THE BRETHREN
Evangelist
Vol 131, No. 4 Conference 2009
DEDICATED TO ADVANCING THE LIFE AND MINISTRIES OF THE BRETHREN CHURCH
2009 General Conference BYIC Convention www.missiochurch.com www.brethrenchurch.org
Looking Ahead … Core Value #3
SUSTAINABLE We think that all of our ministries should be: Relational Missional Sustainable Reproducing Global -
the “glue” of our denomination showing Christ’s love in the community in practical ways caring for our spiritual, emotional, and financial needs making new disciples, new churches, and new leaders transforming our neighborhood and our world as well
Core Values are the bedrock, and primary descriptions of who we are and what we hope to do. They guide us, describe us, and they help clarify what we will or will not do. Clarity in Core Values helps everyone at every level make unified decisions and therefore encourages action and efficiency.
I can still see him running as hard and fast as his legs would carry him. His name was Tom, and he was a classmate of mine in either 7th or 8th grade. It was Phys. Ed. class and the
life and ministry among us was a short sprint of a journey by most standards of earthly longevity. In the midst of that however, we observe that he often needed to pace his agenda and pull away from others for refreshment and feeding. He was mindful of sustaining what the Father had set before him until the proper time.
How are you really doing?
focus for that day was long-distance running. We were standing out on the hot cinder track and the whistle was blown and we took off, but not like Tom did — with his arms and legs flailing in an all-out sprint. Tom always was a funloving, free-spirit sort of guy. Needless to say he ran out of gas and walked across the finish line with head down and hands on hips. How about you? Is sustainability a part of your life and ministry? Jesus’
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Most all of us are aware of the need for diet, exercise, sleep. But how are you really doing in keeping these priorities in balance? In the spiritual realm we know that to sustain our most precious relationship we need to speak often with the Father and listen as much or more than we speak. I was recently reminded that one-sided prayer is merely a filibuster! We need to learn to be comfortable in lonely places, where the world’s voices are silenced. We know that we must allow the Word of God to dwell richly in our hearts, feeding our soul; not just consuming the Word, but actually applying it to our lives in changed behavior. We know that unless we exercise our faith in real-life elements of trust, and true missional involvement with the last, least, and lost then we become
spiritually flabby. But really, how are you doing in regard to your spiritual sustainability?
In what ways are we incorporating all ages into our ministry, making it a total way of life rather than an organization .…? Likewise a church with no intentional sustainability practices is flirting with a one-generation flash-in-the-pan existence with limited Kingdom potential. Are our children merely to be seen and not heard in the life of the congregation? In what ways are we incorporating all ages into our ministry, making it a total way of life rather than an organization dominated by the few? Are people finding Christ through our ministries and lives of those who fill our pews? Leadership is a key to the vision of the Brethren Church. And so, are we being faithful in discipling one another and raising up leaders from the harvest, for the harvest? We were designed to grow and mature in all respects with God and man, so as to be able to give life to others, and see them mature into their potential in Christ. This is the Body of Christ in dependence on God and one another, but also growing in maturity and thereby sustained for the purpose of expanding the Kingdom of God.
Executive Director Ken Hunn adresses the third core value of the NEW DAY vision.
The Power of Coaching G. Emery Hurd
Becoming sustainable means so much more than just having enough money. For many leaders and congregations, it often means increasing their effectiveness and their capacity as pastors, leaders, and ministry teams. Entering into an intentional coaching relationship with someone trained to guide you through whatever specific obstacles or challenges you face can make a world of difference. It’s a way for us to have an intentional Barnabas in our lives for a season. Pastor Emery Hurd (Cheyenne, WY) shares his observations from having just completed a training process where he was being coached as he learned how to coach others. He, with more than a dozen others, has begun to learn and implement coaching as a way to bring greater sustainability to Brethren leaders. We invite you to connect with a coach for a time and learn how to discover in new ways what God might want to do in and through you as you serve him and his people.
Over the years I have mentored, tutored, preached, and taught methods of communicating information and ideas to people. It was
with mixed feelings that I first heard and then chose to participate in the coach certification training offered by the partnership between The Brethren Church and The Sandberg Leadership Center at Ashland Theological Seminary. When I thought of a coach, I thought of various sports coaches, but life or professional coaching is very different. What happened through my coach training experience was certainly transformational. Coaching, in this context, is assisting people in discovering their own vision, skills, resources, and goals by asking powerful, open questions. These questions follow a process of self-discovery, refinement, goal setting, achievement and evaluation. What makes coaching unique from other methods is that the information is not given by
the coach, but is discovered by the “coachee” through the coaching relationship, which has several benefits over other teaching methods. The Power of Self-Discovery. Mentoring, consulting, and traditional teaching all have important roles to play, but coaching offers leaders the opportunity to discover the many resources they have within themselves. Giving someone an answer is helpful, but assisting them to see they have the answer within themselves is much more powerful. Additionally, the solutions coming out of a coaching relationship are custom built for that unique situation, and frequently are not ones that the coach or the coachee would have discovered on their own. This prevents “one-size-fits-none” solutions, while at the same time empowering people to trust their own ideas, judgment and resources, increasing their self-esteem and self-reliance. The Power of Ownership. We return from a conference or finish a book, and attempt to implement what we learned. We often fail because we are using someone else’s ideas that may have worked in a different time or a different context. In coaching, the coachee owns the answers, owns the process, and is in charge of the deadlines and goals. This power of ownership is a strong motivator for people to make real progress, recognize the results, and continue the process. It is theirs. The coach serves as a catalyst for thought and the source of an occasional suggestion, but it is the coachee that truly owns the work, sees the progress,
and can celebrate the gains and learn from the setbacks. The Power of Independence. Coaching releases people to learn at their own pace, when they are ready, and immediately apply their knowledge, experience and resources to real problems. Rather than looking only to another person or an agency to solve issues, people gain confidence in trusting themselves, looking for answers, and relying less on outside influence, which maximizes both time and resources. The Power of Transformation. While the coachee often experiences a transformation, coaching also changes the coach. My experiences as both a coach and coachee have changed my understanding of myself, and those around me. Instead of being the answer man, or always looking to find one, I now engage people in a cooperative process that is more focused on solutions that fit their unique situation. I listen better, have become more open to creative solutions, and recognize that there are usually many “right” solutions to a particular problem, while not compromising my values, my personhood, or the value of others. Coaching is not the only way to learn and ultimately grow, but I now see it as a powerful and useful tool for maximizing the potential God has placed in each of his creations. It affirms their worth and knowledge while assisting them in finding solutions to the obstacles that life and ministry present. I encourage all our leaders to enter into a coaching relationship, and discover the benefit from its positive affirming power.
Emery Hurd is pastor of the Cheyenne, WY Brethren Church.
Sustaining Brethren Leaders 3
General Confer My favorite experience at the conference was working with Socheata and Viseth on their meal to raise funds for their church plant in California. I was encouraged by the work that MissioChurch is doing to further the church planting movement in the Brethren Church. Pastor Steven Cole Northgate Community Church, Manteca, CA The conference was an encouraging time for me. I learned so much from Bob Logan about coaching and how it relates to ministry. I feel like even though we have only been a part of the Brethren Church for two years we are becoming part of the family. Beth Cole Northgate Community Church, Manteca, CA
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The Missions banquet impacted me to see how God wants our denomination to be a major part in the revival destined for the USA. There are things we need to do, and that is to seek God in ways we have not done before. Allow God to teach us how to reach the people in our communities for him, and not have to use a program. After all, God knows the needs of the people better than we do. Let’s let him show us what to do! Tracy Ruggles Mexico City, Mexico
ence Highlights At conference I was impressed—I believe by the Holy Spirit—that I need a clearer vision statement for the church. I really enjoyed conference! It was one of the best I’ve attended. Bob (Logan) did a great job and I’m excited about learning more. Pastor Bryan Karchner Three Seasons Community Church, Berlin, PA His (Dr. Bob Logan) material and messages were right on target and it reminded me that one of the most important aspects of the Christian faith after sharing the love of Jesus Christ with others, is moving in intentional ways to make deeper and more committed disciples. Four congregations have been awarded NEW DAY grants. The His demeanor, his character, his love of Christ all $3,000 gifts will be used to begin injust seemed to shine through with great authennovative outreach to their respecticity. tive communities. A full report of Pastor Ron Spyker each ministry will appear in followJefferson Brethren Church ing Evangelists. The recipients are: Goshen, IN * United Community Brethren Church, Dayton, OH * Northgate Community Church Manteca, CA * First Brethren Church Nappanee, IN * Trinity Brethren Church Canton, OH
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DID YOU KNOW? … * BYIC were able to donate $2,472 toward the Cambodian church plant in California from the Thursday lunch? This was raised by using money that would have been spent eating lunch at Convo and eating at Park Street instead. * BYIC students and advisors fasted on Wednesday evening and were able to raise: $853.20 for the Peru orphanage; $175.20 for Viseth Hou; and $405.60 for the Marty Haskins memorial fund ($1,434 total). This money was raised by skipping a meal from Convo and fasting and praying instead. * Combined, BYIC was able to give away $3,906 I felt bathed in prayer by the this year … all by giving up just a little.
God helped me [RE]ignite my passtion for him and for youth ministry through this year’s convention. As I observed this younger generation worshipping the Lord with open arms and hearts it brought me to tears in awe of God’s power and love. I can’t wait to get out there and serve him and be a part of this new revolution! Megan Egolf Nappanee, IN
BYIC team, and as a result I learned to speak without fear of man and with boldness and authority. I came back to my church on Sunday and preached what God did at BYIC. As a result, God moved upon our congregation in Powell, Ohio in order to worship him with that same freedom. Kary Oberbrunner
2009 BYIC
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1. God helped me realize the importance of spreading the word to others and to love my friends and family more, as well as my enemies. 2. I saw God touch the spirits of each of our youth group and saw some people (that I’ve never seen cry before) actually overcome with tears. 3. I saw God touch more youth this year than last and more youth actually make a choice to be “All In” with Jesus. David Kronk Napppanee, IN God did so much to make sure that I felt his presence and made sure I knew he was all powerful and almighty. I can feel him. I know now for sure that he loves me. I watched last week as he brought not only students together but adults as well. One of the adults from our church came up to me and told me how much they really liked being in worship with the students last week. As I sat in the back during worship I noticed the same thing. From twelve-year-olds to 80-year-olds falling to their knees in reverence to the Lord, (Convention) was more than I or any of us could have ever hoped for. I am looking forward to what next year has in store. Molly McFerren Nappanee, IN
C Convention
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MISSIOCHURCH
Sustainable Church Multiplication MISSIOCHURCH is the face of the multiplication movement (church planting) in The Brethren Church. Our vision is to initiate and sustain a national church multiplication movement
material, and personnel resources. If a church plant never grows to support themselves, they must either close or become a continual drain on the resources that could be used to plant other churches. In either case, the movement does not move forward in a healthy way. Another example of sustainability that is critical to the movement is the creation of a culture in our churches and communities where we recognize and celebrate the kinds of gifts and personalities that God has given to some for the purposes of planting churches. This year at conference we commissioned two church planting families. Will there be any next year? While the systems to steward the calling, Bill Ludwig Church Planting Coordinator training, and deployment of Brethren church planters have been built and are continually being with regional focus. The responsibilities and structures for multiplying communi- perfected, there is one dynamic we cannot program or purchase. We canties of faith cannot rest entirely on the not manufacture church planters. A national leadership of The Brethren major component of a sustainable mulChurch or just within district boards tiplication movement is the recruitment and local churches. In order to see a and cultivation of men and women sustainable multiplication movement whom God has called and equipped born in our tribe, we believe it will take to create new communities of faith. all of us working together, each doing Here are characteristics to look for in our part to steward the movement. a church planter: Among several key words in MISSIOCHURCH’s vision is the word “SUSTAIN► Visioning Capacity ABLE.” You might recognize this as one ► Intrinsically Motivated of the core values of our denomina► Creates Ownership of Ministry tion. How this value is expressed in the ► Reaches the Unchurched and Lost pursuit of our vision is critical to us ac► Spousal Cooperation complishing it. ► Effectively Builds Relationships A simple example of sustainability ► Committed to Church Growth that is built into our vision is the insis► Responsive to the Community tence that a new church plant be able ► Utilizes Giftedness of Others to sustain itself in a reasonable amount ► Flexible and Adaptable of time. There are many factors that ► Exercises Faith help determine what a reasonable ► Resilient amount of time is. However in that ► Builds Group Cohesiveness time, a plant should be able to support its vision with its own with financial,
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We all have a responsibility to encourage and affirm the giftedness in others. God has made some of us to plant churches. Learn to identify, affirm and encourage these gifts, personality types and skill-sets in your church family! Another critical component of a sustainable movement is the cultivation of a culture among planters, plants, parent churches and districts in which mutual support and the selfless sharing of resources are naturally expected behaviors. To become a sustainable movement, we must engage in a culture where life births new life. Something that you might not know is that Missiochurch has committed to presenting a $25,000 start-up grant for every approved deployment. With an estimated $4,500 cost to put prospects through our pathway, Missiochurch has committed nearly $30,000 for every planter who faithfully engages the pathway, develops an appropriate relationship with either a mother church, group of churches or a district and works with Missiochurch and the parent entity to manage the risks inherent in the planting experience. Our vision is to begin a sustainable movement of churches planting churches. This vision greatly shapes how we steward both our structures and our resources. Pray with us that God would continue to cultivate men and women for the harvest and that we would be wise stewards of those he sends.
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 July/August 2009 Vo l u m e 2 2 , N u m b e r 6
The President’s Pen Dear Sisters, Often, when I return from General Conference, the following scripture passage comes to mind: I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the Gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus, Philippians 1:3-6. There are a number of key words in these three verses: thank, remember, pray, partnership. In fact, I believe this scripture passage perfectly portrays what WMS is all about. That we are thankful women is demonstrated in our conversation, personal testimonies, and our thank offerings. In order to fulfill our WMS mission, we are encouraged to be praying women on a daily basis and monthly, as we gather as societies to study, pray, and fellowship together. Our partnership in the Gospel is expressed through our letters and cards to missionary families in the U.S. and in other countries; our short-term mission trips to Riverside Christian School, India, Peru, Chile, Argentina, Mexico, Malaysia, Spain, etc.; our ministry gifts to world and home missions, World Relief, Ashland Theological Seminary, ATS ministerial student aid, church plants, Riverside Christian School, and Ashland University campus ministry.
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Missionary Miscellany The missionary-of-the-day, Wednesday, was NANCY HOSTETLER from the Riverside Christian School in Lost Creek, KY. Because Riverside is a Christian home-mission school, students thrive in a Christian atmosphere and have daily Bible classes. It is not a requirement that a student be a Christian when he enrolls, but throughout the year each student is given the opportunity to accept Jesus, and many do! The school has grades K-12 and many students come from economically poor families, sometimes a single parent, affected by drugs and/or illness. Many work teams have visited the campus this summer to help in the clean-up and restoration, since the terrible flood which occurred in May. The flood waters rose so quickly that damages could not be avoided. Nancy described several high and low experiences: low: 2 feet of muddy water were in the church, maintenance building, and school high: 5 mission work teams came to help clean. low: the landslide broke trees and wires high: alumni, staff, and others aided in this situation. low: the flood came very quickly, receded quickly, but left mud. high: the mud was hard to clean off, but one worker exclaimed, “This is the best day of my life!” low: no electricity due to the mud slide high: the Lower Lights choir gave several programs while on tour this spring, representing RCS. low: loss of material things high: student accomplishments exceeded the material loss. They participated and received
awards at science fairs, art shows, and creative writing workshops. Over 100 Samaritan Purse shoe boxes were filled at Christmas-time. She said that, in this bleak economy, teachers are paid an honorarium, not a salary. The school is very appreciative of our support: prayers, materials, school supplies, money, and work teams. She asked that we pray earnestly for the Riverside school. Two high school and two elementary teachers are needed for this fall. LINDA IMMEL recently visited Luis Angel and Zoraida De Morillas in Lima, Peru, SA. She conveyed their greetings and appreciation for your prayers. Their church is dedicated to outreach: they minister in new locations. For instance, at night they pass out food to street kids who are guarding cars from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Linda and a short-term missions team from North Manchester, IN, worked at the orphanage in Puerto Maldonado, Peru, with Italo and Rebecca Abuid. Similar to Nancy Hostetler’s low and high comparisons, Linda said Becky’s low was the day the inspector reported that no cots were allowed in the orphanage. Bunk beds are required. That day the Abuids received three WMS letters, reminding them of our prayers! So this was their project, building bunk beds. They measured, cut, sanded, and built 12 sets of bunk beds! Extra lumber is there, ready for more builders. Becky sent their sincere appreciation “from the bottom of my heart” for
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Highlights of W.M.S. Conference The WMS meetings were at 8:00 a.m. Wednesday and Thursday, a bit early for some delegates. Nevertheless, we rejoiced that “This was the day the Lord hath made.” President Phyllis Roussakis opened the 121st Conference of the Women’s Missionary Society. She prayed the words of the hymn “For the Beauty of the Earth” and concluded, “Lord of all, to Thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise.” It truly was a beautiful day. Cheryl Schmiedt, vice president, gave the devotions based on Psalm 31:1-3, and emphasized v. 2, Be my rock of refuge. She referred to the pebbles which we received at the luncheon Tuesday and reminded us to keep the pebble in our shoe as a constant reminder of Him, our rock of refuge. Her devotions on Thursday focused on Psalm 31: 3 — “lead me and guide me.” She reminded us again to keep the rock (pebble) in our shoes. Lee Solomon, vice president of institutional advancement at Ashland Theological Seminary, gave thanks on behalf of the seminary and its students for the assistance WMS gives. In addition to our assistance with the ministerial student aid, the seminary is one of the recipients included in our benevolence fund. Scholarships from the student aid fund are given to Brethren students for their use, to be used where it is necessary. This fall nine new Brethren students are enrolled. Each student is challenged to be a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, II Timothy 2:15. Phyllis had requested each society to vote on one of two suggestions for the national project (new church plants in the Philippines or rebuilding Camp DeQuecito in Cordoba, Argentina) and for the use of the interest on the legacy fund (assist in purchasing a vehicle for Puerto Maldonado orphanage in Peru or the Emergency Medical Health Fund).
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Through your voting and responding, you have helped to make the decision for the two-year project: refurbishing Camp DeQuecito in Cordoba, SA. The interest from the Legacy Fund (approximately $3,200) will benefit the Emergency Medical Health Fund for missionaries. Phyllis’s reasoning for involving you in the decision is that usually 50-75 ladies who attend the conference make the decision, and yet we want all of you to support it. This year 399 members from 41 societies were involved! Thank you! Joanne Kroft presented certificates to the 10 societies who increased their membership, to 11 societies who increased their giving through WMS, and to 6 societies who increased in both categories. Congratulations, ladies! This is proof that WMS is not dying! Joan Merrill, sewing and benevolence coordinator, reported that approximately $700 had been received this week for linens for the Puerto Maldonado orphanage. This successful project was in lieu of the quilt auction. Cheryl Schmiedt, editor of the Devotional Guide, said the theme of the new Guide is “Come to the Rock,” using Psalm 31. She requested and emphasized that we pray for one another. Each of us has hidden concerns and problems. Just as the ladies who wrote the articles opened their hearts, we need to realize that those in our own circle hurt, also. Lynn Herendeen, general secretary, presented the statistical report. This year 50 societies (80%) reported. The membership decreased by 40. Because one society didn’t send their dues, their membership cannot be counted. They might account for part of the drop in membership. The current membership is 805. Returning the statistical report is important more than just giving us numbers. We need it for names and addresses of your officers.
Phyllis thanked those who served on committees: Registration Committee: Corky Fisher and Janet Hoffman, OH; Joan Merrill and DeAnn Oburn, IN. They reported a total of 55 registrants: 12 officers, 30 members, and 13 guests. Auditing Committee: Doris Shultz and Bonnie Gibson, OH. They audited the books of the financial secretary and found everything correct and in order. The treasurer’s books were audited by a CPA firm in Loudonville, OH, and were accurate and in order. Nominating Committee: Nancy McGraw, NE, and DeAnn Oburn, IN presented the names of Phyllis Roussakis for president and Joanne Kroft and Grace Grumbling for financial secretary. Phyllis acknowledged and appreciated the district presidents and representatives: Southeastern........... Tammy Thompson Northeast.................. Grace Grumbling Ohio................................ Norma Waters Indiana............................Cindy Hanson Central.............................. Gini Peterson Midwest............................ Helen Arnold Southwest..........................Iris McKinney N. California................Carolyn Bennett Phyllis announced the resignation of Mary Lee Stout as literature secretary. Mary has served faithfully six years, reading many and recommending several books for your enjoyment and Christian growth. Now it is necessary for her to resign. The Board accepted her resignation and appreciated her service. The Board recommended the appointment of the following to serve in 2009-2010: General Secretary..... Lynn Herendeen Assistant Secretary .............................Karen Weidenhamer Literature Secretary.......... Corky Fisher Devotional Guide Editor .................................... Cheryl Schmiedt Newsletter Editor..................Joan Ronk Subscription Secretary.....Joanne Kroft Sewing and Benevolence Coordinator ............................................. Joan Merrill
Women’s Outlook Newsletter
Elected and re-elected officers are: President....................... Phyllis Roussakis Vice President............ Cheryl Schmiedt Financial Secretary..........Joanne Kroft Treasurer......................... Janet Rufener SPECIAL PROGRAMS The WMS conference began Tuesday noon with the luncheon. This is always a highlight of the week. The theme duplicated our theme of the week, “Come to the Rock.” The centerpiece on each table was a large rock inscribed with “You are my rock and my fortress,” Psalm 31:1-3. Surrounding each rock were small pebbles and we were encouraged to take one as a reminder of the Rock. The Warsaw ladies provided the unusual and attractive centerpieces. We liked them! The menu was a delicious lady’s luncheon: cream of asparagus soup, salad, rolls, and assorted cookies. Vice President Cheryl Schmiedt presided over the luncheon. During her devotions, she advised us to trust, but we don’t. When we worry, we are trusting other stuff. She led us in singing the theme song, “Praise the Name of Jesus.” Nancy Walton, Wayne Heights, PA, presented an inspirational program interspersed with her beautiful piano solos. As a starter, she played “A Mighty Fortress is Our God!” She mentioned times when God was and still is her rock and fortress during troubles and trials. She was on the fast track professionally when her church asked her to fill a new staff position. She knew this was God’s leading. A few years later she felt God calling her to Japan as a missionary. Subsequently she served there 15 years. But, in spite of missionary training, she told about her inadequate preparation — “I was completely illiterate! I couldn’t speak nor understand their language!” It was a cultural shock — food, habits, language, Buddhist worshipers, and towns without a Christian church! Yet she knew that God had called her and that He loved her. During her ministry there she helped to start three churches. In 2004 she met Harold; they were married in 2006 and the rest is history! Psalm 34:3 is inscribed in their wedding bands. To conclude her testimony,
July/August 2009
Nancy played “My Tribute” and we knew how appropriate the words were: To God be the glory for the things He has done! The project offering and the thankoffering were received at the luncheon. As one from each society gave her society’s gift, she received a balloon, celebrating what WMS has done this year.
Ladies from the Women Meant to Serve society in South Bend gave the memorial service. Bev Baker read the story of a procession of caterpillars carrying a cocoon of a sister, but the cocoon was an empty shell. The sister was not there. However, above the empty cocoon fluttered a butterfly, shimmering in the light. The caterpillars realized she’s free! She has become what she was intended to be! Our ten deceased sisters are fluttering above us. They have become what God intended. As Bev read the names of those being remembered, Jan Kary and Cindy Hanson fastened butterflies on a tree. It was beautiful. Cindy closed with a prayer of thanksgiving for their lives. SCHOLARSHIPS Scholarships were presented to two qualified ladies, who are seniors at Ashland University: Cassie Carter from Burlington and Abby Merrill Lowe from Corner Stone. Both young ladies expressed their appreciation for your encouragement and the financial help, but especially for your prayers.
FINANCES Janet Rufener, treasurer, presented the budget, which the Executive Committee recommended. Copies were distributed to the members Wednesday for consideration. The budget was voted upon Thursday. Janet reminded us that this is a faith budget and only the money received last year is disbursed this year. She explained that money received from dues and general receipts (interest earned from checking, savings, and investments) is budgeted toward the costs of producing the Devotional Guide, the Newsletter, and operating costs of WMS. These costs include postage, mileage, conference costs, etc. This budget was approved: Benevolence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $13,385 ATS.......................................... 2,306 World/Home Missions........... 3,864 AU, Campus Ministry............ 1,200 Riverside Christian School.... 1,200 AU, Scholarships.................... 1,000 ATS, Ministerial Student Aid..... 600 Legacy Fund......................... 3,215 Publications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $7,523 Salaries................................... 1,800 Devotional Guide................. 1,270 Newsletter.............................. 4,290 Subscription Sec’y Postage...... 25 Social Security tax................... 138 Other Expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,502 Conference expenses......... 1,200 Gifts............................................. 75 Postage..................................... 175 Mileage..................................... 650 Bank charges............................. 20 Audit.......................................... 100 Bonding.................................... 120 Printing...................................... 100 Phone calls................................. 25 Hardship dues............................ 17 Supplies....................................... 20 TOTAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $23,410 Joanne Kroft, financial secretary, gave preliminary totals for the project offering: $9,770.49, for the thank offering: $8,941.82 . She anticipates additional gifts being received to increase these totals. If your society has funds to give, please send them to Joanne: 608 Twp. Rd. 1151, RD 5, Ashland, OH 44805.
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Missionary Miscellany (continued ) your birthday and anniversary cards, especially those addressed to David, their son. He is delighted to receive personal mail! The hydro system is in process, then they will have electricity in the building. Please continue to pray and to send cards. The Thursday missionaries-of-the-day were PATY CALDERONE and TRACY RUGGLES from Mexico City, Mexico. Paty’s husband, Moises, is the director of the Brethren Church in Mexico. They were here with Todd and Tracy Ruggles, who were their translators. Paty was very happy to talk with the women. She was grateful for your time, prayers, and cards. Although they don’t always arrive on the specific date of a birthday or anniversary, but “what happens in Mexico is because of your prayers,” she said. Like Esther, they go to the throne and ask from the King. She caused smiles when she said, “We didn’t know who you are, but now your cards have faces.” The Calderones started the Jesus Del Monte Brethren Church where the Ruggles now pastor. Tracy emphasized Paty’s statement of the importance of prayer. Quoting Jesus, Tracy said “I do what the Father wants,” so we must spend time seeking His will. She said that revival is breaking out in Mexico and she believes it is coming to the United States. God is moving and WMS is His instrument. She said WMS is “shakers and movers,” so keep it up! The JULY international missionaries-of-the-month are Eduardo Rodriguez, director of the South American Theological Seminary (SATS) in Colon, Argentina; and Monica Romero, who assists in the SATS. Eduardo attended Conference and expressed deep appreciation for prayers for himself and his children. The national missionaries are Tim and Jan Solomon of Sarasota, FL; and Monica Simbaña of Bartow, FL. Tim is the director, Jan and Monica assist in the Florida branch of the STS. Tim also pastors the Spanish-speaking church, La Iglesia De Los Hermanos, in Sarasota.
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The Editor’s Ending Dear Friend, It is always a joy to see our missionary friends at Conference. Visiting with Nancy Hostetler and Tracy Ruggles is an annual pleasure and this year our pleasure was increased by meeting Paty Calderone. She understood a little English, but a smile sufficed when Tracy or Jenn Pinto was not near by to translate. And seeing you, our dear friends, is another pleasure. This year our circle of friends was enlarged by several new friends. Welcome to Conference!
AUGUST international missionariesof-the-month are Rolly Guballa and Gary Castro, pastors of the Jesus Our Firm Foundation Church in the Philippines. As this congregation continues to grow, they start new plants in nearby communities. When they celebrated Brethren Church Family Day May 24, 230 people attended from three congregations. After the service, 12 were baptized. The national missionaries are Miguel and Sonia Antunez in Bradenton, FL. In the next Newsletter they will tell about their soccer and youth program, which was the two-year recipient for the WMS national project.
President’s Pen (continued ) By our thanks, prayers, and partnerships, we joyfully remember all who have responded positively to the Gospel and all who continue to actively support the ministry of missions. May God who began a good work in us (forgiving our sins) carry it on to completion until Jesus comes again.
Reserve next year’s Conference dates: the week of July 20, 2010. Already plans are in progress and we want to experience them with you. Lynn Herendeen mentioned the decrease in membership. In addition to insufficient reports being returned, some societies are disbanding. Various reasons enter into this decision. If you know of a society near you which isn’t continuing, invite their members to meet with you. For some, they may need transportation, since they aren’t driving anymore. On page 42 of the Devotional Guide, our Constitution describes Associate and Honorary members. Associates are not members of any church (or of your church) and honoraries have retired from active service. Both could be members of your society. They can participate in your meetings, but not hold an office. Invite them and share their experiences. After Nancy Hostetler returned to Lost Creek, the secret announcement was made that August 8 is the 50th anniversary of Nancy’s beginning at Riverside! When you receive this announcement, please send her a card or note, appreciating her help in teaching hundreds of students, as well as blessing so many in the community. Assure her of your continued prayers. Nancy’s address is: Riverside Christian School, Highway 15 South, Lost Creek, KY 41348. Your card may be late, but as the missionaries said, “It doesn’t matter when the cards come. We know someone is praying for us.” Nancy will feel the same. Your friend,
Thanking my God for you, Joan
Phyllis Roussakis
Brethren Peace Initiative Phil Lersch
Facilitator, Brethren Peace Team I can’t recall when I first became acquainted with Dr. Jim McGinnis — maybe in the Display Room at a Christian Education Convention, or when we invited him to our home one evening after I attended one of his Peace Workshops in the Tampa Bay area, or probably when first reading about his advocacy for peace and justice over 25 years ago. It matters not, except to establish that he and Kathy created the Institute for Peace and Justice and Parenting for Peace and Justice networks, among other Peace/Justice-related resources, in St. Louis a long time ago — and they have been faithful to that calling ever since. I heard him relate the following true story in person one time, and then recently I discovered it as part of his longer narration in one of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, entitled “Stories For A Better World.” (Published by Health Communications, Inc.) Jim writes about the “family meetings” they established with their three children for discussions about family plans and problems. One time David, diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) that manifests itself in volatile impulsivity, was in a rage because his brother, Tom, had taken one of his possessions. “I can’t stand living with that (so and so)! I’m so angry!! I’m gonna, gonna,
gonna — I’m gonna WRITE IT ON THE AGENDA!!!!” With that declaration, he stomped downstairs, into the breakfast room where he grabbed a pen and wrote TOMMY! NOW!! on the family meeting agenda, which meant they would talk about it in an emergency meeting that evening. Eighteen years later, David looked back on that episode as a real step forward for his ongoing efforts to channel his anger and impulsivity in constructive ways, about which Jim concludes “I can’t help but think how different the news headlines would look today if only all the angry people in our world would … could … WRITE IT ON THE AGENDA!” One of the values of Brethren Peace Initiative is to lift up our biblical calling to become more like our Peacemaker Jesus in all areas of our lives — such as in our marriages, in our parenting (and grandparenting), in our schools, in our church fellowships, in our work and communities, and in our attitudes about world-wide strife. Our thanks to those who are supportive of BPI with their praying, their reading, their financial gifts, and their general concerns and conversations, which prompts the following: To Join the PEACE EMAIL LIST (with 200 other laymen, laywomen, & clergy), and receive special Peace information and inspiration, send the following to PhilLersch@ verizon.net, or 6301 56th Avenue, N., St. Petersburg, FL 33709: your name, email address, postal address, and church you attend. To make a FINANCIAL DONATION, send your check payable to Brethren Peace Fund to Stan Gentle, 524 College Avenue, Ashland, OH 448805. Thank You! AND REMEMBER “... Live in peace, and the God of love and peace will be with you” (2 Cor.13:11b).
General Conference Reaffirms Executive Director The delegates of the 121st General Conference of the Brethren Church voted by an overwhelming majority to reaffirm Ken Hunn as the Executive Director of the Brethren Church. This reaffirmation was based on a unanimous recommendation of the denomination’s Executive Board. In calling for the reaffirmation vote, Moderator Tom Schiefer communicated the desire of the Executive Board: “Ken has been a faithful steward of the charge given him in accepting this position to lead the Brethren Church with “… visionary leadership to The Brethren Church and guide and coordinate staff in fulfiilling the priorities and ministries of The Brethren Church.” (Manual of Procedure Section II, Article 4 D (1). “Ken, acting under the direction of the Executive Board and reinforced by the manual of procedure, articulated a NEW DAY vision to move us forward to all God calls us to be and do in such a time as this. As a board we give strong affirmation to the leadership of Ken Hunn. The past six years have opened new challenges and opportunities for us, and we believe Ken has led us well in exploring and grasping those opportunities” Ken has served as the Executive Director for the past six years. The reaffirmation is for another six-year term. He states, “I am grateful for an opportunity to serve in this way. We are living in an exciting time of great challenge and change. I believe that as Brethren we can have a unique and much-needed witness in our world. I also believe that God has a clear mission for our church. It remains for us to take hold of that entrustment and with great boldness and freedom embrace this new future for our denomination. We are seeing the dawing of a NEW DAY in the Brethren Church. With gratitude for all of the work and sacrifice of the past, we will continue to explore new horizons of mission to our communities and our world! Thank you so much for your prayer, support, and sacrifice in this quest!”
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Work Groups Tackle Flood Cleanup at River Four different Brethren churches sent mission teams to Riverside Christian School in Lost Creek, Kentucky to help with clean up and renovation after the May flood.
Bryan
North Manchester
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Goshen Mission Team The first group of five adults and three teens came from the Goshen First Brethren Church in Indiana. “My mom and dad thought it would be a good idea for me to do some good hard work this summer,” said Erica Clemens. We’re wondering if her parents knew about the major flood that left lots of mud behind. Sarah Jemigan and Linda Arnold credited their youth pastor John Howenstine with giving them the opportunity to make this trip. Both girls had been on mission trips to Mississippi after Katrina. Wanda Vanderwerf was once a member of the RCS staff. She served as school secretary and in several other capacities. Her husband Myron does heating and air conditioning back home and his skills were helpful here. Rose Sarbaugh said, “It’s wonderful to be part of a support system. This is really special.” “It’s interesting and it’s all about God,” said Linda. This team removed mud from several buildings, replaced duct work, restored the Doran Hostetler memorial site, also cleaned classrooms and trimmed bushes.
North Manchester Mission Team A church that has been sending mission teams to Lost Creek for many years is the North Manchester First Brethren Church in Indiana. This team generally averages in the forties but this summer swelled to 55 because they were joined by a group from the Congregational Christian Church who were on their first mission trip and wanted to learn the ropes from an experienced team. As in the past, part of the team conducted a daily VBS for area youth.The attendance averaged in the 70’s with a high of 81. This was a morning activity so in the afternoon they joined their team members working on numerous projects all over the campus. Some of the work accomplished was installing insulation and siding on a faculty residence, skinning the baseball field, removing logs from a landslide, painting, cleaning, washing windows, weeding, shoveling coal, digging a trench, moving chairs, cleaning gutters, typing, etc. One especially inspirational member of the group is Brian Helvey who was born without the lower part of his arms and lower part of his legs. In his golf cart he transported workers around campus as needed. Also with the help of some younger ones he took cold water and snacks around to the workers in the afternoon. “I love doing God’s work,” Brian said. Bryan Mission Team A group of eight adults and seven teens made up the mission team from the Bryan First Brethren Church in
Gretna
side
by Nancy Hostetter
Bryan, Ohio. They have been coming so many years they have lost count. “The kids we bring down here keep me coming,” said Denny Dietrich. He and his fellow mission team members have brought quite a few young people over the years. Christine Lewis said, “These trips can affect your perspective on life. Life isn’t all about your little world, your issues. This gives you a broader perspective, helps you from being self centered.” Trevor Manning said, “Scraping up old tile was hard, but I like to work and I have enjoyed meeting new people and living a different life style.” This team removed old tile and laid new tile in the music building, repaired and cleaned the marble sign in front of the school, scraped chipped paint and re-painted two locker rooms, installed doors to replace flood damaged ones, painted on the Wheeler Home porch, pressure washed sidewalks, trimmed hedges, mowed, weeded, and helped work on the Beacon. Gretna Mission Team A group of 14 adults came from the Gretna Brethren Church in Gretna, Ohio. Their original intent was to help with renovation projects at the Caney Mennonite Church. They also took time to help at Riverside. They did quite a bit of cleaning in Wheeler Home, including woodwork, doors, stairs, hallways and more. They also put some shelving in a staff apartment. Most of the group members were on their first mission trip and credited Pastor Larry Brown for encouraging them to go. Eva said, “I felt like I needed to stretch out a bit.” Mike said, “I was overdue for a trip like this.” Jerry said, “God has been taking care of me long enough. It’s my turn to help out.” The team members enjoyed getting to know their own people better and the camaraderie.
Goshen
Gretna Brethren Church
Serving God in Mission
Pastor Larry Brown
I have been with the Brethren for more than three years, and they have been spent with a loving congregation. Praise God for his patience and grace as we try to remember why it is we are called. Like many Brethren churches, Gretna was more internally focused. We have loving people and they try to care for each other, but God has laid the challenge in our hearts to be more mission-focused by living out the gospel we proclaim. Our first goal was to develop a vision for Gretna that was God breathed and God focused. Gretna Brethren Church seeks to deepen our spiritual relationship with Jesus while meeting the spiritual, physical, and emotional needs of our local, regional, and global communities through God’s love. As a leader in the church I understand that this statement is just words until we live it, so I have used this statement as a starting point for every ministry we evaluate and/or start. Some ministries in our church have been eliminated and some new ministries have been born. We love Jesus and our goal as his church is to be that same love of Jesus to everyone we come in contact with. Over the last years we have come a long way. Locally we provide canned goods for a food kitchen that provides meals three times a week to the hungry in our community. We also serve monthly in this facility. It is operated and managed by Lutheran Community Services and we have partnered with them and other local churches to assist. My philosophy is to never reinvent the wheel — when something is in place and working we come alongside and see how we can help. Almost two years ago, we partnered with seven other local churches and secured a house in our community from the city commissioners for a 15-year lease of one dollar per month. After many repairs, completed by our church members, we now have an emergency shelter for families in need. They can stay for 30 days and have requirements to meet regarding seeking employment and housing. We are now in the process of securing a second house.
We supply school supplies annually to kids in need throughout our county. There are numerous other projects we have completed to benefit our local community. We completed five trips to Mississippi in our efforts to help those in need regionally. Last month 18 of us made a trip to Caney Creek, KY to assist in the remodel of a Mennonite Church just miles from Riverside Christian School. We heard of the need and our people rose to the opportunity to serve. Globally, we have developed a ministry relationship with our sister church in Mexico City. Eight of us traveled to Mexico in the summer of 2007 and were blessed by God. Last year Todd and Tracy spoke at our church and just this year Pastor Moises spoke to our congregation and God blessed us immensely both times. In August Pastor Josh Coffee and three others will travel to Mexico to assist in the repair work of a local seminary as they work side by side with members of our sister church. Last week a lady in our congregation mentioned how in conversation with someone about church, the person said she has been hearing a lot about our little church out in the country and how we are impacting our community and beyond for Jesus. People are coming to know Jesus and lives are being transformed. We give all the glory to God. We know God’s call on our lives and we are striving to follow that call. Being a Matthew 25 church is not easy, nor does it come without cost. But, if we profess to be the Church of Jesus Christ as Brethren we have no choice but to follow all the teachings found in the Word of God. It is time for the Brethren to be Jesus to a hurting and broken world for his glory.
Gretna Brethren Church is located just outside Bellefontaine, OH.
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A Tribute to Dr. Charles R. Munson
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us … ~ Eph. 5:1-2
Dr. Charles R. Munson, 90, formerly of Ashland, Ohio, and Goshen, Indiana, died Sunday afternoon, May 10, 2009, at Vitas House in Irving, Texas. He was born May 3, 1919, in Scalp Level, PA. He was a 1937 graduate of Ferndale High School of Johnstown, PA, and 1947 graduate of Ashland College. In 1952 he graduated from Ashland Theological Seminary, and in 1954 he graduated from Western Seminary of Pittsburgh. He received his Ph.D. from Case Western Reserve in 1971. Charles was ordained in the Brethren Church July 17, 1949 at the Johnstown Second Brethren Church. He served as national youth director for the Brethren Church from 1948 to 1953 and as the national moderator of the Brethren Church in 1965. He also served pastorates at Gretna, Williamstown, and Johnstown Second as well as Savannah Presbyterian Church and Lexington Presbyterian Church (OH). He also was master of ceremonies at many banquets. He was professor of Practical Theology and academic dean from 1954 to 1990 at Ashland Theological Seminary. Charles lived in Ashland until 1996, when he moved to Goshen. In November of 2008 he moved to Texas. On August 14, 1942, he married Aida May Snyder. She preceded him in death on July 6, 1994. He is survived by his daughter, Deborah M. (Don) Vick of Coppell, Texas, and two grandchildren, Rachel and John Vick. In addition to his parents and wife, a daughter, Bonnie Christina Munson, preceded him in death on March 5, 2008, and a half-sister, Ruth MacDonald Ely, and two half-brothers, George and Ray MacDonald
Charles Munson was a man of God. More than anyone I have known he exemplified the fruit of the Holy Spirit. He showed Jesus to us in his humor (yes, his humor), his wisdom, his loving patience and encouragement, his prayer life, and in his faith. And he had a profound influence upon my life and the life of the First Brethren Church of Goshen, Indiana. When I first was introduced to Charles I must admit I was somewhat intimidated. He immediately put me at ease with his humor and genuineness. He spoke encouraging words and invited me into his circle of friends. For a decade he defined our church, or at least what it should have been. He was everyone’s friend or father or grandfather and he related equally as well to the three-year-olds as he did to those in their nineties. He was that stabilizing influence in some of our more conflicted times. One example that comes to mind had to do with music. Charles dealt with this in his usual wise way. Music style, he said, is not what makes or breaks worship, but the content of the expressions of love to God. He declared that he wasn’t as fond of the newer music as the hymns of his past, but that these contemporary songs were as precious and meaningful to younger Christians as our music has been to us. Therefore, he concluded, we should both accept each other’s preferences and involve ourselves in the sharing of worship styles to create the oneness that seemed to be lacking. Whatever he said, it worked. The church almost overnight began to draw together in a blended worship with both groups involved in each other’s music for the glory of God. In my funeral sermon I referred to I Timothy 4:12-13; “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in SPEECH, in LIFE, in LOVE, in FAITH, and in PURITY. Until I come devote yourself to the public reading of scripture, to preaching, and to teaching.” Charles may not have been chronologically “young” but he was indeed youthful. He, as was mentioned before, could hold his own with any age group and his last official ministry in our church was a memorable dialogue and Q & A with our youth. And his life was exemplary in at least the five areas mentioned in verse twelve above: speech, life, love, faith, and purity. Charles was my friend. He let me call him “Chuck”. I will miss him as will so many in our church and throughout the Brethren family, but as he reminded us in the last sermon he preached here, will we see him again? “Yes we will.” ~ Pastor John Drexler Goshen First Brethren Church
Charles with Spencer Gentle in July 1957.
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A Reflection
In recent years we have witnessed the eternal transformation of several significant leaders in our denominational family. All have shaped the depth of our faith and character of our witness — none more than Charles Munson. While still a seminarian Charles spoke these words to the 1947 Ohio District Conference of the Brethren Church. We have been crying, a lot of us, but don’t you see it’s not in what we do not have, but in the way we use what we have .… Weeping will never help us to see the sun. All of
this is important because we must be careful of the attitudes which we manifest around our young people. If they can’t see and hear us acting optimistically about our church and college then they will not have much incentive to work for our church .… There is a bright future for our church, but it depends on our attitude now .… Brethren Youth challenges us to manifest a hope and a courage and a faith in our own church. (A. T. Ronk, History of the Brethren Church)
No wonder that Charles enjoyed portraying Progressive Brethren leader Henry Holsinger. Charles too embodied the meaning of the word “Progressive.” In our day we need to recapture this sense of investment in the emerging generations. It is true that there will never be another Charles Munson, but he would be terribly disappointed if many of us did not aspire to be like him, progressive in our wholehearted investment in the cause of raising up new leaders. Let us remember Charles in this way, and all those who have gone on before us. ~ Ken Hunn
Fremont Brethren Church. Along with his wife, the late Jeannette DeLozier, Ken prepared to go to Costa Rica to learn Spanish. In 1958 they moved to Argentina as missionaries. In addition to his role as a pastor in Rosario, and then later in Soldini, Ken was instrumental in helping start the Eden Bible Institute in Soldini. From 1974 to 1981 the Solomon family helped establish the Brethren Church in Medellin, Colombia. Moving to Sarasota, Florida, Ken served as the first pastor of the Iglesia de los Hermanos, while also serving part-time as Rev. J.D. Hamel’s associate pastor at the First Brethren Church there. In the next six years he would undergo two separate heart by-pass surgeries, and be surprised by the sudden loss of his beloved wife and ministry partner, Jeannette. However, he realized that with a new lease on life, God was not finished working in and through him. In his words, “God graciously provided me with another ‘help-mate’ (Carolyn Dowdy) with the same concern for missions among the Latins, so we were able to go back to Medellin for four years (1991-1995).” Upon moving back to Sarasota in 1995, Ken and Carolyn were very active in the Sarasota Iglesia de los Hermanos and Sarasota First Brethren Church, teaching and encouraging. Ken was always seeking to exhort and cheer others on in their own life race. He will be remembered for using
Scripture, words of hymns and choruses, and quotes from other Christians in order to challenge others in their faith walk. In his final days on earth he served as a prayer warrior and an encourager (in person, and through phone calls, emails and letters) for many people in several countries. One of his favorite quotes was from the missionary William Carey: “Expect great things from God, attempt great things for God.” Ken is survived by his wife Carolyn, his children Tim (Janet) Solomon, Becky (Jim Abbott), Joel (Wendy) Solomon, and Margie (Steve Dodds), seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Ken was loved and adored by his many other step-children and their families as well, along with many sons and daughters in the faith.
In Memory Rev. Kenneth L. Solomon Rev. Kenneth L. Solomon was born in Uniontown, PA, September 11, 1926. The day he eagerly looked forward to arrived July 3, 2009, when his Lord called him home. In his personal testimony, he shared how at the age of thirteen he became aware of his need to accept Christ, but was quick to point out that it wasn’t until he was 21 that he understood that he had not fully surrendered his life to Christ. Throughout his ministry, he would keep driving home the point that it is one thing to accept Christ as Savior, and benefit from the forgiveness and grace that one receives in doing so, but it is another thing altogether to invite Christ to become Lord of one’s life. One of his favorite “go to” Bible passages in this regard was 2 Corinthians 5:14-15. He would emphasize the words, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.. He often taught that if Christ was truly your Lord and Master, you sought to please and obey him in everything, and no longer lived according to your selfish desires. Upon his return to the U.S. from the Navy, Ken felt the call to ministry, but had the obstacle of not having completed high school. Through what he considered to be divine intervention, he was allowed to enroll at Ashland College under “probation status.” Ken graduated from both Ashland College and Ashland Theological Seminary, while serving as a student pastor at the
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In Memory Rev. William H. Anderson After a brief illness, Pastor William H. “Bill” Anderson Sr. went to be with the Lord on May 9, 2009. He was 82 years old. Known as “Pastor Bill,” he was born on March 16, 1927 in Wormlysburg, PA. He graduated from John Harris High School in Harrisburg PA in June 1945. Immediately upon graduation, he served his country by enlisting in the United States Army. Pastor Bill met his childhood sweetheart, Mary Margaret “Peggy” Wells, in the 9th grade. They were married on July 18, 1947 and remained lifetime partners and inseparable throughout their 62 years of marriage. Pastor Bill attended Nyack University in Nyack, NY, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology. He was ordained on October 9, 1952. Pastor Bill continued his studies and later received his Master’s Degree in the same field. Pastor Bill led churches in the states of New Jersey, Ohio, and Indiana. He received his calling to become the Pastor of Northgate Brethren Church in Manteca, CA in 1970, where he served honorably and faithfully for 21 years. Pastor Bill played an active role on the Missionary Board for 25 years and he was also the interim pastor for Lathrop Brethren Church and Lathrop Baptist Church for two years each, respectively. After he retired in 1991, Pastor Bill and Peggy enjoyed working and ministering at P.L. Fry & Son Funeral Home in Manteca for three years. He is survived by his loving wife Peggy, son William “Billy” Anderson, Jr. and two grandchildren, William III and Jonathan. Pastor Bill touched many lives. He will be remembered for his love and devotion to the Lord, Peggy and their
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son Billy, his love for his church families and his unique sense of humor. A celebration of life memorial service was held on May 23, 2009 at Grace Community Church of Lathrop.
Rev. Robert H. Schubert Reverend Robert (Bob) L. Schubert of Lanark went home to be with the Lord at the age of 94 on July 8, 2009 at the Good Samaritan Care Center in Mt. Carroll, Illinois. Bob was born on June 30, 1915 on a farm south of Stockton, Illinois to Henry and Aletha Schubert. Bob’s father died when he was 4 years old. He and his mother then lived with her brother, Chalmer Law, on a farm outside of Hampton, Iowa. His mother died when he was eight years old. Bob went to live with his father’s brother, John Schubert and family for the next five years and then returned to live with Chalmer Law until he graduated from high school in 1933. Bob worked on his uncle’s farm for three years before he started farming near Mt. Carroll where he met and married Mayme Randecker Law. They farmed very successfully for 27 years. Bob was very active in the community and served as township supervisor for 14 years. In 1962 Bob went into the ministry at the United Brethren Church in Des Moines, Iowa where he attended Drake University. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from Drake in 1967. Bob was transferred to the United Brethren Church in Manlius, Illinois where he served for three years. He was then transferred back to the church in Des Moines, Iowa where he served for 11 years from 1970 to 1981. Bob received his Master’s Degree in Religious Leadership from Drake in 1976. He served as Conference Superintendent of Rock River Conference for several years during his ministry. During his marriage to Mayme, they raised
their daughter13 Joyce, and also helped raise five foster children. They also traveled throughout the United States and several countries including a thirty-one day trip to the Holy Land where they visited many sites referenced in the Bible. Bob then retired and he and Mayme moved back to Mt. Carroll to be near Mayme’s sister. He didn’t stay retired very long, though, when he was asked to be pastor at Woodland United Brethren church outside Mt. Carroll. He served as pastor there for five years. He then served as an associate pastor at the Lanark First Brethren Church. Mayme died in July 1998 at the age of 85. In August of 1999, Bob married Joyce Wolf at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. He retired again as associate pastor in October 2001. During his time back in Mt. Carroll he also served as chaplain at the Good Samaritan Care Center for 20 years. After being “retired” for one year he was asked to become pastor at Center Hill United Brethren Church between Mt.Carroll and Savanna where he served until December 2007. He then retired for the last time. He was in good health until November of 2008 when he underwent surgery. He was making a good recovery but then suffered a setback and was a resident of the nursing home for the last three months of his life. Bob is survived by his wife, Joyce of Lanark; his daughter, Joyce Broderick of Altoona, IA; one step-son, Ransom Wolf; a grandson Brian Broderick of Dayton, OH; a granddaughter Brenda (David) Decker of Clive, IA; and three great grandchildren, Tiffany (Michael) Kuhn, Zachary Broderick and Rowan Decker. He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant brother and stepson, Wayne Wolf. A memorial fund has been established.
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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. July/August 2009, Vol. 131, No. 4
The Brethren Church 524 College Ave. Ashland, OH 44805
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What is MISSIOCHURCH? Missiochurch is the Church Multiplication (Church Planting) Team of The Brethren Church. Our vision is to initiate and sustain a national church planting movement with regional focus. The team is made up of church planters and pastors from across the United States who have a passion for the multiplication of new faith communities.
We embrace an eclectic approach to church planting, believing that God is speaking to his people in many different ways. We are excited to be on this journey with you and trust with you that God is making all things new. Few choose to think of giving as a blessing. Ironically, without the faithful obedience of God’s people, there are little or no resources available to pursue the dreams which he places in our hearts. Your giving directly contributes to the fulfillment of God’s purposes for us, and therefore even a penny has eternal significance! May God bless you in unimaginable ways ! For more information about MISSIOCHURCH see the article on page 8 of this magazine, or go to www.missiochurch.com.