| | | | ARE YOU FOLLOWING NCC ON SOCIAL MEDIA? Check out our social media accounts for NCC updates! | | NCC to Co-sponsor First 'Faith in Democracy Interfaith Concert' | | Come hear music rooted in multiple faiths and sacred scriptures as we help people of all faith traditions counter growing partisan polarization in America. Help reclaim January 6 as a day of hope, light, and unity.
🎶 Concert: Music from the Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, Sikh, Baha'i,
and Christian faiths.
📍 Venue: Lutheran Reformation DC 212 East Capitol Street NE
🕑 Date and Time: Tuesday, January 6, 2026, 5:00 – 6:30 PM
🎫 Tickets: Get free Eventbrite tickets HERE! ℹ️ For more information: Faith in Peace Concerts
https://faithinpeaceconcerts.org 🖥️ Livestream: 5:00 p.m. (ET) https://www.youtube.com/@faithinpeaceconcerts | | | | Please take a look at the World Council of Churches video Christmas message above or read the full print message here.
“Now as then, families today experience the risks and perils and vicissitudes of being human in our too cruel world,” reads the message. “Millions of families around the world are assailed by poverty and persecution, displaced by climate and disasters, torn apart as refugees flee from conflict and violence.”
Yet hope is born. “Angels sing and shepherds kneel! God’s incarnation in human form, Jesus embodies God’s love and confirms our infinite value as children of God, elevating, illuminating, and enlarging our lives and the whole human family in a deeper kinship with God and each other,” reads the message.
The Holy Family is the icon of our kinship with God, each other, and the human prospect. “Through holy faith, we are invited into and united in God’s holy family. We are not alone in our struggles, pain, and suffering. We are connected and interconnected. We are family. And Immanuel, God is with us forever!” | | Interfaith Reparatory Justice Table to Present 'Hidden Histories' Virtual Event | | | | COP30 and G20: Good Tidings
of a Way Forward | | By Dr. Angelique Walker-Smith
Strategist for Pan-African, Orthodox, and Ecumenical Faith Engagement
Bread for the World | And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” Luke 2:10, KJV | What a timely herstoric/historic period we are in as we welcome the seasons of Advent and Christmas. In November, the G20 was held for the first time in Africa—South Africa.
Also in November, the COP30 was held for the first time in Brazil, the second most populous country of African peoples after Nigeria. Both invited inclusive voices and processes, locally, nationally, and globally. The G20 represents 85% of the world’s gross domestic product and two-thirds of the world’s population. COP30 includes 198 parties (countries and the European Union).
These forums brought lamentations, outcries, and hope from the people to save the planet from the devastation of climate change and from a life that is increasingly unsustainable and inequitable for many people of color. This includes indigenous and Afro-descendent communities that have been and are disproportionately affected—especially in places like Africa and small island states, as well as in siloed communities in other countries.
I took part in both of these timely multilateral conferences and brought good tidings of a renewed vision of economic and environmental order. I was inspired by the Gender Action Plan (promoting the leadership of Indigenous people, African and Afro-descendant people, and rural women) and “The Mutirão Decision,” which furthers global mobilization against climate change—marking the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement.
Both documents are potential game changers, with more equitable plans for sustaining and promoting life. Both map a way forward to end hunger, with a vision of solidarity of the “global north” and “global south.” This, despite the disappointment of some negotiations that did not reach a final resolution.
Still, a stubborn question haunts us: How much will G20 and COP30 members and partners actually invest and reinvest—not only financial capital but also sustained social capital? Will those members generate buy-in from their stakeholders?
The G20 comes to the United States in 2026, during the 250th anniversary of this country’s birth, and COP30 goes to Turkey and Ethiopia in 2027. Those disproportionately affected by debt, climate change, conflict, and hunger will keep showing up and will keep asking the stubborn questions.
During this Advent Season, when we remember the good news of Jesus coming to us as a baby, we also remember that the government did not embrace him. But the holy family, shepherds, wise men, and angels did. Further, Joseph paid his taxes to the Roman government despite having to flee to Egypt from the Roman authorities that sought to take his child.
As people of faith, today we too are called to embrace Jesus again, engage government leadership, and advance tidings of advocacy actions that bring good news to all. | | WCC at Global Refugee
Forum Progress Review 2025 | | World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay spoke at a Global Refugee Forum Progress Review 2025 plenary session on December17, noting that, when faith communities unite, hope is transformed into action. Photo: WCC | World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr. Jerry Pillay spoke at the Global Refugee Forum Progress Review 2025 plenary session on December 17, noting that when faith communities unite, hope is transformed into action.
“In line with the mission of the World Council of Churches—to speak and act together on matters of faith and social justice—we reaffirm our shared commitment to be agents of hope: to protect those forced to flee, particularly those rendered invisible by the crises of our time,” said Pillay. “What does it mean to bring hope to the most vulnerable: stateless persons, children, and women with disabilities caught in situations of conflict or disaster, stripped of identity, protection, and dignity?"
Pillay described how the WCC and UN Refugee Agency will work to establish a financial consortium— called the Multi-Religious Fund for Protection and Ending Statelessness—for philanthropic and in-kind contributions, appealing jointly in a spirit of solidarity and shared responsibility.”
“We are not starting from zero,” he said. “We already have a powerful example of what is possible.“
Read the full story here. | | Participants of the Global Refugee Forum Progress Review 2025 plenary session, December 17, 2025. Photo: WCC | | Seattle University to Host Webinar: 'Leading from the Core: Challenges and Courage Today' | | The Seattle University Center for Ecumenical and Interreligious Engagement will host a webinar featuring panelists from L.A. to Seattle, sharing perspectives on navigating today's challenges in religious leadership. Participants will explore leadership from a core of courage and wisdom.
🗓️ Date: Jan. 12, 2026 ⏰ Time: 12:00 - 1:30 p.m.
🌐 Location: Virtual on Zoom 🎫 Registration: FREE
| | NEWorks Productions Announces 'Just Like Selma'
Hymn-sing Project! | | In February 2026, NEWorks is inviting congregations and choirs nationwide to join the ‘Just Like Selma’ Hymn-sing Project in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, founded in 1926 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson.
Imagine 100+ congregations and choirs across the nation uniting in worship through the singing of a new social justice hymn.
A National PSA & Hymn-sing Project As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, NEWorks Productions is launching phase two of its FREEDOM ADVANCES campaign, an expansive civic initiative that confronts the unfinished promise of American democracy. Central to this phase is a new work that spotlights the Civil Rights Movement’s power to reshape the nation: Just Like Selma.
On “Bloody Sunday,” March 7, 1965, the nation recoiled in horror as state troopers brutally attacked peaceful protestors on Selma’s Edmund Pettus Bridge.
This history will be illumined anew through Just Like Selma, a stirring new social justice hymn inspired by King's ‘How Long, Not Long’ speech delivered on the steps of the Alabama State Capitol 60 years ago. Composed by Nolan Williams, Jr, the hymn echoes the sounds of Black church devotional songs and Civil Rights anthems. It will be released in time for the MLK national holiday in January 2026.
That release will be followed by the "Just Like Selma" Hymn-sing Project, engaging more than 100 churches, chapels, and choirs across the nation to program the hymn as part of their Black History Month observances. Just Like Selma is a call to remembrance and an urgent reminder that the work of perfecting our democracy is unfinished.
As new generations face renewed battles over democracy, access, and equality, Just Like Selma is a reminder that the courage and strategy of those who marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge remain urgently relevant.
Click HERE for more information and to register.
Listen to a sound clip HERE. | | Armenian Assembly Hosts 2026 Winter Weekend in Delray Beach, Fla. | | The Armenian Assembly of America invites Assembly Members and guests to join them for the 2026 Winter Weekend, January 16-18, 2026, at the Opal Grand Resort in Delray Beach, Florida. This year’s Winter Weekend will feature a full program of community-building, policy discussion, and cultural celebration. The weekend will begin with an Oceanside Sponsors’ Reception, hosted by Ed and Susan Atamian, on Friday evening, January 16. On Saturday, January 17, guests will gather at the Opal Grand Resort for a Breakfast Briefing and Panel, where attendees will hear timely updates on Armenian issues, U.S.-Armenia relations, and the Assembly’s advocacy and education initiatives for 2026. The evening program will include a cocktail reception, dinner, and music from the renowned John Berberian Ensemble, featuring Harry Bedrossian and Jason Naroian. Sponsorship opportunities are available and include the Friday evening Sponsors’ reception, the breakfast briefing for sponsors and guests, and reserved seating for Saturday evening. For questions about the event or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Mary Jo Bazarian, Director of Development and Membership, at mjbazarian@aaainc.org or 202-481-3335.
Click HERE for more information. | | 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 CategoriesGeneralOpen to individuals or organizations excelling in climate engagement or advocacy. The 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 YouthOpen 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 HonorOne exceptional climate leader advancing national progress on climate action and solutions.
Application Deadline: January 5, 2026 | | 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 Offers 'Protecting Our Neighbors' Resources for Churches and Communities | | Protecting Our NeighborsFederal immigration officials are active across North Carolina, particularly in Charlotte, the Triangle, and surrounding areas. People of faith are called to stand with these neighbors, show up in solidarity, and work boldly to protect those most vulnerable. If you, your family, friends, or neighbors are concerned for their safety, following are some resources to help communities prepare: Create a family emergency plan. Do not unnecessarily put yourself in harm's way; keep a safe distance when recording or observing enforcement actions. Know your rights during encounters with law enforcement. Identify trusted contacts for childcare, elder care, and emergency support, Stay connected to community networks that provide verified information. Visit OJO Obrero: A new website designed by Siembra NC to help immigrants assess their risks. This website features information about confirmed ICE operations in our state to help parents and workers get to school and work safely.
Following are other important resources to be aware of: Siembra NC ICE Report Hotline—Call or text 336-543-0353 if you see or suspect ICE activity. The Council is hosting a Faith Leaders Weekend of Action webinar to offer worship resources and action items for this coming weekend and beyond.
| | 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. | | | NCCC Offers Free Toolkit for Congregations Offering Immigration Support | | With recent increases in immigration enforcement activities, many in our communities are feeling heightened fear and uncertainty. As people of faith, we are called to respond with compassion, courage, and care. Our Congregational Immigration Response Toolkit offers practical, ready-to-use resources to help your congregation show up for immigrant neighbors. Inside, you’ll find: Talking points for faith leaders Worship and liturgical materials Scripture references rooted in justice and welcome Concrete steps your community can take right now
This toolkit is designed to support you in worship, study, advocacy, and community action—anytime, and especially now. | | | One Home, One Future Offers Free 'Skit Kit' to Discuss Climate at Dinner | | The holiday season is a time for connection, reflection, and gratitude, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Embracing sustainable holidays encourages mindful consumption and reduces waste, ensuring that we can enjoy this special time without compromising the well-being of our planet. Join One Home One Future today to access FREE Sustainable Holidays 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. | | | |
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