November/December 2012
pastor I once heard
shared this little phrase with his congregation during this time of the year, “Thanksgiving is thanks-living.” I’ve remembered that little phrase. It’s a little cliché but it packs some mighty truth (as most clichés do). To be thankful in the kingdom of God is not merely a passing gratitude for a gift that will be obsolete in a year. Being thankful is an attitude, an awareness, of a God who not only sent His Son to die on our behalf but also to follow the example of His Son and partner with Him in His ministry of reconciliation and transformation. Thanksgiving is all about living out our thanks.
Thanksgiving is “thanksliving.” This issue is devoted to stories of thanksgiving; revelations of hope. From Mobilize and MissioChurch stories, WMS happenings, baptisms to school partnerships, the Brethren have a lot for which to be thankful. Or, in the words of Brian Moore’s closing devotional, we have much for which to be “much obliged.” Please read and re-read all that is happening in this people called Brethren. Then, in thankful service, continue to partner with what God is doing. From farmlands to city centers, God is doing a great thing in us! Blessings & Peace, Jason Barnhart
IN THIS
ISSUE Feature Stories
In Every Issue...
STORY OF THE WEEK
3 Jefferson Brethren’s Unique Baptismal Service
4 CITY CENTER COAT DRIVE 14 MEET YAC CLOSING DEVOTIONAL
21 “Much Obliged”
by Dr. Brian Moore
The Evangelist November/December 2012
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RESOURCE PAGE
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WMS OUTLOOK
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MOBILIZE
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MISSIOCHURCH
Who Stole My Church? by Gordon MacDonald
Catalyst Conference 2012
Ohio Region Church Plants
“The symbolism was huge for me,” Jessica shared. “I’ve learned that experiencing concepts really helps me connect spiritually to God. So, if we’re saying water represents the Holy Spirit, then I wanted to feel the water, be in the water and allow the water and that representation of the Holy Spirit to flow over me. The whole service was extremely important to me, but the time in the waterfall pool left me feeling cleansed in a way that is hard to express with words.”
Baptism by Waterfall at Jefferson Brethren
At the close of the service the congregation was invited to use the pool as they needed. Several people walked through the water, some placing their hands in the waterfall, some kneeling. The prayer bench was also available for those seeking prayer. Several young men were stationed around the pool to assist people in and out.
by Jessica Bender & Rev. Ron Spyker Jefferson Brethren Church, Goshen, IN, made a splash this August incorporating a waterfall into their baptism service. After a sermon series on the power of the Holy Spirit for most of the summer, it was natural to use water to represent the Holy Spirit for their service.
The overall feeling of the service was one of celebration, true worship, and connection to each other and to God.
The less natural part of the service was setting up a waterfall inside the church sanctuary.
Pastor Ron shared, “In experiences and seminars I’ve attended through our annual conference the last three years and having Kyle Koch come on staff this last year as our youth pastor, I hear more and more that in our culture people are experiencing a heightened awareness of spiritual activity. What I’ve sensed is that our congregations need to provide ways for people to experience the Holy Spirit. My fear is that if we don’t provide those places for people to connect with God’s Spirit, the culture will provide ways for people to more easily connect with their spirituality in harmful ways rather than solid biblical ways. I just spoke yesterday with a person who attended this celebration baptism service. That person shared with me that because of the sharing of the candidates’ testimonies of why they wanted to be baptized at this particular juncture of their spiritual journeys, he has decided that God is speaking to him and saying, “It’s time for you to take the next step in your spiritual journey and be baptized.” When I hear those kinds of applications of the experience it gives me goose bumps! It is so cool when we can just get out of the way and watch God work.”
Jessica Bender, one of seven candidates for baptism, saw the vision for the waterfall. The inspiration came from seeing one in the Dominican Republic, where the church has an active mission serving at a reform school. On their personal day of the mission trip the participants can visit beautiful waterfalls, experiencing the power and majesty of water in God’s creation. Water has the physical ability to wash a person clean; the Holy Spirit has the ability to wash a person clean spiritually. Jessica approached her Senior Pastor, Ron Spyker, for permission and blessing to incorporate a waterfall into the service. He and Minister of Healing and Care, Vickie Oldenburg, liked the idea and worked with landscape designers Rick and Nate Huber, from the congregation, to bring the idea to life. The waterfall was set up to appear to be flowing out of the baptistry and into a large inflatable wading pool in the front of the sanctuary. It was decorated with ferns and rocks to give a life-like appearance. A stained glass portrait of Jesus near a stream behind the baptistry added to the effect.
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Tradition at Jefferson includes praying for each baptism candidate individually and inviting the congregation to lay hands on the person. Jessica asked if for that part she could be in the pool with the waterfall. Members of her family and small group joined her, blessing and anointing her with the water.
The story of the week is a weekly e-publication of the Brethren Church highlighting a quick story of kingdom movement and impact amongst the Brethren. If you’re not receiving these weekly stories and would like to, sign up at brethren@brethrenchurch.org.
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November/December 2012 The Evangelist
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he witness of scripture informs us that a significant aspect of our obedience to our calling as believers is found in how we care for each other and for those in our community who struggle to maintain the basic necessities of life: food, shelter, clothing, friendship, etc.
the reinforcement of the reasons City Center Church does what she does. The people here believe they have been called to “Make the Kingdom of Heaven Tangible in the City”. While the Good News is definitely proclaimed and regular opportunities for teaching occur throughout the week, there is a constant emphasis on these teachings actually making their way into a change in our behavior that can be seen, heard and felt by those in the community around us.
prayer and a promise that the people she had met today would still be here for her tomorrow.
Another woman, a single mom, had taken in her next-doorneighbor’s little girl during a season of family hardship. They had no means to provide this little one with clothing or a warm coat as she had outgrown the clothes she had had. Tears of relief turned into giggles of joy as the family “shopped” for everything she needed and left completely prepared for the winter season. have
On October 13th, City Center Church, a Brethren church replant in Medina, Ohio, hosted an event in which we provided warm clothing, coats, hats and scarves to folks The people here believe they within the city core of Medina. The event been called to “Make the Kingdom was a follow-up to of Heaven Tangible in the City.” our “Back to School” event which was held One woman from the several weeks earlier, providing clothing and some school supplies community found herself recently homeless for families who were falling and without a single behind in making sure their little possession to her name. ones had what they needed She approached the to start the school year wellracks of coats and prepared. Combined, the events clothing cautiously served several dozen people/ families and have encouraged our unsure of how she would be received. In moments she growing congregation to continue was wearing a warm winter to improve and increase our coat that seemed to be made capacity to meet these kinds of just for her! She stayed for needs in our city. some time, sharing her story. Before she walked away Perhaps the most important outcome of these events has been she received several hugs,
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An almost indescribable moment passed when a man from the community drove by and saw what was happening right there in his neighborhood. He went home, emptied his closet of numerous coats, shirts, suits and other
professional clothing and shoes that he no longer wore or needed and brought them back to give away! A few hours later a young man looking for professional clothing to wear for the job interviews he had coming up found all he needed in his exact size! We were all amazed at how God had provided for this young man through someone, not a part of the church, from the very community we were serving. The resources, organization and ability to provide such help to our community were largely gathered and developed while the church (in a strong partnership with The Pump House Ministries) operated a thrift shop in our shopping plaza. The thrift shop was a huge blessing in the city and opened up many doors and connections within our business community that we remain in partnership with today. While it lasted for a much shorter season than we had anticipated, it has evolved into the only clothing closet of its kind in the area. More than 20 other county churches and other cooperating agencies have come to depend on having a resource like this in the community. What an honor it is to be a part of something that Jesus is doing that is drawing our community together in mission! A question we have begun to ask ourselves when we are considering engaging in a new opportunity is “How does this activity make the kingdom tangible in our city?� I pray that through this simple story you can begin to see the fruit that comes from obedience to His commands and calling in your life and ministry and that you, too, will see His kingdom come right where you live.
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November/December 2012 The Evangelist
A SPARK OF AN IDEA ignited to flame when I read a blog post about sewing simple pillowcase dresses for girls in Africa. I’d been looking for a way to use my passion for sewing, for the glory of God and for the good of the community. Getting a group together to sew these dresses seemed like a great place to start. I met with a co-worker I knew had similar passions and the idea for Crafting Hope, a quarterly sewing group making projects for charity, was born.
We were able to utilize the public library meeting rooms as a space for our group to meet. The space is neutral and we wanted anyone and everyone to feel comfortable coming out to help, regardless of church affiliation. As a library program we were able to plug in to the library’s social media network; using mass e-mails, digital ads, facebook posts and Tweets to advertise our meetings to a much larger and more diverse group of people than we could ever reach on our own.
in our lap. Sometimes we know someone leaving on a mission trip, other times we’ve seen an article or blog post about agencies needing specific help. God has been faithful to lead us to just the right project at just the right time. The key is, our eyes are open and we are always looking for opportunities to meet a need. We have sewn pillowcase dresses for Africa, Prayer has been key, throughout. dresses and shorts for Haiti, bibs As the group gathered momentum, and burp cloths for local teen ideas for projects and charities moms, quilts for foster kids, sock have come naturally. Most just fall monkeys for Toys for Tots and more.
Operation Christmas Child makes an impact at the Berlin Brethren Church
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n 2004 our local church, Berlin Brethren Church, Berlin, PA, with the help of our then pastor, Pastor Eugene Oburn, decided we wanted to get involved in OCC. In December of 2004 twelve of us took a van and a car and made our first trip to Charlotte, NC, to work in the processing center which is one of the six centers in the United States. We have continued that journey every year since 2004, however, we now travel by bus. Our work at the processing center is to inspect the boxes to make sure they are ready to ship. We sort them by age and gender, and
pack them in cases for shipping. There are also people that bag candy, repair damaged boxes, and stock stations with filler items. We normally work 6 hours a day for 3 ½ days. With our travel time it makes our trip just 5 days. Last year we were delighted to meet Franklin Graham, as he came to processing center and spoke one day while we were there. We always try to make time for a trip to the Billy Graham Library for any new people that are with us. It is a museum of the life and ministry of Billy Graham. This is a very worthwhile visit that is free to the public and certainly worth your time if you’re ever in the Charlotte area. We have been so blessed with
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volunteers. Our bus driver and his wife take a weeks vacation to take us on this trip. The local bus company only charges us for the fuel for the trip. The many workers who go along give up their time in the busy Christmas season. It really gives us a whole new outlook on Christmas blessings! We feel this is another mission outreach we can do without going too far from home. We have reservations for 43 people this year for the trip. Eloise Long, coordinator Berlin Brethren Church, Berlin, PA
Crafting Hope is way out of my comfort zone. I love sewing, but I’m an introvert through and through. It was hard for me to think about leading a group of people through a project like this. I’d rather sit in my sewing room and make things by myself. But He’s called us to community. And as I submit to His call, I’ve seen how He’s used my gift of teaching and encouragement to help people one on one. He’s empowered me when speaking out is needed and He’s brought in those
“Aaron’s” to speak for me at times as well. Our little sewing projects are a meager offering. It’s always my prayer that the person receiving the gift we made feels the great love and grace of our Creator God as they wear or use it. I believe He can and does do that! But more than what it does for them, it’s changed me.
than yourself (I think all God’s dreams are) partner with people and agencies that can help you. Step into His call on your life and make a change in your little corner of the world. He will meet you there. Lindsay Smith Nappanee, IN
Ultimately, God is calling us all to serve. If your dream is bigger
Volunteer of the Year
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t is Centennial’s pleasure to nominate Debbie Oberin and Northwest Community Church as our outstanding volunteers of the year. The term AMAZING does not justify this connection we have with Debbie and Northwest Community Church. To give a little history, the church contacted us about 5 years ago and asked what they could do to help and decided they would like to “adopt” us for their community service. What started as volunteering for a few school events and assisting with the family resource center has grown into a rich relationship that supports, encourages, and provides resources for Centennial. Over the years Northwest Community Church bakes for our Festival Under the Stars Cakewalk. They provide goodies for teacher
appreciation week and make teachers feel very special. Several have volunteered in classrooms with students. Last year a grant was written to sponsor a Burgers and Books Night for every grade level. They served dinner and provided any who attended free books. Our own school Family Fun Fest is supported with volunteers for craft tables, kitchen duties and they have the best Santa and Mrs. Claus ever. Tom Oberin has been known to volunteer for field trips even with sixth graders. He keeps them entertained with his wit and humor. District-wide they volunteer with Gap Ministries at the junior high for “Backpacks to School” and support our Family Resource Center every year. Not to stop there, this year we have several things in the works such as
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career day where they are putting a committee together to enhance our connections with 21st Century goals. Debbie now attends our PTO meetings and is our community liaison on-site counsel. Well, we can’t leave Pastor Dan out as he is volunteering his time this year to play superman for us honoring our Super Hero theme for the year. This model is quite unprecedented with the bond between church and public schools. We at Centennial are so appreciative that they chose us to work with. Thank you Northwest Community Church! You are our super heroes! Sent in by Dan Acker, this article was written by Centennial Elementary School, Tucson, AZ, in a newsletter that was sent to parents of students.
November/December 2012 The Evangelist
Meet
Stephen Marut joined the Grace Community Church staff in November 2010 and has been involved in youth ministry since giving his life to Christ. There he oversees the student ministry from 6th-12th grade. Born and raised
John Howenstine has been involved in Youth Ministry for more than 20 years, either as a volunteer or paid staff. Since December 1999, John has been the Youth and Administrative Pastor at the Goshen First Brethren Church in Goshen, Indiana. He has been married to Kim since 1991. They met during the summer crusading program through the Brethren Church National Office.
YAC leaders in Carlisle PA, Stephen enjoyed Joe Gibbs’ training camp for the Redskins at his hometown and is a diehard Redskin fan. He is a graduate of Liberty University with a Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies and is currently attending Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary. Stephen, his wife Lacey, and their son, Landon, live in Stephens
They have two teenagers (Kaity and Caleb) who like to keep busy with band, choir, lacrosse, and track. John likes to keep in touch with his friends on Facebook, watch girls fast pitch softball, help out with marching band and summer church camp. His true love is making a difference in teenager's lives and he tries to find new and creative ways to communicate the life altering message of Jesus Christ to this generation.
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City, where he coaches varsity soccer at Shenandoah Valley Christian Academy and is involved in Young Life. He has a passion to see kids choose Christ and love Him with all they are. He believes in relational ministry where the leader loves the student unconditionally and seeks to earn the right to speak into his or her life. During his college days, Stephen played intercollegiate soccer at Bridgewater College. Oddly enough, Stephen hates exercise now but loves to Frisbee Golf.
who is now a secondgrader, and twin boys, Levi and Micah, who are now kindergartners.
Tim Bordeaux has been the Pastor of Youth at North Manchester First Brethren Church (Indiana) since mid-2006 and involved in youth ministry since graduating from Huntington University in 2000. Ten years ago, he married up. He and his wife, Kelly, have been blessed with three children: daughter, Addi,
Born in Miami, Florida and being a lifelong Dolphins fan, Tim can empathize with Cubs' and Bears' fans. Aside from his commitment to Miami teams, he loves his family, spending time with people doing just about anything, going for a run, and the eternal pursuit of bacon. In recent years, he has become obsessed with wrapping his mind around the great Story of God, and its implications on our identity and calling in Christ as the People of God.
Ryan Smith is the Pastor of Student Ministries at the Nappanee Frist Brethren Church (Indiana) and has served as the National Youth Ministry Consultant for the Brethren Church since 2010. Ryan has been involved in youth ministry since early 2000, receiving his Master of Arts in Education from Huntington University. Ryan is blessed to be married to his wonderful wife Lindsay of 13 years; and is the proud father to their spunky daughter, Lily. Ryan is an avid Chicago Bears fan, enjoys grilling (both the cooking and the eating!), geocaching,
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drinking coffee, and skipping stones across placid waters. Ryan has a heart to more deeply connect himself and others with the mission of God for the sake of making a Kingdom impact.
November/December 2012 The Evangelist
Who Stole My Church? by Gordon MacDonald
The resource of the week comes from Sherry Van Duyne, Associate Pastor of Park Street Brethren Church in Ashland, Ohio.
Has your church been stolen out from under you?
the young and old? Can their church survive or even thrive?
A storm hits a small New England town late one evening, but the pelting rain can’t keep a small group of church members from gathering to discuss issues that lately have been brewing beneath the surface of their congregation. They could see their church was changing. The choir had been replaced by a flashy “praise band.” The youth no longer dressed in their “Sunday best.” The beautiful pipe organ sat unused. How will this group overcome a deepening rift in their fellowship and nourish the relationship between
Who Stole My Church? is a fictional story that tells the all too real tale of many church communities today. In this book you can walk alongside an imaginary community, led by real life pastor Gordon MacDonald and his wife, Gail, and discover how to meet the needs of all believers without abandoning the dreams and desires of any.
Sherry writes: “I bought the book, Who Stole My Church?, recommended it to be considered for the National WMS reading circle list, and have read it twice. If you know me well, these three facts tell you something is VERY special about this book. I LOVE to read but I do not buy many books. The books that make it to my bookshelf are there because I am sure they are going to make an impact on my life and that I will want to loan them (I have this book several times) plus re-read them!
praying and fervently asking God for insights and intervention so that HIS kingdom and HIS community, called Church, may be relevant and relational for the younger generations. It’s a masterful way to, on one hand, seem like an “easy” read but, on the other, pack a huge “punch.” Don’t miss this book and his second written in similar fashion, Going Deep! Check your local bookstore or shop online at sites like amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com for your copy. Happy Reading!”
Gordon MacDonald has been a favorite author or mine but I never dreamed that this “novel” would be so true to MY life and would so deeply parallel much that we are experiencing in our local churches. Many of us are struggling,
The Evangelist November/December 2012
SIGN UP! The Resource Page highlights a reinforcing resource for further reflection and application for kingdom movement. To sign up for weekly stories and resources email brethren@brethrenchurch.org.
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November/December 2012
A Publication of the Women’s Missonary Society
I Want To Love Because You Loved From the President, Gloria Radcliff I was asked the question recently, “Why do we serve?” What is our motivation? We are WMS women (Women Meant to Serve). The word meant jumps out at me. We are part of God’s plan, His plan to reach the world and to conform us to the image of His Son. I attended our Fall Rally on Saturday and listened as each society shared some of the ways they are trying to reach out and serve in their communities. Then on a broader scope, my eyes were opened as I listened to our speaker share what is going on in the area of human trafficking and slavery, not just around the world, but even in America, and how she has responded to God’s call upon her life to make a difference. As I listened, God reminded me why it is imperative that we serve. We serve because He created us to serve. We are commanded to Love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul and strength. When we serve others, we are loving God. Serving others takes the focus off of ourselves and allows God to love others through us. God blesses others through us and blesses us in the process. He created us for such a time as this. True service is done regardless of personal sacrifice and without expecting anything in return. Too often, I’m afraid, that is not the way it plays out, at least in my life. I heard a song recently that spoke to me. The first 2 lines say: “I want to love because you loved, Continued on p. 14
Cross Bars Serving Christ by Serving Their Neighbors By Cindy Hanson
Here is a snapshot of Cross Bars. Many people who come into Cross Bars are on the edge of life. They’ve been dealt a hard blow by the economy, by other people, by their job, by poor choices, and so on. Everyone has this innate desire to be treated with respect, even if they don’t give it. It’s a simple human dignity and Jesus gave us a simple “golden rule” to follow. We always acknowledge each person who comes in with a cheerful greeting and give eye contact. We serve people by answering their questions, help them find things, make small talk if possible and treat them with respect without judgment or assumptions. God created them too, and He knew them before time began. They feel the friendliness of our place and have said they like this place. It’s different here. It feels like family here. Many of our regular customers come in just to talk to someone about life’s problems, ask for prayer about things or people in their life, and Larry has even anointed some people before they’ve gone to the doctor. Many are beginning to understand that this is a church, a safe place, a place to belong. Some have asked about Sunday services and we explain that we don’t have the space here in the store for that. We worship God all the time by honoring Him with our lives and how we conduct ourselves. We are looking for a place or space to have community
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together. We try to make the people who volunteer here or work here feel that they have value. We try to build their confidence that they can do something. We teach them honesty, truthfulness, and soft skills for working like staying focused on the task at hand, not taking too many breaks, honesty on their time card, etc. To work in the thrift store they need good customer service skills for helping people, to know how to use a cash register, make change, clean and sort items, put tags on items for sale and how to work together as a team. Everyone feels the “family atmosphere” as we celebrate birthdays together, holidays together, and outings together. We all pitch in as we plan and serve the Easter Celebration, the Health and Fun Fair, and the Coat Give Away. They see the love of Jesus and are moving on their journey towards Jesus. Here are a couple of stories. We had a lady come into our store to use the pantry and as “D”, a volunteer and I served her, she asked about area churches. She said she needed to get back on track. “D” shared about the little church she sometimes goes to and I shared about the one I go to. She also needed some clothes and we were able to help her. After about a half hour of talking she felt like she had wind in her sails again. We pray that she does get back on track. On Saturday nights, Larry and I open our home to people of Cross Bars by serving a meal, playing games and fellowshipping together. There have been many God conversations. Our food pantry continues to Continued on p. 13
We are WOMEN to
Meant Serve
Women Meant to Serve “Heart to Heart”: South Bend First Brethren Church by Judy Rose-Walley
WHEN OUR SOCIETY was formed in 2005, our first outreach to our community was to make fleece blankets to be donated to a variety of groups. The fleece blanket ministry became our “trade-mark” and was incorporated into many of the activities at First Brethren Church. Eventually we were approached by Linda Van Dyke, one of the members of our church and the Director of Luvability Ministries. She asked us
to consider a ministry to women with disabilities that would allow them to give back to the community. Our fleece blanket ministry was an ideal way to get this new ministry going. That’s how “Heart to Heart” was birthed. We meet once a month and along with making blankets, we have theme parties and make seasonal crafts. In October 2012, the ladies made Halloween treat bags for the
Weekend Food packages provided by FBC for hungry children in one of our local schools. In 2011 we decorated pumpkins for our October activity. We do this because through “Heart to Heart” our friends with disabilities and our WMS ladies are nurtured and encouraged to become the women God created us to be. We think this is a good thing!
Park Street’s Joy Circle Honors Ministry Staff Park Street’s Joy Circle WMS wanted to do something special to celebrate October as ministry month, so we decided to serve the ministry staff by inviting them to a luncheon at the Georgia Belle Inn, bed and breakfast home of President Linda Geaslen and her husband Gene. The members and staff enjoyed a time
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of fellowship in the beautifully decorated living room before moving to the dining room for a delicious meal prepared by various WMS members. After dessert, the staff members were given gifts made by the kindergarten/ first grade class, and also gift cards from the WMS. At the close of the luncheon, the WMS members stood behind the staff members around the table and each WMS member prayed for the staff member she was standing behind. It was a special time of fellowship and blessing for everyone!
Oak Hill Ladies Reach Out to the Community By Tammy Thompson The Oak Hill First Brethren ladies have several service projects that we do throughout the year, but have been discussing for some time our desire to put more of our efforts into serving our community. Four of our ladies attended conference this summer and came back with ideas, guidelines, and enthusiasm for serving. This in turn rekindled and validated our society’s calling to serve. We recognized that within walking distance of our church, there are many people in need. There are apartment buildings for seniors, housing for low income families, and even a pool hall/
Helping Hands WMS’s Chrismon Tree By Esther Mishler Our Helping Hands/WMS ladies began work 3-1/2 years ago on making ornaments with a spiritual theme for a "Chrismon Tree" to give to our church. The tree stands 6-ft tall and is filled with tiny white lights, and ornaments hand-crafted only in white, silver, and gold. The ornaments have a Styrofoam base cut into various patterns. (Star, crown, cross, fish, etc.) We glued shells and old jewelry onto the base and used a wire hanger at the top for placing on the tree. Last year we also printed a small book of explanation to give to each of our church families. This has been a work of love and is displayed during Advent and into the New Year. It's been an impressive way to reflect the Christmas spirit to both adults and children as they come into the First Brethren Church of New Paris.
bar right next door to our Fellowship Center. We decided to set our sights on our own back yard so we began with a free community bean dinner. We hung our signs, put out flyers, and got personal by hand delivering invitations door to door to the apartments, houses, and bar. We had a few show up, about 20 new faces, but more importantly, we got the opportunity to sit, eat, and talk with people that we had never met. We considered this a success. In October we are working with the Faith Café Sunday School class to sponsor a free community soup
supper. We hope to see some familiar faces as well as some new ones. We are looking forward to making new friends and sharing the love of Jesus with others. We plan to continue serving our community in as many ways as we can because we truly want to be Women Meant to Serve!
Cross Bars, Continued from p.11
grow. When anyone in our county calls 211 for food, they are sent to us. In the months of July-AugustSeptember we fed 2,280 total people. Talk about five loaves and two fish! It always amazes me how God can feed that many. We had people with extra produce from their gardens bring in food for us to give away. Fresh tomatoes and green beans were a hit! It always seems to put wind back in people’s sails and give them hope that someone cares. On August 18th, we had our annual Health and Fun Fair. Besides the fun things for kids like games and bouncy things to play on, we had blood pressure screening and Small Smiles Dental Care there. We had free food and nutrition literature, gave away cook books, cucumbers and dried plums. We also had a table set up with free Bibles, daily devotional booklets and brochures about Cross Bars. Free food and music made for a great day for over 200 people of all ages. On November 17 we are planning for our Annual Coat Give Away. Last
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year we gave away over 500 coats. On December 15 we are planning our first community Christmas Party. We are working towards a once a month event. We are able to use the Salvation Army building behind us for both of these events. Let me close by quoting Isaiah 61:1-3. “1 The Spirit of the sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim freedom from the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, 2 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, 3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.” This is what God has called Larry and me to do. God is building His church for His glory.
Indiana District Fall Rally By Linda Immel, Indiana District President Greetings from the Indiana District W.M.S. Recently we held our Fall Rally at North Manchester, and for the first time in many years we all met together in one location. There were 79 members and guests attending, and we had a wonderful day of fellowship and sharing of what God is doing in and through us. During our morning business time each society reported activities they do to support our mission and to further the work of Christ around the world. So many things are being done, and they include: • Sending cards to missionary families • Making bibs and lap robes for nursing and group homes, and VA hospitals • Sending Pizza Hut and fast food gift cards to college students • Delivering care baskets to shut-ins • Serving funeral dinners and volunteering at soup kitchens • Making hats and scarves for Cross Bars Ministries • Supporting India orphans and pastors • Adopting students at Riverside Christian School • Teaching at Vacation Bible School and in Sunday school …and the list goes on and on. Then we were asked, “WHY do we do these things?” That question was easy to answer by the group. We serve in all these different ways because of the love that God so freely showers upon us each day. We can’t help but want to share that abundant love with others in whatever way we can. We heard comments like: “We are so blessed by God, so we give every last penny we make to someone in need.” “God has always been faithful to us, so we serve wherever He calls us.” “After all God has done for us, we just want to give back to Him.” “He has given us so much, so we just pass that on to the people we see that have a need.” …and again that list goes on and on. We had the opportunity to hear about another way of giving hope to the
hopeless through our speaker, Sherry Searles. She is a member of the North Manchester First Brethren Church who began a work called “Accessories for Hope.” She talked about modern-day slavery, and had available products made by women and children who had been rescued from bondage. We were truly touched and educated about something most of us didn’t even know existed in our world. Through our generous “shopping” Sherry reported that she was able to distribute $1,881.00 to support these women and children, and to show them God’s love in a real and tangible way. In addition to that, we had an ingathering for Ashland Theological Seminary scholarships of $1,429.88, and we awarded four $1,000 scholarships to Indiana girls who are college freshmen this year. God really has blessed us this year, and we continue to look for the ways and places He will use us next. After a wonderful fellowship meal, we were blessed with a special program by “The Jubilees” of Peru, Indiana. It was a wonderful day together, and we came away feeling energized and encouraged to continue working for the Lord.
I Want To Love, Continued from p.11
I want to give because you gave.” That’s really the bottom line. We love because He first loved us and gave His life for us. And, we serve because we love Him and the people He loves. There was a popular saying (slogan) awhile back which said “What Would Jesus Do” (WWJD). It was a little over used, but as we consider why and how we are to love and serve others, we might do well to follow the example of Jesus and the way He went about meeting the needs of people. My challenge to you as a Woman Meant To Serve is to ask God to show you one person to serve today. Go out of your way and be intentional because that is what you were created for.
So, What Interesting Things Can You Learn At A Women’s Retreat??
By Norma Waters On a lovely weekend in midSeptember, 31 Brethren ladies gathered at Ohio’s Camp Bethany for a 23-hour retreat. We enjoyed ourselves immensely, and learned a lot of things… …like how many delicious desserts and snack foods the ladies can bring, and how many of those things the ladies can devour! …like how many card games can be played, & puzzles can be assembled, and visiting can be done, while eating all those aforementioned snack foods. …like which ladies shower in the morning, & which ones in the evening, and how most of us don’t shower at all during a one-day retreat! …like how we’d all be terrible at speed dating, ‘cause we don’t listen when our leader, Karen Little, tells us to stop talking and move on. …like how beautiful is God’s handiwork in nature, and how thankful we are for the safe, cozy lodge during a nighttime rain storm. …like how good Judi Gentle is at preparing a craft for us all to do, & how bad some of us are at doing it, & how much fun it is to work together & talk & laugh at what a mess we are making! …like which ones of us conk out at 9 pm, & which ones can stay up till 1am, or 5 am, or all night (only 2!). …like what creative & delicious meals the Pleasant Hill ladies and our cook, Christy Carmean, can provide for us. …like what a cute (or “interesting”) gift you can end up with in the White Elephant exchange. …like how it might actually be easier than we thought to share our faith experience with others. …like what a great variety of gifts and abilities we have, and how they can be used in service to God, our church, & our community. And finally, we learned again, what a great blessing it is to gather with God and our sisters at the annual fall ladies’ retreat. Hope you can join us next year. Ya’ never know what you might learn!
2013 PASTORS & SPOUSES RETREAT
“Kick Back to Kick Start�
Guest Speaker: Jerry King
February 25-27, 2013
Over the past thirty years, Jerry King has been an artist, missionary, teacher and pastor. After years in campus ministry, and a teaching stint in China, he became the pastor of an international church in Columbus, Ohio. In 2001, Jerry and his family took the pastorate of Grace Fellowship Church in Mansfield, Ohio where he served for eight years. As a result of a long overdue sabbatical, he discerned a different call on his life. Now, after leaving full-time church ministry, Jerry is the director of performing arts at Blue Ridge School, an all-boys, allboarding, college prep school in central Virginia. He and his wife, Laura, live on campus, missing their six far-flung children
at the Country Inn & Suites in Harrisonburg, Virginia
beautiful and historic Shenandoah Valley In the
Register online @ www.brethrenchurch.org/PSR Questions? Contact Tim Garner 574-215-9328 or tgarner57@msn.com
and first grandson, even while surrounded 24/7 by 150 additional "sons."
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November/December 2012 The Evangelist
cat a• ly st [ 'kæ tlist ] 1.
chemic al chemic that acceler ates 2 stimu al reaction lus to change
Synony ms: Pro moter, Incenti Spur, F ve, Goa acilitat d , Stimu (from M or, lus, Spa icrosof rk t Word R
Why Catalyst? by Gary Diehl
Alliance, OH
eferenc
e Tools )
B
etween October 3rd and 5th about 20 pastors and leaders from 13 Brethren congregations in four states converged in Georgia for the 2012 Catalyst Conference. Catalyst was created to equip and encourage the next generation of leaders for the work of God’s kingdom. This year’s “MAKE” theme was a challenge to join God in his creative mission of making things, like more disciples, effective leaders, and a difference in our broken world! What’s the point of taking so much time away from all the other important things in your life for something like this? Because shared experiences create a shared language, and these experiences help us reinforce our Core Values as we pursue God’s lifechanging work in us, in our local congregations and in our communities. They are Relational because we experience teaching and inspiration together. It’s an opportunity to deepen our
understanding of one another. They’re Missional because they expose us to the larger kingdom work God is doing beyond our individual church walls or work setting. They help us become Sustainable because they challenge us to raise up new leaders who will carry on the important things we’ve been called to do. They’re Reproducing as they provide us with practical ways to multiply kingdom impact as we empower others. And they show us how to be Global because we are given actual opportunities to make a real difference, at home and in the uttermost parts of the world. Years ago Bill Hybels wrote a powerful book titled, “Too Busy Not To Pray.” It shares a principle that fits here. If you are too busy “doing” life and ministry to invest in a potentially catalytic experience periodically, you are TOO BUSY!
Jesus placed you in your life role for a purpose that points to him. He calls us all to serve, and many to lead. If you desire to serve or lead with greater kingdom impact, begin planning now to join us at Catalyst 2013, or one of the many other shared experiences that can spark new life into your work for Christ’s kingdom!
“I would say the most transforming moment for me at Catalyst was Christine Caine's statement, ‘What is on you will destroy you if what is in you cannot sustain you.’ Essentially, if you are not working for the right reasons you cannot keep going. When I am tr ying to live for God nothing keeps me down; when I tr y to live for me it all falls apart.” -Lance McPherson, Columbus, OH
Visit the Upcoming Events Calendar @ www.brethrenchurch.org/ministries/church-mobilization/upcoming-conferences
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“Ever y moment of Catalyst was so important, but the labs really started the whole process of change for me. I got to zero in on where I was in my walk with Christ and this gave me perspective on what I needed to focus on. The third speaker, Tim Elmore, had a lot to say about maturit y as a young adult and it struck home. After that Lab, during worship and other speakers’ presentations, it became so easy to just hand it over to God and let him enrapture me with the Spirit. I opened my heart and that's when change happened.” -Sam Simms, Columbus, OH
"Catalyst was outstanding! A second to none conference that brings the very best, who do their best to empower and equip leaders to make lasting change. Personally, I received plent y of practical information and processes to help me, and those I influence, be more effective at what God has called us to do!" -Bart Shaw, Napannee, IN
“Catalyst was a great refresher from the everyday life of ministr y. Too often it seems we pour ourselves into others, and forget about the fact that we personally need refilled to continue doing Christ's work faithfully. I think the most powerful speaker was Christine Caine, as she spoke on the importance of leading future generations in a way that they know God, as we have a cloud of witnesses and a responsibilit y to carry the baton of faith. She stated how vital it is to go through the struggles we face because if we opt out, and "bypass the process, we bypass where God wants us to be." This touched me because of how often I just want to skip the hard stuff. I found it crucial to realize we go through hardships in order to mold us into better examples for Christ and to embrace this inner working of the Holy Spirit. This has been the main takeaway from the conference (as well as the awesome worship by Israel Houghton & Gungor!).” -Jamie White, Canton, OH
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“At the end of day one I was saying, ‘Thank you for the experience but I’m not doing this again even though the address by a little power house named Christine Caine proved awesome!’ On day t wo, one speaker (who I can't remember) said, ‘If you take credit for the failures you will take credit for the successes.’ O, wow! Caught me right bet ween the eyes! Craig Groeschel's entire presentation seemed aimed straight at my tired heart. He talked about ‘certain uncertaint y’ and ‘leading by faith.’ He talked about stepping away from securit y. He mentioned walking the way Jesus calls us to walk, big or small. There is so much more in my notes. Still, my cynicism prevailed until his closing prayer. As he prayed he said, ‘There is a 54 year old woman here who is tired.’ Ever ything got kind of blurr y after that. [I turned 54 a week earlier.] I spent the rest of the day in a fog overpowered by the love and grace of our Lord. By the way, I’m going back next year if I can!” -Dianna Teusch, Huntington, IN
"The Australian speaker, Christine Caine, had the greatest impact for us. Anne was taken by the fact that 60% of our kids disappear from church by age 18 and I thought her citing of extremely talented USA women's Olympic relay teams losing due to poorly executed passing of the baton was particularly instructive regarding our need to get the next generation up to speed enough to take the baton of leadership for ward into the future." -Don Kelley and Anne Windus, Cabot, PA & Atlanta, GA
November/December 2012 The Evangelist
God is Blessing MissioChurch By Dr. Terry Hofecker
Ohio Regional Coordinator, MissioChurch
“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then, neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase.” The Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 3:6-7
G
od is blessing MissioChurch, the church planting support arm of the Brethren Church. In partnership with church planters, church planting teams, local Brethren congregations, district leaders and Ashland Theological Seminary, we endeavor to see disciples of Jesus Christ multiplied across the United States and Canada by planting and replanting Brethren churches. In the past year, many of our long
term dreams have begun to take shape. A regional emphasis is developing as Regional Movement Coordinators and Coordinating Teams have begun to form in 6 different regions. Written regional strategies are being developed with significant prayer and cooperation. New plants and replants are developing around the nation—in diverse cultural contexts. Dozens of people have found faith
and become part of new Brethren congregations. Over the next few months we hope to share with you the details of how these stories fit together. In this article, we would like to begin by sharing with you the story of three different congregations in Ohio that MissioChurch and our partners are supporting.
people living on the streets of Canton. In addition to their Faith Collectives and ministry on three univerOne of The Brethren Church’s newsity campuses (Malone, Kent Stark and Walsh) the est church plants in Canton, Ohio, Radial Church family is looking forward to celebrating Radial Church continues to develop their next family reunion (large Gathering) December a unique ministry to young adults in Stark County 16th at the Auricle Night and is preparing to multiply in downtown Canton. Members of this growing family Club their impact in the region The night club venue not through multiplying faith are experiencing freedom... only has superb equipment collectives (similar to house and a growing understanding of and facilities for their high churches). This church energy, creative worship Jesus’ relentless pursuit of their experiences but is also plant, led by Dustin and Jamie White (both Ashwholeness and restoration. the perfect place to meet land Theological Seminary people where they are in a students), is celebrating people entering into life with place that they already know! Please pray for Radial Jesus from unexpected places and moments. MemChurch, their growing leaders and for more workbers of this growing family are experiencing freedom ers for the harvest in the greater Akron/Canton area. from addiction, escape from life on the street and Please also pray specifically for a Latino pastor to gang affiliation and a growing understanding of Jesus’ either join their thriving ministry to Spanish speaking relentless pursuit of their wholeness and restoration. immigrants or for one to rise up from those already participating in this vital ministry. Deployed in August of 2012, this group of talented young adults is also excited about their many opportunities to minister to the marginalized and ignored RADIAL CHURCH (Canton, Ohio)
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MISSION CHURCH (Columbus, Ohio)
Mission Church on the Hilltop in Columbus is an important urban outpost for the Brethren Church as we seek to obey the Great Commission. We are praying The Hilltop is a declining area of aging homes on for other single individuals and couples to hear God’s the near west side of Columbus. Broken families missional call to take the Gospel to struggling comand crime are the norm as once middle class homes munities and individuals and to join Josh and Sam on become the last stop before homelessness or prison. the Hilltop or pioneer in other urban Sprinkled in the mix are Josh “puts flesh on” the environments.The harvest is great and retired homeowners who remember better days and Gospel for his community the number of laborers is small—but growing! Just like Mission Church in a few brave urban pioneers by serving them on the Columbus, Ohio. who have landed there for cheap housing. Among the streets and in the backyard. latter is a spiritual pioneer called there by God as a CITY CENTER CHURCH missionary of the Brethren Church. (Medina, Ohio) After a successful ministry at Gretna Brethren Church near Bellefontaine, Ohio, Pastor Josh Coffee felt a missionary call that drew him “. . . toward the darkness and not toward the light.” As God clarified Josh’s call the spiritual needs of the Hilltop became a focus for his ministry. Last year Josh moved there and secured a job. With the generous support of Gretna Brethren, Josh was able to purchase a home on the southern edge of this needy community. In contrast to the very public attractional meetings of Radial Church, Josh feels called to reach his community through what is called the incarnational approach. Josh “puts flesh on” the Gospel for his community by serving them on the streets and in the backyard. Beside the neighborly things all believers should do, Josh holds periodic cookouts and dinners where the Gospel can be seen in his life and heard in natural conversation. He is also active in their Block Watch program, fighting crime through a ministry of presence very much in accord with our Brethren heritage. Recently Josh’s ministry team expanded when Sam, a coworker and new/renewed Christian needed a place to live. Josh invited him to live with him with no expectation of Sam joining the church plant. Just a few months of seeing this fresh approach to ministry had him hooked. Sam now joins Josh in regular ministry on the streets and at the cookouts. Sam has even requested Josh disciple him and help him move toward maturity and leadership in his faith.
City Center Church is the replant of another Brethren congregation. A replant is more than the transformation or renewal of a church. To qualify as a restart, the existing congregation must choose to dissolve and turn its assets over to the stewardship of MissioChurch and new leadership. All attendees are welcome to attend but everything is reset. Membership is dissolved, funds are transferred, the constitution disappears and almost always the name changes. Usually new ministry strategies and leaders are brought to bear. The slate is wiped clean and the resources of the church—human and material—are freshly mobilized to start a new congregation in the same general area and sometimes even in the same building. No act of a congregation is more courageous and more honorable than this act of faith and Kingdom obedience that lets go of what was, to become something that bears kingdom fruit in a new season. Officially deployed in April 2012, with a mission to make the kingdom of heaven tangible in the city, this growing group of disciples and disciple makers has made an impact already, with one of the only clothing closets in the city that not only serves people in their own neighborhood but has become a resource for other churches and community agencies in the county. Although the replant is a relatively new project, they have already involved themselves in developing leaders for the broader Brethren movement, hostMissoChurch, cont. on p. 20
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MissoChurch, cont. from p. 19
These are just three of our MissioChurch projects in Ohio. There are eight more in conversation, conception, deployment or operation. There are many more in other states and dreams unfolding in Canada. We feel humbled and blessed to see God giving the increase to our dreams, prayers and service. In future articles, you will learn more. In the mean...a mission to make time, please the kingdom of heaven support our planting tangible in the city. church and replanting teams with your prayers, words of encouragement, visits, funding and personal service. God is indeed giving the increase. Praise Him!
ing interns from Ashland Theological Seminary and from the community who not only contribute to the establishing of the church but are also receiving training and experience in various aspects of ministry. The hard work and dedication of those involved is bearing fruit with people being freed from addictions, relationships restored and journeys with Jesus begun. Throughout this summer, City Center Church baptized 11 people from teens to grandparents! City Center Church is praying for more missional people in the Medina area to join what Jesus is doing there. Specific needs are people called to disciple children, those with gifts to contribute creatively to large group gatherings and people with project management experience.
To get involved or support the movement, go to www.missiochurch.com or call the Brethren Church National Office at 877-289-1708.
CHURCH CELEBRATIONS
We celebrate the 100th anniversary of Columbus First Brethren Church in Columbus, OH. Our congratulations to that church’s centennial witness. Columbus First is currently being pastored by Pastor Richard Morris who turned 80 years young this year!
The Evangelist November/December 2012
We also celebrate Warsaw Brethren Church in Warsaw, IN on their 120th anniversary this year. Warsaw had a celebration on Sunday, October 14th with Rev. Ken Hunn preaching and a celebration following. Warsaw is currently being pastored by an interim pastor, Howard Immel.
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CONGRATULATIONS!
We congratulate Rev. Victor Haworth, Rev. Anthony VanPelt and Rev. David Creekmore on their recent ordinations into Brethren ministry.
Rev. Victor Haworth was ordained at Falls City Brethren Church in Falls City, NE. Victor and his wife, Carla, have three children, Jared, Jesselyn and Nathaniel. Victor is pastor of the Falls City Church.
Rev. Anthony VanPelt was ordained at Cross Keys
Community Center in Port Republic, VA. Anthony is a renowned violinist who has been mentored by Cross Keys’ founding pastor, Rev. Pat Velanzon. They share a mutual love of bluegrass music which has been a distinctive of the Cross Keys’ community.
Rev. David Creekmore was ordained at Smithville Brethren Church in Smithville, OH. David, and his wife, Esther, serve the Williamstown Brethren Church in Williamstown, OH. They have a son, Nathan.
Judy McLaughlin passed
In Memory
away Sunday, November 4. Many of you knew Judy and also of her battle with cancer. We were blessed by her witness, even in these last days. She was a pillar of faith and strength who blessed all she met. We send our love, thoughts and prayers to her family.
of Gilpin Township, PA; grandchildren, Brandon, Broady and Ben Doland; brothers, Floyd Young, Jr. and Andrew Young (Susan) of Parks Township, PA; and sister, Darlene Shaffer (Charles ''Chuck'') of Baden, PA. The family is blessed by your prayers and your ongoing outpouring of support. Judy's was a life well lived. Even in her last days she was sharing Jesus and bringing people to the Lord. On behalf of Judy, we are thankful for a life well lived and proclaim with Jesus, "Well done, good and faithful servant!"
Survivors include her husband of 30 years, Pastor Thomas J. (T.J.) McLaughlin; mother, Aldine (Grinder) Young of Parks Township, PA; daughters, Traci Doland (Bobby) of Vandergrift, PA and Tricia Rearick (Zack)
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November/December 2012 The Evangelist
“ MUCH OBLIGED” W
hen I was a youngster I often heard my father or other adults, as they were completing some transaction or other, say to the one who had provided the help (most often my father), “Much obliged.” I didn’t know exactly what that meant except that I knew it was a statement of appreciation. Later I came to understand that it meant to incur a debt by conferring a favor on someone. It meant the same as we mean when we say, “I owe you one!” How can I say thanks for the things You have done for me Things so undeserved yet you gave To prove your love for me The voices of a thousand angels Could not express my gratitude All that I am and ever hope to be I owe it all to thee. . . . (“To God Be the Glory”, Crouch) If we have reflected at all upon the “marvelous grace of our loving Lord”, we have no doubt felt the sentiments expressed in this once-popular song. Others have felt it: “What shall I return to the LORD for all his goodness to me?” (Psalm116:12, NIV); “How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you?” (I Thessalonians 3:9). I just opened my desk drawer...! It is full of random things. But what reminders of God’s goodness they are! For example, here is a business card from a friend in Elizabethtown,
by Dr. Brian Moore
PA, whose work is a reminder to me of our Anabaptist and Pietist heritage as Brethren. Our Anabaptist heritage, among other things, reminds us that we are called to follow Jesus by conscious choice. It reminds us that we belong to another Kingdom; in fact, that other Kingdom has priority claims upon us and calls us to an allegiance that is superior to all other allegiances. It acknowledges Jesus as God’s full and final Word. It, with its emphasis on community, gives us a place to belong, a place to love and be loved, a people among whom we seek after truth, to guide and be guided by the corporate consensus. Our Pietist heritage calls us back to the warm devotion of following Jesus through the Word and prayer. It invites us to a heartfelt loyalty to God through Jesus Christ. Our Pietistic heritage calls us to experiential theology, a life rather than simply adherence to doctrinal formulations. It leads us to acts of compassion and service to human need. Our witness to Jesus is in the context of Anabaptist and Pietist understanding. That little business card is a tangible reminder of our historical and theological roots. Can we say, “Much obliged”? Also in my desk drawer I have a variety of pens and pencils. Not only do they represent literacy but they represent communication. There was a day when people actually wrote their messages to others – by hand! Our electronic capabilities have largely replaced that method,
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Downsville, MD
but we still communicate. And how! On shirt-pocket size instruments we can communicate with others anywhere in the world in an instant! No beautiful handwriting here – in fact, some of the weirdest spellings and acronyms have replaced actual words! – but we communicate! From slight gestures of hand to 300-page theses or reports, we communicate. For such a simple, yet complex, thing as the capability to communicate, can we say, “Much obliged”? My desk drawer has a chromatic pitch instrument – “much obliged” for music and its place in our worship and our daily lives. Here is a digital control for an infra-red heater – “much obliged” for the comforts of house and home. Then I see some throat lozenges - “much obliged” for the vast world of medicine and health care, medical personnel, equipment and facilities. I have barely touched the surface of “all things bright and beautiful” which surround us daily. Yes, we are “much obliged”! What thanks, O Lord , can I render Thee For all the gifts Thou hast showered on me Each day I’ll sing of Thy praise and glory, Allelu, Alleluia! (Source unknown) Yes, we owe Him one – our life!
Wise men still seek Him...
Merry Christmas
"After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, 'Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.'" Matthew 2:1-2
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November/December 2012 The Evangelist
The Brethren Evangelist (SSN 0747-4288) is published bi-monthly except July/August 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 or additional mailing office at Mansfield, Ohio. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Brethren Church, 524 College Ave., Ashland, OH 44805-3792. November/December 2012, Vol. 134, No. 5
The Brethren Church 524 College Ave. Ashland, OH 44805
Please let us know when you are moving. This will save us much-needed funds for ministry.
Flooding in the Philippines . . . Hurricane Sandy wreaks havoc on the eastern shore of the United States . . . and all this is just within the past month! Brethren have always been a compassionate people and we want to be as strategic with our disaster response as possible. The Brethren Relief fund helps provide immediate financial relief to those locations that experience widespread devastation. In times of crisis we need to immediately mobilize and provide relief. Brethren Relief helps our movement do just that! Brethren Relief funds have recently been released for our Philippine Brethren. Additionally, with the recent devastation of Hurricane Sandy, your generous response is especially needed at this time. Please consider sending whatever funds you may have on hand for this purpose soon. You can make your checks out to Brethren Church, in the memo line write “Brethren Relief,” and mail to the Brethren Church National Office, 524 College Avenue, Ashland, Ohio 44805.
All Brethren Relief funds will be offered as a cup of cold water in the Name of Jesus (Matthew 10:42).