Imagine standing in a circle side by side with someone you love, someone you find very difficult, the worst person in the world and the person you most admire. In this circle we wouldn’t need to agree with each other, we wouldn’t need to like each other. We wouldn’t even have to approve of each other. All we need to do is agree to stand still for 10 minutes in respect for humanity.

1. Remember what you like about the people you know.

2. Think about what you’d like to discover from the ones that are difficult for you.

3. Consider how to bring out the best in both.

It may not be enough to create a world of peace but it could create the hope we need to cooperate globally and respectfully.

Topic: Hearing from the Consciencous Objectors!

Please join the Christian Education Commission to learn about the history of Consciencous Objectors and hear from many C.O’s in our congregation.

We will begin with a video presentation at 7:30, then move to round tables on the patio for dessert and the opportunity to hear from individuals seated at each table.

District Conference this year will be in Fresno from November 7-9. John Price, pastor of the Empire Church of the Brethren, is the Moderator and he has chosen the theme From…, To… based on 2 Corinthians 5:6-7. The logo idea came from Nathan Price. Eric Davis took the basic sketch and created a beautiful logo, which can be seen by visiting the district website at www.pswdcob.org. Registration material will be available soon.

With the theme Faithful and Just: Progressive Brethren Speak, Brethren Mennonite Council for LGBT Concerns (BMC), Womaen’s Caucus and Voices for an Open Spirit (VOS) are planning a gathering in Indianapolis, IN on November 7-9, 2008. Christian Community, Manchester Church of the Brethren and the La Verne Church of the Brethren are also sponsoring the event. Worship services and plenary sessions will gather around the themes: A Challenged Church, a Grounded Church, a Welcoming Church, and a Courageous Church. Susan Boyer will be one the speakers at the event. Save the dates. A conference website will be up and running soon.

Another book off the press this Spring is The La Verne Church of the Brethren, a Guide to its Art and Architecture. It is a 40-page book, in full color. It was written by Barbara Smythe, with photos by Elaine Zukle, and it was designed by Marlin Heckman. The price is $12.00 plus $4.00 if mailed.

Until August 15, both books can be ordered for $40.00 plus $10.00 if mailed. After August 15, the two will be $47.00.