Stories inside

SHAWL vigilant as clean-up begins - p. 5

Students open eyes in study in China - p. 6

Risk and adventure help at-risk teens - p. 9 March 2012 [email protected] Micah 4:4 Life Center develops Volume 29 Number 3 (509) 535-1813 • 535-4112 global partners - p. 12 Monthly newspaper and website covering faith in action throughout the Inland Northwest online in color at www.thefigtree.org YWCA empowers abused women By Mary Stamp “We need to continue to battle Trish McFarland finds that the it,” Trish said. most meaningful days of her work One way is to educate children as executive director of the YWCA and young women on what healthy in Spokane since 2009 are when she relationships are and how to treat shares her story to inspire women each other respectfully as human in classes, and they in turn share beings. their stories. Domestic violence can be cycli- The most frustrating days have cal. As children see their parents been those following the recent hit or being hit, they think it’s the Washington State Legislature, and normal way to show love, Trish wondering how state budget cuts pointed out. may affect the YWCA-Spokane’s According to a law enforcement budget, on top of federal and city report on causes of murders, 38 cuts to the YWCA’s primary pro- women in Spokane County have gram, Alternatives to Domestic been killed in the last 13 years as Violence. a result of domestic violence and YWCA helps 15,000 women one man committed suicide after a year, including receiving 7,000 killing his wife. calls a year to its emergency crisis “More than half of them met in line. Women fleeing domestic vio- high school, forming an unhealthy lence have come from as far away relationship at an early age,” she as Florida to escape the danger, said. “That’s why we need to reach Trish said. young people to help them under- The YWCA’s primary goal is to stand appropriate ways to relate. empower women. “There is violence everywhere, A common way women are dis- especially in TV and movies,” empowered is through domestic Trish said. “Where is there civil violence, which, she said, “contin- discourse?” ues to be an issue in good times and She is concerned that the culture bad,” affecting people of all social sets up an expectation of violence. and economic levels. As a Catholic who had a family In Washington, about one in four member abused by a priest, she people are affected by domestic attended a gathering for victims violence. Most of them are women. Trish McFarland appreciates the YWCA’s clothing boutique, Our Sister’s Closet. Continued on page 4

Kosher Dinner builds relationships, Both events at Gonzaga’s Cataldo Hall educates community, dispels prejudice Benefit events explore Beyond offering a taste of Jew- different beliefs, traditions and interfaith society, where mixed ish foods, sharing ethnic music holidays, we are all part of the marriages are more common and credible communication and fund raising to some degree same human race. families need to make different The Fig Tree’s annual Benefit Breakfast begins at 7:15 a.m., for the synagogue, Temple Beth “The dinner has evolved since choices.” Wednesday, March 14, and the Benefit Lunch begins at 11:45 Shalom’s annual Kosher Dinner its formation 71 years ago,” Da- While once the dinner primarily a.m., Friday, March 16. welcomes the community to the vid said. “Then there were fewer focused on outreach and educat- Both events are at Cataldo Hall at Gonzaga University. synagogue to build relation- guests who came to the dinners ing the community about Jewish Table hosts are still being recruited, and hosts are still invit- ships, educate people and dispel and there was need for fewer practices, he said, the continual ing guests to fill their tables, which seat eight people. prejudice. volunteers to prepare the food. rise in costs of utilities for cook- Several speakers will share a few minutes each on the theme, For David Williams, who has “For many in our society, reli- ing, security for the event and the “Communicating Credibly,” about how The Fig Tree media are been co-chair or chair of the gion is becoming a fading piece need to outsource some of the engaged in modeling responsible media coverage. The speak- dinner for four years, it’s about of their lives,” he said. “Some foods, the goals have changed ers include Bishop Martin Wells of the Eastern Washington “opening our doors to remove people ask themselves, should over the years. Idaho Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran in America; any mystique of who we are. It’s we come to the temple to pray One reason David has been Mark Kadel, executive director of World Relief; Heather saying we can visit your con- for three hours on the Sabbath— involved is that when he moved Crandall of the Northwest Alliance for Responsible Media; gregation and you can visit ours Saturday morning—or go skiing? to Spokane in 2003, he had been and Jim Mohr of the Gonzaga Institute for Hate Studies. to understand that beyond our We are also living in more of an working for eight years in Seattle The programs that share The Fig Tree story begin at 7:30 for two food distributors, special- a.m. and noon. izing in supplying kosher foods The benefit breakfast and lunch offer a time to gather those from the East Coast to the Pacific who value The Fig Tree media and people who are interested Northwest. in learning about them. It is a time to celebrate The Fig Tree’s While Temple Beth Shalom approach to journalism and its media that connect people in members may have once cooked the faith and nonprofit communities. and baked food in their own kitch- The Rev. Kaye Hult, a flute player who has been assisting ens and later in the current temple The Fig Tree with an archival database, and pianist Joanne kitchen, the number of guests has Smith will provide music.

increased, making it necessary to The goal is to raise $18,000 to help cover the costs of pro-

Permit No. 1044 No. Permit outsource some of the foods for ducing these media that connect and build the credibility of

WA

SPOKANE volunteers to bake, then reheat

Spokane, WA 99202-3571 WA Spokane, the faith and nonprofit communities in the region.

PAID and serve to the 2,400 who now 1323 S. Perry St. Perry S. 1323 U.S. POSTAGE U.S. For information, call 535-4112 or 535-1813, or email info@

Organization come to the Kosher Dinner.

The Fig Tree Fig The thefigtree.org. Non-Profit Continued on page 6 Page 2 - The Fig Tree - March 2012 Religion News Briefs Regional Ecumenical & Interfaith News Around the World World Council of Churches News, PO Box 2100 Deb Conklin to give Easter Sunrise sermon CH - 1211 Geneva 2, Switzerland Tel: +41-22 791 6111 The Rev. Deb Conklin, pas- World Relief is an arm of the Vancouver School of Theology in Fax: +41-22 788 7244 www.oikoumene.org tor of St. Paul and Liberty Park National Association of Evangeli- British Columbia. After earning United Methodist churches, will cals that resettles refugees. her master of divinity in 1997, WCC offers resources on focus on water preach on “Which Gods Do We The offering will be shared by she was ordained and then served During the seven weeks of Lent the Ecumenical Water Network Serve?” for the 2012 Ecumenical The Fig Tree, which is organizing as pastor of United Methodist (EWN) invites churches to join its Seven Weeks for Water Cam- Easter Sunrise Service at 6:30 the service for the community, and Churches in Rosalia for three paign, “The Economy of Water,” with resources at oikoumene. a.m., Sunday, April 8, at Green- World Relief. years, at Ocean Shores for three org/en/activities/ewn-home/resources-and-links/seven-weeks- wood Memorial Terrace, 201 N. The Easter Sunrise Service years, and with Davenport Edwall for-water.html. Government Way in Spokane. began in the 1940s under the until 2007, when she began at The time of prayer, reflection and action for local and global Musicians include Lauri Clark Spokane Council of Churches, Deer Park and Liberty Park, until water justice began Feb. 20 and includes resources for World Water Strait, guitar; Zak Longoria, bass; and has been carried on through last fall when she left Deer Park Day on March 22 and Maundy Thursday on April 5. Hailee Longoria, soloist, of Coun- succeeding organizations—the and began serving St. Paul. “Water is the lifeblood of the planet as well as the economy,” try Homes Christian Church, and Spokane Christian Coalition, the Two years ago, the Interfaith said Maike Gorsboth, coordinator of the Ecumenical Water Brad Perry, keyboard, of North Spokane Council of Ecumeni- Council passed the responsibility Network. “It is crucial for sustainable development in regard to Hill Christian Church. cal Ministries and the Interfaith for the service on to The Fig Tree health, food security, energy and poverty—issues that affect and Mark Kadel, executive director Council. Board. In 2007, it had passed on engage churches around the world in different ways.” of World Relief, will speak about Deb earned a degree in phi- responsibility for the Resource The EWN is publishing weekly meditations on its website to the shared work The Fig Tree and losophy in 1977 followed by a Directory. The Fig Tree was raise awareness of water and justice. The reflections are accompa- World Relief are doing to translate degree in law in 1981, both at the founded in 1984 under the coali- nied by links and ideas for activities encouraging individuals and entries from the annual Resource University of Washington in Se- tion and was part of that organiza- congregations to work towards water justice in their communities. Directory into Russian, Arabic, attle. She clerked at a law firm in tion and the ecumenical council The weekly reflections offer biblical study on the economy Nepali, Chin and Karin languages. Colorado before serving as deputy until 2000. of water, wasteful consumption and production, agro-ecological The project will serve refugee prosecutor for Clallam County, For information, call 535-4112 production and climate change adaptation. elders who live alone and have no Washington, from 1983 to 1987. or visit www.thefigtree.org for The Rev. Konrad Raiser, former World Council of Churches one to translate for them. In 1994, she began seminary at a flier. general secretary, offers a biblical reflection on the thirst for life and thirst for water, integral to human survival, as well as the greed driving manipulation of this resource in the world today. “To be thirsty for water is part of the human condition. It is UN Association plans World Water Day the bodily expression of the longing for the fullness of life, but it The United Nations Associa- After refreshments at 4 p.m., Civil Engineering Department, can also turn into a greedy effort to maximize satisfaction,” he said. tion of Spokane has planned an the panel presentation begins at who will speak on “Water Issues The campaign is also promoting the “Green Economy” con- event to recognize the United 4:30 p.m. in Developing Countries,” and cept, which connects economic development with environmental Nations’ World Water Day from Panelists are Rick Eichstaedt of Rachael Osborn of the Gonzaga and social well-being. It is a topic in the preparation for the United 4 to 6 p.m., Sunday, March 25, at the Center for Justice, speaking on School of Law, speaking on “The Nations’ “Rio+20” Conference on Sustainable Development. the Washington/California Room “40 Years of the Clean Water Act,” Columbia River Treaty.” WCC consultation explores conciliar of Gonzaga University’s COG Mara London, an environmental For information, call 313-3610 “Ecumenism is a quality of life that needs to be articulated in Building. engineer in Gonzaga University’s or email [email protected]. all aspects of a Christian’s life” and “conciliarity is an essential nature of the church,” said Catholicos Aram I, head of the Holy See of Cilicia of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Author speaks on Jesus’ words as poems He was speaking at the World Council of Churches (WCC) con- sultation in Beirut, Lebanon, hosted by the Middle East Council Author and poet Willis Barn- English, the lyrics were locked Willis will lead lectures and of Churches (MECC) in February. stone will speak on “Poetry as up as prose. discussion at 7 p.m., Friday, at the The consultation focused on the theme “conciliar ecumenism,” the Voice of the Divine in the The Guggenheim Fellow and WSU Center for Undergraduate which refers to the Christian councils and associations that pursue Gospels and Gnostic Scriptures” Pulitzer Prize finalist in poetry, Education in room 203 and 9 a.m. church unity at the national, regional or global level. Friday and Saturday, March 23 is professor emeritus at Indiana to noon, Saturday, at the Com- The 33 leaders from national councils of churches and regional and 24, for the 34th annual Roger University. He has written The munity Congregational United ecumenical organizations who attended discussed the tradition of Williams Symposium, sponsored Poems of Jesus Christ (2012), The Church of Christ, 525 NE Campus the World Council of Churches, regional and national councils, by the Common Ministry at Wash- Restored New Testament (2009) Ave., in Pullman. working together to express churches’ desire for unity in Christ. ington State University (WSU). with co-author Marvin Meyer and The Common Ministry invites Catholicos Aram I identified three trends: 1) the growing shift Speaking of Jesus as one of The Gnostic Bible (2003). theologians and scholars for the from church-centered ecumenism to people-centered ecumenism, the greatest poets of all time, he In The Poems of Jesus Christ, Roger Williams Symposium to 2) a shift from multi-confessional ecumenism to confessional will address such questions as: he reveals poetry through seeing highlight intersections of religion, ecumenism, and 3) a shift from global ecumenism to regional What happened to deafen people the words of Jesus in Mark, Mat- academics and faith. and local ecumenism. to the poetic nature of his words? thew, Luke and John, as wisdom For information, call 332-2611 In his presentation, the Rev. Olav Fykse Tveit, the WCC general In shifting from oral Aramaic lyrics and narrative parables full or visit interfaith-house.com/ secretary, identified other realities, such as the multiplicity of ecu- into written Greek, and later into of natural imagery. symposium. menical actors, churches not yet identifying with the ecumenical movement and the financial sustainability of councils. He encouraged participants to ask: Fig Tree staff expands with AmeriCorps, intern • “Are we really the fellowship of churches that we are called to be, communities of churches that move forward towards the For the spring, The Fig Tree a bachelor’s in history at Eastern She is awaiting word on a mission goal of visible unity?” is involving three new people in Washington University in 2009 opportunity in Central America. • “Are we a common witness in the spirit and ethos of koinonia helping with its work. and hopes to start a master’s in Rochelle will work for 900 and guided by its values, such as solidarity, mutual accountability Two AmeriCorps members will teaching soon. She worked two hours—six months—and Shan- and the commitment to consensus and common witness?” assist with recruiting volunteers, years through AmeriCorps, train- non for 450 hours—three months. Koinonia is the New Testament vision of unity within the constituency building and focus ing people at Work Source to use Heather Kennison, an intern communion of the Holy Spirit, he said. In their responses, par- on The Fig Tree and Resource computers. from Whitworth University jour- ticipants focused on the theological and biblical basis of conciliar Directory. Shannon St. Hilare graduated nalism program, is assisting with ecumenism, reflecting on its different expressions and implications Rochelle Mullin, who moved to from Gonzaga University in Eng- The Fig Tree writing, editing and for the role of national and regional councils. Spokane from Salem, Ore., earned lish and Spanish in December. creating a video/slide show for the She recently was publications benefit events. The Fig Tree is published 10 months intern at Leadership Spokane. For information, call 535-4112. each year, September through June. Deadlines: COPY - 3rd Fridays ADS - 4th Tuesdays The Fig Tree is It is published by The Fig Tree, 1323 S. Perry St., Spokane, WA 99202, a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization. The Ministry Institute reader supported Editorial Team Center for Spiritual Renewal at Gonzaga University Editor/Publisher/Photos - Mary Stamp Mary Mackay, Nancy Minard, Skills for Service BECOME A SPONSOR! Second Saturday Workshop Series Heather Kennison, Sara Weaver, Eugenie Alexander, Josiah Brown Seeing with the Eyes of the Heart: NAME ______Coordinators & Contract Recognizing God in Wisdom, ADDRESS ______Malcolm Haworth - Directory Editor Mysticism and Daily Life CITY/STATE/ZIP ______Lorna Kropp - Website Developer Fig Tree Board PHONE ______Nick Block, Barb Borgens, Kevin Dow, Saturday, March 10 Bill Ellis, Mary Ann Farley, John Sheveland - Insights on Wisdom from India ❑ $17, $28, $56, $112, $250 Deidre Jacobson, Yvonne Lopez-Morton, Nancy Minard, Roger Ross, Meditation Practices from Various Traditions ❑ $52 for bulk order of 15 Mary Stamp, Marilyn Stedman, 405 E. Sinto Ave Price: $35 per workshop - 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. - includes lunch Happy Watkins, Don Weber Spokane WA 99202 Includes time for prayer and sharing SEND TO Emeritus: Jo Hendricks, Carl Milton RSVP to reserve your spot today - Call (509) 313-5763 The Fig Tree, 1323 S. Perry St., Spokane, WA 99202 © 2012 (509) 535-1813 or 535-4112 Nate Greene - executive director Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] • www.gonzaga.edu/ministryinstitute March 2012 - The Fig Tree - Page 3

Bryan Massingale is Flannery lecturer Gonzaga University will host the 36th annual Flannery Lec- Gonzaga graduates to hear Desmond Tutu ture at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, March 29, in Cataldo Hall featuring Archbishop Emeritus Desmond against apartheid when Tutu in South Africa when he was the Rev. Bryan Massingale, associate professor of theological Tutu of Cape Town, South Africa, and Nelson Mandela worked to named Archbishop of Cape Town. ethics at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wis. He will will be the keynote speaker for overcome it. In that role, he helped bridge a speak on “Cultured Indifference: The Culture of Racism and Gonzaga University’s 125th com- Recalling that time led him to divide between white and black Catholic Ethical Reflection.” The author of more than 60 mencement at 10 a.m., Sunday, visit Cape Town as part of recent Anglicans. articles, books and book reviews will address the implications May 13, in the Spokane Veterans efforts to connect students with South Africans elected Nelson of culture and cultural formation for ethical responsibility and Memorial Arena. Admission is by opportunities for study in Africa. Mandela president in 1994, the analysis. He will also discuss how social structures and institu- invitation only. He considers Tutu “a living first time in the nation’s history tions facilitate sin. The Nobel Peace Prize Laure- exemplar of Gonzaga’s historic that all races voted in a democratic The lecture is organized by the Religious Studies Department ate, a voice for justice, peace, commitment to the ideals of election. at Gonzaga University. For information, call 313-6782 or email truth and reconciliation, accepted equality and a free society as a In 1995, Mandela named Tutu [email protected]. Gonzaga’s invitation, inspired by Catholic, Jesuit and humanistic to chair South Africa’s Truth and the global activism of its students, university.” Reconciliation Commission, cre- ‘Coffee and Contemplation’ series begins faculty and alumni. Tutu continues to work for ated to investigate human rights Immaculate Heart Retreat Center is introducing a new Tutu retired as archbishop in equality, democracy, freedom and violations under apartheid. weekday series, “Coffee and Contemplation,” beginning at 1996. In 2010, he announced he human rights worldwide. Tutu’s findings on the commis- 9 a.m., Wednesday, March 21, with a program facilitated by would limit his public appearances He earned the 1984 Nobel sion marked a milestone in South Nancy Copeland-Payton on “Catching our Breath: Prayer for to spend time with family. Peace Prize because of his com- Africa’s healing process and the Long Run.” Gonzaga President Thayne Mc- mitment nonviolent efforts to sus- served as an international model Nancy, a Presbyterian pastor who lives in Sandpoint and leads Culloh, who will present him with tain human rights and peace at the for reconciliation. retreats around the country, recently presented an ecumenical Gonzaga’s honorary Doctor of peak of unrest in South Africa’s For information, call 313-6132 prayer retreat at Immaculate Heart. She is a spiritual director Laws degree—adding to honorary racially segregated townships. or visit gonzaga.edu/commence- and leads Gonzaga University’s training for spiritual directors. doctorates from 130 universities— In 1985, he was appointed ment. The series continues on April 18 with Sr. Sharon Bongiorno, said that in his own undergraduate Bishop of Johannesburg and in FSPA and on May 16 with Episcopal Bishop James Waggoner, studies at Gonzaga in the 1980s, 1986, he became the first black Jr. he was active in campus efforts cleric to lead the Anglican Church United Nations For information, call 509-448-1224 or visit at www.ihrc.net. World Water Day Contemplative living is series focus St. Marks Feeds People Easter invites you to join us in a March 25 The Franciscan Place at St. Joseph Family Center has set an 4 pm refreshments eight-week series on Thomas Merton’s Bridges to Contempla- Community Meal Experience. Gifts & Encounter community dining 4:30 to 6 p.m. - panel & discussion tive Living. The program at 6 p.m., Tuesdays, with Patricia WA/CA Room, Gonzaga COG Novak, OSF, provides a journey toward personal spiritual in the same way that many low Cards income and homeless people PANELISTS transformation through a contemplative, peaceful life. with meaning! in Spokane do. Rick Eichstaedt Series II will explore “Living Your Deepest Desires” on Center for Justice We promise a nutritious meal March 20 and 27 and April 3 and 10. Series III, called “Dis- Holy Land Art ‘40 Years of the Clean Water Act’ covering the Hidden Ground of Love,” will be on April 17 and and information about how Mara London 24 and May 1 and 8. 20% off the hungry are fed in Spokane. Gonzaga Civil Engineering Dept. For information, call 483-6495 or visit www.sjfconline.org. Wednesday, March 14th ‘Water Issues at 6:00 PM at in Developing Countries’ St. Mark’s Lutheran Church Rachael Osborn Coeur d’Alene Earth Day Fair seeks vendors Gonzaga School of Law 316 E. 24th Ave. ‘The Columbia River Treaty’ The Earth Day Fair in Coeur d’Alene is set for noon to 3 907 W. Boone Spokane, WA 99203 p.m., Sunday, April 22, at the Coeur d’Alene Library. For information, email Spokane Call 747-6677 for reservations [email protected] The theme for this year’s fair is “Earth Day In Your Back- Donations will be accepted. yard.” Organizers are recruiting vendors who will empower the 326-7070 CALL 313-3610 more than 500 expected visitors with tips and tools to improve the local environment. Vendor applications are due March 30. For information, call 208-667-9093 or email adrienne@ kealliance.org. You are cordially invited to attend The Fig Tree’s 2012 Ecumenical ‘Deepening Our Roots’ Easter Sunrise Benefit Breakfast Service Communicating Wednesday, Organized by The Fig Tree Credibly

March 14

6:30 a.m. Program is 7:30- 8:30 a.m.

Easter Sunday A 2 n 1 Benefit Lunch n u 0 April 8, 2012 a 2 l h B c Friday, en un efi L ‘Which Gods Do We Serve?’ t Breakfast & March 16 PREACHER Program 12 noon - 1 p.m. The Rev. Deb Conklin BOTH EVENTS will be held at Cataldo Hall at Gonzaga University Pastor of Liberty Park & St. Paul United Methodist Churches CELEBRATION OF SONG & PROCLAMATION Celebrating recent stories of faith in action and an opportunity to Music led by • build our capacity to share stories and insights Lauri Clark Strait, guitar • connect diverse people to build understanding Zak Longoria, bass • Hailee Longoria, soloist • promote action on behalf of vulnerable people of Country Homes Christian Church and • learn about people who live their faith & values Brad Perry, keyboard, of North Hill Christian Church

Freewill offering will be shared The breakfast and luncheon are complimentary. by the Fig Tree and WORLD RELIEF Guests will be invited to donate to help The Fig Tree

at the Lofty Cross of Inspiration Greenwood Memorial Terrace R.S.V.P. by March 9 Host a Table ($100 - invite 7 guests) 211 N. Government Way call 535-1813 or 535-4112 For information, email [email protected] call 535-4112 The Fig Tree, 1323 S. Perry St., Spokane, WA 99202 www.thefigtree.org Page 4 - The Fig Tree - March 2012 Domestic violence affects women across the spectrum of society Continued from page 1 needs to make her own decision. Often, Shawna helps children create a safety Preparatory School. and families. With media coverage a woman comes back four to five times plan for themselves, so if they feel afraid, Then she headed the foundation focusing on men who were abused, she before leaving. We do not judge that.” they know whom to call or what neighbor and major gifts at Eastern Washington was surprised that many women were Women can stay at the safe shelter they can go to. University until she started working as there whose stories have not been told 60 to 90 days. Then the program helps On the state budget, Trish hopes cuts development director of the YWCA in or covered in media. them move into transitional living, help- will be no more than 10 percent. Spokane in 2006. Women in the YWCA’s Domestic ing with rent. “We may have to lay some people Trish, who plans to retire at the end of Violence Awareness program are not Women go through the YWCA’s off, but would juggle services so fewer 2012, finds Spokane a community where uneducated, helpless women. Some are Women’s Opportunity Center to build people may do more work, but we will people can make a difference. lawyers and doctors. their job readiness with computer not turn anyone away,” she said. “People understand when change is Trish explained that domestic vio- classes, budgeting and training for job Having lost federal funding, the needed and step up when people suffer,” lence is often about control issues in the searches and interviews. They are given YWCA engages legal advocates to give she said, referring to the effort to build home. It can develop subtly, slowly and a secure email, and learn about cyber clients advice on family law and help the collaborative YMCA-YWCA at 930 insidiously. security and cyber stalking. them through the process of charging N. Monroe, completed in 2009. “The women had no idea they were The center helps domestic violence in Since moving into the new, more being controlled or that the control was women look at their court. visible building, she said requests for domestic violence,” Trish said. strengths to plan their ‘A Conversation Federal funding re- services have risen 21 percent. She described some dynamics of lives. with the Queen’ mains so the YWCA In sharing her story with women in power being taken from a victim by Women receive two can continue its Early classes at the YWCA, she wins their increasingly keeping her away from outfits, shoes and ac- features Childhood Education trust, so they are open to share their sto- family, depriving her of access to cash or cessories when they Queen Latifah and Assistance Pro- ries as they struggle to move on. credit cards and telling her she is not ca- go job hunting. Once gram (ECEAP), part of Trish considers YWCA staff heroes. pable of finding a job or doing anything. they find a job, they can at 7:30 p.m., Head Start, geared to “It’s important for the community to “When a woman comes to us, the first select five outfits from Thursday, March 22, help low-income four- remember to advocate for those who do thing is that she is safe and creates a Our Sisters’ Closet, a year-olds prepare for not have as much,” she said. safety plan,” Trish said. boutique of donated at the Spokane Arena kindergarten. They Singer, actress, author and inspira- The YWCA’s safe shelter has space clothing that serves 140 serve 51 families at the tional speaker Queen Latifah will lead for 40 women, but if it’s full, women are women a month. YWCA and at West Plains Community “A Conversation with the Queen” at taken to a hotel or motel. Recently, five women found jobs in Center. 7:30 p.m., Thursday, March 22, at the “We never turn anyone away,” she one week. Trish feels she has come full circle, Spokane Arena to help raise funds for said, adding that police and cab drivers “There is turnover,” Trish said. “Their back to using her studies in sociology the YWCA and to engage women in know where to take women seeking help. success is an indicator that the economy from Fort Wright College in Spokane, conversation on domestic violence. They drive around so no one follows. is improving.” where she graduated in 1968. Along with empowering women, the The 24-hour crisis line at 325-2255 The YWCA recently started the Child Having modeled fashions to pay for YWCA works to eliminate racism, pri- always has a person available. Advocate Program, headed by Shawna her studies, she continued to work six marily in collaboration with the national “Women who seek help may choose Hill, who deals with children in the shel- years after college for the Bon Marche YWCA’s annual Stand Against Racism to go back—especially if they did not ter who have seen abuse or been abused. in Tri Cities and Seattle, and for Nor- program on April 27. bring their children or a pet. They may “She works with them one-to-one to dstrom’s in Spokane. In the 1970s, “It’s an opportunity to work to end ha- love the man,” Trish said. address their fear,” Trish said. “Studies she married and took time to raise her tred and racism in our community,” she “It’s not our place to tell a woman to show that complex trauma begins when children and volunteer for civic groups. said, noting that the board and staff con- leave. She’s been living with someone children see their mother hurt, their dog In 1989, she became director of Ron- tinue to educate themselves on racism. who has been telling her she can do this threatened, or they are hurt. It stops their ald McDonald House. In 1995, she be- For information, call 326-1190 or and can’t do that,” she said. “A woman development and learning.” came development director for Gonzaga email [email protected].

Organization of International Religious Science and Centers for Spiritual Living unite and move International Centers for Spiri- “The merger of the offices SC) was formed in 1949. Ernest tual Living, which has had head- was finalized at our recent New Holmes, the founder, along with quarters at 902 E. Second in Spo- Orleans Conference,” he said. a group of ministers created their kane since 1990, and Religious “Some of those we have worked own organization, the Church Science International in Golden, with closely in the home office of Religious Science, in 1953. Colo., have united to form a single already have moved to Golden.” In 1954, it was renamed United organization, Centers for Spiritual On Feb. 13, the Rev. Kenn Church of Religious Science, and Living. Gordon was elected the first later renamed United Centers of As the Spokane center moves spiritual leader and the Rev. John Religious Science. to Golden, the local congregation Waterhouse was elected the first IARSC continued and was of the Center for Spiritual Living president of the Centers for Spiri- renamed Religious Science Inter- at 2825 E. 33rd Ave. has gained tual Living. national and later the International furniture from the headquarters, “This change will have little Centers for Religious Science. which closed the end of February. effect on individual members but “Our teaching is about creation The Rev. Joe Niemiec, spiritual is seen as a shift of consciousness and empowerment, letting go of leader of the Spokane group with as the two organizations come what was and creating something his wife, Toni, said the move together to serve the global com- new that will serve us and, there- The Religious Studies Department at indicates that “we are at the end munity,” he said. fore, the world,” Joe said. Gonzaga University presents: of an era and the beginning of a International Association of Re- For information, call 534-1011 new one.” ligious Science Churches (IAR- or visit cslspokane.org. The Annual Flannery Lecture The Center for Spiritual Living Thursday, March 29, 2012 Spokane was first affiliated with Religious Science International in Come celebrate 1946. It holds the 23rd charter for that organization, Joe said. Featuring: Rev. Bryan Massingale Discover more of the Associate Professor of Thelogical miracle you are. Dance, Ethics at Marquette University sing, create, share, find Action silence and peace with Recycling friends at N-Sid-Sen on Speaking on: 911 E. Marietta Lake Coeur d’Alene “Cultured Indifference:” The Culture of Racism and Catholic Ethical Reflection TOP PRICES A retreat for men and women March 16 to 18 7:30 p.m. HONEST WEIGHT with Peggy Capes, Todd Neel, Quan Yin, Gonzaga University Campus aluminum Cataldo Hall, Globe Room brass Roger Ehlert, Bruce Calkins and Robert Rohlmeier copper Cost per person $150 or for couples $250 Lecture is FREE and stainless Send to Duane Nightingale-Registrar open to the public. newspapers 15359 N Pineview St., Rathdrum ID 83858 Questions? 483-4094 For information, call 208-687-5255 or Call (509) 313-6782 email [email protected] March 2012 - The Fig Tree - Page 5 SHAWL Society maintains vigilance as Superfund cleanup begins ven though the U.S. gov- Radiation Exposure Compensa- ernment reached an agree- tion Act,” she said. Ement with Newmont Min- So the SHAWL Society will ing Co. and its subsidiary Dawn continue to monitor protection of Mining to spend $193 million to the health of the land, the water clean up the Midnite Mine on the and the people. Spokane Indian Reservation, the “Our work is far from over,” SHAWL Society will continue to she said, listing the need to protect monitor the process. archaeological sites and the new The U.S. Department of the generation of cleanup workers, Interior will add $42 million to who may forget how their parents cleanup efforts because it failed to and grandparents died. fulfill federal trust responsibilities To further her work with the to the Spokane Tribe in providing tribe, Deb plans to study for a oversight of the open-pit Midnite master’s degree in tribal gover- uranium mine. nance at Evergreen College in Deb Abrahamson, founder of Olympia. the Sovereignty, Health, Air, Wa- “We wish to return to the value ter and Land Society (SHAWL), of paying it forward to care for the said the tribe in the fall also next generation,” she said. Deb Abrahamson was recently honored as a 2012 Watershed Hero - story page 11. received a Radiation Exposure Among recent gatherings to Screening and Education Process plan. They say they will give the agreed, saying that if they take kane Tribe, SHAWL, Portland inform tribal members, SHAWL grant through the U.S. Department land back to the tribe, but it will the topsoil off and put it back on, Area Indian Health Service and held a “Water Is Life” gathering of Health and Human Services to take years to regrow the trees, and it’s permitted.” Epidemiology Center, and the lo- in October on the reservation. It help address health impacts for it’s an elk habitat.” SHAWL will present those con- cal Indian Health Service Clinic. included a time for prayer and for former uranium workers. She is also concerned that cerns at the next General Council They collaborated to develop elders to address the role of the With promises of jobs and roy- the mine company is arranging of tribal members in April. the grant. Since they received people to protect their water. alties for the Spokane Tribe, the another purchase behind closed Deb also wonders whether in the funds, there is a need for For information, call 258- Midnite Mine opened near Well- doors. So SHAWL wants to keep digging, cleanup workers may un- transparency, accountability and 8952 or visit http://shawlsociety. pinit, Wash., in 1953 to produce tribal members and the commu- cover and expose more uranium. oversight, she said. blogspot.com/ uranium for nuclear arms. The nity aware of what is happening. The Spokane Tribe hopes that When Deb visited the Navajo mine closed in 1981. The Dawn “What are our rights when the cleanup process will employ Tribe in New Mexico to learn Mill Site is still open. Concern corporations come in and want to people on the reservation, but about its efforts to clean up, continues regarding the effects destroy land?” Deb asked. “We this time with safety protections those she met reinforced the need of the mine and mill sites on the hope that with pressure from the to prevent health consequences, to take precautions and assure health of former workers and the people we can reverse the deci- she said. oversight. environment along the Blue Creek sion.” “People, especially those living “While only one person on the and the Spokane River. Deb said that if the mine buys along the roadway, have the right Spokane Reservation has been With the reservation checker- land within the reservation to dig, to know the waste will be coming compensated for health issues, boarded with private land owned there may be no environmental through their community,” she nearly 1,500 in the Navajo Tribe by descendants of homesteaders impact statement or any cultural continued, telling of a truck that and surrounding communities and tribal people who gave up assessment. went off the road and sank into have been compensated through land to shop owners to pay off “One site in that area was a ditch near wetlands and a bird the Department of Justice and the debts, Deb is concerned that the widely used by our ancestors,” sanctuary near Reardan. Department of Labor under the mining company is purchasing she said. Another issue is whether the such parcels within the reserva- “It was not our original under- gravel pit over the major aquifer tion for cleanup purposes or future standing of the cleanup process may be pierced in the process. resource extraction. that they would dig holes within On each of the issues, Deb said As a result, an emphasis of the reservation to fill the open there is need for transparency SHAWL’s effort is community pits,” she said, “but the Environ- around receipt of the grant by education, so tribal members are mental Protection Agency has four entities involved: the Spo- informed of and involved in the mine closure process. In addi- tion, SHAWL is working with the Family Promise of Spokane Environmental Protection Agency Helping Homeless Families in Spokane (EPA) to develop strategies. by Building Communities, Strengthening Lives “From 2006 until recently, there were no public meetings We are running critically short of these on the mines,” Deb said. “The items for our present & past families! community needs to know about Food/Gas Gift Cards ($10, $15 or $20) the closure process, the employ- Paper Towels - Laundry Soap - Hair Conditioner ment available, the health hazards Bath Towels (new or gently used) associated with that employment and the closure, and the impacts (509) 747-5487 on the environment.” Recently, she said, the mine purchased 80 acres adjacent to the mine site. She has learned that the mine plans to clear cut that land, take off two feet of topsoil and dig the next six feet to use as clean fill for the closure. “It’s cost effective for the mine,” she said, “but it will fur- ther destroy the reservation. This proposal was not included in the You’ve been called to serve. Our graduate degrees 34th Annual Roger Williams Symposium March 23 & 24, 2012 help you answer. Poetry as the Voice of the Divine in the Gospels Administrative Leadership, Special Education and Counseling Degrees Offered and Gnostic Scripture You’ve heard the call to help others. Our Graduate Studies in Education programs help you answer that call. An M.Ed. in administrative featuring leadership prepares you for service in your church, school or nonprofit organization. Master’s degree programs for school or mental Willis Barnstone Author: The Poems of Christ (2012) health counseling help you guide others. And unique endorsements in special education equip you with the tools to meet unique needs. The Gnostic Bible (2003) Take the next step with a Whitworth master’s degree today. Free Lectures and Discussions 7 pm to 9 pm Friday - WSU CUE 203 9 am to 12 pm Saturday - Pullman United Church of Christ 525 NE Campus Ave. For details & to RSVP interfaith-house.com learnVisit whitworth.edu/gradprograms more or call 509.777.3222 509-332-2611 Page 6 - The Fig Tree - March 2012 Kosher food tradition reminds Jewish people of their heritage Continued from page 1 “On the Sabbath, we are not David uses many of his connec- to labor in the sense of cooking, tions from the food distribution driving, watching TV or creating business. The selection of kosher a spark by turning on anything foods needed for the dinner are electrical. So a traditional Jew- somewhat limited in Spokane area ish household will often prepare supermarkets, he said. cholent, the Sabbath stew, the day Because Temple Beth Shalom before the Sabbath. It is set on the as an institution is able to buy the stove to cook overnight and into food wholesale, he can work di- the next day,” David said. rectly with his sources to purchase “On the Sabbath, we attend ser- beef brisket, potato knishes and vices at the synagogue and study the chocolate rugelach. Torah. A kiddush lunch, which Even in purchasing the foods, is prepared in advance, is often there is still much work in cook- served on Saturday after service. ing the brisket and preparing the A non-Jew can be asked to reheat carrot tzimmes, challah bread and a dish if necessary,” he said. Mediterranean spiced apples. For information, call 747-3304. For the Jewish community, it’s also a time of building camarade- rie as the synagogue’s members help prepare and serve the food, and perform to provide entertain- David Williams, Kosher Dinner co-chair, heats a pan of brisket. ment while guests wait. Much of the music comes from to Seattle, where she practiced be mixed because of the biblical of who we are,” David repeated. The Center for Organizational the Eastern and Western Euro- law. David worked at a few jew- passage that says: “A calf is not to For him, the most important Reform pean, African and South American elry stores before becoming a be cooked in its mother’s milk.” part of Jewish faith is its eth- roots of the Jewish community in stay-at-home father and eventu- When the kitchen is kashered, ics and morals. It is about how Need board training or a Spokane. ally entering food distribution. they sterilize all surfaces, the people should treat one another— retreat? We can help Last year and again this year, They moved to Spokane in 2003 flatware, china, pots and pans, with honesty and integrity, by David has invited the Spokane when Vickie became a professor and anything that was not put working together in harmony, by 509.879.9235 www.corhome.org Community Gos- at Gonzaga Law in storage and kept aside for the being there to help others and by pel Choir to sing. School. David kosher dinner. After the dinner, believing in God. Some have asked Temple Beth continued in food the kitchen is transitioned back him what their Shalom’s annual distribution after to dairy, using similar methods. presence has to their move and In the 2011 Kosher Dinner pro- Maya Earth Coffee Kosher Dinner do with Jewish currently works gram, Rabbi Michael explained Your congregation or nonprofit can raise funds traditions. will be held from with a furniture that the term and concept of ko- by co-marketing fair-trade, organic coffee “It’s not ‘our’ 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and home décor sher come from the books of Le- through Coffee with a Cause tradition per se, distributor. viticus and Deuteronomy where 509-768-3193 • Toll free: 877-892-3193 but the choir Sunday, March 11, Having been God commands the Jewish people [email protected] • www.mayaearthcoffee.com members have at 1322 E. 30th Ave. raised as a Reform to follow specific dietary laws: great voices, Jew, he said he did 1) Meat and milk are not to be and our dinner not grow up eating mixed. is about reaching out to all the kosher foods regularly, not even 2) Kosher animals both chew a Five Reasons to Choose The Academy people in the community,” said while living in Israel, where much cud and have a split hoof. Kosher • Roomy, affordable apartments David, who always asks the choir of the food is commonly kosher. birds do not scavenge, and kosher • Anytime dining director to focus on the gospel “Often the choice one makes fish have fins and scales. • Full kitchens music from centuries of Jewish to keep kosher is less about the 3) Some animals, birds, sea • Personalized assisted living services music, especially songs based on particular diet and more often to creatures and insects are forbid- • Active living program stories from the Hebrew Bible. remind us of our heritage and who den even if they meet the require- “We share with African Ameri- we are as Jewish people,” he said. ments—pork and shellfish. CALL NOW FOR A PERSONAL TOUR cans a common history of oppres- David helps cook the brisket the To be certified as kosher, ani- sion in face of white supremacy week before the dinner. It is re- mals must be slaughtered by ritual both historically and locally,” he heated the day of the dinner. From and birds by hand with a blessing. (509) 484-4099 License #BH 1625 said. “Plus, as Jews, we strive to sundown Saturday, March 4, to All blood must be removed before 1216 N. Superior St. One of a kind retirement community find a common bond while work- Sunday, March 5, several volun- cooking. Meat and dairy are not Spokane WA 99202 www.merrillgardens.com ing together with our neighbors.” teers cook about 1,300 pounds of to be eaten at the same meal, and Retirement & Assisted Living David, who spent his early meat in the synagogue’s six ovens. there must be a waiting period childhood in Seattle, moved with “Brisket needs to cook for at between eating them. Fish, eggs, his parents to Israel, where he least four hours until it’s tender,” vegetables and fruit may be eaten attended an Israeli public school, he said. “Otherwise, it’s chewy.” with either meat or dairy. Cooking became a citizen, graduated from Because the synagogue kitchen and eating utensils for meat and EVEN SILENCE HAS AN END: high school, served in the military, is usually kept “dairy,” Rabbi dairy must be kept separate. and earned a degree in theatre arts Michael Goldstein and a team of Kosher foods are certified, for My Six Years of Captivity in in 1985 from Tel-Aviv University. congregants “kasher” the kitchen example, by the Union of Ortho- In 1987, he went to restaurant on the Thursday before the brisket dox Rabbis, by Kof-K and other the Colombian Jungle school in New York City, where is cooked to make the transition organizations that send inspectors he met his wife, Vickie. When from dairy to meat. to supervise that the food is pre- she completed her law degree at In kosher cooking, he ex- pared according to kosher laws. INGRID New York University, they moved plained, dairy and meat cannot “Keeping kosher reminds us BETANCOURT Building on Faith with SHOP AT WED., MARCH The Habitat Store 28 at 7 P.M. McCarthey Athletic Doors, Windows, Appliances Eliminating poverty housing Cabinets, Lighting, Paint, Tile Center one house at a time. Hardware, Plus Much More HELP BUILD IT! Presidential Speaker Spokane Industrial Park Series Spring 2012 Interested in 3808 N. Sullivan Rd., Bldg 10 owning your own home, Spokane Valley WA 99216 donating or volunteering? Visit our website 509-535-9517 www.habitat-spokane.org STORE HOURS: QUESTIONS? Call 509-313-3572 or call 509- 534-2552 Mon - Sat 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tickets and information: gonzaga.edu/ingrid March 2012 - The Fig Tree - Page 7 Students set aside hesitancy and engage in dialogue for study in China By Heather Kennison In his personal faith, Anthony In a cultural, political, faith and said he also tends to have a Fran- language setting new to 19 Whit- ciscan approach to preaching— University students, An- that is, “Preach always and when thony Clark led a semester-long necessary, use words.” study abroad at Minzu University “Who we are and how we of China in Beijing last fall. behave speaks to a belief in good- Aware that they might be hesi- ness or faith,” he said. “When tant to engage in dialogue, he I’m in China, my approach is to encouraged them to set aside their be a good person, to be a caring fears and be open to be enriched person. My first voice of dialogue in their faith, minds and hearts. is just goodness.” Anthony, who is associate pro- For Amy, the program recon- fessor of history at Whitworth, firmed her calling to help in or- taught classes on Chinese culture phanages, but challenged her with and religion, and the political his- questions of faith and society. tory of Beijing. “If we’re not challenged in His wife, Amanda, who went our faith, we become stagnant,” with him as an adjunct faculty she said. member, taught an optional Chi- Anthony considers the China nese art class for those who were study abroad program as a way interested. of personal enrichment. In addition to these classes, the “No truly rich life stops being students spent four hours a day Amy Wyatt meets orphans in China. Anthony Clark enriched,” he said. “We have to immersed in language classes of- Photo courtesy of Amy Wyatt Photo courtesy of Anthony Clark keep learning. We have to keep fered by the Chinese institute and growing.” taught by local professors. “I consider myself a missionary versity of Oregon and was an (NEH), is looking at Christian For information, call 777-4368 The program, which is Whit- of two things: my faith and Asia,” instructor at the university while missions in North China and the or email [email protected]. worth’s first study-abroad pro- Anthony said. finishing his doctoral work. He history of conflict and accom- gram in China, is part of its com- Students had opportunities then taught at the University of modation between non-Christians mitment to develop study centers to debate with each other within Alabama before coming to teach and Christians. International in different areas of the world, like temples of Buddhism, Daoism at Whitworth. “I think the NEH has seen Women’s Day Event one it has in Costa Rica. Anthony and Confucianism. They also en- “What secular universities need recent history of pure human hopes the semester study will be gaged alternative ways of thinking is to be more open-minded,” An- conflict,” he said. “My book seeks offered at least every three years. about religion by debating about thony said. “They boast of being to confront questions of conflict, Students were in classes with each point of view. open-minded but in reality are questions of unrepresented voices people of diverse faiths and “Learning about the different quite limited in raising questions and questions of gender.” nationalities, studying at a uni- religions and lifestyles was a para- of faith and the existence of God. Other than materialism, versity where all 56 of China’s dox, because I found components “At Whitworth, whether you is the largest-growing minorities are represented. of Christianity in each of them,” believe in God, the question of entity in China, Anthony said. Senior cross-cultural studies Amy said. God is open for discussion,” he There are now 60 to 70 million major Amy Wyatt went on the For example, Confucianism said. Christians in China, up from program as a way to immerse shares the concept of honoring In this small, private university, about 4 million in 1949. Look- herself in the Chinese culture. your parents, she said. Buddhism, he finds it liberating and comfort- ing at these statistics, he sees Variety/Art Show Fundraiser Taking the 17 credits offered, like Christianity, calls one to take ing that he can be a whole person: optimism in China. He said he for PTSD Healing she also made use of a week-long care of the needy. a scholar, a teacher and a Christian has experienced a confirmation in Israel and Palestine Chinese holiday to volunteer at an “Every time I personally go at the same time. in his conviction that even outside 6-8 pm, Thursday, March 8 NYNE Bar and Bistro orphanage run by the New Hope to China, I come back thinking Anthony thinks of his work as the church there is goodness and 232 W. Sprague Ave. Foundation. about what it means to believe in a sort of prayer. Growing up in a holiness. $7 donation at the door Contact: [email protected] “That sparked a chain of vol- a different way and what it means family of Irish Catholic roots, he Also witnessing this, Amy 206-898-5090 unteering, where another student to put that belief into practice. I was influenced by such teachings asked herself, “How do you see and I were able to volunteer at a come back a different Christian,” as the Benedictine approach to God in this culture? Do they have school for children with autism,” Anthony said. faith, living and work. According to be wrong if we’re right?” Amy said. The professor’s interest in to this point of view, prayer and “Many students study abroad China began when he was 12 work are related. However, he and do their American thing,” she years old after his parents enrolled said this does not mean there is said. “There is nothing bad with him in a Tai Chi class to help no doubt or skepticism in one’s that, but I think that if you’re go- channel some of his energy. He relationship with God. Are you a victim of crime? ing to go that many miles away, was later able to think about and “Prayer doesn’t mean a constant call why not be in China, rather than incorporate Chinese philosophy faith, it means a dedication to being an American doing the into his own life. God,” he said. 1-866-751-7119 American thing in China?” After reading Thomas Aquinas’ With this dedication, Anthony Now in his third year of theory that “from nothing, nothing has devoted much of his life to 24-Hour Hotline teaching at Whitworth, Anthony comes,” he was intrigued that the learning about China and Asian Free & Confidential had first begun a dialogue with Chinese belief was almost the cultures. the study abroad department just complete opposite: that the only His next book, for which he Spokane Crime Victim Service Center after his first year, having rec- thing that can create something received a grant from the National www.spokanecrimevictimservicecenter.com ognized a growing desire from is nothing. Endowment for the Humanities students who wanted to learn “Encountering these Asian about non-Western subjects on a ways of thinking that were so deeper level. opposite from and contradicted Asians make up 60 percent of Western thought excited me so the world population and Whit- much that I continued my studies worth is becoming aware of their of China and Chinese literature influence and the necessity for and history,” he said. students to have some awareness Anthony studied Chinese lan- of Asia, he said. guage and literature at the Uni-

Help us end hunger - one step at a time Sunday April 29 Register noon - Spokane Community College - Lair 1:30 p.m. - Walk on Centennial Trail To Participate Call Sylvia Barney - 891-1045 Page 8 - The Fig Tree - March 2012 Four Newport churches join in Lenten soup suppers and worship embers of four New- said the congregation worshiped For information, call the Lu- port churches who see at the . theran church at 447-4338, the each other in business, During that time, the UCC, Catholic Church at 447-4231 or M the United Church of Christ at schools and events have a chance Catholic and Lutheran churches during Lent to talk about their began doing a shared vacation 447-4121 or email newportucc@ faith over soup Wednesday eve- Bible school. conceptcable.com. nings for six weeks. The American Lutheran Church hosts the first two weeks, St. Tune in to “The Deep End” Anthony’s Catholic Church, the Tune “Ain newto concept‘The inDeep Talk Radio” End’ second two weeks, and the New- A new concept in Talk Radio  Creating non-divisive conversation around the port United Church of Christ Creating non-divisive conversation • issues that are integral to Life. (UCC), the last two weeks. The around the issues that are integral to life.  Mennonite Church assists the • Creating a communityCreating a ofcommunity people of people with differing spiritual and religious sensibilities. UCC church. A massed choir with differing spiritual and religious sensibilities.  • Discussing Spirituality, Metaphysics, Religion and Science of 30 to 40 voices from the four Discussing Spirituality, Meta-physics, Religion and Science churches sings at the fifth and 10Sat ua.m.,rday m oSaturdaysrnings at 10 :on00 oKPTQn KPTQ 1280 1280 AMAM

Covenant Christian Church sixth services. (Disciples of Christ) This year the theme for the Brought to Soup Supper sermons is, “The you by... www.covenantchristianspokane.org Cindy Sayre and Lois Lunden prepare soup for a Lenten supper. Body of Christ.” Each pastor will Photo courtesy of Newport United Church of Christ discuss different parts and what they mean in the Lenten journey. “We reflect on our brokenness Russ, a graduate of Whitworth The Revs. Janine and Matt and detachment while we sing, who grew up in Colfax, went in Goodrich of the Lutheran church eat, pray and laugh together in 1983 to Lancaster Seminary. He will preach on the eyes and mouth. an amazing time of fellowship,” returned to the area and served Father Frank Bach, who is serv- he said. “We are facing the cross a UCC church in Ritzville and ing the parish until a new priest is with our hands held together, then served churches in central placed there, and John Westover, hearing different perspectives in Pennsylvania. who will soon be ordained a dea- the body of Christ. It prepares “Members of the different con, of the Catholic church will me for Easter, making Easter an churches know each other and Aging & Long Term Care of Eastern Washington speak on Christ’s hands and heart. exclamation point that punctu- work together in the community,” 1222 N Post www.altcew.org The Rev. Russ Clark at the ates the conclusion of our time of he said. “The soup suppers give United Church of Christ will talk sharing in the suffering and joy.” people who see each other in busi- Promoting wellbeing, independence, dignity & choice about the knees and feet of Christ. He is impressed that the suppers nesses, in the community and in for Seniors and others needing long-term care Agnes Goertzen, an elder at and services have been sustained school the opportunity to connect For information, assistance & case management, call Spring Valley Mennonite, will so many years by the commit- with each other on the faith level. Spokane - Elder Services 458-7450 Stevens/Pend Oreille - Rural Resources Community Action (800) 873-5889 assist at the UCC services. ment of lay people. They started “Coming together around faith, Whitman - Council on Aging & Human Services (800) 809-3351 Chris DeChenne, secretary of years before he and his wife and they can overcome differences Northern Ferry - Ferry County Community Services (509) 755-0912 the UCC church, said members co-pastor Janine came seven and share commonalties,” he said. have helped prepare two of the six years ago. Fr. Frank, who served St. weeks of ecumenical Lenten Soup “In this day, ecumenism is diffi- Mary’s Catholic when the Tri- Suppers and worship services cult,” Matt said. “This experience Parish program with the former Find your "Point of Inspiration" at for long enough that they have a reminds us that our churches are Good Shepherd Lutheran and notebook on how to set up tables, about Jesus, not a denomination. Resurrection Episcopal churches soup recipes and time lines for It’s an example of what we can held ecumenical services, is im- preparation. do and be. Who knows where it pressed that this small community The United Church of Christ, will lead us.” draws 125 to 150 people. American Lutheran, St. Anthony’s In addition to the six soup “It has a strong impact in a Catholic and Spring Valley Men- suppers, the UCC and Luther- small community,” he said. Year-round facility—270 acres & 4,800 feet of waterfront nonite churches have held Lenten an churches also celebrate Ash While most of the four congre- on the east shore of Lake Coeur d'Alene. gatherings every year since about Wednesday, Maundy Thursday gations have many older mem- • Open for non-profit groups from 16 to 160 1994, she said. and Good Friday together. bers, the soup suppers draw a • Two retreat lodges with all facilities “Our unofficial motto is ‘until Sharing in these events is part of spectrum of ages. • Fourteen cabins with baths down the trail we eat again,’” Chris said. these churches’ pattern of encour- Sundays, about 85 worship • Lake-side chapel “I know people from practices aging members to go back and at the UCC church, 114 at the • Open-air pavilion for worship, dance or programs with the Northwoods Performing forth to each other’s events and Lutheran church and 200 at the • Sheltered cove for swimming and boat moorage Arts Center, seeing them on the fund raisers, as well as to share in Catholic church. • Excellent food service, served family style street and meeting them at other community ministries, Russ said. Each church chooses a charity • Canoes and sailboats available places in the community,” she “We don’t have a common for the offering collected when the • Hiking trails said. “It gives members a chance purse, but we each help support service is at their building. • Adventure challenge course to hear different preachers and ex- Rural Resources and the Crisis Chris, who grew up in Newport, • Volleyball, basketball and horseshoes perience the similarities and dif- Network, which serve the com- a community of 2,000, returned in Call 1-800-448-3489 to reserve your date ferences in our worship services.” munity by helping people with 1970 after graduating from Wash- for retreats, seminars, workshops or fellowship! Russ, who came to the UCC housing, medical assistance, food, ington State University in music Come and catch the spirit! church in July, is amazed at the clothing and emergency shelter,” education. She and her husband, number of people who participate he said. “The Crisis Network be- Don, are the piano organ team for and at the level of cooperation. gan in our church, with members the United Church of Christ. CATHOLIC CEMETERIES OF SPOKANE He said the pastors know each of our church and community When the UCC church was re- other because they meet weekly to people forming it.” building after a fire in 1980, Chris study the lectionary texts as they prepare their sermons. “It makes the journey through the most difficult season of the The Franciscan Place* 1016 N Superior St. The first place for a pre-need meeting Christian liturgical year easier,” said Matt.

PREPARE your family for the most important decision in life March and April Programs Thomas Merton’s Bridges to Women’s Cancer Survivor Retreat Contemplative Living Series Presented in collaboration ENSURE 125 S. Arthur with Cancer Patient Care peace of mind Spokane, WA 99202 Tuesdays 6-7:30 p.m. Apr. 27-29 & June 8-10 (509) 535-0229 Facilitator: Patricia Novak, OSF Pamper yourself and share with other survivors. (800) 753-0229 Journey toward personal spiritual Join us for a weekend of relaxation, meditation, transformation and a more rest, presentation, sharing and more. PROVIDE • Paper by the ream Limited to ten people. the proper resources for the committal service following the Funeral Mass contemplative and peace-filled life. • Largest selection of colors, Series II -Living Your Deepest Desires: Begins 7:00PM Friday to Sunday 1:00PM designs & weights in the area March 20, 27, April 3, &10 Cost: $195 - Scholarships available • Case discounts Series III - Discovering the Hidden RSVP TODAY • Wedding invitations & bulletins Ground of Love: • Preprinted papers including all April 17, 24, May 1, & 8 C ATHOLIC C EMETERIES OF SPOKANE holiday papers View current calendar Holy Cross Queen of Peace St. Joseph Everyone is welcome • Envelopes in a large variety of events online 7200 N Wall St 6910 S Ben Burr Rd 17825 E Trent Ave of sizes RSVP TODAY • Mention this ad and receive 509-467-5496 www.cathcem.org 10% off on Mondays RSVP-(509) 483-6495 * www.sjfconline.org follow your faith March 2012 - The Fig Tree - Page 9 Risk and adventure help at-risk teens find themselves, realize potential By Josiah Brown “We started doing free trips, Since starting in 2006, Peak 7 but looking at the Bible and its Adventures has gone from serv- guidelines for helping the poor, ing 137 youth on about 12 rafting it says farmers are to leave some trips and one backpacking trip to crop for the poor to glean,” he providing an outdoor adventure said. “It doesn’t say to harvest for 2,237 underprivileged, at-risk the entire crop and give some to inner-city, urban and rural 13- to the poor. They have to work for it. 19-year-olds. “We try to have people pay The nonprofit, faith-based min- something,” he said. “It gives istry takes teens into the wilder- them more buy-in.” ness where they take risks—un- For information, call 467-5550 der the supervision of trained or visit www.peak7.org guides—find solitude and gain adventure skills that help them handle life problems and realize their potential. The program is often the first Just Trade experience the teens have in out- Ryan Kerrigan on a whitewater rafting adventure with a group of youth. door adventure. Photo Courtesy of Ryan Kerrigan fairly traded It developed when co-founder to include single-day rock climb- With the adventure experiences, others we need to realize that if and executive director Ryan Ker- ing and multi-day rafting. They the focus is on having the guides someone’s father beats him, he crafts from rigan sought to mesh his skills also offer whitewater kayaking, engage the youth and love them. doesn’t want to hear about God around and faith. winter camping and snowshoeing. “If the youth aren’t asking the as father,” Ryan said. the world When Ryan graduated from Peak 7’s single-day experi- questions then they usually won’t In addition to funds from fees Clemson University in South ences help groups connect and listen,” Ryan said. for trips, Peak 7 is subsidized by inside Carolina with a degree in parks, build relationships. Its goal is to Peak 7 is also a resource for donations. Brused Books recreation and tourism, he was interest the youth in going on a other groups. Participants pay based on their 235 E. Main not sure what he wanted to do multi-day trip. “We are not trying to be Youth family’s financial situation. If with his life. “We use God’s creation to chal- for Christ, but to provide a tool for they can only afford $25, then that Pullman, WA He had been working for REI lenge teens physically, emotion- other ministries at a low cost,” he is what they pay. If they cannot af- 509-334-7898 and was on track to become a ally and spiritually,” said Ryan. explained. ford anything, then the group will Mon-Fri 11 am-6 pm manager, but when that opportu- “Some of the teens have never Peak 7’s guides are trained in do community service sometime nity closed, he needed a new job. been out of the city or even their safety and wilderness skills. They before the trip. Sat 10-6, Sun 12-5 Someone he had taken rock neighborhoods. We take them are also trained in communicating climbing offered him a job with outside their comfort zone and with youth. Thriva, a new software company their barriers break down. They “We serve many different types Personal or legal problems? DUI? in Spokane that provided online open up,” he said. of youth. With a church youth In need of alcohol and drug treatment? camp registration and manage- Although Peak 7 is a Christian group, we may be able to talk ment. ministry, staff and volunteers do about God as father, but with In 2004, Ryan moved to Spo- not force the gospel on anyone. kane. When the company moved “These youth have had bad to Seattle in 2005, he decided to stuff handed to them in life, so we stay in Spokane to start a camp. choose to focus on loving them Thriva asked him to design an first,” Ryan said. adventure program. They are upfront with teens that During his childhood in Kenya they are a Christian organization. and Ecuador, where his parents On single-day adventures, SPARC has highly trained qualified staff to assist you. were missionaries, he had learned groups pray beforehand and have For more information and to schedule an appointment, call: to love the outdoors. an optional Bible study related to 624-5228 “I climbed every tree I could debriefing at the end of the expe- or visit us at 1508 W. 6th Ave. find and chased monkeys in the rience. About half of the groups 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. - Monday through Friday jungle,” Ryan said. participate in that study. Other Confidential, discreet services. Public funding available through In college, he started climbing groups have a non-Bible centered Spokane County Community Services and Washington State DSHS with gear and doing other wilder- processing time. ness activities. He also worked Multi-day trips provide more with summer camps. opportunity to talk about faith. Ryan is a certified whitewater Every night the group has an kayak instructor, a raft guide optional Bible study, but only one instructor, and a climbing and teen has not engaged and that was backpacking guide. only for the first night, Ryan said. He wanted to use those skills to do “kingdom work.” “Growing up a Christian in a Christian Dance missionary family, part of me Academy always wanted to be doing min- How do you move? istry,” Ryan said. ballet • hip hop Thriva decided to support his prophetic dance decision, giving him a year’s sal- for children to adults ary as start-up capital. afternoon and evening Peak 7 Adventures, which now classes Tues, Fri, Sat at has branches in Spokane, Portland Emmanuel Family Life Center and Seattle, started with whitewa- 631 S. Richard Allen Ct. ter rafting and backpacking. CALL - 217-8025 The organization is expanding [email protected]

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Books and poetry help us share thoughts and emotions, touching our lives Perhaps it’s the librarian in me or maybe “October’s Bright Blue Weather,” one of if he had been teaching a class. He encour- from Aramaic to Greek to Latin and then to just the lover of reading, but books—almost her favorite poems. aged students to “waterski across the sur- modern languages, Willis believes that they all kinds of books—can make my mind Rita Dove is a prize-winning poet and face of a poem,” but they persisted in a sort lost their poetic form. The typesetters won. ramble as it absorbs new information from former Poet Laureate of the United States. of enhanced interrogation, “beating it with Reading the parables as poetry, or - them and makes connections with the old. After hearing an interview with her about a hose to find out what it really means.” ing or singing them, could widen and There is a bit of a book-club mentality her editing of The Penguin Anthology of Maybe we’ve been doing that to the deepen them for us. at work for me, because I find that sharing 20th Century American Poetry, I informed parables of Jesus. Indeed, we might even find that we re- about what I read helps create a common my husband that it should be my Christmas Poet Willis Barnstone, who will pres- member more of the details if we do that. understanding and continuity. present. Since then, I have been dipping ent the Roger Williams lectures on March Poetry and music have a way of bur- My mother always liked to find a book or into it frequently, sometimes intentionally 23 and 24 in Pullman, believes that the rowing into the remotest reaches of our two among her Christmas presents and start and sometimes at random. parables of Jesus were most likely delivered thoughts and emotions, touching every reading one of them the day after Christmas As seems usual, when I shift my attention as poems. corner of our lives. as a way of slowing down after Christmas to a subject, I see it everywhere. That could be one reason they were re- Dipping into the Penguin Anthology has season activities. Certainly, the Gospel of John, with its membered in Jesus’ time. revealed cries of anguish over the waste of She read widely and appreciatively. Af- extended metaphors, encourages us to read Clearly the disciples were not carrying war, as well as both serious and lighthearted ter she had enjoyed David McCullough’s it as poetry no matter how it is laid out on notebooks and ballpoint pens as they fol- reflections on the human condition, the biography of President Harry Truman, she the page. lowed Jesus around Galilee. conundrums of how we live together and learned that all his books were still in print, Poetry can often give us new or deeper Theirs was a primarily oral culture with a how we deal with our solitariness, and our and she made reading them a joyful project. slants on subjects both great and small, and literacy rate in the low single digits. participation in the poetry that is Creation, The rest of us learned a great deal of even poetry itself. Poetry, chant and song all create a rhythm including October’s bright blue weather. miscellaneous information about the Billy Collins, an award-winning poet and and simplify remembering long passages As I prepare to move, I have been sorting Flood and the building of the former Poet Laureate, often has a slightly or lists of facts. through books and the memories they stir. Brooklyn Bridge and the Panama Canal. skewed approach to his topics. Translating poetry is notoriously dif- Nancy Minard Bright fall days often remind me of He presents “Introduction to Poetry” as ficult, and as the parables made their way Editorial Team

Letter to the Editor Sounding Board Newsletter Excerpts

We think we can identify what x” are good and those in “party y” are bad. dear. Young adults love Jesus, but they nally thought. It might mean we have to is good and what is evil: Mother Teresa What does give us hope? As Christians can’t stand how organized church presents give up something, like the disciples of old good, Hitler bad, Batman good, the Joker what ultimately gives us hope is the death his message. Not all churches are like this, who left their nets to follow Jesus. Their bad, those for the parking lot good, those and . In our complex- but this is how churches are seen. lives were never the same. Our lives might against it bad. If adulthood teaches us ity, we rest in the truth that Jesus recognizes The culture of most churches’ style of not be the same either. anything, it is that life is more complicated the complexity of our lives. music and worship is a foreign culture To live “in Christ” means to be trans- than the dialectic of good and bad. People Our hope is in the one who draws all to young adults today. We live in differ- formed into that new creation. It is to try are more complicated than the issues we complexities to himself. ent cultural worlds. Young adults are not and live in a way where loving God and lov- peg them on. The Rev. Eric Dull comfortable in the worship culture that is ing our neighbor really matter, and where I recently heard that Congress passed St. Mark’s Lutheran newsletter meaningful to older generations. we recognize that everything we have has the fewest number of bills in history this We live on a mission field. In order to been gifted to us by God. past year. The House and Senate passed Thousands of congregations relate, we have to enter their culture and In our Lenten journey, are we focused around 80 mostly benign bills. Of course, across the United States are in the same get to know them where they are and on on living “in Christ”? We will see where the Democrats blame the Republicans, and position we find ourselves, with few if any their terms. Some strongly held views are it leads us and we will see what God has in the Republicans blame the Democrats. young adults involved. There are churches incorrect, but it will take a long time to store for us as we explore his journey to the What is increasingly clear is that civil that seem to have all the young adults, but overcome and correct them. We have to cross that he calls us to join him in. discourse has been on the way out in our they are a small minority. be church differently. There are many competing voices in culture for a number of years. Is this be- The trend over the past 25 years is clear. The Rev. David Helseth the world today that try and say, do this or cause we fail to remember that people are There has been a significant increase in Englewood Christian – Yakima - don’t do that. They ask us to follow their more complicated than we make them out young adults who have no experience newsletter particular cause, their particular vision, to be? Are we just plain lazy these days of and no interest in being involved in to join them to vote this way or that way. when it comes to figuring out our own a church. The number of young adults As Christians, we are called to Their voices can be loud and distracting, positions, let alone the positions of others? participating in church, even evangelical live a life of following Christ—to be “in but remember that we are called to follow Instead of figuring out who a person churches, has been on a decline since 1995. Christ.” Sometimes we forget that and the one voice of Christ. Christ will not really is, we find it easier to put them into Many young adults state that one reason think Jesus is to dwell in our hearts, but provide easy answers to difficult problems. a category of what team they have joined. for their rejection of church is how the that is not what Jesus asks. What we find in What he does do is point us in the right di- We even do that with Jesus. I have heard church has been portrayed in the public Scripture is the request —not command— rection and join us for the journey. He will both Republicans and Democrats say Jesus media for the past 20 years. The church to follow him. not leave us or hang us out to dry. What he would have clearly been a part of their is seen as negative, oppressing, against He will lead us to a place that we might does is love us and forgive us. That is all political bent. In doing this, don’t we try the rights of women and against all other not want to go from time to time, but when we will really ever need. to over simplify God? religions. In other words, the church is a we do live in Christ, we are exposed to a The Rev. John Hergert I am not ready to say that all in “party place that is against many things they hold world that is much bigger than we origi- Pasco First Lutheran newsletter

509-547-4622 first [email protected] pascofirst [email protected] March 2012 - The Fig Tree - Page 11 Environmental groups honor watershed heroes To underscore the importance Lake Coeur d’Alene. “The wa- “When we turn on the tap, we C & H Foreign Auto Repair of the region’s watershed, which ter grabbed me and said this is are drinking the same water our E. 620 North Foothills Dr. Spokane, WA 99207 touches everyone’s lives, John home. I did not know then the great, great, great, grandchildren EDWARD W. CUSHMAN 487-9683 OR 484-5221 and Rachael Osborn started an water needed me, that it was so need,” she said, telling of helping annual tradition to honor “wa- contaminated and there were so Deb prepare a technical report on tershed heroes” at a gathering of many permits for people to poke the contamination of Blue Creek. Hope & Healing and benefit for the Center for En- holes into the aquifer,” said Mary. For information, call 209-2899. Counseling Services vironmental Law and Policy and Marian Beaumier LICSW the Sierra Club Upper Columbia Group. 483 0428 EMDR / Medicare Part B For 2012, they recently recog- nized as “watershed heroes,” Deb Calendar of Events Abrahamson, founder and direc- Immaculate Heart Retreat Center tor of the SHAWL Society, and A peaceful place to pray and Mar 1 • March for Meals, Meals on Wheels Walkathon, River Park Square, 10 Mary Verner, former mayor who a.m. to 1 p.m., 924-6976 6910 S Ben Burr Rd. now teaches a class at Whitworth Mar 2 • First Friday with the Bishop, Immaculate Heart Retreat Center, 6910 S. Spokane WA, 99223 University and works with the Ben Burr Rd., 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m., 448-1224 Spokane Tribe. Mar 3 • Lenten Reflection Day, “Return to Me with Your Whole Heart,” The Franciscan Place, 1016 N. Superior, 6 to 7:30 p.m., 483-6495 “The Spokane Indian people, Mar 6 • Dean’s Dialogue on Educational Achievement Gap, Weyerhaeuser Hall, Log on to www.ihrc.net who love the trees, waters and Whitworth University, 7 p.m., 777-4263 for retreat and program information land, now suffer cancers from Mar 8 • The Politics of Water: Power/Knowledge/Agency in Global Water Governance, Global Studies Lecture, Vandana Asthana, Eastern throughout the year. uranium with a half life of 4.4 bil- Washington University, Hargreaves Hall, Walter and Myrtle Powers lion years. Countering that, Deb’s Reading Room, noon, 359-6200 Visit our Virtual Retreat daily online love for the tribe, the water and the • Democratic Challenges and Change in Contemporary Africa, Great earth has an eternal half life,” said Decisions Lecture: Megan Hershey, Weyerhaeuser Hall, Whitworth University, 7:30 p.m., 777-4937 author and climber John Roskelly. Mar 10 • Insights on Wisdom from India, John Sheveland, The Ministry Institute, He said her action is a witness 405 E. Sinto, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., 313-5765 that people can defeat hate, inertia Mar 10, 17, 24, 31 • Engaging the Artist Way, The Franciscan Place, 1016 N. and money. The SHAWL Society Superior, 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., 483-6495 Mar 10-18 • Novena of Grace, Signs of Hope for the Future of the Church, St. (Sovereignty, Health, Air, Water Aloysius Church, Boone and Astor, Daily Services 12:15 p.m. and 5:15 and Land) promotes community p.m., 313-5896 education and strategies to reduce Mar 11 • Kosher Dinner, Temple Beth Shalom, South Perry and 30th, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., 747-3304 radiation from mining waste on Mar 14 • Fig Tree Benefit Breakfast, Communicating Credibly, Cataldo Hall, Long Term Nursing the reservation. Current efforts Gonzaga University, 7:15 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., 535-4112 Short Term Rehabilitation are described in an article on page Mar 15 • Not as I Pictured: A Photographer’s Journey through Lymphoma, John 10410 E Ninth Ave Spokane Valley 5 in this issue of The Fig Tree. Kaplan Lecture, Weyerhaeuser Hall, Whitworth, 7 p.m., 777-4739 Mar 16 • Fig Tree Benefit Luncheon, Communicating Credibly, Cataldo Hall, 509-926-3541 Family Owned & “Our people have been sub- Gonzaga University, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m., 535-4112 sunshinehealthfacilities.com Operated Since 1949 jected to environmental toxins Mar 16-18 • Spring Renewal Retreat for Men and Women, N-Sid-Sen on Lake most of our lives, interfering with Coeur d’Alene, 208-687-5255 Mar 17-18 • Building Healing Communities for Veterans Conference, Yakima our food gathering,” she said. National Guard Armory, 2501 Airport Ln., Yakima, 922-8383 “My father worked in the mine. Mar 18 • Palouse Choral Society Chamber Choir, Monastery of St. Gertrude He and many others have passed Chapel, Cottonwood, Idaho, 4 p.m., 208-962-2000 away. I was born into the toxins Mar 19 • Green Business Networking Luncheon, “Sustainable Agriculture,” Fred Fleming of Shepard’s Grain, Spokane Convention Center, 334 W. and seek to protect the water, our Spokane Falls Blvd., 11:30 a.m., 509-209-2861 people and future generations. Mar 20 • Can the Supreme Court Deal with the 21st Century? Erwin Water is sacred. Water is life. It’s Chemerinsky Lecture, Barbieri Court Room, Gonzaga Law School, 12 important to protect water.” p.m., 313-3738 Mar 20, 27 • Thomas Merton’s Bridges of Contemplative Living Series, The John introduced Mary, saying Franciscan Place, 1016 N. Superior, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., 483-6495 that “as mayor, she advocated for Mar 20-22 • “Creative Expressions from the Earth,” Spirit Center, Monastery of St. the Spokane watershed.” Gertrude, Cottonwood, Idaho, 208-962-2000 Mar 21 • Coffee and Contemplation, Immaculate Heart Retreat Center, 6910 S. Mary, who has a bachelor’s Ben Burr Rd., 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., 448-1224 degree in anthropology from • Spokane City Forum, Spokane in the Movies: Why We’re Such a Great Davidson College, a master’s in Place to Shoot Films, First Presbyterian Church, 318 S. Cedar St., 11:45 environmental management from a.m. to 1 p.m., 777-1555 Hours: Mon-Fri 10 am-5:30 pm Saturday 10 am-2 pm Mar 23 • Peace and Economics in the Changing World Order, Erwin Yale University and a law degree Chemerinsky Lecture, Barbieri Court Room, Gonzaga Law School, 8:30 from Gonzaga university, came a.m. to 5 p.m., 313-3920 to Spokane in 1992. She founded Mar 25 • World Water Day, United Nations Association, Gonzaga University the Spokane Tribe’s Natural Re- COG’s WA/CA Room, 4 to 6 p.m., 313-3610 Mar 28 • If a Calvinist Had Coffee with a Feminist, Lindaman Chair Lecture: sources Department and directed Julia Stronks, Weyerhaeuser Hall, Whitworth University, 7 p.m., 777-4937 the regional tribal consortium, • Even Silence Has an End, Ingrid Betancourt Lecture, McCarthey Athletic Upper Columbia United Tribes. Center, Gonzaga University, 7 p.m., 313-3572 Mar 29 • Latin American Christians and U.S. Foreign Policy, Great Decisions In 2003, she was appointed to the Lecture: Lindy Scott, Weyerhaeuser Hall, Whitworth University, 7:30 p.m., City Council. She was mayor 777-4937 from 2007 through 2011. • Annual Flannery Lecture, Bryan Massingale, Cataldo Hall, Gonzaga With the city, she worked to University, 7:30 p.m., 313-6782 Mar 30-Apr 1 • Weekend Retreat for Men and Women “Living through Grief,” Fr. protect the aquifer, advocate for Stan Malnar, MD, and Jim Shaw, MD, Immaculate Heart Retreat Center, the river and establish the Sustain- 448-1224 ability Task Force. Apr 1 • Sex and Soul, Donna Freitas Lecture, Weyerhaeuser Hall, Whitworth University, 6:30 p.m., 777-3453 “I love the river,” said Mary, April 2 Holy Week Retreats for Women (Apr 2 to 4) and for Men ( Apr 5 to 7), Fr. telling of first driving into the Rory Pitstick, SSL, Immaculate Heart Retreat Center 448-1224 area from Montana and seeing Apr 4 • Fig Tree distribution, St. Mark’s Lutheran, 316 E. 24th, 9 a.m., 535- Fair Trade - Earth Friendly - Local - 35 W. Main 1813 Apr 5 • Fig Tree Board, Emmanuel Family Life Center, 631 S. Richard Allen Ct., 1 p.m., 535-1813 Apr 8 • Easter Sunrise Service, Greenwood Memorial Terrace, 201 N. Government Way, 6:30 a.m., 535-4112

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Only $25 per person per night. 509-255-6122 or email: [email protected] www.zephyrlodge.org Page 12 - The Fig Tree - March 2012 Life Center reaches around world to awaken their own congregants Given that many large churches in 2009 to dig two wells in Kenya. have a wide front door and a wide The wells led the government to back door—with people coming build a high school there. and going—Life Center Church When World Vision’s president in Spokane has not only small preached, he recruited 1,500 spon- groups to build community but sors for children in Swaziland, also involves worshipers in com- where agricultural projects bring munity and global ministries. water to 40,000 people. The After the pastor, the Rev. Joe $35-a-month sponsorships sup- Wittwer, and a church team vis- port children and water projects ited a water project in Kenya, the to improve their lives. church decided to form global Kristi estimates that members partnerships to engage in evan- send about $1 million a year to gelistic work and connect people sponsor children. with other cultures. When Life Center ended its Kristi Burns, director of com- fiscal year in September 2010 munity and international partner- in the black, the church council ships, said that on the trip the transferred a six-figure amount pastor read the book, The Hole to international and local partner- in Our Gospel, by Rich Stearns, Kristi Burns shows the lobby kiosk announcing Africa Week at Life Center Foursquare Church. ships, she said. president of World Vision. Life Center, which is at 1202 Joe was so moved that he After the sermon series, people the church’s education program. on that effort. A Life Center group N. Government Way, also has five ordered 5,000 copies and set a offered more than 50 ideas for • In Nicaragua with Globe In- will go in October for a crusade. community partners: five-part sermon series in the fall partners. Kristi met with them ternational, Life Center supports • In Ethiopia, the church works 1) Through World Relief, about of 2009, inviting Stearns to preach and evaluated the proposals based two orphanages with children who through New Covenant Foun- 50 people have helped refugee the last one. on Life Center’s priorities. The are not adoptable because one dation and Community Health families settle in Spokane. Kristi, who has attended Life church bases its partnerships on parent is alive but cannot care for Evangelism (CHE) in Soddo, an 2) With Global Neighborhoods, Center for seven years, decided to principles outlined in the book, them. Teams have gone to repair arid area where it helps a church, a it supports a thrift shop. leave her work as vice president of When Helping Hurts, by Steve orphanages, interact with chil- feeding program, children’s home 3) About 53 participants mentor university advancement at Whit- Corbett and Brian Fickkert of dren, lead vacation Bible school and orphanage. CHE teaches children at Sheridan Elementary worth University about that time. the Chalmers Institute, a national and dig a septic tank. people to grow alternative crops. School each week. Her volunteer work at the church organization that “helps churches It also helps Forward Edge, a Another team will go there in the 4) One family is in Olive Crest grew into a part-time job on Life help the poor help themselves” program that houses and educates fall on a “vision” trip to learn. Kids at Heart’s Safe Families pro- Center’s staff of 62. through relief, rehabilitation and abandoned girls who were rescued In the mountains of Southwest gram for preventing child abuse. Joe’s vision is to engage at redevelopment. from living in garbage dumps. Ethiopia, an area of sustainable 5) The center supports Antioch least 1,000 of the 3,800 worship- “While there is need to care • In Mexico, Life Center part- agriculture—bananas, pineapples, Adoption, an alternative, inex- ers in international experiences to for widows and orphans, feed ners with Penasco Christian Fel- sweet potatoes and chickens— way for parents to adopt, change their world views through the hungry and provide relief in lowship, in Puerto Penasco, four they support a Bible school and assisted by a social worker and encounters with people in other disasters,” she said, “we also want hours by car from Phoenix. It church planters who go from there an attorney who work pro bono. countries who live in poverty. to build long-term relationships started nine years ago as a bilin- to Sudan, Somalia, Kenya, Tanza- Growing up Lutheran in Bur- “When we see the issues people with the people of these countries gual church in a tourist area. nia and remote parts of Ethiopia. lington, Wash., Kristi attended of other countries face, we’re through our partnerships.” “The community is impov- On a visit, Kristi was impressed Evangelical Free and Baptist never the same,” she said. “See- When Life Center spreads erished, because of the loss of with the dedication of three churches in Pullman. ing, smelling and touching life in the Gospel, it seeks to train native tourism and because 1,500 poor church-planting couples. The She earned a degree in el- another culture causes us to take people to do it in order to respect people migrated from Southern wives work to improve health and ementary education in 1974 at apart our lives and rebuild them.” the culture and the people. Mexico and live in a cardboard- hygiene in remote villages. Washington State University Kristi, who at age 59 fulfilled “Many find it hard to believe box village near town,” she said. Kristi and her husband, Jack, (WSU), earned a master’s in child her childhood desire to go to we come to be friends, be among The church provides seven who teaches leadership studies and family studies in 1992, and Africa, has looked at her use them and learn from them,” Kristi feeding stations, serving a daily at Whitworth, will go to Ethiopia worked as a substitute teacher, of resources and says God has said. “It’s about loving God and meal in schools and the jail. in March to help CHE Ethiopia with USAID and the WSU Foun- strengthened her desire to share loving people.” In April, a Life Center team of develop a five-year strategic plan. dation before going in 1997 to the Gospel. Reading The Hole After reviewing possible part- 12 will help at a Child Evangelism • In Swaziland, Life Center Whitworth University, where she in Our Gospel, she observes, has ners, the leadership at Life Center carnival that draws 3,000 children works on a World Vision clean attended a Presbyterian Church changed how members relate with chose six—El Salvador, Nicara- to hear the Gospel. water project and plans a fall before going to Life Center, a each other, with friends and with gua, Mexico, Kenya, Ethiopia and • In Kenya with Springs of trip, taking 12 people to meet the Foursquare Church. grocery store clerks. Swaziland—and chose to work Hope, the focus is on evangelism children they sponsor. She is one of 28 of the church’s “In the busyness of our culture, through several agencies, not one. through water, education, health Kristi said partnerships and staff who are completing a cer- we need to check our priori- • In El Salvador, Compassion and agricultural projects. During child sponsorships draw major tificate of ministry at Whitworth. ties and ask if we are caring for International paired them with a Life Center’s Africa Week—Feb. gifts. In a special offering, the For information, call 327-4422 people, doing what Jesus would church. Three teams have gone 26 to March 3—one event focuses center raised $60,000 one Sunday or email [email protected]. do and allowing God to use us,” for week-long visits. Life Center she said. has given matching funds to build So far, about 150 worshipers a wall around the church and sup- have gone abroad and 200 are port a child survival center, where Building Healing Communities involved in local projects, plus young mothers learn to care for 2,000—60 percent—sponsor their babies and gain job skills. for Veterans Conference children all over the world. Members also sponsor children in Faith-Based Leadership Event

Free March 17 - 18 At Yakima Check In Begins at 8 a.m. National Guard Conference Armory Workshops RSVP by March 9: [email protected] 2501 Airport Ln. Call (509) 922-8383 • www.GSSAC.org S a t u r d a y Col. Roy Harrington

S u n d a Conference is intended for y • Clergy / Chaplains • Government Leaders Dr Guindola Crowley • Faith-Based Counselors • Business Leaders • Veterans Groups • Community Coalitions Saturday Workships 9:30-4:30 Faith Incorporated Topics Include Saturday Dinner/Speaker 6 pm Sunday Interfaith Service 8 am • Moral Trauma • Post Traumatic Stress Sunday Workshops 8:30-11 • Military Culture / Policy • Sexual Trauma Sunday Brunch/Speaker 11 am • Substance/Drug Use & Abuse • Employment Issues Sunday Resource Fair 9-1:30 Hotel accommodations given Sponsored by Greater Spokane Substance Abuse Council once RSVP is confirmed Department of Social and Health Services ATR • Army OneSource Limited Scholarships