Looking Ahead at …
How We’re Doing
In this season of our journey, action is imperative. One of our pastors was kind enough to stop by the offices the other day while in town. And the inevitable question came up. “So, how are we doing?” The question was a query on the state of things across the board in our denomination. I must admit that I never know exactly how to address that question. I could give a response that is based on a few of our ministries that are doing very, very well. These are locations that are showing healthy signs of growth, and bodies that are very much spiritually alive. Answering the question from that perspective would be a pleasure, but it wouldn’t be the whole truth. I could answer the question based on a good number of our ministries that are doing rather well, but for whatever reason are in a plateau. Maybe a little growth one year or two, maybe a loss one year that keeps things on an even keel. Perhaps the church is doing some good things, but the result of the activity shows that few are coming to Christ as a result. Or, I could answer the question based on the rest. For some of us, life and ministry is really hard right now. Hard situations offer no easy answers, but it is important for us to be sensitive to the hard places in our ministry. Not one of these three scenarios would serve as an adequate answer to the aforementioned question. We are the sum of our parts. It’s a little of this and a little of that. The glass is both half full, and half empty. And so there is hope. Hope for all of us, but a few conditions will need to be in place. We must
stick together in biblical unity. Our relationships must be healthy. We must be broken before the Lord and each other. We must ask for restoration, and be willing to receive it even if it comes through the assistance of another. We must reclaim our joy. We must pray. We must pray for passion, and with passion. We must pray with each other, and for each other. We must pray for the lost. We must change. And we will change if we give ourselves to the Lord and to each other as we should. Are you ready? In this season of our journey, action is imperative. We must break camp and strike out on the journey. Soon we will begin to paint the picture of a future that would be preferable to the present. A future that would honor the Lord and reach lost people. As you finish reading, will you stop and pray now that the Lord would enable each of us to gladly enlist in creating a new future by his power and for his glory? God bless you for being a part of a family who is being reshaped in his image!
Devotional Thoughts from Executive Director Ken Hunn
Luncheons & Banquets Pastors & Leaders Luncheon New this year: a lunch New specifically for pastors and leaders. Come join with fellow leaders and pastors within the Brethren Church. Tuesday at 12:00 noon. Men’s Luncheon Wednesday at 12:00 noon at Pump House Ministries. Women’s Luncheon Wednesday at 12:00 noon. Brethren Ministry Wives Luncheon Wife of a ministry leader? Come fellowship with other women who are in the same shoes as you. Thursday at 12:00 noon. Missionary & World Relief Banquet This year the Missionary Banquet and World Relief have joined forces. This is a great opportunity to learn about the many cultures the Brethren Church is immersed in throughout the world. Thursday at 5:30 p.m.
2007 General Conference Highlights Speakers
Name: DR. ARDEN E. GILMER (Monday evening communion) Family: wife, Bobbi of 45 years; 3 sons and 3 daughters-in-law; 10 grandchildren Ministry: Park Street Brethren Church Years of Service: 28 at PSBC Education: Graduate of both Ashland University and Ashland Theological Seminary; Doctor of Ministry from Fuller Theological Seminary Passions: My passion: Christ and the local church with all of its components as a ministering body of Christ; expository preaching and teaching; spiritual formation, seeing people reach their potential in Christ and in ministry; my family; reading. One of my hobbies: officiating high school basketball.
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Name: BILL LUDWIG (Tuesday morning worship) Family: wife, Jennifer for 8 years. 2 children: Noah & Emily Ministry Location: Brethren Church National Office, Pump House Ministries, The Center Education: Bachelor in Sociology/Psychology from University of Akron, Master of Divinity from Ashland Theological Seminary Passions: Spiritual: Developing and equipping others to become what God created them to be and seeing others serving in the Body where they are meant to serve. Being with others in mission. Personal: Spending time doing anything outside: backpacking, kayaking, climbing, fishing, etc. and, along with my wife, watching our children grow in the Lord.
Name: HAKAN KUH (Wednesday morning worship) Family: wife, Heejin, 2 children. Ministry Location: Solid Rock Korean Church, Orlando, FL Passion: “A pastor who believes in historic Brethrenism”
Name: MARK A. RAY (Wednesday evening worship) Family: wife, Brenda Ministry Location: Ireland Years of Service: 18 Education: B.A., Ashland University Passions (both spiritual & personal) Releasing others into the call of God for their lives, discipleship & mentoring, serving the emerging generations, photography, Ireland, and the Chicago Cubs.
Name: Fredric G. Miller, Jr. (Thursday evening worship) Family: wife, Pam of 27 years; two sons, David & Andrew Ministry Location: Mt. Olive Brethren Church Years of Service: 25 years of pastoral ministry Education: Penn State University, Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies; Master of Divinity, Ashland Theological Seminary, (currently working on Doctor of Ministry degree) Passions: mentoring, missions, evangelism, church growth, drama, golf, motorcycling, traveling, cooking, family activities
Name: Ken Hunn (Friday morning speaker) Family: wife, Nancy, married 30 years; three children: Andrew, Carol, Jon Ministry Location : BCNO 2003present; senior pastor, Nappanee First Brethren Church 1990-2003; Warsaw First Brethren Church 1980-1990 Education: B.A. in Biblical Literature, Bethel College, Mishawaka, IN; Master of Divinity, Ashland Theological Seminary, Passions (both spiritual & personal): To be a fisherman and a fisher of men. (Continued on page 5)
General Conference Offerings An offering envelope has been provided in this issue of the Evangelist for you to contribute to the following ministries. Please bring your offering to General Conference or send it to the National Office: 524 College Ave. Ashland, OH 44805. Contact your pastor for more information.
Hope of Ireland Mark and Brenda Ray County Roscommon, Ireland “He’s going back to Ireland to plant churches.” That was the word on former Brethren pastor Mark Ray in the spring of 2003. This was news too tempting to pass by. Church planting is a part of our vision. A visit was arranged. Old times were recalled, and the vision was shared. That fall Brenda joined the Ray family, and by early 2005 Mark and Brenda were both located in County Roscommon in the Republic of Ireland. With this new venture the Brethren Church found itself back in Europe. Not retreating from persecution this time, but advancing with the gospel and a heart for the next generation in Ireland. Though emerging economically with the rest of Europe, Ireland is facing some of the problems we find in other areas of Brethren ministry. In spite of Ireland’s progress, many young adults are caught in the grip of hopelessness. Suicides are epidemic. Built on the bedrock of biblical relationships, the Brethren Church is strategically positioned to offer the hope of Jesus Christ to a relational culture. For more information visit http://hopeofireland.blogspot.com or www.brethrenchurch. org/missions/ireland.
Puerto Maldonado, Peru Italo and Rebecca (Byler) Abuid Puerto Maldonado, Peru As we grow older, it’s not unusual for any of us to dream about pursuing our calling a little closer to home. That was certainly the case for Pastor Italo Abuid. Italo had been a tremendous help in Lima, Peru as a pastor needed for an important task. But Italo’s heart was with his boyhood home directly across the narrow width of this country, close to the Bolivian border. Italo was born in Puerto Maldonado and this emerging city was still the home to family members. On a visit there God began to speak to Italo and Rebecca’s hearts. They noticed the large numbers of children in the streets, aimless and unsupervised. An inquiry about this situation revealed that the only other group offering shelter, food, and an education had turned away over 150 children in the previous year. Something happened in Italo and Rebecca’s hearts that day that has also captured our hearts. A very capable pastor was found to replace Italo in our Lima church. Soon the Abuids were home. A strategic spot in Puerto Maldonado was located and purchased at a very reasonable cost. In the summer of 2006, a foundation for the first structure was laid. We now have a chance to build on that foundation physically and spiritually. We will offer the basics of life along with a nurturing church. Thank you so much for your gift and investing in the future of Peru with the gospel! For more information visit www.brethrenchurch.org/missions/peru.
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BYIC (Summer Ministries, Mission Trips, Youth Advisor Training) Brethren Youth In Christ United States of America
The history of Brethren Youth In Christ (BYIC) tells the story of lives changed and directed in Brethren ministry. Our national focus has offered both student leadership development and local church youth leader training. Summer ministries teams and vocational ministry internships have been a regular part of our ongoing emphasis. The BYIC Convention is an annual gathering of youth from across our nation. Every year our future church leaders join in this event for worship, discipleship, training, and a challenge to serve Christ wherever he may call. And so each year many youth make the commitment to full-time vocational ministry. The lives that are changed and are a part of our churches is innumerable. A quick review of our current pastoral leadership reveals a strong connection with BYIC during their formative years. We have a critical and exciting opportunity to invest in the future of our church! Our youth are watching with hope that those of us who have passed by their way will remember and signal a desire to empower the emerging church. Your gift to BYIC will ensure that the Brethren Church of today will have a strong voice tomorrow. The world needs to hear the gospel as articulated by those who are moving to the forefront. Thank you for your gifts to help build lives for the future! For more information visit www.brethrenchurch.org/byic.
(Conference Highlights, continued from p. 3)
Music!
Wednesday and Thursday we will be blessed by the musical talents of Jon and Ben Burchfield. The Burchfield Brothers make music that inspires the soul. Jon is a master of classical guitar while Ben performs with an instrument called the Mallet Kat, which can be described as a midi marimba. When these two instruments are played together, the dynamic arrangements of hymns and praise songs become fresh and new. For more information on the Burchfield Brothers, visit their website: www.burchfieldbrothers.com.
WMS Quilt Auction Since the India Silent Auction is taking a year off, the WMS Quilt Auction will return to a regular auction format this year. It will be held on Thursday afternoon at 3:15 pm. Prior to the auction, items will be on display in the Heritage Room at the Convocation Center. WMS ladies will be quilting the tercentennial quilt at Conference, but have a WMS quilt to auction. Others are welcome to contribute items! These would include quality handmade items such as totes, purses, potholders, doilies, Christmas stockings, afghans, pillows, table runners, casserole carriers, comforters, quilts, etc. Questions? Contact Joan Merrill: joanmerrill@juno.com.
Evening Activities
Conference Guest Artists Jon & Ben Burchfield
Tuesday Evening “Meet the Students”
Wednesday Evening “Ice Cream Social”
Take some time after the evening worship service and meet the Brethren students studying at Ashland Theological Seminary.
Ashland University is sponsoring an ice cream social after our combined worship service with the youth. Come mingle with Brethren of all ages and make a tasty dessert of your own.
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Thursday Evening “Block Party” Come enjoy fellowship with others at the Brethren Church National Office, The Carpenter’s Shop, and Common Grounds Café. Learn about Brethren church plants, find great deals at the Carpenter’s Shop and more!
For a complete listing of Conference activities and details, please visit our website at www.brethrenchurch.org.
Set Free BYIC Convention 2007
Phone conversation … Johnny: Hey Susie, what is this BYIC Convention I hear about all the time? Susie: You haven’t heard? Johnny: No, I get some stuff in the mail and some people at church talk about it, but I don’t really get it. Susie: The BYIC Convention is a 5-day, annual event that is put together just for students like us! They have great worship, speakers that can actually relate to what is going on in our lives, amazing entertainment and some of the greatest people you will ever meet. Johnny: So what do I get if I go? Susie: What do you get? Oh my gosh! — there is so much that you can get out of going to BYIC Convention. Not only do they give away great prizes — just for the heck of it — but you also get the opportunity to get to know the other students in your youth group and hang out with your youth sponsor for the entire week. Johnny: I don’t think that anybody else from my church wants to go. Susie: That’s all right! Lots of students come from a church all by themselves. All you have to do is either find a sponsor that is going, or have the Convention find a sponsor for you. I didn’t know anybody the first year that I went, but now I feel like I know everybody; meeting people and becoming friends is easier than you think. Johnny: So how do I get more information and sign up? Susie: You can check out the website for more information about Convention, www.brethrenchurch.org. There’s speaker and entertainer information up already, and they are always putting new information on the website. Two more options are to check with your pastor or youth advisor. They have a packet with registrations which has more information, and a registration should have come to your door a couple of weeks ago. Johnny: Thanks Susie, this helps a lot. Susie: Anytime.
Bridge Fest THE ESCAPE Bridge Fest, a convention specifically designed for young adults 18 to 30 years old, debuted last year and is running strong for another year in 2007. This week includes elements from BYIC Youth Convention, Adult General Conference and events designed for young adults to make a specificallytailored week that is like no other. We realize that there are numerous young adults in our denomination that are ready for the next step in life, and Bridge Fest is a great place to begin. With a theme of The Escape, Bridge Fest provides opportunities to meet other young adults, learn how personal formation leads to community action, have an impact on the generation that is coming behind us, and make a difference in our denomination. Bridge Fest is sure to equip you to become the next world changer.
Youth News
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The Power of Change
Reflections from Steering Committee Members Cassie Carter and Lacey Champion For most people, change is a scary thing. It is not something people want to do, in fact most avoid it. We like routine, we like the comfort of the familiar. We are content leaving things as they are, because that’s the way it’s always been. Sometimes, however change is exactly what is necessary. At our March meeting, we as a steering committee had an important decision to make. Was a youth steering committee even necessary? How ironic that the very position we had been asked to think about removing was the one that had us all sitting there in the first place. It was a hard pill for many of us to swallow. Our gut reaction was “no” to change, but as we sat in that conference room all day and discussed the proposed change a few things became apparent. The steering committee was not meeting the needs of the BYIC. We all knew that the removal of steering committee was something that was needed. The leadership opportunities that it provided were not beneficial to the greater vision of the future of the BYIC. It was nationally trying to do what should be done at a district level, and because of that a lot of our energy and focus, we felt, needed to be redirected.
(Continued on page 8)
Puerto Maldonado 2007 BYIC Project Every year the BYIC chooses a project to support financially, prayerfully, and physically. In 2006-2007 that project is Puerto Maldonado in Peru, headed up by Italo and Rebecca Abuid and Luis Angel and Zoraida de Morillas. With the help of Brethren churches from Mt. Olive and the Florida District, a new orphanage for Puerto Maldonado is well underway. A BYIC trip to Puerto Maldonado was planned for this summer, but this trip was unfortunately cancelled. We are aware, however, of several trips to Peru this summer and the Abuids are always more than willing to host short term mission teams. As you begin to fund raise for the various events that your youth groups have planned for 2007, be sure to remember the National Project and the way that God is moving in Puerto Maldonado.
BYIC News Update The Youth Advisory Committee and Steering Committee of the BYIC met this past month to continue in the ministry of the National BYIC. A few items to note include Summer Ministries and revision of the ministry of the BYIC. Due to a lack of participation, the Summer Ministries program has been closed. Do not be discouraged, however, there are exciting new developments regarding the future of Summer Ministries that are currently underway, including an Internship Job Bank and future BYIC mission trips. The Youth Advisory Committee also laid out four specific goals which will assist in moving the ministry of the BYIC forward in the future. The goals are as follows: 1. Coordinate and facilitate BYIC Convention 2. Create a Youth Advisor Network 3. Create and implement a Student Leadership Training Program (SALT) 4. Keep an open ear to the youth across the Brethren denomination We are excited about the revised vision of the BYIC and anxious to begin to communicate more fully and dialogue with youth workers in the local church. More details about these changes will come soon. Want to stay up to date with the BYIC? Give us your email and we’ll add it to the BYIC Advisors email list. Contact us at brethren@brethrenchurch.org.
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Youth News
(The Power of Change, continued from page 7) However, none of these facts made the decision any easier to make. We were all comfortable where we were, it had been that way for so long, and the prospect of shifting and totally changing such a major part of the national BYIC was plain scary. As the discussion came to end an exciting thing happened. Absolute peace fell upon the group. Though resistant at first, we were all now completely content and at ease about the situation. With the decision to eliminate steering committee we were breaking tradition, stepping out of the box, and venturing into uncharted territory — and yet we were in total agreement about it. This change is nothing small and we feel that it will do so much for the BYIC. With our focus now being able to be directed in a more positive way, we feel that this will be revitalizing to the districts and the BYIC as a whole. We are excited about the change and we fully support the new path that God wants to lead the BYIC on. We think that all of us can learn something from our experience. Simply that change is hard, but many times it is the best thing for us. If we can just step back and learn to take our personal motives out of the equation, we can begin to see the fresh opportunities and growth change can bring. God is using change within the leadership of the BYIC, because we were able to allow that change to happen. What more exciting things could come, if we were all willing to step out of the box and allow change?
Alab ast er Alabaster Ministry: Worship & the Arts by Carly Eger
Whether it is admiring the swirling snow outside, or a beautiful skyscape with a setting sun, or suddenly becoming aware of the complex inner workings of the human hand, I cannot deny that we serve a creative God (Gen 1:27), a Heavenly Father who made us to worship him. If we were made by this “creative being” why would he want us to worship him in the same ways every Sunday? I am not suggesting that singing our praises and worshiping through song is inadequate, but how often do we find ourselves monotonously repeating the same words Sunday after Sunday? What does this tell us? I believe that it is easy to become complacent, stagnant and too accustomed to that particular form of worship. When looking in scripture at Luke chapter 7, a sinful woman washes Jesus’ feet with her precious alabaster jar of perfume. It is the perfect example of someone bringing an expensive offering to Jesus in a room full of judgment. The woman becomes vulnerable and uncomfortable in an unexpected and beautiful way. I believe that the Lord wants us to bring him something costly, to lay down our pride and worship him in new, uncomfortable, and sometimes awkward ways — to say to ourselves, “I don’t care what I look like to everyone else. I don’t care that I might be judged for this act Worship painting of worship, but I want to offer my gifts back up to the One by Cara Whiteside who gave them to me.” I believe this to be the cry of young adults in the church of this day. We want to find a place we can commune with each other, experience God, and worship him in ways that are fresh and leave us confident that we have met and been changed by the Living God. In the fall of 2005, a friend and I began to work with the Religious Life Department of Ashland University to create Alabaster Ministry, A Worship Experience. In the 2005-2006 school year, the Alabaster team traveled to a few churches to lead worship.The team included the waving of banners (Exodus 17:15), painters, dancers (Psalm 30:11, 2 Samuel 16:4), dramatic monologues, and those gifted in music. Alabaster appeared over the summer at the BYIC Summer Conference for one evening of worship. The ministry took on a new vision with the new school year in the fall of 2006. Once a month, on a Monday evening, the Alabaster team creates an environment that invites students to come and participate in painting, dancing, sketching, reading, or writing while a band plays. We have seen a great response to this unique night of worship which allows students the freedom to bring the tools of their choice to meet God. I feel blessed to be able to watch others experience worship in painting, dancing; ways that might seem uncomfortable, but when done with a heart searching after God, is nothing but beautiful to him. The Alabaster Ministry is one way in which the Lord has enabled me to use my passion for painting and the arts to serve him, and encourage others Alabaster Ministry Team to vulnerably bring their gifts to his feet.
Youth News
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Women’s Outlook Newsletter A P u b l i c a t i o n o f t h e Wo m e n’s M i s s i o n a r y S o c i e t y March/April 2007 Vo l u m e 2 0 , N u m b e r 4
The President’s Pen Dear Sisters, This morning the sun is shining, the mounds of snow are shrinking, and the birds are making quite a racket outside my bedroom window. Officially, as of today, it will be spring in 24 days. For the last week, I’ve been thinking about my garden; what flowers and vegetables I will plant. While gardens require hard work and much care and attention, I find gardening relaxing, rewarding, and calming. It also gives me an excuse to be outside on a beautiful day instead of inside the house cleaning! One of my fondest memories of time spent with my father is the day we roamed the beautiful 300-acre Kew Gardens outside London in the village of Kew. Another pleasant memory for me is of a lovely day strolling through an arboretum in Germantown, PA with my husband and our younger son, Aaron, who lives in Philadelphia. Many gardens are mentioned in scripture (Jer. 31:12, Isa. 61:11, Lk. 13:19, Gen. 2:10, I Ki 21:2, Dt. 11:10, Ecc. 2:1-6. Eze. 31:8, Jn. 18:1). My following comments are distilled from a sermon, “Learning from Gardens,” which my husband, Peter, preached in 2006. The word in the Bible translated ‘garden’ has a Persian origin. The word is also rendered in the New Testament as ‘garden’ or ‘paradise.’ In the Bible, the use of the garden was intended to convey a number of things. Most often a garden was a symbol for the ideal or hoped-for place or state of being. As examples, read Gen. 13:10, Jer. 31:12, and Eze. 36:33-35.
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Missionary Miscellany
Missionaries-of-the-month of MARCH are the two South American seminaries. The first is in Buenos Aires, Argentina, directed by Eduardo Rodriguez. The second is the campus in Sarasota, FL, directed by Tim and Jan Solomon.
Jan wrote about the progress of the Florida Hispanic Seminary: The year Two Thousand Six saw the graduation of our first couple in the Florida Hispanic Seminary, the Sarasota campus of Seminario Teologico Sudamericano. Jesus and Olga Camiruaga completed the full sixteen courses over a period of two years and had the necessary requirements for the Diploma of Theology. They were officially presented to the Brethren General Conference of 2006. Olga has also earned a concentration in Christian Education, which was the theme of her thesis. Please pray for the future of this fine couple, that God’s will is made clear to them both. As 27 members of La Iglesia de los Hermanos in Sarasota had already taken at least some courses of choice within the seminary, those not studying for full-time ministry within our own groups have already completed classes within their areas of interest. This highlights the continual need for new students. To bring more visibility to the seminary, Monica Simbana organized a conference and concert and passed out seminary fliers at area Hispanic events. Currently 22 new students are enrolling in courses of Homiletics and Christian Counseling. Eleven of the new spring students come from a local Presbyterian Hispanic work, eight from La Iglesia de los Hermanos, and three from Bradenton. Rev. Joe and Jan Burgos (retired from Presbyterian ministry and now
working among the Brethren in Indiana) served as snowbirds from Indiana, teaching three weeks of classes and also preached three times. As their main theme was counseling, they practiced what they taught by meeting with many of the students privately, which was a blessing. There is certainly room for more growth and visibility for this young work, and your prayers are essential to us. Because the Florida Hispanic community is especially transient, we also request prayer for those former students no longer in the area, such as Pedro Mejia, an Ecuadorian theology student stationed for the second time with the armed forces in Iraq. His wife, Janeth, returned to Germany. We must remember that those who learn among us influence the world around us, and YOUR prayers are an essential part of that cycle. Blessings, Jan Solomon The APRIL missionary-of-themonth emphasis is Bansok Solid Rock Church, a Korean church in Oviedo, FL, pastored by Hakan and Heejin Kuh. This congregation came to the Brethren Church and asked if they could become part of us! The General Conference welcomed them in 2005. The international missionary emphasis is the Brethren Church in the Philippines, Jesus Our Firm Foundation, pastored by Gary Castro and a team of national leaders. Gary reported the birth and growth of this relatively new Brethren Church. Jesus Our Firm Foundation (JOFF) Brethren Church, Philippines, officially conducted its first Sunday worship
(continued on page 10)
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GENERAL CONFERENCE PRE-PREVIEW July 16-20, 2007
Conference always involves lots of behind-the-scenes preparation. Joan Merrill requests your help for part of the preparation. Dear Ladies, Greetings to all of you. I am writing to let you know about the plans for this year’s WMS Quilt Auction. The auction will return as a regular auction format and is planned to be held Thursday afternoon of General Conference, July 19, at 3:15. This is immediately after the auxiliary sessions. Prior to the auction, the items will be on display in the Heritage Room in the Convocation Center. I anticipate that some of the smaller items will be sold on a “Buy It Now” basis. The proceeds from the auction will help with the Hispanic ministry of Miguel and Sonia Antunez in Florida. I will appreciate your help in making this a very successful auction. I am asking each society to make and donate an item for the auction, if possible. Such things as totes, purses, pot holders, doilies, Christmas stockings, afghans, pillows, table runners, casserole carriers, scarves, comforters, quilts . . . you get the picture. The items can be brought to Conference and placed on a table in the Heritage Room. If no one from your society will attend Conference, please send the items with your pastor or with someone else from your church, or send them directly to me to take. Since the quilt that we are auctioning off will already be completed by Conference, we will quilt the tercentennial commemorative quilt during the week. I hope many of you will help with this project. You have heard it said “Many hands make light work.” Let’s prove it!
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Feel free to contact me, if you have questions, suggestions, or comments. Serving Him, Joan Merrill WMS Sewing and Benevolence Coordinator 9300 S SR 3, Muncie, IN 47302 765-289-2384 e-mail: joanmerrill@juno.com * The president of each society will soon receive the annual statistical report from Lila McCann, general secretary. Please return the completed report, including officers and addresses for 2007-08, to Lila by May 30. Your cooperation is essential in helping Lila complete her reports. * At the 2006 Conference, the WMS Constitution was unanimously changed to increase WMS representation at Conference. Article IX, Section 1 (page 40 in the Devotional Guide) now reads: “any member in good standing of a local WMS may be a voting delegate.” Therefore, the number of delegates from any society is not limited. The fee remains at $3.00 per delegate. The president will receive one credential and you may make a copy for each delegate. * This is the second year for our national project, which is the purchase of property and assist in the building process for an Infant Village in Peru, South America. Italo and Rebecca Abuid have developed this ministry for children from birth to 10 years of age. COLOMBIA ECUADOR
PERU
BRAZIL
Lima X
BOLIVIA
NOW SEE THIS:
X marks the spot
Missionary Miscellany (continued) service January 5, 2003. About 25 people attended that service. Two months before, Carson Oaks Community Church (Stockton, CA) and Northgate Community Church (Manteca, CA) helped us in prayer, preparation, and planning for the church plant. Northern California district was indeed in full support, since the beginning of the Brethren Church Philippines. The time-line of the growth and blessings is: 2003: We focused on establishing cell groups around our town, Bocaue. By the end of the year, the Lord blessed us by having six cell groups. We also focused on children’s ministry. We held our first annual children’s camp in May (about 30 kids attended, ages 7-12). The children’s camp led us to hold a children’s church every Saturday from 2:00-4:00 in order to disciple the kids who attended the camp, and moreover, to reach more children for the Lord (most of the kids who attended our camp invited their friends to attend our Children’s Church). In December, we also held our first annual children’s Christmas gift giving. And guess what? Over 100 kids attended the program! In addition to concentrating on our church plant in Bocaue, we were also busy establishing another church plant in Deparo (Metro Manila area, almost one hour away from Bocaue). These two church plants were simultaneously handled by our pastoral staff. 2004: As we continued to concentrate on establishing cell groups, strengthening our children’s ministry, and planting seeds on our church plant in Deparo, the church gave birth into another ministry, Short-Term Mission Ministry. JOFF launched its first shortterm mission trip in Pangasinan (north of Bocaue, about 3-4 hour drive). We were able to help a local church in evangelism, training, Bible giving, and also giving groceries for the members who are in need. This is the same year when Ken Hunn, the Brethren Church executive director, and Paul Stanley (pastor of Carson Oaks church) first visited the Philippine Ministry of the
(continued on page 11)
Women’s Outlook Newsletter
Missionary Miscellany (continued)
President’s Pen (continued)
Brethren Church. In September, with the help of Ken, Paul, and Ashland Theological Seminary, I (Gary Castro) was able to come to the Seminary and started the Master of Divinity program.
commissioned as the Youth Pastor of the Brethren Church Philippines February 25, 2007, during the fourth anniversary of the church. He was then asked to join the pastoral staff.
2005: The church gave birth into another ministry, Youth Ministry. JOFF was able to hold our first Youth Camp in partnership with another church. About 40 young people attended that camp. Pastor Efren answered the call to pastor the church in Deparo in December.
In spite of distance, the pastoral staff and I are able to figure out ways to communicate. Aside from e-mails, text messages (from my computer to their cell phones — it’s free for me and cheap for them when they reply), phone calls (if needed because this is expensive — thank you, Grandma Grace, for the phone cards!), we normally use voice chat (with video) through the internet. Voice chat is indeed a great help for us. We are able to do things that we ourselves were surprised that we were doing. For example, I am the one who facilitates the pastoral staff meetings because of voice chat. Also, I conduct the Hermeneutics Seminar for our leaders every Wednesday (6:00 AM Ashland time and 7:00 PM Philippine time). I anticipate graduating from ATS in June and will return to God’s ministry in the Philippines.
2006: JOFF gave birth again into another outreach in Pasig (located in Metro Manila, 2 hours from Bocaue). A team, headed by pastor Rolly goes to Pasig twice a month to minister to the people. 2007: In January the Deparo Outreach became an independent church under the supervision of the Brethren Church Philippines. The Indiana District accepted the challenge to support Deparo Outreach by sending monthly support (for pastor’s love gift and some expenses in the church). JOFF Bocaue, nonetheless, continued to financially support Deparo outreach from the budget that we receive from the National Office and the Northern California District. Basically, majority of the budget that comes from the National Office and Northern California District are allocated for the love gift of the pastors and rental fee of the building in Bocaue. And most of our major ministries (i.e. Children’s Camp, Children’s Christmas Gift Giving, Youth Camp, Short-term Mission, etc.) are dependent on the help of some churches and individuals (they know who they are), who are always there to help and support the Philippine Outreach of the Brethren Church. The tithes and offerings that we collect in the Philippines are used for other expenses of the church. Since I came to ATS, our pastoral staff (Rolly Guballa, Efren Corido, Eddie Castro, and Anthony Caluag) are overseeing the church. Jerome Castro, my youngest brother, was
On a final note, we thank the Northern California District, the National Office, the Brethren Churches, ATS, and individuals who continuously pray and support us. And, of course, our Lord God Almighty, who is always there to strengthen, encourage, and empower us. Our plea is: please continue to remember us in your prayers.
Regarding the use of garden imagery in the Bible, God designed his word and his plan of salvation in garden settings and with garden symbolism. Gardens were used by God to convey meaning; truth conceptualized and conveyed through the early understanding of a garden. With a tip of the hat to some of the thoughts of Ravi Zacharias, we can identify four gardens in the Bible in particular, which tell much about God, about us, and about God’s provision for our redemption and our eternal destiny. Although each garden has its own character and purpose, altogether they provide for the sanctuary of human life -- the preservation of our spirits. Of course, the first garden is the Garden of Eden (Gen. 2:8-9; 3:2324). This garden was the ‘Garden of Beginnings.’ The garden account tells us that God exists; there is no questioning the existence of God. Also, it tells us God is a personal God, knowing us, and desiring us to know him. Third, this account tells us God is our provider; he’s the one who supplies all of the needs of his creation, and he expects us to be grateful. Fourth, the garden of Eden account tells us that God expects us to live according to his design for life. It tells us that fellowship with God is broken when we go against his order and design for life. It tells us our troubles are magnified when we stray from God’s way. The Garden of Eden represents all that with which God desires to bless us; however, we must do things his way in order for paradise to be gained. The second garden is the Garden of Gethsemane (Jn. 18:1KJV). The word translated ‘garden’ in the KJV is rendered ‘olive grove’ in the NIV. It was a lovely place where one could go to be alone, pray, relax. However, this garden, Gethsemane (which means ‘olive press’), would be a place where Jesus would make the transition from immediate ministry with his disciples to suffering fully for the sins of the world (Mt. 26:38-39). Here the Garden of
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March/April 2007
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President’s Pen (continued) Gethsemane was a place where things were put in proper perspective; a place where God’s plan of salvation was truly thrust forward. This time the garden took on the identity of decision. The Garden of Gethsemane was a garden of pain and a sanctuary of decision. It was also a garden of confirmation because God’s will became clear or confirmed. The third garden is the one within which Jesus was buried and in which he rose from the dead (Jn. 19:41; 20:15-16a). Here was a garden which memorialized Jesus’ death and resurrection; where the meaning of God’s plan of redemption ‘bloomed.’ Here the emptiness of Gethsemane was turned unto the fullness of eternal life. This was a garden where possibility was cultivated, where the irrigation of the blood of the cross brought forth the redemption of the human race. The fourth garden may not be viewed as such, but in the imagery of the Bible, we can think of it that way. It is the garden of the future destiny of believers. This new paradise is described in Rev. 22:1-5. Here is the affirmation of the truth introduced in the Garden of Beginnings: God is the source of life, both physically and spiritually; and it is granted according to his design. We are truly dependent upon him for all things: our existence, our daily bread, our salvation, and our future immediate presence with Christ. There can be gardens of revelation and gardens of pain; however, the Bible teaches there can be and will be for the believer a garden which will bloom forever, where we shall live and praise God for all he’s done for us. In this garden of flowers and weeds we call Planet Earth, as Ravi Zacharias has described it, there is a gardener who cares. We are invited to listen to his instructions; learn from the ways he has spoken, from the gardens in which we hear his voice, and be assured that our lives are in his care. There is a gardener who tends to the gardens. We are not alone.
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This closing verse is from the book Celebrating with Flowers (Heartland Samplers, Inc., 1993): Flowers are God’s Thoughts of beauty, Taking form to gladden Mortal gaze-bright Gems of earth, in which, Perchance, we see what Eden was — what Paradise may be! Gratefully,
Phyllis Roussakis
NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK April 29 - May 5, 2007
National Volunteer Week is April 29May 5. Millions of US citizens donate their time, abilities, and energies for church, community, and other charitable organizations. If you are “one in a million,” you are special and we appreciate you. Thanks!
Easter aftermath: You can’t keep a Good Man down.
The Editor’s Ending Dear Friend, This winter I heard a native missionary from Africa speak about offerings. He said, “When you give for a missionary effort, you go to the mission field. Your gift may help pay a missionary’s salary, purchase a Bible, or provide Bible-teaching literature.” Just think — through your offering you are reaching some soul for Christ’s kingdom! In our heavenly home, some ones may thank you for giving your offering and for saving their souls! Yours is a gift with unlimited rewards. Offerings you bring or send to General Conference are designated for the national project (see General Conference Pre-Preview) and for benevolences: Riverside Christian School, Home and World Missions, AU Scholarship and Campus Ministry, ATS, and Ministerial Student Aid. I know of a secular organization which reads the purpose and objectives of the organization at every meeting. And they meet twice a month! Do you think they know what they are about? Indeed! These are not written on their foreheads for others to see, but are on their hearts and in their minds, so they remember and do them. Have you read the WMS mission and commitments recently? They are written on page 46 in the Devotional Guide. Check up on yourself, as your president completes the statistical report. Start to plan now for the 300th anniversary celebration of the Brethren Church. The tercentennial conference will be in Richmond, VA, July 12-16, 2008, with members of the other five Brethren groups descended from the Schwarzenau, Germany, group of eight members. Your friend,
Joan
Secrets from India
How can one describe our most successful ministry, foreign or domestic? • • •
A ministry that has a nearly forty-year history of continued growth. A ministry that is half again as large as the total membership of The Brethren Church in the United States. A ministry that yearly baptizes approximately 500 individuals.
What description of The Brethren Mission in India might serve as a guide for all of our ministries? Let’s examine three key aspects of this crown jewel of our ministry and see if we can find some lessons for each of us – wherever we may be serving the Lord. The Brethren Mission in India is built on prayer. The most recent yearly report from India does not even mention prayer as one of the main activities. It doesn’t need to, for prayer is at the heart of everything else they do. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from, a visit to the Brethren Mission in India always begins at the Prayer Tower. The “prayer ladies” will be summoned to be the first to greet you on your arrival. They won’t say much because they don’t speak your language, but they speak God’s language! These diminutive souls make sure that God is hearing from us on a 24/7/365 basis. The Brethren Mission in India is built on evangelism. The Kumars have been quoted as saying that “evangelism is all we do.” In reality, they direct a multi-faceted mission to transform Rajahmundry, India. However, everything they do is organized around the desire to reach people for Jesus Christ. A quick glance over the sewing school students reveals at least several with the characteristic marking on the forehead. This subtle sign is an indication that in addition to teaching sewing techniques, they are teaching a way of life that is based on the life of Christ! Additionally the Kumars require each pastor to go and witness to at least one new village each year. “We don’t care if you stand in the middle of the street and sing a hymn!” Somehow, some way, the Word of the Gospel goes to a new village each year. The Brethren Mission in India is based on service to the community. In this way our mission is always sure to model the life of Christ who came with a service mandate. Our mission is involved in two different levels of Bible training for vocational church leadership, manages an orphanage for approximately eighty-five children, does training in literacy, has a sewing school, a keyboard school, manages a charity hospital, and does mobile medical clinics to outlying villages as often as possible. In addition each pastoral couple is able to provide vocational training, literacy studies, and health care along with their normal pastoral duties. The service orientation of our mission gives a wide-open door to share the gospel in every situation.
What can we learn from India?
We must make prayer the first, last, and foremost of all of our activities. Evangelism must get the bulk of our efforts in the local church, and all other activities be evaluated in light of their relationship to evangelism. Our goal is to transform our communities. We have little to say if we do not begin with actions. Find your local needs and let your actions be a doorway for the gospel.
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Pump House Extending Ministry Beyond Ashland by Bill Ludwig
“Sharing God’s love in practical ways” is the longstanding motto of Pump House Ministries in Ashland, Ohio. This practical expression of the gospel characterizes everything the Pump House is and everything it does. The emphasis on ministry that seeks to transform lives and communities has led the small group Bible study which started in the living room of founding pastor Bruce Wilkinson to become a “world class church.” Over the last several months Pump House Ministries has expanded its pastoral staff to accommodate the needs of the community of Ashland and the individuals Members of the Life Coaching Ministry who are drawn to her ministry. Even with the addition of new staff, there is always a need for more people to minister according to their heart and passions. One exciting way in which Pump House Ministries is addressing these needs, and fulfilling her vision to be a church where people are being developed to fit their role in the kingdom, is a new internship program. This program, led by Glenn Sprunger, Pastor of Spiritual Development, trains seminary students, graduate students, and members of the community who wish to obtain practical ministry experience while having the benefit of experienced ministry leaders as their coaches. Not only has this program allowed the Pump House to minister in more meaningful ways, but it is also serving to raise up the next generation of leaders! In addition to the internship program, Pump House Ministries has also launched a Life Coaching Ministry in which the pastors, interns, and several persons from the “harvest” are being equipped to come alongside individuals, couples, and families who desire health and change in their lives. This living example of bearing one another’s burdens seeks to personify and model the fact that “two are better than one.” Life Coaching Ministries reinforces the priesthood of all believers and convinces the ministers and the participants of their kingdom value. The Pump House is also blessed to be part of Kingdom efforts in other communities. Firmly captured by the mandate to make disciples wherever one goes, Pump House Ministries is involved in church planting efforts in several cities in northeast Ohio as well as in Toledo, Ohio and Mississippi. In obedience to the command to take the gospel to the ends of the Earth, Pump House Ministries is also working closely with a mission in Kenya, Africa, and has had invitations to assist ministries in several other mission fields. Whether global, local or “glocal”, Pump House Ministries is becoming part of many exciting places!
Reflections on Mississippi Missions
It’s been a little more than a month since the most recent wave of Brethren missionaries left the shores of Southern Mississippi. The tangible impact on the communities in which we served is difficult to measure. The amount of destruction is so great that it is hard to see the single drop in the bucket which we contributed to the area’s recovery. The real impact is visible, however, on a much more intimate level.
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It is a great gift to realize that one’s contribution counts for something. We worked with our hands using the skills and abilities which we have learned and honed over time to rebuild buildings, remove debris, serve food and help others in their recovery. For many who went, this was a good experience, noble and respectable. What one would miss, however, if they only measured their contribution in whole buildings and full bellies is the impact which we had simply by being who we are in Christ. The giving of ourselves, the noblest task, moved us beyond restoring property. As more than one came to know the Lord and some asked for baptism it taught us that our real contribution was to rebuild people, not things, in the name of Jesus. Mission trips are new and exciting. I’m convinced that this is the reason it is easier to go on a mission trip than it is to live in mission. I am equally convinced that it often takes an experience outside of one’s culture and comfort zone for an individual to have the veil lifted…to learn the powerful truths of going in Jesus’ name and seeing him do the work through their own hands and feet. Paul, the missionary, taught the Corinthians and teaches us that when we encounter the glory of God we are transformed. Once exposed to these truths by the Holy Spirit and transformed by them, the missionary is better able to recognize the opportunities to rebuild lives in their home context. Even though there hasn’t been a catastrophic hurricane in northern Indiana or northeast Ohio there is tragedy all around us. The effects of sin are displayed in broken relationships, floods of personal pain, and lives destroyed by the forceful winds of death. Can you see it around you? It is grossly inappropriate to speak of evangelism, mission, growth or even discipleship unless we are convinced of this truth, transformed and unveiled. It would be difficult to suggest what forms the lessons from the field would take on in your context. Every people group requires unique strategies. What I can tell you is that we fed the hungry, gave the thirsty a drink, tended to the sick (there is more than one kind of hungry, thirsty and sick!) and poured ourselves out for the needs of others. Everyone we touched
Snowbirds Serve at FHS It’s that time of year, as many snowbirds make their annual migration to the South. The Brethren are no exception, and often use their gifts to serve in warm climates while vacationing or visiting with relatives. We at the Sarasota campus of the Seminario Teologico Sudamericano are grateful for the Indiana/ Florida connection, which this year brought us Rev. Joe and Janice Burgos. Retired from Hispanic ministry within the Presbyterian Church, the Burgos are serving the Brethren of North Manchester. Last evening they unpacked their bags at the home of Guillermo, Margarita, Jennifer, and Sebastian Contreras, sipped a cup of fresh true Colombian coffee to enjoy with their tortillas con queso, and began their first seminary class to the 12 of us who gathered to learn basic counseling techniques. By the time this goes to print, Joe will have also taught the first of a mini-series on Homiletics (which includes sermon preparation) and preached two sermons for our local congregations. Jan will have begun her classes at Living Word Christian bookstore and done some personal counseling. If you think you have gifts that might be of use to the Florida Hispanic Seminary, please contact us at 941-720-8487 or email us directly at praygonow@aol.com. If you have a youth group or church family visiting Florida, please also give us advance notice so that we can connect with you during your visit. Perhaps you have Hispanic members desiring to relocate for further study. We also need your faithful giving to continue this work which has no other funding. Gifts may be sent directly to The Brethren Church, 524 College Ave., Ashland, OH, 44805, and marked for the FLORIDA HISPANIC SEMINARY. And please do remember to pray for us. We need your prayers throughout every season of the year! - Rev. Tim and Jan Solomon
asked us to come back. Even God’s Katrina Kitchen, our mission hosts, have called repeatedly to see when we would return. They witnessed our transformed selves and wanted more. Does the community in which you minister ask for you to return so they can have more of what you have in Jesus? Let’s consider these truths together and make disciples along the way.
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Short Term Missions and Service Opportunities
Milford Tackles Large Mission Project
Look at what the Brethren are up to in the months of May and June! Interested in joining an “open” trip? Call or e-mail the trip contact. OPEN TRIP
Brethren Retreat Center, Shipshewana, IN
May 17-20, 2007 Mississippi Mission Trip Reunion & Brethren Retreat Center Work Camp Contact: Tim Garner: bcin-tim-@earthlink.net 260-768-9185
OTHER MISSION TRIPS
St. James Brethren Church, St. James, MD
Berlin Brethren Church, Berlin, PA
Roscommon, Ireland June 15 - June 24, 2007
Highpoint, Jamaica June 16 - June 23, 2007
Five Stones Community Church, Ashland, OH Allen, South Dakota -- The Pine Ridge Native American Reservation June 23 - July 1, 2007
Park Street Brethren Church, Ashland, OH Crossville, TN - Confrontation Point June 24 - 30, 2007
The Milford, IN Brethren Church has tackled a large, unbudgeted mission project: to bring the Molina family — missionaries in Spain — to the United States for the 2008 General Conference, and then send them home to Argentina for a vacation. The total cost of this gift package is about $11,000. The first step required doing a little bit of homework. Flight timetables and costs were checked out, hotel rates were examined and a tentative timeline was put together. After these prices and schedules were put into place, every logistical piece of making such a trip was examined. Costs for all of these items were then determined and included. We made a bulletin board. Each logistical part of the trip was identified on the bulletin board and the cost was listed on a corresponding tag. There are 17 pieces in all. The congregation was then challenged to lay claim to any of these 17 tags and cover the cost of that tag. Items were as diverse as a $25 car ride to the train station up to the $3,200 tickets for a flight from the U.S. to Argentina. Individuals, families, and Sunday School classes then made commitments to fund specific parts of the trip. The only requirement is that any regular giving pattern is not interrupted to pay for the tag. Here’s the lesson: too often we only look at the end product to decide whether or not we have what it takes to get there. At Milford we look at a project and break it down into the smallest pieces and ask people to attack these small pieces. Doing things this way allowed us to give away over $40,000 to various mission and ministry projects last year, including our District and National apportionments, while still meeting all of our other ministry needs. Friends, the blessings and the provision of God, since we have committed ourselves to significant over and above mission support in Milford, have been incredible. I believe that every church is capable of doing this same kind of thing. I believe that every church can step up and be a part of what is going on in the Brethren Church. To continue these efforts will require all of us to be involved at a deeper level. To continue these efforts will require our finances, our prayers, and our willingness to experience these mission fields personally. To continue these efforts will require us living out ‘we are better together.’ To continue these efforts requires you. Note: Space limitations did not permit printing this article in its entirety. To read the complete article, please visit the website at www.brethrenchurch.org.
North Manchester First Brethren Church, North Manchester, IN Puerto Maldonado & Lima, Peru June 29 - July 11, 2007
* Check out our website for more informa- tion regarding these trips and more: www.brethrenchurch.org/events/mission-trips * Does your Brethren church have a trip planned? E-mail us with your trip information: brethren@brethrenchurch.org
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Carson Oaks Breaks Ground for New Worship Center
On February 4, 2007, the Carson Oaks Community Church of Stockton, California broke ground for their new worship center. This long-awaited expansion project will be a 300 seat sanctuary that includes an audio/media room, infant room, rest rooms, greenroom, and a small welcome area. Carson Oaks sits on three acres of land on the north side of Stockton where real estate is at a premium. While it is nearly impossible to purchase three acres on this side of town, God in all of his wisdom saw fit to have this land donated to Carson Oaks back in 1962 for such a time as this! As our church continues to grow, by the grace of God, we believe that this is only the beginning, and are already looking forward to phase II, which includes a gymnasium that will be used for outreach to the young people of the area with the sole purpose of introducing them to Jesus Christ! When we broke ground, we had representatives from four generation participating in the ceremony. Included were Melchor and Grace Tolentino, Jo Sperry, Ben Best, Jenny Chumney, Ariel Tolentino and Pastor Paul Stanley. The ceremony included energetic praise and worship, with Pastor Paul reminding the congregation of God’s charge to the Israelites found in Joshua, as they crossed over into the Promised Land, to be bold and courageous Holding shovels, left to right: as they stepped over to inherit the land that God had given them, with the Ben Best, Melchor Tolentino, Jo Sperry reminder that as long as they stayed absolutely obedient to him, he would be with them wherever they stepped! There was also much prayer over architects In Memory and contractors, with the congregation encircling the area where the building will Mary Rachel Ault passed awy on be, holding hands and praying over the entire project. January 18, 2007 in Logansport, Indiana A delicious lunch of Filipino food was enjoyed by all following the service, with at the age of 93. Rachel and her husband, donations set aside to be used for the upcoming Carson Oaks mission trip to the James, served as the pastoral couple Philippines on February 21. at the Hagerstown, Maryland Brethren - Pastor Paul Stanley Church in the early 1950s. When he Gustavo Miranda Licensed died in 1956, Rachel moved back to Logansport to be near her family. Gustavo (Gus) Esteban Miranda has received his ministerial licensing from the Northern California Website Redesigned District for pastoral ministry. Gus is the son of Dr. Juan Carlos and Maria Miranda. A licensing service Have you visited the newly-redesigned Brethren Church webwas held for Gus on Sunday, Nov. 19, 2006. Gus is site? It was updated in January 2007 to provide more informamarried to Gladys, and they are the parents of Eben, tion and services. Zeke, Melody, and Heidi Miranda. Gus is the pastor of Centro Christiano Para la Familia of Pacoima, * Find current information and pictures of all our home and interCalifornia. national missionaries, and videos of many of them.
The Miranda family, left to right: Maria, Gus, Gladys, Juan Carlos
* Find complete General Conference or BYIC Covention information. You can download conference registration forms or register online. * Become better acquainted with the National Office staff. * Read Brethren publications online. * Read articles about topics of interest to Brethren: for example, Gary Diehl currently has one about the Natural Church Development program. * Make financial contributions. Using the PayPal system, it takes just a few clicks. It’s safe and secure, and you don’t have to have a PayPal account to use it. This is a great way to make a one-time gift, or recurring donations such as India pastors or orphans.
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Off to the Border… Jennifer Thomas, missionary to Mexico for the past 10 years, updates us on changes in her life. “ARE YOU NUTS?” is the response James (my fiancé) and I got when we announced the news that we are going to Ashland, Ohio. Was it our plan to move to Ohio? Well it definitely was not my first choice. I know what winters can be like! And let’s just say, I got quite spoiled by the weather in Mexico after living there for the past 10 years. James also was quite used to the warm South Florida sunshine. After all, everyone heads south for the winter right? Well, in the middle of the worst blizzard in years according to Ohio records and -22 degree wind chill, James and I headed off to the border of Ashland, Ohio. I can honestly admit God was definitely testing us through this decision! James and I met in January 2006, and we maintained communication through lots of phone calls for 5 months (thanks to computers it was really inexpensive). James is originally from Valencia, Venezuela and has been a missionary working through his music ministry for the past 11 years in Miami, Florida. In May 2006, James decided to fly down to Mexico and on June 8, 2006 he proposed! In a state of shock and feeling like it was all a dream, I finally got enough breath to say “yes”. I asked him, “How are you so sure I am the one?” He responded, “When you pray for something for 10 years and then it is looking at you! You just know when your prayers have been answered.” Touched by his response I knew he was right! He met every single “check list” I had been praying for the past 5 years. BUT now what???? Our original thought was staying either in Mexico or Florida. That was obvious, since we both were in ministry there. We just needed to pray for God to show us which location was best and for the heart of the person who would have to make the move. Meantime, I thought for sure I could “convince” James that Mexico was the place for us. As always, God knows best. One day James called me and asked me a strange question. He said, “Jenn, what do you think about moving to Ohio?” I broke out laughing over the thought. Then, I suddenly realized he was not joking! His reasons convicted my heart. He first thought of my family. Since so many of my family members passed away during the first two years while I was in Mexico, I have lost contact with many and my relationship with my sister and aunt has been very distant. He said, “We should be ministering to our families first, sharing the love of God with them.” Somehow my convincing him to come to Mexico had no relevance at all. Deep in my soul I felt he was right. He had also fallen in love with Ashland when he was at National Conference in July, and loved the Seminary. James has a big heart for restoring families, and wants to get his masters degree in clinical coun-
seling. He hopes to someday be a marriage and family counselor, along with his music ministry. I am pleased and honored that he is using my family as his first “test” clients. I returned to the USA in December to spend Christmas with James and my family. It was my first Christmas with them since my father passed away in ’97. It was great to be with family again. Once again, God surprised us with other plans. I realized that planning a wedding is no easy task. It would be even harder to do from Mexico. With so much to do, dress fittings, finding housing, jobs, moving James to seminary, etc., it was difficult for me to return to Mexico. After the wedding, June 8, 2007, James and I will be returning to Mexico. We will be going to Cancun for a few days, then Mexico City to pack up and say our good-byes. I hate to think I will be leaving an entire decade behind. But I would rather think it was a decade of seeds planted in hundreds of lives. God has allowed me to be a part of a wonderful ministry for 10 years! I know this is not the end, it is just the beginning. God has so much in store for James and me and we have been GREATLY blessed during this time of transition. Thank you all for your support over the years and the continued support of the new ministry James and I start together. We have been blessed more than words can express! This is an exciting time and I cannot wait for the new adventure God has for us! During this time I have held tightly to what I call my life verse. Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you (Jennifer) declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Thank you LORD for the big future you have for us, even though we cannot see what that may be. It probably is not even what we imagined but you know and I place all my trust in you! Faithfully listening and serving wherever you call me (us)!!!
Jenn Thomas
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Dear Brethren, If I could write a check today . . . • I could help purchase a first-ever facility for one of our four newer foreign mission fields. • I could underwrite one of our faith missions for the next five years. • I could provide direct revitalization assistance to local congregations for the next ten years. • I could take our church planting efforts to a whole new level, ensuring that many people would come to know Christ for the first time. Maybe you’ve got a list like mine. Things that you would love to do for the Kingdom – if you only had the resources. Neither of us can do this by ourselves. But we could do it together! Because of the power of unity, if each of us just gave a modest gift of $20, $50, or $100 we could do something miraculous. We could accomplish my list, your list, or maybe both! Your gift today to the Annual Fund helps make possible the dreams that can’t be covered in a budget. Gifts from churches provide the basic needs of our expanding ministry at home and abroad. However it’s the special gifts that provide for the new opportunities the Lord brings our way each year. I don’t know about you, but I am tired of having a small faith. And so I am asking every one of you to take part, and I am expecting God to bless our unified effort. God is able to fulfill our dreams on his own. Instead however, he provides the means and expects us to provide faithfulness in giving. Our past response to the Annual Fund has been generous. Now is the time for all of us to join in and see God work through our unity. Only eternity will tell the story of lives that have been changed because of our efforts. Thank you so much for your gift!
Ken Hunn Executive Director Yes, I’d like to make a contribution to the Annual Fund through a one-time gift of ______________________! Name Address City, State, Zip Phone # Home Church Please complete the information above, detach this form, and mail it to the address at right, or call the toll-free number.
Make your contribution online! Simply go to: http://brethrenchurch.org/contributions Scroll down the page to the Annual Fund category, click on the amount you’d like to give, and follow the prompts. The Brethren Church 524 College Ave. Ashland, OH 44805 1-877-289-1708
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The Brethren Evangelist (SSN 0747-4288) is published six times a year by The Brethren Church, Inc., 524 College Ave., Ashland, OH 44805-3792 (telephone: 419-289-1708; email: brethren@brethrenchurch.org; fax: 419-281-0450. Authors’ views are not necessarily those of The Brethren Church. Subscription rates: Sent free to Brethren Church members; $15.00 per year to others. Member, Evangelical Press Association. Postage: Paid at Ashland, Ohio. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Brethren Church, 524 College Ave., Ashland, OH 44805-3792. March/April, 2007, Vol. 129, No. 2
The Brethren Church 524 College Ave. Ashland, OH 44805
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