Stories inside

Program breaks ground to expand homes - p. 5

Occupy coalition has diverse voices - p. 6

Presbytery executive energizes churches - p. 7 October 2012 [email protected] Micah 4:4 Cardboard Box Cities Volume 29 Number 8 (509) 535-1813 • 535-4112 shelter fund raisers - p. 8 Monthly newspaper and website covering faith in action throughout the Inland Northwest online at www.thefigtree.org • check The Fig Tree Facebook page daily for news and links Couple enriched by living simply By Mary Stamp resources that connect people to In their retirement at Chesaw in the land. the Okanogan Highlands, Jere and They connect to the world of Rick Gillespie live simply, a life- ideas through books and internet, style they chose when they entered which they access via satellite, to the “back to the land” movement in continue their activism. the 1960s and 1970s. Rick’s commitment extends They anticipate their retirement beyond the Columbia River wa- will be enriched as they continue tershed as he seeks to help people their commitments to the peace understand and find solutions to and environmental movements, the Palestine/Israel conflict. He and as they find new ways to use organizes opportunities for people their skills in publications and to learn about it through the Peace photography. Festival, the Day of Peace and the They feel enriched just living Mothers’ Day Walk. “in the peace and beauty of God’s Their choice years ago led each country,” with clean air, fresh of them to give up earning money mountain spring water and friend- and to avoid being swept into the ships of many years. world of consumerism. Jere gleans spiritual nurture That eventually led Rick, who from the wisdom of the earth she was teaching in Portland, Ore., sees around her, attuned to the riv- and Jere, who grew up in Maine ers, mountains, grasslands, birds and studied at the University of and life forces surrounding them California in Berkeley, to wind up and connecting to the earth. Her in the Okanogan Highlands where spirituality connects to justice, they met. which she believes will come as Rick, who graduated from Port- people learn to live sustainably on land State University in 1967, the earth. Jere and Rick grow and taught high school for nearly preserve much of their food. five years. He worked towards a From his interest in biological master’s degree in 1976, taught at science, Rick believes that people HeadStart and was a Home Start can learn to live on limited income director in the Coastal Range, when within self-contained ecosystems, he became disenchanted with the bioregions, which provide natural Rick and Jere Gillespie connect on internet by satellite, connect to nature around them. Continued on page 4

Quaker leader delves into key issues Jo Hendricks wrote faith community addresses nationally Diane Randall, the new execu- Lutheran’s gymnasium. Regis- Economy,” and the Friends Com- editorials for 23 years tive secretary of the 70-year-old tration opens at 7:30 a.m., with mittee on National Legislation By Mary Stamp Quaker lobby, Friends Commit- breakfast beginning at 8 a.m., and and its Legislative Priorities. There have been some influential women journalists over the tee on National Legislation, on her keynote address at 8:30 a.m., In a plenary session, Diane will years, but few made their debut as editorial writers at the age of Capital Hill in Washington, D.C., followed by a response session. offer comments and participants 70 and continued into their 90s, as Jo Hendricks did with The Fig will speak and lead a workshop on The participants will then break will have the opportunity to Tree. She died Sept. 16 at a care facility in Spokane. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 26 and into four discussion groups. connect with the organizations Jo was born in 1913 in Mansfield, Wash. Her social-justice 27, at Salem Lutheran Church, The leadership for each one involved and network informally. minded father was an attorney in Wenatchee and her mother 1428 W. Broadway. will come from four different At 7 p.m., Friday, Diane will was a teacher. After her father died, her mother took the family Representatives of the Spokane approaches to peacemaking in meet at a “Leadership Recep- to Seattle, where Jo attended high school and took studied jour- Friends Meeting and several other the community: the Faith Action tion and Conversation” in Salem nalism at the University of Washington. After marrying Frank Spokane organizations who share Network, building on its Advocat- Lutheran Church’s fireside room Hendricks in 1935, they moved to Spokane in 1937. a concern for peace with justice ing Congregations; the Peace and with leaders of the organizations Jo, one of the Fig Tree founders, brought a resolute voice on came together to plan the event. Justice Action League, building that planned the event, and with issues people of faith hold in common. She connected the call On Saturday morning, she will on their program perspective bishops and executive leaders to heal the world, make peace, eradicate poverty, care for the lead a “Congressional Advocacy “Bring Our Billions Home”; The of regional church offices in vulnerable and protect the environment with the teachings of Forum,” a public event, in Salem Oak Tree –“Building the New Spokane. faith. Prophetically, she tied faith to the paradigms, paradoxes, The Peace with Justice Com- oxymorons and caveats of these decades of history. Her editorials mittee of Spokane Friends Meet- from 1984 to 2006 gave an overview of what happened in the ing is co-hosting this event with world, the nation, the state, the region and the community. Her the Faith Action Network. insights into peacemaking and war-making, justice and injustice, The organizers of the overall democracy and oppression, faith and secular values shattered event include Spokane Friends, typical excuses for giving in to the ways and whims of power. the Faith Action Network of Her reflections were based not only on knowledge of theology, Washington, the Peace and Jus- history, literature, poetry and economics, but also her experi- tice Action League of Spokane, ences of serving the poor at a food bank, volunteering at polls on The Fig Tree, Pax Christi, the election day, helping resettle Hmong and Vietnamese refugees,

and promoting global concerns through the United Nations As- Permit No. 1044 No. Permit Unitarian-Universalist Church of

WA

SPOKANE Spokane, the Spokane Coalition sociation. The Fig Tree published a book of her editorials in

Spokane, WA 99202-3571 WA Spokane,

PAID of Progressive Pastors and the 2006. Jo received the 2007 award of the Northwest Alliance for 1323 S. Perry St. Perry S. 1323

U.S. POSTAGE U.S. Responsible Media for “media excellence.”

Organization Oak Tree. The Fig Tree Fig The Non-Profit For information, call 435-8053. Page 2 - The Fig Tree - October 2012 Religion News Briefs Regional Ecumenical & Interfaith News Around the World Naomi Tutu speaks on being ‘daughter of’ World Council of Churches News, PO Box 2100 The 30th annual YWCA Wom- The YWCA of Spokane will High School, Young Woman of CH - 1211 Geneva 2, Switzerland Tel: +41-22 791 6111 en of Achievement Benefit Lun- present YWCA Women of Achievement. Fax: +41-22 788 7244 www.oikoumene.org cheon features keynote speaker Achievement awards to local “Since 1982, we have honored Naomi Tutu, daughter of Arch- people who excel in their fields contributions of more than 175 Churches asked to confront financial crisis bishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu and whose achievements have a individuals,” explained Trish Citing the European churches’ “strong commitment over the past of South Africa. She will speak positive effect on the community. McFarland, executive director, century to the ecumenical movement and fellowship in Europe,” on challenges and opportunities of Six leaders to be recognized for YWCA Spokane. “We honor in- World Council of Churches general secretary the Rev. Olav Fykse having grown up as “the daughter their service to the community dividuals whose lives, talents and Tveit urged their direct engagement in the current financial and of.” It inspired her to become a are: Nancy Compau for arts and passions shape the community, social crisis in and beyond Europe. catalyst for positive change. culture; Ruth Bindler, profes- while the luncheon serves as a Their past commitment “has changed the realities of Europe. It The luncheon from 11:30 a.m. sonal; Julie Farley and Camille vital source of funding for our has borne much fruit on other continents. That can, and should, to 1:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 25, McCluskey, volunteer commu- programs and services to under- happen again,” he said. will be held at the Spokane Con- nity service; Jim Mohr, racial served women and children. Speaking Sept. 21 at the General Assembly of the Community vention Center Ballrooms, 334 and social justice, and Alexandria For information, call 789-9303 of Protestant Churches in Europe in Florence, Italy, he challenged West Spokane Falls Blvd. Moore, senior, Central Valley or visit ywcaspokane.org. churches to be “signs of reconciliation” and to “stand together and to advocate for common European solutions to the financial and social crisis, solutions that help to deepen the project of European Unity as a project of just peace on the continent.” Rural Ministry Resources offers retreat Rural Ministry Resources is relationships, honoring tradition University of Idaho Extension, Christians and Muslims engage in dialogue planning a Rural Ministry Retreat and seeking new approaches to will lead the Tuesday morning After a four-year interval since the World Council of Council gathering lay and ordained pastors growing churches in the rapidly workshop on “Building on Ru- (WCC) and the Centre for Inter-religious Dialogue (CID) in Teh- serving churches in rural settings changing socio-economic condi- ral Strengths to Create Thriving ran, Iran, the bodies met in September for bi-lateral dialogue at the for worship, rest, experience and tions in the rural culture. Communities.” Ecumenical Institute of Bossey near Geneva. Christian and Muslim sharing from 1 p.m., Monday, Oct. Lyda Pierce, Pacific Northwest Organizers are Kathy Lee participants encouraged “inter-religious dialogue in all sectors of 15, to 1 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 16, United Methodist Annual Confer- Kramer, pastor of the Elmore society with the aim of involving all in ensuring justice, equality, at Sunnyside United Methodist ence coordinator of Hispanic/ United Methodist Church, and non-violence, welfare, friendship and compassion in society.” Church, 906 E. Edison Ave. Latino ministries, will facilitate a Cindy Wuts, pastor of the Har- The meeting brought together five Muslim representatives of The retreat is an opportunity Monday afternoon workshop on rington and Rocklyn:Zion United the CID and seven Christians representing different WCC member to both learn and share the dy- “Ministry in Multi-Cultural Set- Methodist churches. churches. Participants stressed that “dialogue is the best means namics of the familial church, tings.” Lorie Higgins, community For information, call 284-6107 of overcoming misunderstandings and fostering mutual apprecia- focusing on building pastor-parish development specialist from the or email [email protected]. tion and peaceful coexistence between the adherents of different religions in today’s multicultural world.” Institute for Hate Studies honors leaders Hindus in Pakistan are a forgotten community For Haroon Sarab Diyal, chair of the All Pakistan Hindu Rights The Institute for Hate Studies author Michael Gurian, accom- Force on Human Relations has Movement, Hindus in Pakistan are a “forgotten community,” as the will present the Eva Lassman panied by Vicki Strauss on cello. combated hate and promoted hu- presence of religious extremist groups is felt more and more. Their Take Action Against Hate Awards Awardees have helped people man rights, safety, inclusion and forced migration has meant the population has dropped from 20 to the Rev. Happy Watkins and in the region to be committed to peace since 1981. It opposed percent to less than two percent since the country’s independence. the Kootenai County Task Force human rights and justice for all. white supremacy in Northern Ida- The migration is a reaction to “religious intolerance” and “class on Human Relations during its Both Happy and the Task Force ho, helped start the Human Rights disparities,” he believes. annual banquet at 5:45 p.m., have been making a difference for Education Institute in Coeur d’ Representing Hindus in a September hearing on rights of re- Tuesday, Oct. 16, in Cataldo Hall decades in the region and beyond. Alene and promotes educational ligious minorities in Pakistan, organized by the Commission of at Gonzaga University. Happy, who is pastor of New resources, advocacy and events. the Churches on International Affairs of the World Council of The speaker is Ven. Geshe Hope Baptist Church, helps orga- Banquet attendees donate to Churches in Geneva, he asked the international community to Thupten Phelgye, the University’s nize the Spokane Martin Luther help endow the Eva Lassman Me- listen to voices of the Hindu community in Pakistan. visiting scholar and global peace King Jr. Day March and collabo- morial Fund at Gonzaga Univer- Often from a low economic strata, Hindus are vulnerable to activist, and founder of the Uni- rated to establish Spokane’s Mar- sity. Proceeds support activities discrimination by unjust laws, abusive state policies and discrimi- versal Compassion Movement. tin Luther King Jr. Way, improve of the Institute for Hate Studies. natory social behaviors, he said. Asking for solidarity from the The program includes a perfor- the region’s correctional system, For information, call 313-3665, international community, particularly churches, he told of people mance of “Eva’s Song,” a poetic police departments, school dis- email [email protected] paying a ransom to be assured safety, the difficulty in voicing remembrance of Eva, a Holocaust tricts and youth programs. or visit https://commerce.cash- needs, the abduction and molestation of Hindu girls, and women survivor and educator, read by The Kootenai County Task net.com/GIHS. being forced to marry Muslim men and convert.

WCC offers online theology library More than 10,000 users have signed up for an online theological Transitions invites people who care to support library supported by the World Council of Churches, offering free, Over the past nine years, Transi- at noon—are on Tuesday, Oct. 23, facing these women and children worldwide access to thousands of full-text articles, dissertations tions has helped more than 13,000 at the Red Lion Hotel at the Park. and an opportunity to make a dif- and documents covering theology and ecumenism. women and children rebuild their Guests attend at no cost and are ference in their lives, said Mary GlobeTheoLib, the Global Digital Library on Theology and Ecu- lives from homelessness, abuse, offered an opportunity to invest in Tracey, development director. menism at www/globethics.net/gtl was launched in 2011 as a joint addiction, mental illness and the future of Transitions’ work. Since 1995, Transitions has project of the WCC and Globethics.net, a Geneva-headquartered poverty through more than $1 Visual and spoken testimonies tell been helping women, children foundation promoting dialogue on ethical issues. million raised at its annual People the stories of how low-income and and families through its five pro- The online theology library has more than 600,000 documents. Who Care Event breakfasts and homeless women in Spokane have grams: Women’s Hearth, Miry- Registered users from all continents and the main Christian tradi- luncheons. changed their lives because of the am’s House, Transitional Living tions use the multilingual web portal in English, French German, The 10th annual benefits— support received from the benefit. Center, EduCare and New Leaf Spanish and Chinese. Other languages are being prepared. breakfast at 7:30 a.m. and lunch For example, 8,000 women Bakery & Cafe. GlobeTheoLib uses digital means to create visibility for theo- have received life-skills training For information, call 328-6702 logical knowledge, particularly from churches of the global South. through Transitions since 2003. ext.104, email mtracey@help- This is an opportunity for the 4women.org or visit www.help- The Fig Tree is published 10 months each year, September through June. community to learn about issues 4women.org. Deadlines: COPY - 3rd Fridays ADS - 4th Tuesdays It is published by The Fig Tree, Celebrating our area’s The Fig Tree is 1323 S. Perry St., Spokane, WA 99202, a cultural diversity non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization. reader supported Editorial Team Nov. 10 to 11 Editor/Publisher/Photos - Mary Stamp Saturday - 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eugenie Alexander, Diane Crow, Kaye Sunday - 11 noon to 5 p.m. BECOME A SPONSOR! Hult, Inga Jablonsky, Mary Mackay, Nancy Minard & Sara Weaver The Lair – Spokane Community College Coordinators & Contract NAME 1810 N. Greene ______Malcolm Haworth - Directory Editor ADDRESS ______Lorna Kropp - Website Developer Free Family Fun All Day! CITY/STATE/ZIP ______Fig Tree Board Dance • Music • Workshops • Jam Sessions • Nick Block, Barb Borgens, Kevin Dow, Craft Sales • Children’s Activities PHONE ______Bill Ellis, Mary Ann Farley, New England Contra Dance 8-10 pm Deidre Jacobson, Yvonne Lopez-Morton, Music: 8 stages • 85 performances ❑ $17, $28, $56, $108, $250 Nancy Minard, Roger Ross, Folk, Bluegrass, Old-time Celtic, Hawaiian, Blues, Scottish, Mary Stamp, Marilyn Stedman, Middle Eastern, Japanese, Native American, African ❑ $52 for bulk order of 15 Happy Watkins Emeritus: Carl Milton The Fall Folk Festival is sponsored by the Spokane Folklore Society SEND TO © 2012 (509) 535-1813 or 535-4112 a non-profit organization serving Spokane since 1977. The Fig Tree, 1323 S. Perry St., Spokane, WA 99202 Email: [email protected] For information call (509) 747-2640 or visit www.spokanefolklore.org October 2012 - The Fig Tree - Page 3

Simple Way founder speaks at Whitworth 25 groups collaborate for Smart Justice Shane Claiborne, whose ministry experience varies from A coalition of 25 Spokane area cine told how reforms, including From his experience, retired working alongside Mother Teresa in Calcutta to serving a organizations has launched Smart re-entry courts and alternative Spokane Superior Court Judge wealthy mega-congregation in Chicago, will give a lecture at 7 Justice Spokane, a campaign sentencing, can improve public Jim Murphy, who pioneered the p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 17, in Weyerhaeuser Hall at Whitworth to promote reforms in how law safety, strengthen communities county’s drug court in 1996, also University. enforcement agencies and courts and save tax dollars. emphasizes the effectiveness of He is a founding partner of The Simple Way, a group that cre- handle non-violent offenders. Rick Eichstaedt with the Center alternative sentencing. ates and connects radical faith communities around the world. He The goal is to bring Spokane for Justice said there are some lo- “Drug Court was our first at- is featured in the DVD series, “Another World Is Possible,” and County’s criminal justice system cal examples of how alternatives tempt at creative alternatives to he is the author of The Irresistible Revolution, Jesus for President, into the 21st century with reforms to jail can work, but “we’re not prosecution,” he said, and the reli- and Becoming the Answer to Our Prayers. For information, call proven to reduce crime rates while investing in them to anywhere ance on treatment rather than jail 777-4937 or email [email protected]. easing the pressure on crowded near their level of potential.” led to a cost savings for taxpayers. jails, said Anne Martin, director At their September meeting, “We had a recidivism—repeat Episcopal Diocese Convention focus is ‘On the Way’ of Greater Spokane Progress and steering committee members offending—rate of under 10 per- The 48th annual Episcopal Diocesan Convention of clergy, a spokesperson for the group. By agreed to review some alterna- cent after five years,” he contin- delegates and visitors will be held Oct. 19 to 21 at St. John’s focusing on a person’s needs, tives: 1) a community correc- ued. “We were the 11th drug court Cathedral, 127 E. 12th Ave. they believe more treatment and tions re-entry center; 2) active in the United States and now there The convention business, fellowship, worship, addresses and fewer jail sentences will add pub- community supervision; 3) law are 2,500. Spokane County and workshops will focus on the theme, “On the Way.” lic safety value for taxpayers by enforcement diversion policies; City courts have since instituted The featured speaker, Dwight Zcheile, is an Episcopal priest keeping people in jobs and with 4) electronic home monitoring; 5) DUI, mental health and veterans and assistant professor of congregational mission and leader- their families. community service opportunities; courts on the same philosophy. ship at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minn. From his studies of The Smart Justice campaign 6) community problem-solving Smart Justice works.” the decline of mainline Christianity in the West, he is exploring seeks to end dependence on jail courts; 7) daily reporting in; 8) Consequences of incarceration where that can lead the churches. He is the author of two books for non-violent, low level offend- early case resolution; 9) specialty are visible to community leaders on renewing Episcopal identity—People of the Way and Cultivat- ers, said the Rev. Todd Eklof, pas- courts, and 10) court-date notifi- like the Rev. Happy Watkins, pas- ing Sent Communities. For information, call 624-3191 or visit tor of the Unitarian Universalist cation by robo calls. tor of New Hope Baptist Church. www.spokanediocese.org. Church of Spokane. In his 21 years on the bench, “In our system, jail has affected, “We agree that those convicted retired Spokane District Court but not rehabilitated people,” he Local mentor recognized at state conference of serious and violent crimes Judge Richard “Rick” White said. “I’ve known people who At their annual statewide conference in August, Washington need to be in jail. The question learned that there is value in re- have gone through the correc- State Mentors recognized Markel Snegirev of Spokane as the is: what’s the best way to respond habilitation from new therapeutic tional system but didn’t come out Outstanding Mentor for 2012. to non-violent offenders?” he courts—DUI (Driving Under the better or rehabilitated. They came Staff of Mentoring After-school Program for Success (MAPS) asked. “We think the research is Influence) courts, drug courts and out even angrier. A Smart Justice nominated Markel for his work as mentor to fifth-grader Morris, clear that problems of many non- mental health courts. There is system will change that.” who had been reluctant to join MAPS’ weekly group activities violent offenders could have been value to accelerated processing in For information, call 624-5657 until Markel befriended him. avoided with earlier intervention many criminal cases—the Same or 251-1424 email anne@spokan- They became “lunch buddies” and began participating in and proper treatment.” Justice Sooner principle. eprogress.org. the weekly activities of the program, which is administered by Organizations and leaders that Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest under a grant from have signed on to support the the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Smart Justice Campaign include Help Knock Homelessness Delinquency Prevention. pastors, mental health advocates MAPS serves students at two schools, Holmes Elementary and and retired judges. Out of the Box! The campaign was launched Roosevelt Elementary. Goodwill’s program staff said Markel’s October 12-13 patient encouragement drew his mentee out into activities, over- in September at a presentation coming his earlier shyness and reluctance. A teacher reported by Douglas Marlowe, a national that after a couple of months Morris was speaking up in class expert on the advantages of treat- Cardboard Box City for the first time. For information, call 444-4383. ment over incarceration, held at of Spokane the Bing Crosby Theater. The at Highland Park UMC (611 S Garfield) Congregation seminar addresses issues of aging lawyer, clinical psychologist, “Bridging the Gap, Keeping the conversation going between and instructor at the University of For information call Family Promise — (509) 747-5487 adult children and aging parents” is the title of a half-day free Pennsylvania’s School of Medi- seminar from 1 to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 13, at Northwood Pres- byterian Church, 6721 N. Monroe, The program will include sessions from area professionals on senior nutrition, fall prevention, living safely in your home, Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) forms and final arrangements. For information, call 328-2012. Bazaars Bake, Craft and Book Sales, Auctions & Meals

A Completely Bazaar FALL FESTIVAL The Fig Tree will run Day in Cheney another event section Please join the BAZAAR Saturday, Nov. 3 in the Nov. issue United Nations Association - Spokane Loads of craft and baked goods Saturday, Oct. 27 Cost: $14/col. inch Come for breakfast, stay for lunch 9 am - 3 pm in celebrating the 67th Raffle prizes, White Elephant gifts lefse, bean soup mix, plants, Visit all three churches!!! Cheney United Methodist Church baked goods, crafts, United Nations Day 4th & G St • 9 am - 3 pm Grannie’s Attic & more Emmanuel Lutheran Church Prince of Peace Lutheran FallHighland Bazaar Park 639 Elm St • 9 am - 3 pm 8441 N. Indian Trail Rd. United Methodist Church Cheney United Church of Christ 611 S. Garfield Sunday, Oct. 21 Spokane Globe Room • Cataldo Hall • Gonzaga University 423 N 6th St • 9 am - 2 pm 11 am - 2 pm Saturday, Oct. 6 6 to 9 p.m. Handcrafts, baked goods, senbei, sushi, Dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. Bazaar fresh produce Come Visit Our Christmas Bazaar!! Pulled Pork Bento with Fried & Bake Sale Noodles, Rice & Tsukemono - $12 Cheney United Methodist Church Please reserve or purchase ahead Speakers: Dr. Ann Kelleher St. Mark’s Lutheran crafts, baked goods and a gift CALL 535-2687 or 928-9459 Interim Director - Center for Global Engagement shop designed for children 316 E. 24th Ave. at Gonzaga University Grand Blvd. & 24th Saturday, Nov. 3 • 9 am-3 pm 9 am - 2 pm ‘The UN: Peacemaker 4th & G St. - Cheney WA St. John’s Cathedral Saturday, Nov. 3 or Passive Observer?’ Coffee bar, bake sale, Home-Spun and Holiday Bazaar & Luncheon quality seconds and crafts

Gonzaga Model UN students Saturday, Nov 3 • 9 am -3 pm Holiday Crafts. Baked Goods, Chance Wilcox and Cecilia Vollert Holiday Decorating & White Elephant scandinavian sharing their experiences at the 2011 National Model UN Conference Cheney Emmanuel Lutheran BAZAAR 639 Elm Street at 12th & Grand Matching funds provided by Thrivent Financial bazaar Regular tickets - $25 • Student tickets $10 Proceeds benefit local charities 9:30 am - 3 pm To reserve tickets by Oct. 16 SATURDAY, Nov. 10 Saturday, Nov. 10 Please mail a check payable to UNA-Spokane to Kaffe Stua 9 - 11 am Judy Gardner Cheney United Church Bazaar 10 am - 1 pm Lunch Available 700 W. 7th Ave. #702 • Spokane WA 99204 of Christ Bazaar Central Lutheran Church 11:30 am to 1 pm Corner of 5th & Bernard For information, contact: Saturday, Nov 3 CALL 624-9233 by Nov. 5 to pre- Judy Gardner at 747-5252 or [email protected] 9 am - 2 pm • 11 am - 1 pm lunch order Lefse (pre-orders required) Raffles Crafts, Silent Auction, Raffle Stacy Taninchev at 313-3610 or [email protected] scandinavian cookies Food & Crafts 423 N. 6th - Cheney meatballs & flatbread Page 4 - The Fig Tree - October 2012 Commitment to peace and environmental issues brings fulfillment Continued from page 1 “It’s important to be aware of a deposit on federal land if they the reservation and helped with she stood in front of a bulldozer Vietnam War and influence of where we live, so we understand follow state laws and preserve the Cursillo retreats. to block it from tearing down a “the military-industrial complex the dynamics of the sources of our water quality. “I always had a sense of serv- Palestinian home. driving conflicts.” water, air, soil, winds, food and In the late 1990s, Wenatchee ing my community based on my In 2013, they will help plan the He left Portland in 1978 and natural resources.” Valley Community College in faith,” said Rick, who became 30th annual Mothers’ Day Walk. looked for places to live on the Rick said that the people who Omak invited Rick to teach. They disenchanted as he realized that Last year, Rick helped organize land near Sandpoint and north of lived there before European set- moved to Omak in 1999. Jere Scriptures were not followed. a Peace Festival the Saturday be- Colville. He worked on orchards tlers came survived without trans- studied social science through The Gillespies resonated with fore Mothers’ Day, to hear from in the Okanogan Valley, but quit portation to grocery stores outside Washington State University’s the Native American traditions a family who lost two sons in the because of the spraying. In the the region. online degree program, graduat- respected by the parish, especially Middle East. About 70 came to early 1980s, he was a chimney “We need to respect the life ing in 2004. the emphasis on gratitude for be- a dinner, music and dance at the sweep and lived north of Chesaw, forces of the area,” he said. In 2004, the college asked Rick, ing provided with sustenance. Community Cultural Center in a one-street village with a store, For example, Jere said that in who taught biology, zoology Throughout the years, Rick Tonasket, started by the “alterna- café and art gallery in an area Chesaw they drink mountain well and computer science, to teach promoted peace. He is involved tive community.” surrounded by farms and ranches. water from the source, a stream through Northwest Indian Col- in Veterans for Peace, veterans Last year, the speaker for the There is no post office or school. that runs through the village from lege at the vocational rehabilita- issues and issues related to Iraq, Sept. 21 International Day of The Gillespies’ home, built in Mt. Bonaparte and flows eventu- tion building in Nespelem on the Israel and Palestine. Peace Celebration was Capt. 1902 as a bank in the frontier min- ally into the Columbia River.” Colville Confederated Reserva- In the 1980s, they helped orga- Paul Chappell of the Nuclear ing camp of Chesaw, was a post In 1987, they renamed their tion. He taught for seven years. nize the first Mothers’ Day Walk Age Peace Foundation in Santa office from the 1920s to 1940s, publication Columbiana to reflect For five years, Jere taught for Peace, with peacemakers Barbara, Calif. and then the home of the post- that they live in the Upper Colum- social science and environmental from Okanogan County, Stevens This year, they showed the mistress. They bought it in 1983. bia Interior Northwest bioregion. science there. County, Seattle and Wenatchee film, “Five Broken Cameras,” They have fixed it up and paid it Living on the edge of the Na- Because classes had just five meeting Canadian peacemakers about a father who bought a off with savings from 12 years he tional Forest, they covered forest to 10 students, she came to know at the Peace Park on the Osoyoos- video camera to take pictures of taught at Wenatchee Community issues. The Forest Service, inter- the students, learning about their Oroville border for speakers and his baby son—and of the weekly College in Omak and seven years ested in timber sales and develop- lives, families and tribal history, a ceremony. At the first walk, the demonstrations at the wall around they both taught at the Colville ing a forest plan, connected in the and deepening her desire to know Canadians built a mock cruise Palestinian land. Tribal College at Nespelem. 1980s with the back-to-the land more about the Native Americans missile and wanted it returned to Jere’s and Rick’s latest effort is Jere, who was involved in people living in the hills near the in the region. Boeing because cruise missiles working with people to challenge 1960s student struggles on cam- forests. The new pioneers com- Rick found students open to built there were being flight-tested the relicensing of Enloe Dam on pus in Berkeley, left without fin- plained about the timber sales and learn about issues and structures over Canadian land. the Similkameen River in North ishing her degree, went to Oregon clear cutting near their homes. affecting their lives. Several years ago, the parents of Central Washington. and came to the Okanogan. Jere and Rick began to expand “The Native Americans are Rachael Corrie, Dick and Cindy, For information, call 509-485- - “I dropped out, upset by the the reach of the publication, hop- natural environmentalists,” Jere came to talk about her death when 3844 visit Columbiana.org. - Vietnam War. I did not want to ing to make it pay by publishing said, concerned about the loss of earn a living and pay taxes that 2,000 copies quarterly. They pub- their land, forests, salmon and Ko- Korean Japanese Russian Sudanese Chinese Tongan Hungarian Span would support the war,” said Jere, lished 20 issues in print. Today, way of life. ish Samoan VietameseFor our Spanish friends Karen & neighbors Portugese from Mandarin other Lithu who first lived on a wheat farm, they publish it online, not in print, “We felt their grief,” she said. anian Korean Japanesecultures, Russian Sudanese Tongan Hungarian Spanish - Samoan Vietamese Burmesecommunicating Korean Japanese Sudanesein English Chinese - had her first children and entered at Columbiana.org. Their access “Through education, we sought Tongan Hungarian canSpanish open Samoan the Vietamesedoor to employment, Burmese Karen the environmental movement. to the web is by satellite. to open doors of hope. By learn- rean Japanese Russianfriendships, Sudanese Chineseand more. Tongan Hungarian Spanish Her concern about environment They also sponsored confer- ing environmental sciences, they Samoan Vietamese Burmese Karen Portugese Mandarin Lithuanian - Korean Japanese Russian SudaneseLet your friends French Tonganknow about Hungarian Span was sparked when her nurse- ences, published pamphlets and could find jobs with their tribe to ish Samoan Vietamese Burmese Karen Spanish Korean Japanese Rus - midwife’s second pregnancy helped start two organizations, manage the resources,” she said. sian Sudanese Chinese Tongan DAILY Hungarian DOSE Spanish Samoan Vietamese Burmese Karen Korean JapaneseEnglish Russian Classes Sudanese TODAY! Chinese Tongan miscarried because of a mole-like Tonasket Forest Watch and the While they lived in Omak, Hungarian Spanish Samoan Vietamese Burmese Karen Portugese Man growth related to Agent Orange Okanogan Highlands Alliance, the Jere, who grew up Catholic, and darin Lithuanian KoreanSpokane, JapaneseWenatchee, RussianOthello, Moses Sudanese Lake & more French Tongan Hungarian Spanish Samoan Vietamese Burmese Korean Japanese Rus exposure in Vietnam. latter dealing with mining. Rick, who grew up Presbyterian sian Sudanese Chinese Korean Tongan Japanese Hungarian Russian Spanish Sudanese Samoan Chinese Vietamese Tongan - “Area leaders were talking of When the Crown Jewel Mine and became Catholic, were in- Burmese Karen FREE Hungarian ENGLISH Spanish Samoan CLASSESVietamese Burmese Karen Portugese using that chemical to reduce mil- wanted to open a gold mine volved with St. Mary’s parish on MandaCall rin509.448.5312 Lithuanian Korean for JapaneseloCations Russian and Sudanesetimes French foil in the Okanogan River,” Jere on Buckhorn Mountain, which Hungarian Spanish Samoan Vietamese Burmese Karen Spanish said. “I went to public meetings rises above them to the east, Jere Korean Japaneseish Russian Samoan Sudanese Vietamese Chinese Burmese Tongan Karen Hungarian Span discussing using the herbicide. I raised concerns that mountain- Organized by a coalition of religious and secular groups in Spokane wrote letters to the editor about top removal, open-pit mining what dioxin did to people in would pollute the watershed with Vietnam.” acid mine drainage and possible Congressional Advocacy Forum Newspapers did not do inves- cyanide leakage. She reported on with tigative reports on it, so with that type of mining as the Forest others, Jere started a newspaper Service was writing an environ- Diane Randall in 1978, The Okanogan Natural mental impact statement. executive secretary of the Friends Committee on National Legislation, News, which she published every “We discussed how open-pit. a 70-year-old peace lobby in Washington, D.C. two months. mountain-top removal mining After she met Rick, and they would affect the lives of people Saturday, Oct. 27 moved to Chesaw in 1983, she here,” she said. 7:30 a.m. - registration & breakfast • 8:30 a.m. - program focused on child rearing, cooking After a 10-year effort, the mine Salem Lutheran Church - 1428 W. Broadway - Spokane and cleaning, while both contin- was denied a permit. Another Learn about organizations at work in the community • Connect with others to gain tools and information ued publishing the newspaper. company bought rights to the to engage strategically as part of a community addressing national issues that have impact locally. From reading “Co-Evolution deposit and built an underground For information, call 435-8053 Quarterly,” they learned about mine. Suggested donation $15 bioregions, natural ecological The 1872 Mining Act, written and geographic areas defined by in the era of prospectors and pick a watershed and interrelated plant axes, not multinational corpora- and animal life. tions, permits a company to mine

The Franciscan Place* 1016 N Superior St.

Thomas Merton’s Bridges to Aging is NOT Contemplative Living Series Ongoing Series for Sissies Tuesdays 6-7:30 p.m. Oct. 13, 2012 Facilitator: Patricia Novak, OSF 10:00am - 3:00pm Journey toward personal spiritual Facilitator: Barbara Burkart transformation and a more Women 55 and older are contemplative and peace-filled life. invited to join in conversation Series VI - Writing Yourself Into the Book and creative expression. This of Life - Sept.18,25, Oct. 9,16 will be a day of sharing and Series VII - Adjusting your Life’s Vision learning together. Bring your Oct. 30, Nov. 6, 13, 20 personal journal if you have one. Materials will be supplied. Everyone is welcome $39 / Register by Oct. 11th RSVP TODAY $35 per series RSVP-(509) 483-6495 * www.SJFConline.org October 2012 - The Fig Tree - Page 5 Passion to help people translates into housing for adults with mental illness By Kaye Hult income possible,” he said. Early next year, Trinity Group Continually having a waiting Homes, Inc., plans to open eight list, Bob felt the need to expand new living spaces to house adults Trinity’s capacity. with mental illness in Post Falls. Trinity Homes, which now has It is breaking ground for the proj- its office at 2115 E. Sherman Ave., ect on Oct. 5. The agency now Suite 105, expects to complete houses 17 individuals in various construction in Post Falls in 90 residences in Coeur d’Alene. days, increasing its capacity by Bob Runkle, executive direc- more than 40 percent. The doors tor of Trinity, is the driving force will open early in 2013. behind the expansion. “The best thing that has hap- At Georgia Tech, his bachelor’s pened to me was this job. I had degree was in building construc- to learn about mental illness,” tion. He came to Trinity Group Bob said. “It is challenging and Homes in 2008, after more than difficult, yet so rewarding when 37 years in professional manage- there are successes.” ment, with more than 20 years in Bob felt called to ministry facility construction and design. many years ago, but ignored it. Bob perceives his previous Bob Runkle and Alisha Keifert collaborate in providing housing and programs. After he came to Coeur d’Alene, and current work as ministry. Fr. Pat Bell of St. Luke’s Episcopal After he is ordained as a perpetual community, as well as individuals. what remains of their income years ago, Bob observed one older asked him, “When are you going deacon on Oct. 21 at the Episcopal Trinity costs taxpayers nothing, from Social Security disability resident teach a newer one how to to become a deacon?” A woman Cathedral of St. John in Spokane, but it provides Kootenai County payments and other sources, they set the table. Usually, the older in the church also asked him. he will formally consider the work a financial gift in hundreds of have to buy their food and pay resident was reticent. Bob de- Bob spent 11 months in dis- with Trinity Group Homes as his dollars a day it saves in costs per monthly co-pays for treatment. lighted in seeing that person reach cernment. He entered training in main function as a deacon. An- person if the people were housed Alisha spends much of her time out to another spontaneously. 2009. During a postulant phase, other aspect will be his continual in a prison or a hospital, he said. in and out of the houses, observing He also connects residents he engaged in field work. In 2010, efforts to network within Koote- Assisting Bob is Alisha Keifert how the residents are doing. If with resources that can help, for he became a candidate and did the nai County for people in need. is Trinity’s life skills coordinator. she sees problems, she contacts example helping them earn a two years of study. “I have always had a passion for She supports the residents in areas their case managers, seeking to G.E.D. or access the system for As a deacon, Bob can assist helping people,” he said. “While where outside agencies leave off. nip any problem in the bud. She their benefit. the priest, such as by reading income has been important, I also “Many residents come from also helps residents become self- To extend its budget, Trinity the Gospel during the Sunday have worked in order to be able to families in which the parents did aware. They learn to recognize Homes uses volunteers to trans- worship service, or performing help. I find it hard to separate my everything,” she said. “I make their own symptoms and reach out port residents. Last year, volun- baptisms and marriages. ministry from my job.” sure they do their assigned chores. for help when necessary. teers gave 2,400 hours. One meaning of the word, Trinity board members wel- I’m strict and have evicted some For example, one resident want- While 80 percent of income “deacon,” is servant, so deacons comed Bob’s managerial and who have not done their part. ed to enter a nursing program but comes from the rent paid by resi- commonly work with marginal- grant-writing experience. He has “I accidentally fell into this,” had difficulty with alcohol. If she dents, the rest comes from fund ized people inside and outside the helped the homes be full most of Alisha said. “After I went to col- was caught drinking, she would raisers, donations and grants. church. Deacons are often called the time and have a waiting list. lege for education, I realized my return to jail and lose her proba- “We are the only institution to do specialized ministries, such Trinity Homes, founded in 1979 heart was not there. I changed to tion. Alisha helped her recognize like this in the five northern Idaho as Bob’s at Trinity Homes. for men and women with major psychology. Then I heard about that it is possible for her to take counties. The secret to our suc- For information, call 208-667- mental illnesses, offer residents a psycho-social rehabilitation. control of her own life, to choose cess is that we keep our housing 9607 or visit trinitygrouphomes. safe and affordable place to stay. “This has to be a passion for with whom to associate and in full, so that we have the maximum net. Without it, their options would be anyone who does it. It’s too hard which activities to participate. undesirable, said Bob. In most otherwise,” she continued. “I take The residents meet once a week places, drugs and alcohol are read- this home with me every day. I’m for community meals. This helps ily available. Trinity prohibits continually thinking, is this a skill them improve their cooking and drug or alcohol use. this person will need when they’re communication skills. It teaches “Our mission is to provide on their own?” them to plan and do things with caring, community-supported On average, a resident remains others. housing programs that guide and at Trinity Group Homes for nine Trinity sets up occasional out- teach life skills to residents. They to 10 months. It is not necessary ings, such as a yearly Christmas live in duplex buildings, which to “graduate.” Three have lived party put on by board members. are state-certified group homes. there for 10 years. Six others have They purchase gifts. Women Our staff works with residents lived there for two years. from St. Luke’s Episcopal Church to build and develop life skills. Those living at Trinity have and other church and community We network with case manage- their own rooms in a living set- groups also provide gifts. Resi- ment service providers to ensure ting that includes both men and dents can ask for what they would medication compliance and 24- women. They must remain clean like to receive. They improve hour crisis intervention, as well and sober, Bob said. their ability to socialize as they as psycho-social rehabilitation Residents learn to live within eat a formal meal with board and services,” Bob said. their means. They have to pay church members. The Kootenai County Mental their $450 per month rent. With At a Christmas party a few Health Court sends Trinity some of its residents, mentally ill indi- viduals with felony convictions. “We strive to help residents graduate from our semi-inde- pendent group living programs to community living. About 64 percent of those in our program “graduate,” moving on to inde- pendent or group living situa- tions. Some graduate and stay at Trinity,” he said. “This helps the You’re already studying one of the texts. Action Recycling Master of Arts in Theology 911 E. Marietta TOP PRICES Whitworth’s M.A. in Theology equips you with the tools you need to serve in whatever way you choose. HONEST WEIGHT Use it as a stepping stone to seminary, as preparation for ministry within your church or organization, or aluminum as practical training in biblical study. Our schedule fits your schedule, with evening and weekend classes. brass copper stainless newspapers

483-4094 learnVisit whitworth.edu/theologyma more or call 509.777.3222 Page 6 - The Fig Tree - October 2012 Occupy Spokane event reminds community that disparity remains peakers raised familiar themes of the Occupy Smovement during an Oc- cupy Spokane rally and march on Saturday, Sept. 15, marking the first anniversary of the Occupy movement. Justin Ellenbecker, coordina- tor, is part of a coalition pulling together this event and others with Occupy Spokane, the Peace and Justice Action League of Spo- kane, Veterans for Peace, Spokane Moves to Amend the Constitution, Progressive Democrats, Unite Women, Equality Spokane and others. After three speakers spoke by Occupy speakers and marchers shared a variety of messages. the fountain at Riverfront Park, nearly 100 people marched to buy a year of groceries for one millions of people involved,” he three banks and the office of Rep. million people. Meanwhile, some said. “The ‘droplets rain down’ in Cathy McMorris Rogers, with argue that there is not enough a program for tax reform. Then speakers at each location. money for food stamps, education they evaporate back into the cloud Wayne Spitzer of Occupy Spo- Jerry Mueller of Shalom Mennonite/United Church of Christ or the environment.” and next may join with groups kane said, “You can’t kill an idea. carries a sign on the power of love and love of power. In addition, she spoke about the working on education reform or The Occupy movement has shown human cost of the wars with more fighting for access to health care.” that another world is possible, ing spent on political campaigns pants to articulate what they are than 2,000 U.S. troops killed, Justin said that way of operating even inevitable. We need to con- to be bribery and considers it fighting for, such as freedom, more suicides than deaths in the is helpful in Spokane where there tinue to march together to show “un-American” for multi-national clean air, love and equality. field—the highest rate in mili- is not enough population to build what community looks like and corporations to pay no taxes. “We need to name and put our tary history—and half a million leverage other than joining with to show what America looks like.” “With one percent of the popu- roots in what we want to work disability claims at the Veterans other groups. Bart Haggin, a political and lation owning 40 percent of the for. We need to identify shared Administration. For information, call 879-9422 environmental activist, expressed wealth, there is no free market,” goals and build a sense of unity Liz said that millions of people or email justinellenbecker@ frustration that when wealth is Bart asserted. “The workers are with people here and in other outside the United States have gmail.com. power, “the game is rigged.” the job creators and the profit countries,” she said. been displaced, made homeless He called for people to go to makers, but the more they produce Liz was particularly mindful or become refugees. WINDSONG SCHOOL the streets to break through lies, the less they earn. The social con- of the impact of wars in the past Justin said that it has been hard fraud and stealing by those in the tract has been thrown out. Change 11 years in Iraq and Afghanistan. to organize Occupy because any Seeding the Future government, banks, corporations starts in the streets.” “We have spent more than $20 time the intentionally non-hierar- Inspired by Waldorf Education’s and Wall Street who “have lost Liz Moore, executive director million an hour for wars for more chical movement organizes some- commitment to childhood. We are providing an education for the whole their humanity.” of the Peace and Justice Action than a decade,” she said, citing thing—the kitchen downtown, the child, one that grows within children the “Banks got bailed out. We got League of Spokane, appreci- figures of the National Priorities encampment at Franklin Park, a capacity to effectively shape the future. Parent and Toddler Morning . Preschool sold out!” he repeated one of the ated the energy and focus. While Project. “The share in the fifth coffee house and a club house—it . . Occupy Movement’s chants. many speakers tell what they are legislative district in Eastern becomes hierarchical. Kindergarten First Grade After Care Bart considers the billions be- against, she challenged partici- Washington would be enough to “Our goal is to be a coalition Waldorf Teacher Training of different groups, operating 4225 W. Fremont Rd, Spokane, WA 99224

like a rain cloud with millions Mukogawa Ft. Wright Campus (509) 326-6638 Second Harvest draws volunteer labor and support of individual droplets—like the www.spokanewindsongschool.org to build new food distribution center in Pasco A modern barn raising con- network of 55 food banks and ally by 2018, up 64 percent from Five Reasons to Choose The Academy struction process made it possible meal centers in the area. the 5.5 million pounds provided for Second Harvest to build its Since opening a 5,000-square- last year and 173 percent more • Roomy, affordable apartments new food distribution center at foot, leased food distribution than three years ago, Julie said. • Anytime dining 5825 Burlington Loop in Pasco, center in Kennewick in 1997, In-kind donations represented • Full kitchens said Julie Miller, regional director Second Harvest has increased more than half of the $2.9 mil- • Personalized assisted living services of Second Harvest in Pasco. food distribution and services in lion building project. Cash con- • Active living program Since breaking ground in April, the Columbia Basin, Julie said. tributions so far represent over CALL NOW FOR A PERSONAL TOUR unions, contractors and suppliers The new center nearly triples $500,000, with about $600,000 “donated significant labor and the size of the previous facility, left to raise. materials toward this project to plus, it includes 4,000 square feet “The communities we serve help Second Harvest feed more of commercial cold storage. have made an incredible invest- (509) 484-4099 License #BH 1625 1216 N. Superior St. hungry people,” she said. Its 2,200-square-foot volunteer ment in the new distribution cen- One of a kind retirement community Spokane WA 99202 www.merrillgardens.com The new facility will help Sec- center provides a safe, climate- ter so we can provide free food to ond Harvest to keep pace with controlled space in the warehouse feed hungry children, families and Retirement & Assisted Living increased demand for emergency for volunteers to sort and pack seniors in the region,” said Jason food supplies in Southeastern and donated food. Luke Clark, president and CEO of South Central Washington, where The new center means Second Second Harvest. Register online at one in seven people is hungry or Harvest can increase food distri- For information, call 509-434- Upcoming www.Spirit-Center.org at-risk of hunger, according to bution in the Columbia Basin to 8655, email jmiller@2-harvest. recent research by Feeding Ameri- more than 9 million pounds annu- org. Retreats October 16-18 Word of Light: The Art ca. One out of four children in the of Illuminated Manuscripts Columbia Basin is food insecure. Come learn more about this ancient art The 14,000-square-foot center at Spirit Center, form and the process of creating illumi- Find your "Point of Inspiration" at nated letters. With Artist Mary Lorish Jahn means that Second Harvest can Monastery & the Spirituality Ministry Team secure more fresh produce and of St. Gertrude perishable food donations for its Cottonwood, Idaho October 19-21 Intro to Centering Prayer Experience a contemplative prayer form that has the potential to transform your spiritual life. With Darlyne Pape. Year-round facility—270 acres & 4,800 feet of waterfront on the east shore of Lake Coeur d'Alene. November 2-4 Exploring the Mystery • Open for non-profit groups from 16 to 160 of Dreams 125 S. 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With • Case discounts • Canoes and sailboats available Nancy Copeland-Payton. • Wedding invitations & bulletins • Hiking trails • Preprinted papers including all • Volleyball, basketball and horseshoes holiday papers 208-962-2000 • Envelopes in a large variety Call 1-800-448-3489 to reserve your date [email protected] for retreats, seminars, workshops or fellowship! of sizes “A tradition of welcoming • Mention this ad and receive Come and catch the spirit! 10% off on Mondays people of ALL beliefs.” October 2012 - The Fig Tree - Page 7 Executive presbyter seeks ways to energize and empower congregations Now installed as executive “Not structuring every moment decline, but many churches are presbyter of the Presbytery of of meetings is creative and ener- growing,” she said. the Inland Northwest (PIN), the gizing,” Sheryl said. “People are Sheryl sees some movement Rev. Sheryl Kinder-Pyle expects drawn to other people based on from churches being served by to lead the presbytery through their gifts and interests, strength- full-time ordained ministers to “pioneering times” as members ening partnerships of congrega- part time ordained or lay (Com- rediscover their role as a district tions. In sharing ideas, pastors missioned Ruling Elders) leaders, governing body during the re- and elders can find partnerships.” especially in rural settings. CRE structuring of the presbytery. “That reflects the shift in leaders study pastoral ministry at Her role is “to energize and purpose of the presbytery from Whitworth University, rather than empower local congregations to congregations supporting the going to seminary. live their faith,” she said. presbytery’s mission to the pres- Overall, she finds churches are The presbytery is one of 173 bytery offering grants to support reconnecting with other churches presbyteries that work within the the ministries of congregations, to in their neighborhoods and com- 16 U.S. synods, regional govern- create space for conversations to munities. In two rural towns, Fair- ing bodies of the Presbyterian happen at presbytery meetings so field and Potlatch, the Evangelical Church USA. They connect the there is space for the Spirit to be Lutheran Church in America and work of 10,466 congregations. at work,” Sheryl said. Presbyterian churches work in Sheryl said the denomination She recalls a pastor in Philadel- partnership, sharing a pastor and is shifting from a top-down pol- phia saying that what happens in moving toward more unity. A ity—church structure—model to conversations in the church park- third community is considering one of being more responsive to ing lot is important for a church. such an ecumenical partnership. resources and resource needs of It’s where there’s planning for While most of Sheryl’s time is congregations. the mission trip or men’s retreat. spent in administration, she also Because many Presbyterian So the presbytery is now making calls on pastors in crisis and walks congregations are small, pastors space for those conversations with them through difficulties, need “to be plumbers to preach- to happen within the presbytery also connecting them with col- ers,” she said. meetings four times a year. leagues for support. Administration, care of church- There are 47 churches in Sheryl sees signs of hope in es, education and training will be the presbytery. One congrega- that people have a sense that be- her priorities, along with being a The Rev. Sheryl Kinder-Pyle is installed as executive presbyter. tion recently left and another is ing witnesses to Christ comes out pastor to pastors. considering its relationship with in different ways—not just in the Sheryl has served since 2010 as She became associate interim easy for the church’s vision and the presbytery because in July church. For example, the min- the transitional executive presby- at Hamblen Park Presbyterian mission to become lost in fidu- 2011 the presbyteries confirmed istry of Big Table, started by the ter. Because the presbytery will for a year, and then began serv- ciary responsibilities and strategic the General Assembly’s deci- Rev. Kevin Finch, connects with continue to be in transition and ing part time at the Latah Valley decisions, she said, differentiating sion to adopt amendment 10A to people in the restaurant business. she has been developing their New Church Development before governance and leadership. the Book of Order to change “Rather than inviting people to three-year strategic plan, leaders becoming transitional executive “When we think of a board, ordination standards to allow a come to us, we are going out into decided to call her to the full role. presbyter in 2010. we think it is to deal with num- presbytery to ordain a homosexual the community,” she said. During Sheryl’s installation The transitional work contin- bers, personnel and property, but pastor or a congregation to ordain Millwood Community Presby- service, Corey Schlosser-Hall, ues, she said, because the Pres- it’s about accountability,” Sheryl a homosexual elder. terian Church, as another exam- North Puget Sound presbytery byterian Church (USA) and the said. “Often boards zero in on “We don’t have a denomina- ple, connects with the community executive, said she brings “or- overall landscape for churches in fiduciary responsibility, talk about tional mandate,” she said, “be- through its community garden and ganizational smarts” and human America are changing. strategy once a year and leave the cause a pastor’s call comes from farmers’ market. touch to the role. In 2010, she began guiding the vision up to the leader. a congregation with presbytery “Churches need to be present Of her role, Sheryl believes, development of a three-year plan “A leadership team needs to approval. Each church searching in the community so the com- “God gives us a wonderful jour- for a new way to be a presbytery look at all three,” she said of the for a new pastor goes through a munity would miss them if they ney, and we are not on this journey with a focus on the presbytery evolving presbytery structure. process of redefining its identity.” were not there,” Sheryl said. “Our alone.” supporting and encouraging con- A strategy team of six meets In that process, some churches missional call is to be in the com- Growing up in Fort Wayne, gregations in their ministries. four times a year to deal with have become “More Light” con- munity, to shift from the passive Ind., she studied psychology “The national offices will ministry partnerships and ministry gregations, which seek the full evangelism of ‘come worship and religion at Miami of Ohio, shrink and will connect more grants. A vision team of six looks participation of lesbian, gay, with us, be a part of us, be like graduating in 1985. At Princeton intentionally with congregations,” at the big picture and considers bisexual and transgender people us’ to going out and serving the Theological Seminary in New she said, noting that is more in line in what direction the presbytery in the life, ministry and witness community. Jersey, she married Scott Pyle in with the dynamics of Presbyterian should move to live out its new of the church. “I hope I will be able to listen 1987 and graduated in 1988. churches in the West. mission statement: While some congregations intently to the Spirit’s leading dur- Their first call was to First “It’s in line with where the “God’s mission in the world in this presbytery are declining ing this uncertain time and walk Presbyterian Church in Spokane, church in much of the United calls the Presbytery of the Inland in numbers, 18 churches have with the presbytery to the next where Scott was minister to junior States is going as denominational Northwest to unleash, empower increased membership, Sheryl chapter,” she said. high and college students, and lines are more blurred and iden- and equip local congregations as reported. For information, call 924-4148 she was senior high minister and tity with a denomination is less living witnesses to the Spirit’s “We tend to zero in on the or email [email protected]. started small group and singles strong,” Sheryl said. “People go work in Jesus Christ.” ministries, including a divorce to a church because they like it, Until last year, the quarterly recovery group. not because it’s Presbyterian and presbytery meetings used a one- From 1991 to 1996, she reared they grew up Presbyterian. day business meeting format with their sons Ian and Philip, while “More people shuffle around,” information sharing and formal The Ministry Institute Scott served a church in Ada, she said, “but still desire to be in reports before the whole group. Center forMater Spiritual Dei atRenewal Gonzaga at GonzagaUniversity University Ohio. Next they shared a call relationship with others in Pres- Now they meet an hour on busi- Second Saturday “Skills for Service” seminars doing a new church plant for 11 byterian circles. They see a need ness, worship and then have “open years in Limerick, Pa., outside for connection, encouragement, space” for discussion on topics will focus on “Puzzling Out God’s Plan.” Philadelphia. fellowship and accountability.” that foster associating with others In 2006, Sheryl had no call Dealing with structures, it’s in shared ministry interests. Puzzling Out when they returned to Spokane for Scott to start the Latah Valley God’s Plan Church. She said she “waited on Gonzaga University Institute for Hate Studies Wholeness: A lifetime contains the pieces of a jigsaw the Lord, not knowing what God puzzle. . . but no one has within themselves all the pieces had for me.” Take Action Against Hate of their puzzle. Everyone carries within them at least one and probably many pieces of someone else’s puzzle. . .When you present to 4th Annual Awards Banquet someone your piece of their puzzle, whether YOU know it or not, whether THEY know it or not, you are a Messenger from the Most High. Excerpt - Anonymous 2012 Eva Lassman Take Action Against Hate Awardees October 13 Piecing our Lives Together – Just Trade The Rev. Happy Watkins - New Hope Baptist - Individual Dr. Bob Bartlett, EWU – Living with Tension fairly traded Kootenai County Task Force on Human Relations - Organization Sue Rolando – Autumn Art - Leaves into Beauty November 10 Always Held in God’s Hand – crafts from Keynote: Ven. Geshe Thupten Phelgye Dr. Kent Hoffman – Circle of Security around Gonzaga’s visiting scholar / Universal Compassion Movement founder December 8 Advent Retreat – the world Performance: ‘Eva’s Song’ Shonna Bartlett – Waiting in Hope Seminars begin at 9:30 a.m. with a presentation, usually by a Gonzaga inside by Michael Gurian and Vicki Strauss professor, followed by a prayer experience, sharing, and suggestions for incorporating prayer into daily lives. Seminars end with lunch. The cost Brused Books Tuesday, Oct. 16 is $35 per seminar (includes lunch). Limited scholarships available. 235 E. Main Globe Room - Cataldo Hall - Gonzaga University Doors Open: 5:45 p.m. Dinner Served: 6:30 p.m. For more information, Pullman, WA Program: 7 to 8:30 p.m. contact Shonna Bartlett - Program Director 509-334-7898 For information and reservations: (509) 313-5765 or e-mail [email protected] Mon-Fri 11 am-6 pm https://commerce.cashnet.com/GIHS www.gonzaga.edu/ministryinstitute $50 per person • $400 per table of 8 • $500 Sponsor 405 E. Sinto Sat 10-6, Sun 12-5 Educational discernment community for service & leadership. Page 8 - The Fig Tree - October 2012 One-night Cardboard Box Cities raise awareness about homelessness By Kaye Hult days a week and dinner twice a d’Alene event, attendees recruit ardboard Box Cities will week. Clients are served at tables. at least five sponsors who donate materialize at 5 p.m., Fri- It serves 2,000 to 3,000 meals a a minimum of $5. If they have Cday, Oct. 12, and be up month. ten sponsors or raise $100, they overnight until 8 a.m. Saturday The program also provides will receive a T-shirt. Others may in Spokane and Coeur d’Alene. health screenings through the purchase the shirt. Family Promise across the Washington State University nurs- To participate in the Spokane United States uses this approach ing program, relationship build- event, attendees must raise at least to raise awareness and funds to ing, information and referrals, a $100 in donations for “rent.” serve homeless people. clothing bank, hygiene items, free For information in Coeur It’s the fourth year for Fam- community voice mail and free d’Alene, call 208-661-2776 or ily Promise in Coeur d’Alene to monthly bus passes in partnership visit www.facebook.com/card- sponsor the event. with Spokane Neighborhood Ac- boardboxcity. In Spokane, it’s the first year, tion Program. For information in Spokane, and Family Promise, formerly Madelyn brought these agen- call 747-5487 or visit www.ihspo- Interfaith Hospitality Network, cies together. kane.org/Fundraisers.html. is partnering with other home- “We’re all faith-based, the less outreach programs, Mission Junior Castenada, son of a Family Promise AmeriCorps assistant, faith community doing hands-on Community Outreach Center and painted a cardboard box in 2011 Coeur d’Alene Cardboard City. mission,” she said. “We have a A call to action Photo by Melissa Owens to protect & nurture Shalom Ministries. connection within churches. We our children Coeur d’Alene participants Wood, director of Family Promise when Jesus said, “for I was hun- are taking the opportunity to be Visit us will set up cardboard boxes they of North Idaho. “What happens gry and you gave me food, I was the hands and feet of Christ, as the year round at have decorated as their shelters when someone is homeless and thirsty and you gave me some- saying goes, “walking our talk.” ourkidsspokane.org at Lake City Community Church, the weather is inclement? Some- thing to drink, I was a stranger and To participate in the Coeur 6000 N. Ramsey Rd. The event times an individual gets sick and you welcomed me, I was naked has its own “city planner,” a civil realizes there is no extra bedding and you gave me clothing, I was engineer who will help lay out the or clothes to swap for the soiled sick and you took care of me.” Maya Earth Coffee city. Corporate sponsors will have ones. What happens if children Family Promise houses home- Your congregation or nonprofit can raise funds their own street signs. are afraid, or if someone scary less families in churches for by co-marketing fair-trade, organic coffee At 7 p.m., after a 6 p.m. din- takes up residence nearby? When a week at a time. Each week through Coffee with a Cause ner, Reborn Kingdom, winner of one is homeless, these scenarios in Spokane, one of the 12 host 509-768-3193 • Toll free: 877-892-3193 [email protected] • www.mayaearthcoffee.com Battle of the Bands for Christ, will occur, and resources are few for churches and several of the 21 perform, a Family Promise gradu- dealing with them. In reality, both support churches provide shelter, ate will offer a testimony, and of these sites are set up to be safe food and overnight support. there will be cardboard box house and secure.” Mission Community Outreach judging, interviews and awards. Madelyn Bafus, director of Center provides low-income and Spokane participants will set Family Promise of Spokane, said homeless people with clothing, up their shelters at Highland Park children are the important part hygiene items and necessities for United Methodist Church, 611 of the equation. Family Promise infants. S. Garfield St. After a soup-line serves the children and whoever Shalom Ministries feeds home- dinner at 6 p.m., there will be live lives with them—parents, grand- less people downtown at Central music, testimonies and recogni- parents, siblings, single fathers or United Methodist Church. tion until 9 p.m. single mothers. Family homeless- The three ministries often Bob Peeler, homeless family ness is the fastest growing seg- collaborate. development coach for Spokane ment in the homeless population, Mark Kinney, executive di- Neighborhood Action Partners, she said. One out of every four rector of Mission Community will speak about homelessness. homeless people is a child. Outreach Center, said, “It’s a Leslie Camden Goold, the Central Family Promise seeks to break smart partnership. These days, Valley School District homeless the cycle of homelessness with resources are scarce, so why liaison, will talk about how home- the child. That way, the next duplicate?” lessness affects young people. A generation will have a better life. Mission Community Outreach teenager, Emma, whose family Madelyn said, “If it’s not good provides clients with two sets of once went through the Family for the child, it’s not good for us.” clothing, shoes and a jacket, ev- Promise program, will share her Cindy said that “one reason ery 60 days. It offers household experience. we want congregations that work items, blankets, linens and towels. In both cities, lights out is at 10 with us regularly to be part of this It serves victims of domestic p.m. and breakfast will be served experience is that once they are violence, people burned out of in the morning before participants there, they realize all the choices their homes, refugees and others. leave at 8 a.m. they have in comparison to a For infants and children under Cardboard Box Cities raise homeless person. They realize the four, the program provides dia- the awareness of youth, families life-saving work they are doing. pers, wipes, formula and infant and others who participate about “Family Promise helps keep hygiene items every 30 days. In how challenging it is to live when families together, so they don’t 2011, Mission Community Out- one has no home. have to make tough decisions reach gave out 34,000 diapers. In Participants bring bedding, about how to keep all their mem- 2012, they have already provided pajamas, flashlights and whatever bers safe,” she said. “Families try 15 percent more. they need for the night. Neither so hard to make it, yet often are Recently, the center gave out disruptive electronic equipment not able to do so. Many live in 541 pairs of new shoes, donated CATHOLIC CEMETERIES OF SPOKANE nor alcoholic beverages are per- fear of losing their children. Fam- by people in area churches, to mitted. ily Promise says to them, ‘Don’t children in grades K-12. Often, in the four years groups put your family in danger. Work Before Christmas, it offers in Coeur d’Alene have spent the through us and be safe.’” a Christmas shopping event so night at Cardboard Box City, there Family Promise of Spokane is parents can pick out an outfit and has been rain or snow. partnering with Mission Commu- book for each child. The first place for a pre-need meeting “It is not that easy to find a nity Outreach Center and Shalom Shalom Ministries reaches out cardboard box or other shelter Ministries to demonstrate the through its Dining with Dignity when it is cold,” said Cindy teaching in Matthew 25:35-36, program, serving breakfast four PREPARE your family for the most important decision in life

ENSURE peace of mind We’re throwing a party! People Who Care Event 10th Anniversary PROVIDE October 23, 2012 the proper resources for the committal service following the Funeral Mass • Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. • Lunch at noon Red Lion Inn at the Park RSVP: 328-6702 C ATHOLIC C EMETERIES OF SPOKANE [email protected] Holy Cross Queen of Peace St. Joseph Join our work to end poverty 7200 N Wall St 6910 S Ben Burr Rd 17825 E Trent Ave and homelessness for women 509-467-5496 www.cathcem.org and children in Spokane. follow your faith October 2012 - The Fig Tree - Page 9 Interfaith Peacebuilders exposes people to struggles, efforts for peace When Myrta Ladich toured the quadrennial convention voted peace groups and movements in Holocaust Museum in Jerusalem against two proposals to divest Israel, so sharing their concerns last May, she saw a photo of from companies providing equip- she feels she can talk about what family of her closest friend dur- ment Israel uses in the occupied the Israeli government is doing ing college and her early years territories, but approved a resolu- without being anti-Jewish. of marriage. The photo brought tion calling for positive invest- “I have to say something,” said tears to her eyes. ment to encourage economic Myrta, who has given several pre- Myrta has long been attuned development in Palestine and a sentations with Marianne Torres, to the suffering of Jews in the resolution denouncing the Israeli another Spokane delegate. Holocaust. occupation and settlements. “What happens there is at the Her friend came to Seattle at the The presiding bishop of the heart of many international con- age of 18, having fled communist Episcopal Church favors invest- flicts. The United States’ un- rule in Hungary by walking to ing in development projects over qualified support for Israel—$3 Vienna. She had survived the divestment. The Evangelical Lu- billion a year—is why some in the Holocaust as a child at the age theran Church in America rejected Middle East dislike us,” she said, of six. Most of her family were divestment in 2007 and 2011. Participating in the delegation killed in Auschwitz. The divestment effort targets was not Myrta’s first time abroad. Before joining the May 18 to 31 Caterpillar, Hewlett-Packard and She and her husband went on delegation of 30, visiting through Motorola Solutions. teachers’ study tours to Japan, Interfaith Peacebuilders, Myrta Kairos USA appeals to black the Soviet Union, Hungary in knew her Jewish friend, who now and white, mainstream and evan- the 1980s, and personal travel to lives in California, is appalled at gelical, conservative and liberal Denmark, Great Britain, France, what Israel’s government does to American Christians the Mediterranean, Greece, Italy Palestinians. Painting of Hungarian folk dancing by a Seattle artist, Auschwitz Myrta heard a young Israeli and Yugoslavia. Interfaith Peacebuilders began survivor and her friend’s cousin reminds Myrta Ladich of her friend. Jewish woman tell of her work Her husband’s cousins still as a program of the Fellowship against “the illegal settlements on live in the states of the former of Reconciliation, which was She was distressed to learn that thodox, Greek Catholic, Roman the West Bank.” Another talked Yugoslavia. founded in 1914 at the start of the demolitions continue today. Catholic and Protestant—in 2009 about water issues. Another She has also been involved World War I by two German and “One little girl told of taking to tell the world about what they pointed out that settlements are with the Unitarian Universal- British pastors who shook hands her doll house to school every were experiencing. It is based on illegal under international law, ist Church’s partnership with a and pledged to work to prevent day, because her friend had lost the model of the Kairos Document because an occupier is not to church in Felsorakos in Transyl- such conflicts in the future. In- her doll house when her home that black South African theolo- move in and settle its people, and vania, close to Hungary. terfaith Peacebuilders has led 43 was demolished while she was at gians produced in 1985, describ- is responsible to treat occupied “Everyone needs equal rights delegations since it began in 2001. school,” she said. ing the political crisis and calling people with respect and humanity. and opportunities for education, Growing up in Forks, Wash., In 2003, Myrta had attended a for solidarity through boycott, “Many faiths are responding jobs, food and a home,” she said. Myrta attended the United Church memorial service in Seattle for divestment and sanctions. The to the Kairos Document because “It’s important to realize that of Christ. After high school, she Rachel Corrie, 23, who was run Palestinian document is a plea to of their shared belief that people the occupiers themselves are married Mike in 1957. They over by a bulldozer when she Christians and the international are to love one another as human never safe and never have secu- moved to Seattle, where she stud- stood between it and a Palestinian community to help, to stand with beings,” Myrta said. rity,” she said. “I understand the ied education at the University of home in Gaza. Rachel’s parents those experiencing oppression at “Unitarian Universalists be- fear. I don’t have all the answers, Washington. continue to work to end the oc- the hands of the Israeli govern- lieve in everyone’s inherent worth but I know the occupation needs Her studies were interrupted by cupation and policies that caused ment, Myrta said. and dignity,” she said. “Everyone to end, and people need fairness, the birth of twin daughters. She their daughter’s death. In early Checkpoints, separate roads, deserves love, compassion and equality and compassion.” graduated in 1966. Mike taught September, a judge ruled that the different licenses, different ID justice if we are to have peace.” For information, call 443-0231 middle school social studies, and bulldozer driver had not been able cards, and the wall are signs of She also met Jewish people in or email [email protected]. she taught English during their 45 to see her, Myrta said. the oppression she saw. years living in Seattle. After retir- To keep informed, she has heard The document calls for people ing, they moved to Spokane nine speakers, seen films and helped to be educated and aware, to visit years ago to be near one daughter. the Peace and Justice Action and see, to reflect theologically Beginning Experience Weekend In Seattle, she and Mike, who League of Spokane raise funds for and engage in studies. It also Help with the heartache grew up Serbian Orthodox, were water purification units at a UN calls for denominations and ecu- active members of the West Se- refugee school in Khan Younis menical bodies to act to engage of finding yourself alone through attle Unitarian Universalist Fel- in Gaza. in economic boycotts, divestment separation, divorce or death. lowship for more than 40 years. “I always wanted to go to Israel/ and sanctions to challenge the Now they attend the Unitarian Palestine to see first hand what persecution and oppression of Friday, Saturday & Sunday, Universalist Church in Spokane. was happening,” she said of her Palestinians. Active in peace and justice decision to go. In addition, it calls for po- Nov. 16, 17 & 18 work in Seattle, Myrta is involved “Interfaith Peacebuilders del- litical advocacy for a “just and Immaculate Heart Retreat Center in the Peace and Justice Action egates come from different per- sustainable peace in Israel and 6910 S. Ben Burr Rd. League in Spokane. She has long spectives and faiths to learn about Palestine,” holding the U.S. gov- worked for peace and justice for and understand the conflict’s ernment accountable for continu- Cost is $200 • $25 non-refundable deposit. Palestinians and Israelis. causes and solutions,” said Myrta. ing the conflict and suffering of Contact Marlene: “I’ve been frustrated at our ig- The program offered 25 two- Palestinians and Israelis. (509) 534-1797 or (509) 230-2091 norance about what is happening hour sessions in 12 days with Many denominations have and by the lack of news,” she said. speakers from different organiza- study guides available for con- or contact us at www.beginningexperienceofspokane.us. “As Americans, we do not have tions, including two kibbutzim. gregations. the information we need.” They heard from Muslims, Jews In June, the Presbyterian For example, one evening at and Christians. Church (USA)’s General Assem- an event in her West Seattle fel- Several sessions presented bly turned down divestment by lowship, she had heard a Jewish the Kairos Palestine Document, two votes—333 to 331. In May, woman tell of staying one night developed by Christians—Or- the United Methodist Church’s with a Palestinian family, wait- ing for the bulldozers to come, wondering if the men would be taken and if their water supply would be cut off. Spiritual Conversations On the trip, Myrta also heard with Spokane Bahá’is people tell of their devastation in losing their homes as troops came Wednesday, Oct. 3 in the middle of the night with a ‘Lydia Zamenhof, Esperanto and the Quest for a Global Language’ demolition order. She was upset to learn that the person whose Wednesday, Nov. 7 home is demolished needs to pay ‘Education Under Fire: How Could a Country Make Getting an for the demolition and clean-up. Education a Crime? Rural Ministry Wednesday, Dec. 5 Resources Retreat ‘The Poetry of Qurrqtu’l-’Ayn (Táhirih): Spirituality and Gender Monday to Tuesday - 1-1 pm in 19th Century Iran’ October 15-16 5 p.m. First Wednesdays Sunnyside United Methodist Church at 906 E. Edison - Sunnyside, WA Multicultural Ministries Chairs Coffee Building on Rural Strengths 113 W. Indiana St. Cost $75 - tuition, lodging, meals www.spokanebahais.org Contact Kathy Kramer 509-284-6107 or [email protected] Page 10 - The Fig Tree - October 2012 Editorial Reflections Faith Action Network urges congregations to learn about ‘wage theft’ Concerned about poverty, homelessness, withholds a final paycheck. if employers recognize the interdependence with rates of pay per hour, shift, day, week, hunger, unemployment and health care, the For generations, the Fair Labor Stan- of the economic sectors and the need for a month, piece or commission. Bonuses, Faith Action Network of Washington has dards Act of 1938 has guaranteed rights to healthy middle class, would they find it in incentives and benefits must also be clear. set a priority to work for an end to “wage workers, but some companies violate the their self-interest to pay just wages? Unions developed to protect workers’ in- theft” in the state. standards set. The gender pay gap between Ethical companies face a disadvantage as comes, benefits and wellbeing. So often the onus is on those living on men and women continues despite the they compete in the market with companies The Faith Action Network’s Advocacy low incomes—discredited in some political Equal Pay Act of 1963. that engage in these practices. Summit at 4:30 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 14, at circles as “dependent.” Some conversa- Paul Benz, FAN’s director of legislative As conservative-progressive arguments First United Methodist Church in Ellens- tions in faith communities seek to turn the affairs, said that “too often employers prey surface during political campaigns, conser- burg will be an opportunity to learn about discussion around, suggesting that some on workers who live below the federal vative voices say labor regulations strangle wage theft along with surfacing other issues depend on corporate welfare through tax poverty line or who are living one paycheck economic growth and job creation, while of concern to be considered as priorities subsidies, tax loopholes, government con- from foreclosure or homelessness.” progressives say the protections are needed for common education and action through tracts with built-in high executive pay and Such vulnerable employees may accept especially in difficult economic times. FAN’s programs. profits, and campaign-donation payback. low wages, even though they legally de- While some companies illegally un- Social concerns committees in congrega- What is wage theft? When an employer serve more. They are quiet, fearing that if derpay employees, many overpay execu- tions might research and gather resources pays less than minimum wage, doesn’t pay they report the problem, the employer will tives—redistributing the wealth workers for education and might be in solidarity for overtime work, confiscates tips, forces retaliate, and they will lose their job. create to their bosses. with those needing to raise their voices and employees to work off the wage clock, mis- Underpaid workers often have to rely on To prevent wage theft, it’s important for report infractions. classifies employees as contractors, makes government assistance for food and other employees and contractors to have clear Mary Stamp illegal deductions, denies meal breaks or necessities. So who’s dependent? In fact, understandings of the basis for their pay— Editor Assistance convent sisters received during fire is reminder of goodness Every once in a while, the idealist in me Things moved quickly. Our job was to acknowledge all the help in transporting help, and everyone was home for lunch. is tempted to doubt the wisdom of believ- follow directions. As the fire continued the sisters and equipment. Our hearts are full of gratitude for all the ing that the men and women in our world around our property toward Government Meanwhile—there are many “mean- people who filled this event with so many can and will join together for the common Way, it was feared that if the fire couldn’t be whiles” to the story—Holy Names Sisters heart-pieces. We are safe, well cared for good. The contents of the evening news contained, our way off the property would Celine Steinberger and Laura Michels wel- and energized by having shared an incred- are not encouraging. Partisan politics, civil be blocked, so we were asked to evacuate. comed the 19 ambulatory sisters at Mission ible experience of being held in the hollow wars, criminal behaviors all demonstrate a The sisters gathered in the dining room. House for the evening. of God’s hands, and in each other’s. lack of ability or will to envision a world When told a city bus would take them The commander was still uncertain if we We have never felt so safe or so proud of where being a community of peace and somewhere, most scurried to their rooms would be coming home that night. When our Spokane community. Fireman, police- justice is more important than my own for what they thought necessary for the it was final that we would not return Mon- men, ambulance teams, the Spokane Tran- personal agenda. evening. The commander still thought we day night, I, as the convent’s leader, began sit, volunteers from Geiger, the Providence Then something, perhaps a microcosm would be back by bedtime. Ambulances working on the bed situation. Several Sisters at Mount St. Joseph, the managers of a world community, occurs and hope is began transporting the 17 sisters from the friends had called offering assistance and at the Red Lion, and our own wonderful strengthened. That recently happened to us care center. There were two sisters and a two sisters with friends at the Red Lion and Partners in Ministry all worked together at the Convent of the Holy Names. caregiver in each vehicle. Gonzaga began calling. for our common good. After lunch Monday, Aug. 13, one man The five Providence Sisters and two We secured 10 rooms as a gift from the A month after “the fire” we had a bar- who works at the Convent of the Holy caregivers at Mount St. Joseph’s graciously Red Lion on Division. Four sisters stayed beque at the Convent of the Holy Names Names, 2911 Ft. Wright Dr., smelled welcomed 18 Sisters of the Holy Names at Mission House. Even though the sisters for the firefighters, and 55 of them came. smoke. He and the maintenance director and their caregivers. We always knew we were unprepared for an overnight stay, we It has been such a joy to celebrate the went into the woods, but saw nothing. By were sisters to and with the Providence agreed a room at the Red Lion was like life we now know that we share. We realize 2:30 p.m., the convent parking lot was filled Sisters, and Monday evening that was much camping at a high level. By morning, ev- our lives are connected with the life of our with fire engines and accompanying units. in evidence. Our kitchen staff sent food for eryone could return to the convent. Spokane community. An unknown angel saw smoke from across our sisters, and they joined the Providence For the return, the supervisor at AMR - Mary Ann Farley, SNJM the river and called in the fire. sisters for supper. It would take pages to America Medical Response called in extra Fig Tree Board Moderator

Letter to the Editor Sounding Board Newsletter Excerpts

People have been tearing down walls As the demands of the fall pile up on developed by the city, county or state, but hide until it is all over. Ideally, however, for a long while now. The house I live you—political choices, economic stresses, the purpose is so that we can live together we need to vote with an informed mind and in doesn’t have a wall that separates our wisdom about health care and unemploy- in a respectful, safe manner. If we all live solid base of principals upon which to make kitchen from the family room. I hope that ment—might we dare pray to be filled with by our own laws or standards, we have our decisions. Is that possible? helps prevent emotional and social walls “the fullness of God” available to us in the chaos. Community means being willing to Our small group at church produces a from being developed between myself and love of Christ? Can we believe that this is sacrifice for the sake of the whole. weekly prayer list to guide us in praying other members of my household of seven. real power grounding us in love that is tall I sense more of Cain’s attitude in our so- for known needs and offering praises of I believe God isn’t big into walls. The and wide, and as deep as anything in life? ciety, “I’m not my brother’s keeper. Don’t the “good things that happen.” Old Testament is filled with conversation In truth everything else is a false God, ask me to care for those people who live One paragraph currently on our list of destroying walls. When David decides that is, any power or fear or offering that is over there. I’m out to take care of myself is: “With the onset of the Presidential God would like some walls to dwell within, not part of this fullness of God is thin and and no one else.” campaign, we pray for civility, honest dis- God says, “Are you the one to build me a fleeting and insubstantial. It is not true. The strength of our community is related cussion and an end to wild and inaccurate house to live in? I have not lived in a house Christ dwells in us as we trust Christ’s to how we care for one another. Com- charges, and a willingness to do what is best since the day I brought up the people of Is- Spirited love. Christ is the “fullness” of munity includes not only holding people for the nation, rather than for the political rael from Egypt” (2 Sam.7). When Jesus is life that people search for, looking in so accountable but also helping one another. power of any party.... crucified, the temple curtain is torn in two, many blind alleys. When we build up those in need, we build I would be the last person to try to sug- giving us the impression that God will not Bishop Martin Wells - Eastern up ourselves. We are all bound together. gest how one should vote. I spent my life be contained in a temple or church of walls. Washington Idaho Synod, Evangelical Loving our neighbor as we love ourselves in the information and news field. I know We have taken down some walls at our Lutheran Church in America takes on hard reality sometimes. It means that knowledge and prayer can be power- church, eliminating the library to create a being engaged. We are our brothers’ and ful tools. more inviting narthex—a fancy word for In the midst of cultural issues and sisters’ keepers. I also know that, as Americans, we hold church lobby. We hope the larger lobby will political conversations going around us, The Rev. David Helseth - Englewood a wide range of views on issues. Some of help us tear down walls between church one piece has roots in our Christian faith. Christian newsletter – Yakima our views are carefully reached through insiders and those who see themselves to be After killing his brother, Cain asks God, study and based on our standards of ethics. on the outside—visitors or members who “Am I my brother’s keeper?” It is not possible to escape the fact Some are based on fear of change. Some find it difficult to belong. Central to the Judeo-Christian faith ex- that we are into the political season. Every are really nothing more than knee-jerk re- What walls do we build up over the years: perience is that those who participate in a major road and street is festooned with actions to some issue or event. Too often a wall so we won’t be hurt again? a wall common community and covenant of faith signs reminding us to vote for this person our decisions are based on misinformation. to keep us from dealing with a situation will have concern for one another. Jesus or that person. A half hour on television Thus, I heartily endorse the idea of that haunts us? a wall that keeps us from put it clearly when he summarized the To- or radio and we are assaulted by political prayer as we lead up to another Presiden- engaging our church and our God? rah by citing two commandments: “Love advertisements. Pick up a newspaper and tial election. We need to pray for wisdom. We all put up walls around ourselves God with your entire being and love your it is almost impossible for our eyes to avoid We need to pray for the candidates. We for self-protection. What walls does God neighbor as you love yourself.” a pitch for one candidate or another. Fliers desperately need to pray for those who want to take down so new life may come? Loving our neighbor not only applies to arrive by mail. Unsolicited phone calls lead at all levels of government. With the God says to us, “Child of God, tear down our church family. This principle is cen- offer the reasons we should vote for this faithful praying fervently for wisdom and that wall.” When the walls are torn down, tral to a city, a county, a state and a nation candidate rather than the opponent. Then for those whom we will elect, who knows we are that much more receptive to where being healthy and strong. We are bound we also deal with initiatives, referendums what miracles may be wrought. God is leading. together as community by the fact we live and other issues. Wey Simpson Lay Leader The Rev. Eric Dull in a geographical boundary. We may or It is overwhelming and mind boggling. Spokane Valley United Methodist St. Mark’s Lutheran newsletter may not like all the laws and codes that are One is tempted to find a care in which to Connections Newsletter October 2012 - The Fig Tree - Page 11 Our Place needs blankets, warm items As temperatures drop, Our Most of its clients are elderly, and material donations. C & H Foreign Auto Repair Place Ministries, a center that pro- disabled and children who would The ministry is currently doing E. 620 North Foothills Dr. Spokane, WA 99207 vides emergency services in West otherwise go without food, cloth- a blanket drive. EDWARD W. CUSHMAN 487-9683 OR 484-5221 Central Spokane, need blankets, ing, heat or basic necessities. Our Place, at 1509 W. College sleeping bags, coats, hats, gloves It offers a food bank, clothing Ave., has been serving the com- and socks for those who cannot af- bank, bedding items, classes, bus munity since 1987. Hope & Healing ford such items, said Ann Pizelo, passes, hygiene products and util- For information, call 326-7267 SNJM, director. ity assistance through financial or visit ourplacespokane.org Counseling Services Marian Beaumier LICSW 483-0428 EMDR / Medicare Part B United Nations Day Calendar of Events celebration is Oct. 21 Spokane’s celebration of United Daybreak Youth Services Nations Day will be held from Oct 5 • “Blasphemy: New and Selected Stories,” Sherman Alexie, North 6 to 9 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 21, in Central High School, 1600 N. Howard, 7 p.m., 838-0206, auntiesbooks. Chemical dependency treatment Cataldo Hall at Gonzaga Univer- com for youth to 18 years old. • “What’s Your Issue?” Spokane Community College play, the Lair, 8:15 sity with dinner and a program. Outpatient and residential treatment Ann Kelleher, interim director p.m., 879-8070 Oct 6 • Holistic Festival, Center Place, Mirabeau Point Park, 2426 N. Daybreak relies on financial support from churches, individuals and agencies. of Gonzaga’s Center for Global Discovery Pl., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., 486-9001 444-7033 • 960 E. Third Ave. • Spokane, WA 99202 Engagement, will speak on “The Oct 7 • World Communion Sunday UN: Peacemaker or Passive Ob- Oct 11 • “Patriot for Peace: Connecting the Dots from Iraq to Afghanistan to server?” Gaza,” Col. Ann Wright, Unitarian Universalist Church, 4340 Ft Wright Gonzaga Model UN students Dr., 7 p.m., 838-7870 Patriot for Peace: Connecting the Chance Wilcox and Cecilia Vol- Oct 12 • Linking Families for Life Benefit Dinner, Childbirth & Parenting Alone, Dots from Iraq to lert will share experiences at the Catholic Charities, Lincoln Center, 1316 N. Lincoln, 5:30 p.m., 358-4264 National Model UN Conference. Oct 13 • “Aging Is Not for Sissies,” Barbara Burkart, The Franciscan Place, Afghanistan to Gaza 1016 N. Superior, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., 483-6495 Col. Ann Wright For information, call 747-5252 • North County Food Pantry open house and dedication of new space, or email taninchev2@gonzaga. 40015 N Collins Rd., Elk, 1 to 3 p.m., 292-2530 7 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 11 edu. Oct 14 • Poor Man’s Meal, House of Charity, 32 W. Pacific, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 Unitarian Universalist Church of Spokane p.m., 358-4264 4340 Ft. Wright Dr. - no charge Franciscan Place offers • Advocacy Summit of Eastern Washington Congregations, Faith Sponsored by the UU Church & the Peace and Justice Action Network, First United Methodist Church, 210 N. Ruby St., Action League of Spokane Ellensburg, 4:30 to 7 p.m., 206-625-9790, [email protected] conversation on aging 838-7870 • [email protected] Spiritual director Barbara Oct 15 • “The YouTube Effect: How Anger and Agitprop Share America’s Relationship with Islam,” Breakfast with Lawrence Pintak, World Affairs Burkart will lead a program on Council, The Spokane Club, 1002 W. Riverside, wacspokane.com “Aging is NOT for Sissies” from • NAACP, East Central Community Center, 500 E. Stone, 7 p.m. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Oct. Oct 15-16 • Rural Ministry Retreat, Sunnyside United Methodist Church, 906 E. 13, at The Franciscan Place, 1016 Edison Ave., Monday 1 p.m. to Tuesday 1 p.m., 509-284-6107 N. Superior. Oct 16 • Take Action Against Hate Annual Banquet, “Transformations,” Ven. Barbara, who has been a pre- Geshe Thupten Phelgue speaker, Cataldo Hall, Gonzaga University, 5:45 senter at previous programs at p.m., 313-3665, [email protected] Oct 16-18 • “Word of Light: Art of Illuminated Manuscripts,” Mary Lorish Jahn, St. Joseph Family Center, brings Spirit Center, Monastery of St. Gertrude, Cottonwood, ID, 208-962-2000 experience in healing arts through Oct 18 • “Rich Media, Poor Democracy,” Northwest Alliance for Responsible expressive arts, spiritual practices Media film and discussion, College Hall 101, Gonzaga University, 7 p.m., and body movements. 313-6656 For information, call 483-6495 Oct 19-21 • Intro to Centering Prayer, Spirit Center, Monastery of St. Gertrude, or visit www.SJFConline.org. Cottonwood, Idaho, 208-962-2000 Oct 20 • Northwest Coalition for Human Rights, 1912 Center, 412 E. 3rd St., Moscow, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., 208-885-4285, [email protected] Oct 21 • United Nations Day, “The UN: Peacemaker or Passive Observer,” Ann Fig Tree sets 2013 events Kelleher, Cataldo Hall, Gonzaga University 6 p.m., 313-3610, jkandjg2@ Fair Trade - Earth Friendly - Local - 35 W. Main The Fig Tree has set dates for comcast.net events it sponsors in the spring Oct 22 • “Meeting with a Killer,” Death Penalty Film Series, Gonzaga Law of 2013. School, Barbieri Courtroom, 7 p.m., 838-7870 Oct 23 •”People Who Care Helping Women Who Dare,” benefit events for Veradale United Church of Christ The Eastern Washington Leg- Transitions, breakfast at 7:30 a.m., lunch at noon, Red Lion at the Park, islative Conference will be held 303 W. North River Dr., 328-6702, help4women.org 72nd Annual on Saturday, Feb. 2, at St. John’s Oct 24 • “Myths Surrounding Human Trafficking,” Mabel Elsom, anti-human Cathedral, 127 E. 12th Ave. trafficking coordinator at Lutheran Community Services, Eastern The Fig Tree Benefit gatherings Washington University Monroe Hall 207, Cheney, noon, 359-2898 Harvest Dinner are set with the Benefit Breakfast Oct 25 • YWCA Women of Achievement Benefit Luncheon, Naomi Tutu, on Wednesday, March 13, and the Spokane Convention Center, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., 326-1190 Benefit Lunch on Friday, March Oct 27 • “Congressional Advocacy Forum,” Diane Randall of the Friends Committee on National Legislation, Salem Lutheran, 1428 W. Broadway, Saturday, Oct. 27 15, in Cataldo Hall at Gonzaga 7:30 a.m., 435-8053 5 to 7 p.m. University. • Amy Goodman of Democracy Now! KYRS benefit, Spokane Falls The Easter Sunrise Service will Community College Music Building, 7 p.m., 747-3012 The mouth-watering meal features turkey and the trimmings, be held on Sunday, March 31, at Oct 30, Nov 6 • Thomas Merton’s Bridges to Contemplative Living, “Adjusting Your ham, Swedish meatballs and squash Life’s Vision,” The Franciscan Place, 1016 N. Superior St., 483-6495 Greenwood Memorial Terrace. We invite donations! For information, call 535-1813 Nov 2-4 • Exploring the Mystery of Dreams, Spirit Center, Monastery of St. or find fliers online at www.the- Gertrude, Cottonwood, 208-962-2000 611 N. Progress Ave. • Spokane Valley • 926-7173 figtree.org. Oct 31 • Fig Tree Distribution, St. Mark’s Lutheran, 314 E. 24th, 9 a.m. one block west of Sullivan and south of Broadway Nov 1 • Fig Tree Board, 631 S. Richard Allen Ct., Benefit, noon; Board 1 p.m. 1st/3rd Weds • Death Penalty Abolition Committee, 35 W. Main, 5:30 p.m. 2nd/4th Tues • Palestine-Israel Human Rights Committee, 35 W. Main, 6 p.m. 2nd Wed • Veterans for Peace, 35 W. Main, 6:45 p.m. 3rd Thurs • Peace and Justice Action Committee, 35 W. Main, 5:30 p.m.

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Page 12 - The Fig Tree - October 2012 Couple establish ministry to heal young adults who age-out of orphanages After seven years in Africa, emotionally and then physically.” Anita Held is working with her He said that they share that husband, Heiko, to develop Em- vision with Healing Rooms Min- brace the Grace Ministries to heal istries. young-adults who “age-out” of Embrace the Grace Ministries orphanages in Zambia. will also offer basic survival and She has been coming to Spo- life skills, as well as job skills. kane since 2009 for some train- “We will recruit youth from ing with Elijah House School orphanages the year before they of Prayer Ministry in Spokane age out,” she said. Valley, learning about the basics The goal is that the young adults of praying with people who have will become self-sufficient, learn- experienced trauma. ing life skills, the work ethic and During a four-month visit from money management, so they can mid June to mid-October, Anita find housing and have families. and Heiko have studied with Heal- Anita plans to continue to ing Rooms Ministries, which was return to Spokane to recruit mis- founded and has its international sion volunteers to help through headquarters in Spokane. They Elijah House and Healing Rooms have also presented displays Ministries. of her photographs of African Embrace the Grace Ministries children, scenes and life to raise seeks to help Zambian people money for their project. Heiko and Anita Held travel around the United States with photographic exhibit on Africa. find their identity in Christ and Through photographs, Anita embrace God’s purpose for their said she has sought to “cap- ing church regularly and became and discovered freedom in Christ, they have to leave the orphan- lives through coming to under- ture the heart of God inside the a radical believer.” a freedom, he said, that “comes ages,” Anita said. “Many wind up stand the Scriptures and through eyes of every child” and to feel Anita had another vision. She day by day.” on the streets and become messed gaining empowerment by learning God’s “heartbeat in a glimpse of wanted to go to Africa and share When they first met, he was up with drug abuse, prostitution, basic life skills. creation” through African land- the same hope Christ gave her looking for photographs to use alcoholism, AIDS and crime, For information, call 407-230- scapes. with other sick people. in a fund-raising calendar. Two stealing to survive,” she said. 1154 or email etgministries@ Since 2006, she traveled in She began studying for minis- years later, they met again. Three “They are traumatized by years yahoo.com. Botswana, Ghana, Mozambique, try. After a year and a half study- weeks later they were engaged of physical or sexual abuse, the Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, ing in seminary at Southeastern and three months later, they were loss of parents to AIDS.” Zimbabwe and Zambia, assisting University in Lakeland, Fla., she married on the edge of Victoria Anita believes the Healing orphans and destitute people. went on a summer mission trip in Falls. Rooms Ministries approach and As she saw the poverty, hunger, 2006 to Ghana, and then took off Anita’s exhibit, “Window into prayer ministry can help them deal sickness, devastation and hope- with a backpack, crossing Africa Africa,” consists of photos printed with that trauma. The Center for Organizational lessness of the people, she also alone for two-and-a-half months. on museum-grade canvas. Each “We will help them look at Reform grew to love the beauty of Africa’s She knew nothing about pho- photo comes in small, medium their spirit, soul and body so they land, water, plants, wildlife and tography, but had been given a and large sizes. They seek to raise are healed and whole to live their Want some personal people. camera before leaving and took $100,000 for their project. They purpose,” Heiko said. “We both sanctuary? We can help In addition to raising funds, photos. When she returned, she set up their portable exhibit at experienced trauma in our lives, Anita uses photographic exhibits was astounded with the quality churches and luxury apartments. and God led us each to be healed 509-879-9235 www.corhome.org to raise awareness about the life of her photos. Embrace the Grace Ministries, and empowered to heal others— of African people. Churches in Florida invited which she and Heiko started in On this visit to the United her to do a photo exhibit to raise 2011, involves three efforts: 1) a States, which includes time in money so she could return to Af- prayer ministry and healing rooms Wisconsin, Arkansas, Alabama, rica. In 2007, she was ordained at for young adult orphans who have Florida and Spokane, she and Hei- Christ Church of Orlando. aged out of orphanages; 2) dis- ko hope to raise enough money in Anita worked for several years cipleship training through Bible photograph sales to purchase land with orphanages in Mozambique study to help them understand for Embrace the Grace Ministries and Zambia. their identity in Christ, and 3) to build a counseling center with By taking courses online, she life-skills training appropriate to healing rooms in Livingstone, graduated from seminary in the the culture and to help them find Zambia. mission field in May 2010. work—be it in tourism in the area John G. Lakes, a businessman She first met her husband, or in serving in ministry. who became a faith healer, started Heiko, who grew up in Berlin, “By identity in Christ, I mean the Healing Rooms Ministries in when he was teaching Bible in that God sees value in them 1915 in Spokane. The ministry the bush. Seeking freedom, he and has a plan for them that can seeks to provide spiritual and left Berlin 17 years ago and rode transform their understanding of physical healing through anoint- his motorcycle through Africa for themselves,” Heiko said. “Then ing and praying for people who two years. After surviving a plane we want to empower them with are sick. It offers training in Spo- crash without a scratch, he went to life skills. kane for people who want to start a church in Pretoria, South Africa, “When orphans hit 18 to 19, healing rooms. It has outreach in 62 countries. The Helds have been trained to be healing room directors. Anita, who grew up in Milwau- kee, Wisc., and lived in various  locations in the United States, said she was saved when she was  28 at Christ Church of Orlando. She had an incurable bladder and kidney disease. “I had a vision and saw Jesus, and he healed my body,” she said. “I began attend-  FAITH  ACTION NETWORK  A Partnership for the Common Good  Annual Summit of Eastern Washington Congregations Sunday, Oct. 14 - 4:30 p.m.  First United Methodist Church 210 N. Ruby St. - Ellensburg  RSVP Spokane’s only nonprofit hospice [email protected] 206-625-9790