources for Those Impacted By the Government Shutdown 

  • Visit SkinnerLeaders.org for free food, financial, and other vital resources for furloughed federal employees.

  • Visit Findhelp.org for additional information and resources.

 

American Climate Leadership Awards 2026 Applications Open

ecoAmerica’s American Climate Leadership Awards (ACLA) returns for its seventh year with $200,000+ in cash prizes to recognize the most effective climate solutions in the United States. Whether you’re driving change on one block or building a national coalition, we’re spotlighting work that broadens participation in climate action and advocacy. Apply today or nominate a climate leader.

Award Categories

General

Open to individuals or organizations excelling in climate engagement or advocacy. Scale of reach and impact can range from local to national.

Winner $50,000; Runner-Up $25,000; 8 Finalists $5,000;
25 Semifinalists $1,000

Youth

Open to young leaders ages 14 – 24 who are building solutions locally in their schools, communities, or at the state level.

Winner $10,000; 8 Finalists $5,000

Honor

One exceptional climate leader advancing national progress on climate action and solutions.


Application Deadline: January 5, 2026

Join CMEP's 'Let Children Live' Vigil November 20

Thursday, November 20, 2025
11:30 AM EST - 1:00 PM EST


On World Children’s Day, Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP) invite you to join an online Christian prayer vigil for the children of Gaza and the West Bank. Through CMEP's “Let Children Live” campaign, each attendee will receive the name and age of a living Palestinian child—a child with hopes, a future, and a story.


Together, participants will reflect on the conditions Palestinian children are experiencing, and we will intercede for your received child by name, for all Palestinian children, for God’s justice, protection, and restoration.


CMEP will also introduce and engage with the historic Convention on the Rights of the Child, which affirms that every child has the right to life, to education, to play, to dignity, and to be heard. In this way, the Convention will become an element of liturgy and a prayer.


Using a few of its key principles as prompts, CMEP will pray and mobilize around: the child’s right to survive and thrive, the right to education and play, and the right to protection from violence and deprivation.


This vigil will also be a call to a commitment: to carry the name of the child in ongoing advocacy, to remember that children everywhere are beloved of God, and to stand together in intercession and action that children might live. Bring your church, small group, or family and join CMEP in lifting up the children, the future of God’s world.


Sign up HERE to receive the name and age of your child ahead of the vigil, and register above to join the live event.


The King Center to Host Virtual Nonviolence365® Virtual Public Training

Join The King Center for a free virtual workshop, “Be Love: Truth, Power and the People.” Flyer and registration will be at the bottom of the email. Please share with others!


This session integrates The King Center's Nonviolence365 framework, bridging the Six Principles and Six Steps of Nonviolence with practical strategies for 💡civic engagement, 💡moral leadership, and 💡collective accountability.


Click here to register for this event.

ELCIC to Host Virtual Conversation with Bishop Larry Kochendorfer

Join Conversations Across the Church with Bishop Larry Kochendorfer* on November 30, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. CST for what is hoped to establish a regular churchwide online gathering.

Be a part of the conversation! Please ensure that you complete the following question on the registration form: If you could ask Bishop Larry one thing as he begins his new ministry as National Bishop, what would it be? You might hear your question asked during the gathering!

Participants are encouraged to have a candle ready to light before the start of the event. We'll take time at the beginning to light the candle together. 


Click this link to register.

*This event will be recorded. Not able to attend? Sign up so you can receive a link to the recording.

Did you have a chance to watch Bishop Larry's first video as National Bishop? Have you shared this with your congregation? You can access the video here.

Three Organizations to Host
Virtual World AIDS Day 2025

Monday, December 1, 2025, at 7 PM EST, LIVE FREE USA, The Prophetic Convening, and The Black Church Freedom Fund will host a powerful virtual gathering to remember, renew, and respond in the fight against HIV/AIDS.


Featuring: Pastor Michael McBride • Rev. Cece Jones-Davis • Rev. Traci Blackmon • LaTosha Brown • Dr. Alfan Dyson • Marvelyn Brown • Rev. Kimberly Williams • Rev. Nancy Kingwood • Dr. Daniel D. Driffin …and many more!


✨ Register for a transformative evening of testimony, truth-telling, and faith in action.


Presented in partnership with: ViiV Healthcare • Choose Healthy Life • Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium • GBAPP, Inc. • Faith Out-Loud!


📅 Save the Date: December 1, 2025 🕖 7 PM EST


🔗 Register now: bit.ly/worldaidsday2025

NAE to Host 2026 Christian Student Leadership Conference, January 26–30

The National Association of Evangelicals will host its 70th annual Christian Student Leadership Conference January 26–30, in Washington, DC. The event will be "a gathering of Christian university students, faculty, and staff called by God to champion renewal and transformation in our nation and world." 


During the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this weeklong experience will highlight true liberty in Christ, introduce participants to influential members of Congress, policy experts, and national faith leaders, and prepare you to serve the common good.


Click here for more information and registration.

STATE/REGIONAL COUNCIL NEWS

NCCC to Host Virtual Event to Navigate Grief During the Holidays, November 18

As the holiday season approaches, the gap can feel wide between expectations of joy and our realities of grief. Whether you've experienced personal loss or have felt the heavy weight of grieving the world around us, grief can feel like an ever-present weighted blanket.


Join Rev. Michelle Graham, MDiv, BCC, for an hour of our Abundant Life in Action webinar to explore spiritual practices rooted in art and creativity that can connect people to God, honor their whole selves, and help them experience hope without ignoring pain.


Tuesday, November 18, 2025 @ 6:30 PM


Click here to register.

NCCC Celebrates 90th Anniversary
with Special Guests

NCCC Anniversary Celebration Special Guest: Bishop Michael Curry

The North Carolina Council of Churches celebrated its 90th anniversary with activities that focused on the power of faith in action, the strength of community, and the enduring call to justice and love.

 

Bishop Michael Curry inspired attendees with these words: “Fight the good fight, the good fight of love, the good fight of hope, the good fight of justice… loving even your enemies.” He also urged: “People of God, don’t you quit, you just keep the faith.”

 

Events were available for in-person and online participation. ICYMI:

NCCC is deeply grateful to everyone who joined them for this milestone celebration, and especially to those who wanted to be with them but were unable to attend. They are committed to carrying forward 90 years of radical love, unyielding justice, and hope in action.

NCCC Offers Free Digital Advent Resource

This Advent, the North Carolina Council of Churches invites you to reflect on the hope and light Jesus Christ brings into our world. The 2025 theme, Lighting the Way Forward, calls readers to look beyond the busyness of the season and see how Christ continues to guide them through life’s challenges and uncertainties.


May these reflections draw you closer to the One who has come — and will come again — illuminating our path with faith, hope, and love. The North Carolina Council of Churches staff offers this free digital resource as you move into the Advent season.

Wisconsin UCC Congregation Hosts the Green Bay Really, Really Free Market on November 22

The Really Really Free Market is a grassroots, community-driven event where everything is free. The event will feature a wide variety of free items — clothing for all ages, books, toys, household goods, small furniture, art supplies, school supplies, baby gear, non-perishable food, holiday decorations, pet supplies, tools, and more.


Participants are welcome to bring items to share, but are not required to do so. Everyone is invited to visit Union UCC in Green Bay, 716 S Madison St., Green Bay, WI 54301, on November 22 and take items they need! 


Register here to participate.

Join the Wisconsin Council of Churches on Tuesday, December 9, for their Annual Meeting 2025: "Hope, Fears, and Realities: Religious Leadership and AI." They will gather in Appleton at First Congregational United Church of Christ, 724 E South River Street.


More information available here.

   


One Home, One Future Offers Free 'Skit Kit' to Discuss Climate

Are you looking for ways to talk about climate that are positive and engaging? 

 

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and the Skit Kit will help you create an entertaining performance that models productive climate conversation and action on solutions at the dinner table. 

 

Join One Home One Future today to access the Skit Kit and other FREE resources! 

Peace Fellowship Church Calls Prayer Guard to Surround DC with Prayer

 News from Friendship Press

FP to Release New Book by NCC Past Governing Board Chair

Roots of Resilience: Black History Through the Eyes of Faith

$19.99

 

Ships January 6, 2026


Roots of Resilience: Black History Through the Eyes of Faith is a transformative guide designed to empower churches and communities to teach Black History with confidence and conviction. At a time when public education faces challenges in preserving these vital narratives, this resource places the stories of Black Americans within the context of faith, resilience, and justice.


Grounded in biblical principles, Roots of Resilience connects historical struggles and triumphs to the ongoing call for equity and love in action. Readers, congregations, and small groups alike will discover how understanding the past can illuminate the path toward a better future.

Applications Open for 2026–2027 Ecumenical Institute at Bossey

The chapel of the Ecumenical Institute at Bossey. Photo: Ivars Kupcis/WCC


The Ecumenical Institute at Bossey, part of the World Council of Churches (WCC) and attached to the University of Geneva, is accepting applications for its 2026–2027 academic programs in ecumenical studies. These internationally recognized programs offer unique opportunities for theological formation, intercultural exchange, and ecumenical engagement.


Four distinct study options are available:

  • Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in Ecumenical Studies

  • Complementary Certificate in Ecumenical Studies (CC)

  • Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) in Ecumenical Studies

  • Intensive English Summer Course (EC)

Application deadline: November 30

Employment Opportunities

Resource Development Program Associate

The Office of Resource Development for Disciples Overseas Ministries (DOM) is seeking a dynamic team member to support revenue-generating activities and fund development efforts.


The Resource Development team initiates, nurtures, and maintains relationships with current and potential donors to provide direct and planned gifts to Global Ministries, a shared ministry of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ (UCC). Click the link for more information about the position.

 • • • • •

ELCA Position Openings

Access the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's (ELCA) list of United States and global service opportunities here.


Send your communion or organization's position openings to newsletter@nationalcouncilofchurches.us.

           

Follow the National Council of Churches @nccusa on Our Social Media Platforms to Receive Daily Bible Readings and Updates on the Work of NCC.

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