wfn.org | NCC to celebrate in Cleveland

[NewsDesk <NewsDesk@UMCOM.UMC.ORG>]

July 26, 1999 News media contact: Linda Bloom*(212) 870-3803*New York
10-71B{390}

NOTE: This report is a sidebar to UMNS story #389.

By United Methodist News Service

Inspiration from the Cleveland Symphony Orchestra, discussions in a "great
conversation" and a gala installation service and banquet will be among the
highlights of the National Council of Churches' 50th anniversary
celebration.

The event will be Nov. 9-12 in Cleveland. In 1950, leaders of American
Protestant and Orthodox churches gathered there to establish the council.

Participants will be welcomed at a Nov. 9 luncheon that will include
recognition of ecumenical leaders and former NCC presidents and staff. That
evening, a special concert by the Cleveland Symphony Orchestra will be
followed by a panel discussion on the significance of music in the life of
the church.

On the evening of Nov. 10, discussions of a new ecumenical vision will take
place during the "Great Conversation." On Nov. 11, the Rev. Andrew Young
will be installed as the NCC's 20th president at the Cathedral of St. John
the Evangelist. U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan will bring the message,
and the Catholic bishop of Cleveland, Anthony Pilla, will participate in an
ecumenical liturgy. A banquet at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel will follow
the service.

The celebration also will include issue-related forums, exhibits and various
special events. The NCC's General Assembly will conduct business sessions.

Information on registration is available on the World Wide Web at
www.ncccusa.org or by calling 1-800-328-NCCC (code: 1999).

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