November 6, 1999

CLEVELAND—A sense of accomplishment and joyful expectation along with a touch of pageantry mark the opening of the National Council of Churches' 50th Anniversary Event Nov. 9-12 in Cleveland, the Council's birthplace. Some 1,000 "family and friends" are meeting to celebrate the NCC's many contributions to ecumenism's rich history, then share visions and dream dreams together for the ecumenical movement at the turn of the 21st century.

At the NCC's Constituting Convention in 1950, an open Bible was front and center, the focus of attention, placed on a linen-draped altar and flanked by tall candlesticks and great vases of white flowers. In the background, against a dark curtain, was erected a 15-foot cross. Above the proscenium in shining letters was the theme phrase of the Convention and the Council, "This Nation Under God."

As the 50th anniversary event opens, the Bible once again is the focus. Opening worship (8:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 9) is focused on "Sharing God's Word," and highlights the Council's Bible-related work. Subsequent services will celebrate the Council's witness against hatred and constructive help in the aftermath of war and natural disasters, and the broadening of our common table over the years. All services will challenge participants to recommit to this important work.

The 50th Anniversary Welcome Luncheon (noon Tuesday) will celebrate the NCC's heritage, both past and present, as we recognize the 35 Protestant and Orthodox member communions, review "Sketches from the Journey," introduce past presidents and general secretaries and hear from several founders, including African Methodist Episcopal Zion Bishop J. Clinton Hoggard and United Methodist Bishop James K. Mathews.

Only a few days ago, we learned with regret that Archbishop Desmond Tutu would not be able to deliver the keynote address at the Welcome Luncheon, as planned, because his prostate surgery has been scheduled for that very day. At the same time, we rejoice at the news that the prostate cancer has not spread and that, following Tuesday's surgery, he will be cancer-free. Our prayers surround the Archbishop and his surgeons.

While no one can replace Archbishop Tutu, the Welcome Luncheon still promises to be exciting. The Hon. Michael R. White, Mayor of Cleveland, will serve as host. There will be special music. And several international church leaders will offer their perspectives on the NCC's legacy.

Tuesday's program also will feature a private "Inspiration in Music" concert by the Cleveland Orchestra, followed by a panel discussion including a composer, a conductor and two theologians. They will explore sources of inspiration in music and reflect on how to listen to secular music in ways that give it a spiritual direction. The Hon. Jane L. Campbell, Vice President of the Board of County Commissioners, Cuyahoga County, and NCC General Secretary Joan B. Campbell's daughter, will bring greetings to the NCC.

Rounding out the opening day will be a host of forums and special events, including "Gospel, Culture and Music: The Impact of Rock and Roll on America;" "The Churches' Commitment to Public Education at the Edge of a New Century;" "Theology and Ecumenism;" "Living Faithfully in America: A Multifaith Conversation," and an Environmental Justice Tour.

Wednesday's program will include two services of worship, Opening Worship (8:30 a.m.) and, at noon, a "Service of Reconciliation and Remembrance for Survivors and U.S. Veterans of No Gun Ri," a massacre of Korean civilians that took place during the early days of the Korean War.

"The Great Conversation" Wednesday evening will be a concentrated time of envisioning ecumenism's future and will include participants from Roman Catholic, Evangelical and Pentecostal faith streams along with leaders from the Protestant and Orthodox traditions now part of the National Council of Churches. Eight forums, the opening of the annual meeting of the NCC's General Assembly the Council's top legislative meeting, the Jubilee CROP WALK and Celebration and several caucus meetings also are scheduled for Wednesday.

Why was Cleveland chosen?
Team meets challenge of planning ecumenical worship
Reflections as the anniversary opens
No Gun Ri survivors, vets to meet Nov. 10