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New NCC Resources Now Available 

            July 10, 2000, NEW YORK CITY – In continuing efforts to provide useful, up-to-date, inclusive information to the public, the National Council of Churches has released the following new resources:  

Map & Facts: Mexico
Chronologies by Rev. Benito Juarez-Martines
Biographies by Kathleen Lowe
Oxford Cartographers
Published by Friendship Press 

This bright four-color map, 23" x 35", shows topography, states and major cities of Mexico. Eight panels on the reverse side provide a ready reference to Mexican geography and history, including the impact of the Spanish colonists, the development of the Church in Mexico and current economic problems. Special features also include individual profiles of two Mexicans who reflect on the meaning of faith in their lives. An accompanying study guide describes how to use the information found on the map in mission study groups.  To obtain a copy contact Dee Glover, Friendship Press, 475 Riverside Drive, Room 856, New York, NY 10115,   212-870-2496; dee@ncccusa.org FP 73029 / $8.95 

Study Guide to "Map & Facts: Mexico"
By Don Parker-Burgard
Published by Friendship Press 

Intended to help congregations evaluate and then react to issues in Mexico, this 16-page study guide reviews the material found on the “Map & Facts: Mexico” panels (see description above), and adds additional resource information. It also suggests ways for local study leaders to help mission study groups better understand the people of this large country and near neighbor. A brief videography suggests video resources that could also be used in the study of Mexico.  To receive a guide, contact Dee Glover, Friendship Press, 475 Riverside Drive, Room 856, New York, NY 10115, 212-870-2496; dee@ncccusa.org.   FP 73030 / $3.00 

Map & Facts: Africa
Text by Susan Converse Winslow
Published by Friendship Press 

Suitable as a stand-alone resource, this updated version of 1991’s “Map & Facts: Africa” forms the basis of adult study material on Africa, with panels highlighting the continent’s history, geography and economy. A section on the culture of Africa provides a view of the arts and of everyday life in the continent. 

            Framed by an African-motif border, the resource provides current information on the 53 independent African countries and the western Sahara and colonial islands. Updated information also includes facts on the refugees of Africa, the state of Africa’s children and the AIDS crisis in Africa. This Peters Projection map, FP73031, is $8.95.  For more information, or to receive a copy contact Dee Glover, Friendship Press, 475 Riverside Drive, Room 856, New York, NY 10115, 212-870-2496, dee@ncccusa.org. 

The Refugee Crisis in Africa: The Churches’ Call to Care
Produced by Church World Service Immigration and Refugee Program
 

This four-page illustrated brochure addresses the issue of refugees in Africa, a place that has been plagued with refugee-producing crises for dozens of years.  The brochure discusses the causes of several of these crises; offers facts, figures and basic definitions related to African refugees and displaced persons; and provides insight on the harsh realities of life in an African refugee camp. 

This resource also considers what can be done to improve the lives of African refugees, highlighting the role of the Church World Service Immigration and Refugee Program, its affiliates and participating denominations and their congregations. Those interested in helping to ease the plight of African refugees will find practical action suggestions in this brochure.  To receive a copy contact Jennifer Graber, CWS/IRP, 475 Riverside Drive, Room 658, New York, NY 10115, 212-870-3153; jgraber@ncccusa.org. 

Reaching Out to Refugees
Produced by Church World Service Immigration and Refugee Program 

            This brochure addresses the plight of refugees from around the world and discusses the effort of the Church World Service Immigration and Refugee Program to resettle refugees in U.S. communities. Offering suggestions on what readers can do to help refugees, the document is aimed at motivating people to get involved.   

            The document also provides in-depth background on the involvement of Church World Service in resettlement efforts worldwide.  For a free copy, contact Jennifer Graber, CWS/IRP, 475 Riverside Drive, Room 658, New York, NY 10115, 212-870-3153; jgraber@ncccusa.org. 

National Council of Churches Committee on Disabilities Packet on Christian Education
Assembled by the NCC Committee on Disabilities 

Created by the National Council of Churches Committee on Disabilities, this packet of information on Christian Education is intended to serve as a starting point for teachers interested in creating inclusive classrooms.   

            Filled with a collection of tips on eliminating the barriers to learning that persons with disabilities often confront, the packet focuses on audio, visual and kinesthetic learning.  From multi-sensory worship guides to questionnaires, this resource contains a wealth of information on how teachers, Sunday School leaders, and parents can reach children. 

            For a copy of the packet contact Ministries in Christian Education, 475 Riverside Drive, Room 834, New York, NY 10115, 212-870-2738; www.ncccusa.org/nmu/mce/index.html.  

Racism Violates Human Rights: An Analysis
A joint project of the following organizations:
            World Council of Churches, Programme to Combat Racism
            The National Council of Churches, Racial Justice Working Group
            The American Indian Law Alliance, International  Law Resources 

            Based on hearings held in 1994 by the National Council of Churches and the World Council of Churches, this newly released document analyzes the ecumenical “Racism Violates Human Rights” initiative developed to raise awareness of human rights issues in the United States and to and provide opportunities for grassroots organizations to develop partnerships with each other and churches.  It serves as a summary of testimonies recorded at the hearings, including in-depth testimonies on environmental racism, immigration, political prisoners, sovereignty, employment, health, prison conditions, racist violence and sentencing. It also includes theological reflections of the issues. This 98-page document is available for $10.  Contact Sammy Toineeta, National Council of Churches Racial Justice Working Group Program, 475 Riverside Drive, Room 880, New York, NY 10115, 212-870-2387; sammy@ncccusa.org.                                                   

We Can Do That Too! Hunger Education Activities That Work
Produced by Church World Service 

            Great for youth groups, camps, CROP walks and other hunger-related events, this 20-page collection of easy-to-use worship materials, simulation games and dramas for congregational and community education settings is a sequel to the popular “We Can Do That!”  The resource has new material developed by hunger educators in the United States and abroad. 

            The cost is $1 (which includes shipping).  Please pre-pay, specify ED 0047.  Contact Hattie Redmond, Church World Service, 28606 Phillips St., P.O. Box 968 Elkhart, IN 46515, 1-800-297-1516, ext. 334; or email hredmond@cws.ncccusa.org; or call your CWS/CROP Regional Office at 1-888-CWS-CROP, that's 1-888-297-2767.   

Tools of Hope Program Guide- Share in a Hope-filled Tomorrow!
Produced by Church World Service 

            A great way for your congregation to become a partner in the development work of Church World Service, this “Tool Promotion Kit” has all the materials and ideas you’ll need for a compelling, informative “Tools of Hope” celebration. The “Tools of Hope” Program of Church World Service is an opportunity for congregations, organizations and individuals to provide vital assistance and hope to people in need. 

Recognizing that the key to successful social and economic development work is helping people help themselves, “Tools of Hope” shares the “tools,” technical assistance and other resources necessary to establish urban and rural community projects in areas of great need. 

            The promotion kit includes a color poster set and resources that will equip you to present TOOLS OF HOPE to your congregation or community group.  For more information, contact Hattie Redmond, Church World Service, 28606 Phillips St., P.O. Box 968, Elkhart, IN 46515, 1-800-297-1516, ext. 334; or email hredmond@cws.ncccusa.org; or call your CWS/CROP Regional Office at 1-888-CWS-CROP, that's 1-888-297-2767.   

CWS Film and Video Library Catalog
Church World Service 

Congregations, schools, community organizations and individuals are invited to access CWS's free-loan library of videos for all ages on topics ranging from hunger, development, and refugees, to peacemaking, inclusiveness, the environment and simplifying our  lifestyles.  When you borrow a video, all you pay is return shipping.   

This pocket-sized catalog offers titles and descriptions by topic and instructions on booking a video for your group.  This information is also available on the CWS Website, www.churchworldservice.org.  For a free copy call Gary Arnold, Church World Service, 1-800-297-1516, ext. 338; or email to garnold@cws.ncccusa.org; or call your CWS/CROP Regional Office at 1-888-CWS-CROP, that's 1-888-297-2767.    

Footsteps of Hope
Produced by Church World Service  

            This 9 1/2 minute video tells the story of how the footsteps of   “CROPWALKERS” are making a resounding difference in the lives of children and families in Honduras--and around the world. 

            You’ll meet the Dominguez family and celebrate the sounds of hope in their lives: the stories being read aloud in a literacy program, the voices of women sharing their concerns and dreams in a support group,  and the sound of fresh water flowing from the community’s water system.  You’ll sing along with 11-year-old Baltazar and 5-year-old Federico as they give voice to the hopes and dreams of their family and community. 

            To receive this video at no cost, contact Hattie Redmond, Church World Service, 28606, Phillips St., P.O. Box 968, Elkhart, IN 46515, 1-800-297-1516, ext. 334; or email hredmond@cws.ncccusa.org; or call your CWS/CROP Regional Office at 1-888-CWS-CROP, that's 1-888-297-2767.   

Building a Culture of Peace With Justice
Produced by the International Justice and Human Rights Office, Church World Service  

            Designed to help churches and community groups across the nation organize their annual “Peace With Justice Week,”  these materials offer the possibility of networking with others around the 2000 theme “Building a Culture of Peace With Justice.” Promoting the observance of Peace With Justice Week in the USA, the materials identify violence as a widely shared problem, the solutions to which require us to work together beyond the walls of the church. 

            The new flyer for organizers of the annual Peace With Justice Week highlights ways in which you and your community can be a part of NCC efforts to advance the United Nation’s vision for peace and other efforts to promote worldwide peace. Building a Culture of Peace With Justice may be ordered for $2 (25 percent discount for 10 or more) from Peace With Justice Week, 475 Riverside Drive, Room 670, New York, NY 10115-005.  Tel. 212-870-2424. Fax: 212-870-2055. pwjw@ncccusa.org. 

Hungry Decisions Simulation Game
Produced by Church World Service 

An interactive addition to the Church World Service Web site, "Hungry Decisions" allows young people and adults in the developed world to better understand neighbors in less developed parts of the world by working through a series online life choices and consequences.   

Reactions to the simulation have been enthusiastic.  The simulation includes suggestions for teachers and a reflection page for users, as well as links to related aspects of CWS work.  To access this site on the Web, type www.churchworldservice.org   and click “Resources.” 

“Hunger in a Land of Plenty” Fact Sheet
Produced by Church World Service            

            An update of a previous “Facts Have Faces” fact sheet, this four-page learning/action guide on hunger celebrates the progress made by Church World Service and others in the struggle against hunger.  The fact sheet also notes how far we have to go to reach a “hunger-less” world.   

            To receive a copy of “Hunger in a Land of Plenty,” contact Hattie Redmond, Church World Service, 28606 Phillips St., P.O. Box, 968 Elkhart, IN 46515, 1-800-297-1516, ext. 334; or email hredmond@cws.ncccusa.org; or call your CWS/CROP Regional Office at 1-888-CWS-CROP, that's 1-888-297-2767.   

Africa: In Bondage to Debt
Produced by the Office on Global Education/Church World Service            

Part of the “Facts Have Faces” series, this six-page learning/action guide examines the crushing impact of foreign debt on Africa’s poorest nations, many of which spend more each year on debt repayment plans than on primary education and health care combined.  

An insert profiles the Church World Service-endorsed Jubilee 2000 campaign, which aims to end debt in the most impoverished countries.  It discusses Jubilee 2000’s proposal for debt forgiveness—the goals, strategies and the urgency of becoming involved. 

            For a copy of this handy guide, contact Hattie Redmond, Church World Service, 28606 Phillips St., P.O. Box 968, Elkhart, IN 46515, 1-800-297-1516, ext. 334; or email hredmond@cws.ncccusa.org; or call your CWS/CROP Regional Office at 1-888-CWS-CROP, that's 1-888-297-2767.   

Landmines: War’s Lethal Legacy
Produced by the Office on Global Education, Church World Service            

            This four-page study/action guide serves as an update to “Landmines: Fallout of War.”   In the “Facts Have Faces” series, this material is a guide on landmines, their destructive consequences, and the response of North American churches and their worldwide partners. 

            The cost of the guide is 30 cents each or four for $1.  To order a copy, contact Hattie Redmond, Church World Service, 28606 Phillips St., P.O. Box 968, Elkhart, IN 46515, 1-800-297-1516, ext. 334; or email hredmond@cws.ncccusa.org; or call your CWS/CROP Regional Office at 1-888-CWS-CROP, that's 1-888-297-2767.       

Partnership With Korean Women Pamphlet
Produced by Partnership With Korean Women Task Group, NCC            

            This informative pamphlet introduces readers to the work of the Partnership With Korean Women Task Group, a broadly based ecumenical group of Protestant and Catholic women committed to contact with and aid for women in North Korea. The resource traces the history of the organization from an idea to its inception. 

            The guide provides information on the current situation in Korea and urges that now is a critical time to create discussion and contact between women in North America and North Korea.   

            Most important for readers, the material provides suggestions on how to help “widen the circle and build a movement of concerned and interested women in the United States and in Canada.”  

            For a copy of the pamplet, contact Kathy Todd, Partnership With Korean Women Task Group, National Council of Churches, 475 Riverside Drive, Room 670, New York, NY 10115.  Tel: 212-870-2055, email, kathy@ncccusa.org. 

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