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MLK and African American history resources coming soon
by Rev. Sheila Spencer, Director of Christian Education/Faith Formation, Disciples Home Missions
The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. packet will include a  variety of resources that can be used for worship and education, including a litany, scripture references, quotes and reflections from Dr. King. It also has additional website and video resources that can be used with a variety of ages and groups. We encourage you to use and share these resources with your congregation and community as we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This information will be posted online by Dec. 19th.
During the month of February, the life and works of Africans and African Americans are studied and celebrated by families, congregations, schools and many institutions across the United States. However, the study of the history of a people cannot be limited to one month. The resources that will be assembled for the African American History Resource packet can be incorporated throughout the year.The packet for 2014 will be available the beginning of January. In addition to the packet, Christian Education offers Black Disciples Who Made A Difference collection; this covers the biographies of African American Disciple men and women who made significant contributions to the life of the entire Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
Another valuable resource is the Wisdom of Women Volume 2 - a DVD which chronicles the life of Melvia Fields, an African American teacher, historian and author of several books. One of her books, Women on A Mission, chronicles the lives of African American Disciples women, who made an impact on the Christian Church on a local, national and international level. The DVD consists of 14 segments of 10-12 minutes, and includes a guide that has study questions for each segment. Both are available for purchase. | Other resources for African American congregational life
Tax implications of hosting groups
 Does a private business owner house a daycare business in your church's education wing? Do you allow a church member to use your community room for a private golden anniversary party? Does a neighborhood association host home ownership seminars in your church library? Is another congregation nesting in your building?
Many congregations are finding ways to make their buildings available for third-party use, often generating needed revenue to help pay the bills. However, that use can trigger several liability and tax (federal and state) risks that can surprise your church if you are not fully aware of your legal obligations. Read more here.
Disciples Church Extension Fund recently participated in a webinar about third-party use offered by the National Association of Church Business Administration and is encouraging church leaders to take advantage of this enlightening resource, available as an archived webinar for a nominal fee at Third-party use of church facilities.
The bottom line: Before you grant a third party use of your facility, check with your tax and insurance advisors!
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