Brethren Evangelist November December 2009

Evangelist THE BRETHREN

Vol 131, No. 6 Nov/Dec 2009

DEDICATED TO ADVANCING THE LIFE AND MINISTRIES OF THE BRETHREN CHURCH

“Lift up your heads, O you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors that the King of Glory may come in.” ~Psalm 24:7

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A Journey to India Monday, November 2 We me with our group at the KLM terminal at O’Hare. The next 24 hours all ran together — we lost 11½ hours getting from Chicago to Delhi via Schipohl Airport in Amsterdam. We landed in Amsterdam in the dark and the fog just beore 7 a.m.

Tuesday, November 3 Another day spent in airports and in the air! We had a picture of the brevity of life while on the plane. Before we left Amsterdam, our seatmate’s husband (from the Chicago leg of the trip) took ill and had to be removed from the plane. They were returning to India for a visit after living in Chicago for 45 years. This reminded me that we need to make every moment count. We left Amsterdam around 11 a.m. and landed in Delhi at 11:30 p.m. We flew over Afghanistan and Pakistan and ran into some turbulence there. Fitting?

India is in a time zone 11½ hours ahead of Illinois — why 11½ hours no one can explain. Customs went well, no problems or questions (except for the forms we had to fill out, of course). H1N1 precautions by the health screening officials — the only ones I remember seeing wearing masks. We were glad to see Sudhir waiting for us when we left the baggage claim area.

Wednesday, November 4 Breakfast buffet at the hotel had some out of the ordinary items (beans and soup). While waiting for the bus to take us to the airport for the flight to Visakhapatnam, we sat in the hotel lobby and watched the street.India traffic is amazing, something that has to be experienced. Horns are used more than brakes, but not in anger (like Americans). They drive on the “wrong” side of the road and we saw a little bit of everything. Lots of motorcycles with two, three, or more passengers.

We saw a funeral procession: the body wrapped in a sheet being carried on a stretcher at shoulder height. The bus came and we went through a process that would become very familiar to us, loading our luggage. What a production! A two-hour flight to Visak and we

landed after sunset, met by Prasanth and Nirmala. We had a two-hour bus ride to a village for our first church dedication (in memory of Nancy McGraw’s mother and father) and had our first encounter with an “eastern” toilet. The church dedication was quite an experience. Our team sat on chairs facing the ground-sitting audience, something we had a hard time getting used to. Pastor Terry (Leach) spoke with Prasanth translating. After the service we were surrounded by people wanting prayer, even thought most couldn’t understand us. We were finally pulled away by the faithful Gideonand led to the bus. The Kumars did everything they could to make us feel at home, including renting a hotel room with a “western” toilet.

Thursday, November 5 This is the day we’ve been waiting for — our first visit to the Brethren Mission Compound in Rajahmundry.

We were greeted with a sign reading “Welcome Missionary Team USA” (we started calling ourselves Team USA after that), flower garlands, and a welcome dance by some of the children.We went into the chapel and had seats of honor again as Pastor Russ (Gordon) gave a Bible study for the ladies. We were able to tour the sewing school and heard from several of the ladies (one a 13-year-old girl) who are taking the classes. Around the room were beautiful items the women had made — they all dress beautifully (those gorgeous saris). We were treated to Christmas in November by the children, quite a performance.

We could tell a lot of practice and planning went into the program. This will be repeated for the community in December and we were told that hundreds would fill the compound to see it. We were able to go up to the prayer tower.The Indian Brethren have a wonderful prayer ministry — something we need to emulate. In the evening, another bus ride to a village medical clinic. After seeing the doctor, many came and knelt before team members and we prayed for their healing — spiritual as well as physical — in

a diary kept by Marcia Leach, Cerro Gordo, Illinois

the power of Jesus’ name. Several of us shed tears as we prayed for these people dressed in their very best. We heard there were some disagreements going on in the crowd — people from a higher caste village trying to push ahead in the line. Throughout the rest of the evening we sang several songs as others prayed, or others sang as we prayed. A surprising side note: boys in the village were taking pictures of us using their cell phones, just like we were taking pictures of them. A village with thatched huts, satellite dishes and cell phones. It’s hard to wrap our minds around some of the contradictions that are India.

Friday, November 6 A trip to Siddanthem village for the dedication of the church in memory of Rev. James R. Black. Pastor Jim Black (James F.) gave the prayer and he and sister Barbie unveiled the dedication sign, a touching time for all of us. Pastor Jim also gave the message inside the church with Sudhir as translator. It was nice to travel somewhere in the daylight hours; we were able to see the countryside. On the way back to the hotel we were able to stop in downtown Rajahmundry and get a few souvenirs for our families back home. In the evening we visited the medical clinic at the compound, then to the Kumars’ house where we sorted the supplies we brought for the orphanage and medical clinics.

Saturday, November 7 To the Brethren compound for the pastors’ conference. Gary (Diehl) brought a message and our team sang. We were seated in the front again, but happily everyone had chairs today! Several pastors were ordained and many more licensed. At the end pastors were told they had authority to do everything except marriages — they have to be licensed by the state to do those. Each of our pastors had a part in the ordination, either a prayer or a sermon (pastor Russ gave that).

We headed to the end of the compound for pictures to commemorate the event, part of the 40th anniversary

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celebration for the Brethren Church in India. First night of revival services at the Brethren Compound. Nirmala led some songs — complete with PowerPoint words — some English, some not!

We could feel the eastern influence on the western praise songs. What a blessing to share in worship with our Indian brothers and sisters. We noticed that men and women sit on opposite sides in the services, unlike us who sit in a jumble.

Sunday, November 8 Time is relative in India; you start when you start. Today’s Sunday service had Ken (Hunn) speaking and Team USA providing a couple of specials.

The highlight for me was the baptismal service. Sudhir baptized 35 women and 14 men. Some of the women had never been fully immersed in water before, and it looked like Sudhir had to give a little extra push. Four or five would climb down into the concrete trough at one time. Sudhir definitely got a workout today. One of the Brethren churches provided money for lunch with the orphansand there was actually enough to include the Brethren pastors who were here for the anniversary/Christmas celebration.

Back at the compound we were able to help distribute Christmas gifts to the pastors and their wives, then in the evening, revival services again.

Monday, November 9 Leaving Rajahmundry and we said our goodbyes to Prasanth and Nirmala. We took the train back towards Visakhapatnam.Something that happens around the world: parents pulling their children away from strangers. In this case the strangers happened to be us — we did stand out in the crowd.

Beggars everywhere too, surrounding us. Some were quite insistent. During the six-hour train ride we were able to see a lot of India, a beautiful country. We were picked up by our bus and faithful Gideon, our “counter”. He goes up and down the aisles making sure we’re all there. We headed to a church in Orissa state, where there has been much violence toward Christians reported in the news. The church dedicated today was provided by the Heskeths’ church, Milford (IN) Brethren.

We felt anxiety by our hosts to get us in and out of there quickly, but we had no feelings of danger ourselves. Back on the bus for the final leg of the journey to Visak. We were able to look our

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the bus windows and see the Bay of Bengal. Even crazier traffic than Rajahmundry!

Tuesday, November 10 Visited the Visakhapatnam Brethren Compound where Sudhir preaches twice a month and met the staff. Before leaving we surrounded the staff and prayed over them. This compound has a keyboarding class, 11 sewing class and prayer tower. Some of us were able to pray there. The chapel here didn’t have bars on the windows, unlike the ones in the villages. We left Latha at the compound. She would travel back to Rajahmundry by train while Sudhir accompanied us to Delhi. There were tears from both sides at the parting. It amazes me how quickly we bond on these mission trips. We are leaving family behind and who knows when we will see them again. At the Visak airport we said goodbye to Gideon and our driver, who both did a wonderful job for us. After landing in Delhi we had another bus ride and were able to do a little touring. We visited the India Gate, erected as a memorial to Indians killed in the world war, which looked like the Arc de Triomphe. We also visited Gandhi’s tomb, which is considered holy ground, so we had to remove our shoes before entering the area.

Wednesday, November 11 Our last day in India, and we headed by train to Agra to see the Taj Mahal.12 It’s very hard to describe the beauty and grandeur of it, but my feelings were “I can’t believe I’m at the Taj Mahal!” Nancy and I would look at each other and grin!

What a feat of engineering.

We had an excellent guide who gave us “the rest of the story.” We had a group picture taken, then individual pictures a little closer. Once again, holy ground, but we were given shoe covers instead of having to remove them. Before returning to Delhi by bus we stopped at … Pizza Hut, for a unique dining experience. The workers were very interested in us and asked how Pizza Hut there differed from Pizza Hut

in the USA. In the course of conversation one of the workers told us they do a line dance, and they performed it for us. This was not a country line dance, but more of a Bollywood production.

What a lot of fun, and a neat way to end our visit to Agra. We saw amazing sights on the highway, anything and everything from trucks carrying huge loads to men leading donkeys or camels. In Delhi we had time to shower, pack and head to the airport for the first leg of our flight to Amsterdam.

What an amazing trip. I come back humbled by the faith we witnessed in the people of India. They believe in the power of prayer and I don’t believe we do enough of it. It was so good to be able to visit with Sudhir again, and to meet his family. Latha 13 is a lovely lady, inside and out and they definitely made our stay wonderful. Prasanth and Nirmala have been faithful servants for decades, and it was a joy to have a small part in celebrating their 40 years in ministry with the Brethren Church. I think every believer should try, at some point in their lives, to go to another culture and see how God is working around the world. It gives you a new respect for the awesomeness of our Lord and his great love for mankind.

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8 The orphan children enjoy their special 40th anniversary meal. The money for food was raised by the children of the Bryan (OH) First Brethren Church — enough for all the orphans, and the newly-ordained pastors and their wives too!

“Local Pastor Takes A Walk In His Father’s Footsteps.”

That was the title a reporter put to an article she wrote about our trip.

And while we were blessed by many aspects of the trip including praying with people at the medical clinic, meeting the children at the orphanage as well as many of the Indian pastors, and witnessing Sudhir baptize 49 new believers, I was most blessed by being able to walk in my father’s footsteps. He seemed to have the eyes of Jesus when he returned from his trips, being more aware of needs around him; and that has been my experience as well.

Dad loved the people of India and wanted to return one more time. But the Lord had other plans, and allowed Susie and I to go, and I was privileged to preach at the dedication of a church built in dad’s memory. The Kumars are passionate about Jesus, and the ministry they continue to do in Jesus’ name is impacting thousands. I am now more passionate than ever to challenge Brethren to continue their support of missions around the world.

It’s not just money: it is front-line ministry that is happening.

Let me thank the many who made this trip possible with their financial and prayer support. We were blessed!

- James F. Black Note: James R. Black was Director of Missions for The Brethren Church from 1985 - 1995.

It was quite evident that the believers in India show respect for God, Jesus, the church and its leaders that most of us had not seen for some time.

They knew we were coming and were willing to wait even two hours to meet us and enjoy time with us. They take time to pray in the prayer tower and service to God is important to them.

Seeing and meeting other believers was important to them. They wanted us to pray for them, but I felt very humbled to pray for them. It felt more like they should be praying for me.

Jim McGraw Vandergrift, PA

The India Mission Team * Jim & Susie Black, Wabash, IN * Leslie Clark, Cerro Gordo, IL * Gary & Nancy Diehl, N. Georgetown, OH * Russ & Sherrie Gordon, Milledgeville, IL * Ann Hasse, Nappanee, IN * Billy & Norene Hesketh, Milford, IN * Ken Hunn, Ashland, OH * Terry & Marcia Leach, Cerro Gordo, IL * Jim & Nancy McGraw, Vandergrift, PA * Barbie Black Pascoe, Ashland, OH * Pauline Yoder, Goshen, IN

My thoughts: India is a land of contrasts. The women at church were wearing ornate saris made from beautiful fabrics; and then we saw women along the rivers doing laundry. They were laying the garments out on the ground and it looked like a quilt. We went to villages where the homes had no kitchens. They were cooking outside over a fire; and we had four bars on our cell phones. There is an atmosphere of political unrest and religious chaos and yet, over and over we saw sweet,peaceful spirits. Believers filled with hope and joy that is in contrast to the world they live in.

- Nancy Diehl North Georgetown, OH

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The dedication of a village church in memory of James R. Black.

From left, the pastor and his wife, Susie Black, James F. Black, Barbie Black Pascoe, and Prasanth Kumar.

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Looking Ahead … Core Value #5

GLOBAL We think that all of our ministries should be:

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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 A passion for the other side of the globe and the other side of town at the same time …

Back in the Fall of 2002, I had the opportunity to meet the rest of the Kumar family. I had met Prasanth and Nirmala several years before, as they traveled back and forth from India, and out to our churches in the United States. I also had the pleasure of meeting Shanthi Kumar Edwin and her husband Vincent while they were studying at Ashland Theological Seminary. But in the Fall of 2002 I finally had the opportunity to meet the rest of the family; both Sudhir and Sunita. I felt like I had known them practically my whole life.

You might imagine their surprise when I told them that even though I am bit older, I felt like we had grown up together!

Prasanth, Nirmala, and Shanthi Kumar (Edwin) at the beginning of their ministry in 1970

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How is it that someone from the flatlands of Northern Indiana grew up with the Kumar kids? I used to visit them every Sunday! I have had the privilege of being connected to churches that did a pretty fair job of emphasizing missions by creating a missions bulletin board and keeping things updated.

I have vivid memories of it all. It was there in front of those displays that I met the Kumar children. They were not unlike me, gathered around their parents in the family photo. I imagined what it must have been like to live in India. The background for the Kumar family photo looked quite different from anything I had ever seen, and so I pondered all the implications of what it would be like to be their neighbor.

Occasionally the photo would be replaced by a new one, and I could see the changes in their lives compared to my own. Meeting them in India was like a family reunion for me!

As you peruse this issue of the Evangelist you will read about our fifth and

As you peruse this issue of the Evangelist you will read about our fifth and final Core Value: “Global.”

My connection over the years to the Kumar family is just a small part of the story of what it means to have a Global view of our commission from the Lord.

But you might be surprised to know the transforming power of international relationships and how they can impact local mission. The testimony of the Kumar family and the many pastors who serve with them in India has changed me to the core. They have gotten through to my hard heart with respect to reaching out to the lost and the least in our own neighborhoods.

I am not nearly where I want to be in fulfilling my commission, but these partners on the other side of the globe have led me away from my comfort zone and helped me to focus on the needs in our own communities. Practically anyone who has shared even short-term alongside any of our international partners will tell you the same thing.

The local church missions bulletin board informs, and that is a good thing. The personal connection transforms, and that is more than good — it is life-giving, and that is eternal. It transforms us so that we can be used of the Spirit to transform others. A passion for the other side of the globe and the other side of town at the same time.

May our passion and our Kingdom activities as Brethren be truly global!

A Global Perspective:

Mobilizing for the Whole Mission of God When we who claim to follow Christ actually start getting a handle on what that means, it changes the way we see things. Even little things.

Like this statement in Acts 1:8 “…but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be my witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.” (NASB) Like much of what I read as a nominal Christian and a baby believer, I know I read this sentence and missed the enormity of what Jesus wants to tell us. I didn’t grasp the utter futility of trying to do God’s work without the power and direction of the Holy Spirit’s indwelling presence. I didn’t catch the fact that Jesus didn’t say “you might get a chance to be my witness”; he said you SHALL or you WILL. I missed the idea that Jesus wasn’t just speculating about where this message would go, but providing clarity to what Matthew 28 records for us when Jesus says “Go.” And I absolutely blew right past that Jesus used the word “and” rather than the word “or” when he clarified some geographical principles in this command.

So, what do I see differently now? This call to invest ourselves in the mission of God is a call to invest our everything — our heads, our hearts, and our hands — in the full work of God. It’s a call to get dirty in Jesus’ name in our own back yard and neighborhood, then do the same in Riverside or Galveston, and make sure it happens again in Rajamundry, Puerto Maldonado or Mexico City.

I’ve seen too many churches and church people think they are doing their “missions” duty by dropping a check in the offering for India while ignoring the broken people in the trailer park down the street. Likewise, I’ve seen the imbalance of people giving

all their “missions” money to make sure the local church is happy and whole while ignoring the fact that there are currently 143,000,000 orphans in the world, most who live in abject poverty.

In the spirit of James 3:10, these things should not be. Jesus calls us to see the things in this broken world that break his heart, then in this command he calls us to do something tangible to bring his kingdom to that brokenness.

Gary Diehl

Church Health & Resource Specialist getting dirty in Galveston, and people from Mt. Olive, Berlin and Sarasota getting dirty in Peru. There are others, like the ways Grace Community and The Pump House are getting dirty in Jesus’ name in Africa. In this issue we hear from a collection of Brethren who recently returned from getting dirty in India. Many witnesses, many places.

That’s what I’m talking about!

Rather, that’s what I believe Jesus is talking about. People who claim to follow him who see the world and their role in it differently than before they received and began to comprehend the amazing grace of our Savior.

Brethren have a great heritage of caring about the whole mission of God. And, thankfully, we’re seeing that heritage lived out in multiple places. There have been stories in past Evangelist editions about Brethren from Bryan, Goshen, Gretna and North Manchester getting dirty in Riverside. There have been snapshots of Brethren from Southeast Christian Fellowship serving the homeless of D.C. You have seen reports of Brethren from Nappanee

As you see opportunities in the future to get dirty in the name of Jesus for the sake of your neighbor, don’t brush it off. See things differently.

Jump in. And let go of the excuse that your church is too small to get involved. Join with others. Make connections with the folks from Cheyenne when they go to Argentina or the folks from Berlin and Mt. Olive and Sarasota when they go to Peru next year. But as you go there, don’t neglect the mission field in your own back yard.

Pay attention to the power of little words like “Go” and “shall” and “will” and “and” when you are listening to the voice of Jesus. He meant what he said.

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Global Multiplication What can we learn from our partners around the world that can make a difference in our own backyard?

Often when we think of the concept of global ministry our minds tend to drift to far away places with unfamiliar looking people who speak unfamiliar languages. We think of red, yellow, brown and black faces and stories of the orphan and the widow. Global ministry becomes in our minds the work of the chosen few… of heroes working miracles on the other side of the globe… snatching life from death on a daily

basis.

While these word pictures may be partially accurate, they no longer capture the full canvas of or our understanding of global ministry. To the extent that we continue to think of global ministry as stuff that happens “over there,” we will continue to miss what we can learn from our partners about God’s movement in our own lives.

In Argentina I witnessed intentional partnering with local government and town leaders. Our brothers and sisters work hard to establish a cooperative relationship with civic leaders, pointed at meeting the needs of people under the care of their leadership. This establishes great relationships and opens many opportunities for the church, as those in political positions see her as a

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willing partner in working for the betterment of the people. One particular way in which I saw this lived out in several towns was through “milk stations.”

These are a little like soup kitchens but are aimed more at impacting the children of the community. The principle learned was that if you minister to their children, you will gain the respect and trust of their parents and grandparents and, in this way, earn the right to minister to them.

through which the consistency of your character can begin to melt down barriers. Evangelism here is a long-term endeavor. Here, community for the sake of community trumps agendas and strategies.

In Kenya, a young man planted a church that soon began planting other churches. Some 40 years later there are now over 600 churches that were established by this movement. From one man’s dream four decades ago has arisen a denomination five times the size of our U.S. church with similar movements in several other countries.

The key to this movement, according to its founder, is much time in prayer and the sending of called individuals into the midst of different people groups. While there, the missionaries learn their language and culture for the purposes of translating the gospel into pictures that are meaningful in that context. As I sat in his office outside of Nairobi he stressed the importance of being curious about other cultures for the sake of the gospel.

In India, I interviewed 16 pastors, seminary professors, students, missionaries, church-goers and one renowned missiologist. It became clear that the most effective strategy for sharing the gospel here was to live a changed life and to love people for no apparent reason. I was terribly disappointed to learn that what was required was to be transformed and to love my neighbor as myself (sarcasm intended)! It proves a point, however, that beyond the boundaries of culture and their interpretation, looking and acting like Jesus in tangible ways are the only reliable ways to communicate the gospel.

Global ministry is not about our ability to fund ministry in so many time zones and in so many languages, but about our intention to initiate ALL PEOPLE groups into the kingdom of heaven. It can no longer be characterized just by what “they do over there,” but must also include the ongoing story of what God is doing right where you are. What can we learn from our global partners?

I pray that the above will serve to start some conversations in your community about multiplying disciples, leaders and churches. One day every nation and people group will have the opportunity to bow before the Father… even yours.

In Canada, suspicion and mistrust for the church is even greater than in the U.S. To gather disciples here you must be patient and engage in relationships

Interested in learning more about what you read in this article? Contact Bill Ludwig @ bill@brethrenchurch.org.

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 Vo l u m e 2 3 , N u m b e r 2 November/December 2009

The President’s Pen Dear Sisters in Christ, I have been asked to write the “President’s Pen” this month. I am not a president, but I am a national officer, so I guess that counts.

I have been thinking about what to write and what I would like to tell you.

The thing that is most prominent on my mind is change. It has been on my heart that WMS is dwindling. We have had several societies close in the past year and only one new start up. This breaks my heart. I have been wondering why this is happening.

Is it that no one is interested in our missionaries? I do not believe that to be true.

We take up a missionary offering every month and it does very well.

Is it lack of time? This certainly is a compelling argument. Our local school is busy all the time until late into the night.

Families are constantly busy and trying to find time just for “family time.”

Are priorities messed up? I would say yes! When schools and athletic clubs schedule sporting events on Sundays because there are no other days available, there is definitely a problem. Parents then have to make a decision: church or sports. Unfortunately, the sport wins most of the time.

So what can our WMS societies do to attract younger women to attend our meetings and be involved? We are going to have to change! Not our mission or function, but how and when we conduct our meetings. We have had to do this here at Flora.

When we first came to Flora, our WMS met on Wednesday mornings. There were nine of us ; I and one other person

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Missionary Miscellany

The national missionaries-of-themonth for NOVEMBER are Gus and Gladys Miranda, pastoring the Centro Cristiano Para La Familia in San Gabriel, CA. Gus is the son of Juan Carlos and Maria Miranda, missionaries in Pasadena, CA, but now retired and living in Mansfield, OH. Gus’s congregation is the daughter church of Juan Carlos and Maria’s congregation.

The international missionaries-of-themonth are Jeremy and April McClung, who planted a new church in Huntsville, Ontario, Canada, last year. Their children are Aidan and Jeremy and Ella Grace, who was born last summer.

Jeremy’s e-mail address is: jeremy@ muskokacommunity church.com. This is his very interesting letter:

Since the launch of our Sunday services in Huntsville, Ontario, Canada, just over one year ago, we have seen slow-but-steady growth, both in number of attendees and in life change. Since we moved here, we have worked hard to present ourselves to the community (both as individuals and as a church) as being as safe, relaxed, and accessible to people with little or no church experience. This seems to be working, as I hear a growing “buzz” around town about what we are doing. In fact, as I sit in a downtown café and write this, I just had another person approach me and ask about attending one of our services!

Especially here in Canada there tends to be an antagonistic attitude toward all things ‘church.’ Most people believe in God (even if they don’t know much about Him), and are actively seeking a spiritual component to life. In fact, an interest in spirituality is definitely on the rise — I see it every day in posters, specialty stores, and classes on Buddhist, New Age, and other religious practices, such as meditation and healing prayer.

Unfortunately, people here have for the most part ceased to see the church as a viable source of spiritual nourishment.

To them, churches are associated with a judgmental God, judgmental people, and meaningless rituals. We are doing our best to change this opinion through humor, service, cultural relevance, community involvement, and genuine love for people.

I’m reminded of Paul, when he was in Athens, walking the city and seeing a plethora of idols or “alternate spiritualities.” He didn’t condemn the people for being misled or threaten them with somewhere hot and miserable, if they didn’t change their ways. He simply started right where they were, affirmed their spiritual quest, and pointed them toward Jesus — painting a much better and more inviting picture of God than what they were familiar with. The rest he left up to the Holy Spirit at work among them. Some people scoffed, but other people wanted to hear him again.

So far this approach seems to be working in my world, too. What I’m finding is that it takes a few months of being “heard again,” during sporadic visits to church before people actually become committed to Christ. More often than not, I am finding that people drift over the line of faith. Today they would say they believe in and follow Jesus, whereas six months ago they did not. But they can’t point to any one day when everything changed. I still see the fruit and work of the Holy Spirit associated with conversion and new birth, but without the clear moment of decision so prevalent in my parents’ generation. In fact, because people grow at their own pace without any coercion or pressure, the transformation that takes place is even more miraculous and amazing than if I tried to control or direct the process. It is clearly God at work, changing one life at a time.

I can think of no better Christmas present from God to April and me than

(Continued on page 10)

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District Doings

Joanne Kroft, OH district secretary reported: Camp Bethany was again a beautiful setting for the annual Ohio district ladies retreat. Twenty-one ladies attended, representing churches from North Georgetown, Beacon of Hope, Garber, Park Street, and Pleasant Hill.

After ladies assembled Friday evening, they joined together on the patio of the lodge for a sack lunch picnic supper. Giggles and getting acquainted or re-acquainted with one another were as important as the food.

President Brenda Blessing began the evening meeting with prayer. Following a welcome and introductions, Karen Moran from the Beacon of Hope Church led the group in singing. Brenda then presented a devotional sitting at a set table.

“Come to the Table” was her theme.

She shared some of her experiences of the last two years. She used parts of the setting to share her remembrance of friends, sharing special times. The dishes reminded her of love — love of family and friends. The salt symbolized seasoning which we need in our lives. Some setting pieces were old, some newer; some were gifts from friends, some handed down through the family. After all of the physical setting, the most important part of a meal was the guests.

Christ invites us to His table, and He is there waiting for us to join Him. Do we always rush to join Him, or do we not hunger for Him enough? Sometimes we feel uncomfortable at the table because we have not prepared ourselves properly. God is love, and reaches out to us in love. He never leaves. We are never orphans or excluded from the table. We are allowed to join Christ and His Father.

‘Join together at the table.’

Sue Mercer from Pleasant Hill continued the table theme with a time of praise and prayer. She asked us to give and receive during the weekend. We offered praise, forgiveness, thankfulness, and petition for help. Christ asks us to “Come not only to the table, but to Him.” To all who are burdened and weary He will bring rest.

After a wonderful quiet and restful night, the ladies consumed a delicious breakfast prepared by Christy Carmean from Mansfield.

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Our morning presentation was given

by Sherry VanDuyne from Park Street.

Her theme was “Abide in Me” (John 15).

She gave us three questions to consider concerning abiding.

(1) What does abide mean to you?

(2) What is it like for you?

(3) What does it look like for you?

She asked each woman to separate from others for 20 minutes and think of some answers to each question.

After joining back together, the ladies shared what they had discovered. Some of the thoughts and ideas shared by Sherry were: (1) Meaning of abide: take root (2) Our Father is the gardener. He cuts and prunes (3) Abiding is a two-way stream (4) No fruit unless you abide (5) Branches cut away are thrown into the fire (6) When abiding, ask within His will, and it will be provided (7) Bearing fruit brings glory to God (8) Joy results from abiding (9) Abiding requires sacrifice (10) We are called a friend of God, if we abide/obey (11) We are called ‘friend,’ not servant (12) We are chosen by God to abide (13)Those who hate you hate the Father (14) To abide, you are connected (15) To abide is a 24/7 process (16) It is an intentional focus (17) Try to look at all things through Christ’s eyes Lunch was followed with a musical song and dance routine performed by the famous duo, Bonnie Gibson and Karen Moran from the Beacon of Hope Church. They presented a rousing rendition of “Bugle Boy” with props and singing. All folks listening were sure the duo would be traveling with their act, soon!!!

President Brenda called a short business meeting to order. The business of the day was to vote for a new slate of officers. The following names were presented: President: Norma Waters

Vice President: Wanda Powell Secretary-Treasurer: Janet Rufener

After a secret ballot vote, the named officers were elected. Brenda was presented a gift certificate for her many years as president and for planning retreats.

Sue Mercer led in a closing activity of praise and thanksgiving. Much had been accomplished during the 24 hours. Promises of ‘see you next year’ were heard as the ladies departed spiritually fed.

Missionary Miscellany (continued) the baptisms we are planning. We have been praying that people would come to Christ and be baptized, since the first day we came here. Sometimes we have been very frustrated and impatient to see it happen. Even more than just seeing a healthy church established, our heart is to see people come to know God through Jesus for the first time. A few days ago I had a couple of conversations with friends who have been attending church for a little over half a year (for the first time in their adult lives).

They are ready to be baptized! With the onset of Canadian winter, we are looking for an indoor setting in which to celebrate. Wherever it happens, one thing is for certain -— there will be a party afterward!

We are excited to see God’s kingdom moving forward in this largely secular culture and grateful for the ways you have shared with us in the journey through your cards, e-mails, financial support, and especially your prayers. Though the intense nature of church planting sometimes makes it hard to reply to every WMS group that takes the time to reach out to us, please know we are thankful to God for you and happy to be part of this extended church family!

Jeremy McClung The DECEMBER national missionariesof-the-month are Larry and Cindy Hanson growing the Cross Bars Ministries in South Bend, IN. The international missionaries are David and Jenny Loi Lee-Hoot in Malaysia. They have recently returned from a visit into China. We are thankful for their good health and safety.

Reports from both the Hansons and the Lois will be included in the JanuaryFebruary Newsletter.

Women’s Outlook Newsletter

In My Mail Bag From Joan Merrill: Dear Ladies, It has been awhile since you have heard from me, as I have been seeking how to proceed with our sewing and quilting ministry. God placed an idea before me, which I now present to you and ask for your help and support.

I have been in contact with the World Relief refugee resettlement program in Fort Wayne, IN. They indicated that they would be very grateful to receive quilts, comforters, oven mitts and hot pads, purses (even for the men), backpacks, diaper bags, and tote bags — anything that would be large enough to carry a notebook. The refugees are encouraged to carry a notebook with them all the time to write down anything that they might encounter about which they have questions.

I am excited about the opportunity to partner with World Relief to encourage these refugees who come to America to begin a new life. Your gifts will be a tangible encouragement and a reminder that God loves them.

We will plan to quilt a quilt at General Conference in July. In order to do this, I am in need of quilt squares. These are the guidelines for your squares: (1) Use all cotton fabric.

(2) The finished size must be 8½” square and the design should be smaller than 8” .

(3) Use a form of needlework for your design: cross-stitch, embroidery, applique, or piecing, for example.

Do not use fabric paints or similar methods.

Guidelines are also in the back of the WMS Service Guide. Squares can be sent to me any time. And any of your groups or individual members who would like to make a quilt, comforter, purse, etc., to donate are welcome to contribute to this project. We will plan to have a display table available at Conference where you can drop off your item.

November/December 2009

Thank you for your faithfulness in serving the Lord. God bless you.

Joan Merrill

WMS Sewing & Benevolence Coordinator 9300 S. State Rd. 3 Muncie, IN 47302

One item in the WMS annual budget is designated for Ashland Theological Seminary and this year $2,306 was given.

The second guideline (p. 46 in the Devotional Guide) encourages support for the Seminary with offerings sent to the Financial Secretary who then forwards the gifts. These are used for the Brethren scholarships.

Acknowledging the gifts from the Women’s Missionary Society, David Cooksey, Director of Church Relations, wrote: Please pass on our thanks for your continued support of Brethren students at Ashland Theological Seminary. We have 20 Brethren students registered for the start of school in October. This is more than usual. Your help is needed and very much appreciated.

These are the names of the Brethren students and their home churches. Remember them throughout the year with your prayers.

• Gary Atherton, Jefferson Church, Goshen, IN • Rudy Bocanegra, Smoky Row Church, Columbus, OH. He is the Latino ministry pastor.

• Paul Bozman • Kelly Brown, Gretna Church, Bellefontaine, OH • Cecilia Castro, Cordoba, Argentina • David Creekmore, Smithville, OH. He pastors the Williamstown church.

• Miles Larson, Five Stones, Ashland, OH • Wes Lewis, Vinco, PA church • James Pinto, Park Street Brethren, Ashland, OH • Matthew Potosky • Andrew Kovalenko, pastored in Russia 14 years; plans to return to continue preaching • David Miller, Oasis Community Church, Gilbert, AZ • Sarah Miller, originally from Louisville, OH; David’s wife • Josh Sumpter, youth pastor at Five Stones, Ashland, OH • Cheryl Schmiedt, from Manteca, CA, currently in Warsaw, IN • Catherine Swope, Five Stones, Ashland, OH • Brandon Wells, Akron, OH Joanne Kroft and Janet Rufener, financial secretary and treasurer respectively, submitted the totals for offerings received during the 2008-09 financial year.

Project: $9,932.40 for the youth and soccer program in Bradenton, FL. Thank offering: $9,401.59 for the benevolences: ATS, World/Home Missions, Ashland University Campus Ministry, Riverside Christian School, AU Scholarships, and ATS Ministerial Student Aid. Peru orphanage: $697.13 to buy bed linens for the orphanage in Puerto Maldonado, Peru.

On behalf of all those who benefit from your generous gifts, I say a sincere thank you. We know God blesses every gift.

• Luke Dowdy, attends Garber Church • Adam Geaslen, Dayton, OH • Brad Harnden, Manteca, CA • Dan Hart • Jim Koontz, Beacon of Hope Church, Louisville, OH • Tim Kutch, Kittanning and Brush Valley, PA

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Season of the Carols Some of us are challenged by the Twelve Days of Christmas – what comes with the 7th or 8th day’s tune.

But not to be intimidated, I list carols for the Thirty Days of Advent, beginning with the last Sunday in November. Even if the carol is not familiar, concentrate on the suggested scriptures midst your spiritual preparation.

My list is adapted from The One Year Book of Hymns, a Tyndale publication.

3 Come, Thou Long-expected Jesus, Matthew 1:20-21

29 Lo! How a Rose E’er Blooming, Isaiah 11:1-4

8 From Heaven Above to Earth I Come, Luke 2:10-11, 13-14

30 The People that in Darkness Sat, Isaiah 9:6-7

9 Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne, John 1:10-12

1 Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates, Psalm 24:7-8, 10

10 Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence, John 1:1-3, 14

2 Watchman, Tell Us of the Night, Isaiah 21:11-12

11 In the Bleak Midwinter, Luke 2:4-7

The President’s Pen (continued) were the youngest. The other person worked part-time outside the home, so she missed quite a few meetings. I heard at our district conference that another society had decided to meet on Sundays after church. We decided to give this a try. We made an announcement in the bulletin several weeks ahead, inviting those who work during the week to join us. We all brought our sack lunch. We have doubled our membership!

Maybe your WMS meets in the evenings. A change might be to hire a teen to watch the children during your meeting. Keeping meetings on a time schedule so they don’t run too long is also important. Think outside the box and see what comes up. Take a poll and find out some of the reasons and see how you can help. You might even find some ways your society could help take some of the stress off these families.

If your society is growing and accomplishing its goals, Praise the Lord! Now share what you are doing with others by sending that information to the Outlook Newsletter editor, Joan Ronk. Joan will be glad to publish your ideas so that all of us can learn from you. Together we can all work together and continue the ministry of the WMS! In His Service and yours, Lynn Herendeen National General Secretary

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4 Hail to the Lord’s Anointed, Psalm 72:1-4, 8 5 O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, Luke 1:67-69, 76-78 6 Good Christian Men, Rejoice, Titus 3:4-7 7 All Praise to Thee, Eternal Lord, Galatians 4:4-6

12 Earth Has Many a Noble City, Matthew 2:1-2, 4-5 13 Once in Royal David’s City, Philippians 2:5-8 14 The Friendly Beasts, Isaiah 1:2-3 15 God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen, Matthew 1:18-20 16 The First Noel, Luke 2:9-10 17 Angels, From the Realms of Glory, Luke 2:10-12 18 While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks, Luke 2:12-14 19 O Come, All Ye Faithful, Luke 2:15-18 20 It Came Upon the Midnight Clear, Isaiah 9:6-7 21 Angels We Have Heard on High, Luke 2:20 22 O Little Town of Bethlehem, Micah 5:2-4 23 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Luke 2:9-11, 13-24 24 What Child is This?, Matthew 2:10-11 25 Silent Night, Holy Night, Luke 2:16-18 26 Joy to the World!, Psalm 98:1-4 27 Away in a Manger, Isaiah 53:1-3 28 Who Is He in Yonder Stall?, Ephesians 3:20-21

The Editor’s Ending Dear Friend, September 20 a dear friend walked into heaven escorted by angels and welcomed by her Lord. Kay Winfield, known to all of us as Kitty, entered into eternal life, free of pain and no more concerned about the next doctor’s appointment.

Dick and Kitty served the Brethren Church as pastor and wife; as missionaries in Nigeria, Africa; as teacher of international students at Ashland University and Dick as editor of The Brethren Evangelist; and as host to innumerable students and families. For several years Kitty was the WMS representative to the Ministries Council. She and Dick loved others and others loved them.

Kitty’s radiant smile and peaceful countenance covered her fears of recurring illness. She praised God that through her many tests and treatments the results might benefit another one.

She was the current secretary of the Joy Circle, Park St. Brethren Church.

You will notice Kitty wrote the devotional article for the December meeting, entitled “Clinging to the Rock.” This is her testimony of life. We thank God for loaning Kitty to us for 68 years. Now she is home.

“Are you drinking from your saucer, because your cup overflowed?” This question appeared several years ago and it reminded me of a conversation with an AU administrator in my office.

After we talked business, she mentioned so many blessings which she appreciated and I, too. Then she said, “Oh, Joan, my cup is just overflowing with God’s goodness!” I was blessed to work with her!

Daily we receive and daily we should give — not just things, but an awareness of God’s constant care and blessings.

We face problems and difficulties, but we are so blessed with tangible as well as spiritual gifts. At this season, our cornucopia of Thanksgiving blessings overflows.

And the best blessing is “Emmanuel.

God with us” all the time.

May your Christmas season extend throughout 2010.

29 All Glory be to God on High, Isaiah 61:10-11 30 Go Tell It on the Mountain, Isaiah 52:7, 10

Joan

BUNDUCAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Bocaue, Bulacan Praise God for this wonderful day!

Dear brethren, Your church — JESUS OUR FIRM FOUNDATION BRETHREN CHURCH, has always been concerned in our school. In this time of calamity, you directly showed God’s love through your action.

Once again accept our heartfelt thanks for immediately rendering relief by providing school supplies such as pencils and notebooks. Many of our pupils who suffered from losing their things from flood were indeed happy.

Thank you also to our brethren, our truly saints nowadays. Thank you for taking time and forsaking your own comfort to extend your love for us who are in needs.

May the Lord bless you abundantly for your generosity and noble sacrifice.

In Christ, Republic of the Philippines Department of Education Region III Division of Bulacan District of Bocaue BIÑANG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Bocaue, Bulacan

GILBERT M. AGAPITO Principal 1 Bunducan Elementary School has 800 students

e n i p p i l i h P f e i l e R t r o p Re

October 14, 2009 The Management JESUS OUR FIRM FOUNDATION c/o Pastor Edgardo Castro, Jr. Bocaue, Bulacan To our dear brothers and sisters, Greetings from the teachers and pupils of Binang Elementary School!

In behalf of Binang Elementary School General Parents and Teachers’ Association (G-PTA) and Supreme Pupil Govenment (SPG), we sincerely appreciate the effort and kindness of our sponsors for the school supplies donated to our pupils. A very evident that Jesus Christ remains in the hearts of people like you who continuously share the blessings and gifts of God. In spite of the tragic incidents brought by flood and typhoon, our school children still remain standing because of the kindhearted people who are making lot of the best things to the youngest ones. I believe that this experience, sharing and loving, will linger in the hearts of the children who truly benefited from your donations and who will keep on your example in the future. May your tribe increases.

God bless always!

Very truly yours, LOLITA DG. DAYAO Principal Binang Elementary School has 500 students

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Cross Bars Ministries Update Ministry obtains a building, holds third community coat giveaway We are excited to announce that Cross Bars Ministries now has a place as our ministry center. After many prayers and lots of searching, God has led us to our first ministry home. This building is located just south of downtown Mishawaka. We are presently renovating the two upstairs apartments and converting them into offices, classrooms and a conference room. The front showroom has become our thrift store and the back sections will include the online bookstore and storage/sorting area. This building not only gives the ministry a vital presence in the community, but it also locates us in an area of great need. Our hope continues to be that we meet the needs of people while introducing them to Christ and his love. Please let me share with you how God got to us in the first place.

Simply put, we got to this point through tenacity and giving up. Tenacity: I like that word. That word is what much of this ministry has been. Hanging in there. Holding on. Determination.

Believing that this ministry is where God has called us. Believing that God will somehow put it all together. Believing that we have the answers to people’s lives through Jesus. Being moved into action by poverty and its effects on people in a way that keeps us going.

I believe that this is the attitude that Jesus has in mind when he told those who wanted to follow him that “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62).

Giving up and tenacity? Let me tell you a story. This building is the very first building I ever looked at for the ministry (January 2008). At that time this building was way out of our reach. After

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considering the building and seeking God’s wisdom it seemed that he was leading in another direction. To make a really long story short, we embarked on a search that included too many locations to list. We looked at buildings, made offers on buildings, pursued free buildings and expensive buildings and tall, short, big and small buildings. I get tired just thinking about them all. During this time of searching nothing worked out. We knew that God had a plan, but we weren’t sure exactly what it was.

In early September I learned the lesson of giving up. One day after looking at a few more buildings, I had had enough. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still and know that I am God …” To “be still” means to loosen the grip, like letting go a little on a rope and not pulling so hard. I can try all I want and pull as hard as I can, but the results are really not up to me. The results are up to God. The day I had had enough I told God that I was going to stop pulling so hard and allow him to work this building stuff out. I basically said, “Lord, whatever building you want us to have, you have to make it clear because I’m tired of looking and I give up.” Late that night I told Cindy and she agreed that God had something for us in mind and we would just have to keep praying and wait it out (tenacity) and leave it up to him (loosen the grip). As I dozed off to sleep this building came back to mind.

In the morning I got online to see if the building was still for sale.

It was. I called my realtor and the rest is history.

Everything fell into place.

Driving through the community God confirmed that this was the area to which he had called us.

There is a 38% poverty rate and over 2500 kids under the age of seventeen within a one-mile radius of the building. I can’t wait to see all that God will do in the months to come.

Our third coat give-away was a huge success. We had collected 481 coats throughout the year to give to people in need. We used our newly renovated thrift store showroom and served 102 people, giving away 207 coats. Including hats, gloves, scarves and boots, we gave out 378 items to keep people warm this winter. Special thanks go to the Milford (IN) ladies who knitted 60 sets of hats, scarves, and mittens. People loved them.

Many people came expecting to fill out paperwork and having to meet qualifications. One man came with identification and Social Security cards for his children. When we told him that all he needed was a need, he breathed a sigh of relief and told us how his children needed coats this year and he had lost his job and couldn’t afford to buy them. A lady came from the apartments a few blocks down.

She shopped around, took a coat and stayed for several hours. What she needed more than a coat was someone to listen and befriend her. I’ll be talking to her again soon. Please pray the connections made will lead people to a closer walk with Jesus.

Special thanks go to all who helped make this a great day, and to all who have been diligently praying for us and the ministry. Those prayers keep things going and are greatly appreciated.

Blessings to you through Jesus,

Larry and Cindy Hanson

1102 South Union Street Mishawaka, IN 46544

Did You Know?

Several short-term missions experiences like the one you read about in this issue are always in the planning stages at any given time. Why not connect with others to share or collaborate in a life-changing experience for your church! Contact the churches below to ask about joining with them in the next trip, or for counsel in planning your own. * Mt. Olive Brethren Church, McGaheysville, VA: (540) 289-5592 * North Manchester First Brethren Church, North Manchester, IN (260) 982-6457 * Berlin Brethren Church, Berlin, PA (814) 267-7050 * St. James Brethren Church, St. James, MD: (301) 582-3333 * The Brethren Church National Office also organizes, leads, and helps plan short term missions trips. We also offer a trip planning guide. Contact us toll-free at 1-877-289-1708.

Short-term missional experiences are one of the surest ways of adding spark to your local missional efforts, and developing life-long relationships that bring new meaning to our support of international partnerships.

Canton Trinity Marks 50-Year Milestone Trinity Brethren Church, Canton, Ohio celebrated 50 years in this building on the corner of 55th Street and Fairwood Avenue. Our first service was held in October 1959 with Rev. Robert Keplinger officiating. (Note: Pastor Bob recently went to be with the Lord. His memorial notice is on page 16.) His sermon was entitled “You Are God’s Building,” which was the title of the October 25th message given by our current pastor, Tony Price.

The celebration began with a hym sing on Saturday night and an informal time of food and remembering.

A special worship service was held on Sunday, October 25th to praise God for his 50 years of blessings. A luncheon followed the service. More information about Trinity Brethren can be found on our website: www.trinitybrethren.org.

Trinity pastor Tony Price with Jan Sullivan, wife of the late Ken Sullivan, former pastor.

Submitted by Wanda Kurlinski

Mt. Olive Celebrates 125th Anniversary On September 27, 2009 the congregation of Mount Olive Brethren Church celebrated 125 years of serving God and the community. The month-long celebration of the past, present and future culminated in our Homecoming/ Anniversary celebration on this day.

The day’s events included a special presentation on Brethren and Mount Olive history during the Sunday School hour by Dr. Dale Stoffer of Ashland Theological Seminary; guest speaker,

Mount Olive’s own Jason Barnhart, now youth pastor of Park Street Brethren Church in Ashland, Ohio; special music by former members, Dr. David Rawls and Elaine Brelsford; a carry-in meal; and a visit by Larry Glick portraying Alexander Mack at our 2 p.m. service.

Mount Olive Brethren Church began in 1884 when 20 families left Mill Creek Church of the Brethren to begin a new congregation in the community of Pineville. Two years later 12 men

agreed to pay for construction of a church building. The original building is still the anchor of our church facility and history and now holds Building Blocks Preschool. Three major additions have allowed the church to grow in ministry to others and to serve our families.

Gail Heiston Program Coordinator

Below: The original Mt. Olive church building in 1886 Right: Pastor Fred Miller with Alexander Mack (Larry Glick)

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In Memory Robert L. Keplinger Rev. Robert Leroy Keplinger, 80, of Ashland, died at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation on Monday, November 23, 2009.

He was born in Dayton, Ohio on September 16, 1929, the only child of the late Everett and Charma Gladys Statzer Keplinger.

Bob became a Christian at age seven; he attended two Brethren churches in Dayton, W. Third Street Brethren and Hillcrest Brethren.

He was a 1947 graduate of Fairview High School in Dayton, a 1951 graduate of Ashland College and a 1954 graduate of Ashland Theological Seminary. While he was a student at the seminary he sang in the original College Seminary quartet, “The Ambassadors”, which traveled from coast to coast singing.

Pastor Bob pastored several churches during his time in the ministry: Trinity Brethren Church in Canton, Ohio, where a new church was built while he was pastor; the mission church in Levittown, PA; and the Washington, D.C. Brethren Church. While in Washington he was President of the GWCCA. During his time in Washington, D.C. he also sang in the National Christian Choir. He then went to the Community Church in Hurlock, MD. Following that he became the pastor of the Linwood Brethren Church in Linwood, Maryland. He retired from that pastorate, keeping his church membership with that congregation.

Pastor Bob was elected to the Ashland University Board of Trustees in 1977 and was serving as Trustee Emeritus at the time of his death. He was also a member of the Ashland Evening Lions Club and had served as one of the chaplains.

Pastor Bob is survived by his wife, Dolores L. “Dee” Thomas, to whom he was married for over 56 years. They were married on August 5, 1953 in Johnstown, PA. He is also survived by his two sons, Tom Keplinger and Chip Keplinger

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and four grandchildren, Robert and Jeffrey, and Kristen and Lauren, all of Ashland.

The funeral service was held on Saturday November 28, 2009 at Park Street Brethren Church with Rev. David Cooksey officiating. The family suggests that memorial contributions in Bob’s memory may be made to Ashland Theological Seminary, 910 Center Street, Ashland, Ohio 44805 or to Brethren Care Village, 2000 Center Street, Ashland, Ohio 44805.

Ruby Bates Mrs. Ruby Maxine (Younce) Bates, 88, a resident of Penn Hall Menno Haven Nursing Center of Chambersburg and formerly of 124 Strickler Avenue, Waynesboro, PA entered into eternal rest at 4:25 a.m. Monday, October 19, 2009.

Born August 18, 1921 in Goshen, Indiana, she was the daughter of the late Claudius Laverne and Ida May (Hoover) Younce. She lived her early life in Goshen.

Mrs. Bates graduated from Goshen High School with the class of 1939. She then attended Ashland College in Ohio and received her certification as a piano teacher from Sherwood Music School in Chicago, Illinois.

She and her late husband, Rev. Henry G. Bates, Jr., were married January 27, 1945 in Ashland, Ohio. Rev. Bates died June 4, 1988. Mrs. Bates was a homemaker all her life, but also helped her husband in the ministry. With her husband, she was a member of Vinco Brethren Church in Vinco, PA from 1960 through 1970. She played the organ at Wayne Heights Brethren Church, while her husband pastored there from 1970 through 1988.

She is survived by the following children: Maxine G. Craver of Maurertown, VA, Nancy M. McGraw of Apollo, PA, Lillian M. (husband Kevin) Mellott of Chambersburg, PA, Mary Ellen Dulaney of Fayetteville, NC, eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Dorothy Marie Younce and a brother, Raymond Younce.

The funeral service was held on October 23 in Waynesboro, PA with her son-in-law, Pastor Richard P. Craver and Rev. Dr. Harold W. Walton officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Wayne Heights Brethren Church for missions, 120 Strickler Avenue, Waynesboro, PA 17268.

Catalyst Snapshots

Sam Shultz, pastor at First Brethren in Bryan, Ohio, posts his thoughts periodically on a blog he calls Table Talks: (http://samshultz.blogspot.com). This one provides a snapshot of his recent experience at the Catalyst Conference in Atlanta.

Sam was one of ten Brethren leaders attending this inspirational and yet practical leadership conference. Each who attended took something different away from our time there, but all would say with one voice that you should start planning now to join with others at Catalyst 2010 next October. We know God will meet you there. Enjoy the snapshots!

him. Growing in your faith can come quickly after you’ve connected with God. It doesn’t need to have years in between as many of us are accustomed to. It can (and should) happen right away. Here’s my take-away from Catalyst. Here’s what I’m wrestling with in my devotional time right now. Here’s what I’ve challenged my church to keep me accountable for. Here’s what my coach and I are working on. It’s two things:

after being penned up for too long. It has all the appearance of being in the wild, but it’s actually not. It’s protected and tame. Silly me, as an outsider, one from “the wild”, I’ve attempted to approach the church as though they have no clue what the wild is really like and so my job is to tell them about what they’re missing. Here’s where I went wrong: they have “the wild” in them, they just need help remembering what that was like — in other words, connecting with Jesus Christ. Everyone 1. Balancing time between work has “the wild” within them. I just didn’t and family. believe it until now. So I’m working with 2. Trusting people in the church. my coach to try to change this habit.

For the balance issue, I’m currently It doesn’t honor Christ and it keeps me reading Andy Stanley’s book, Choosfrom relying on him to be “the wild” ing to Cheat. It’s not about being a instead of harboring it all myself (as if bad husband, it’s about how everyI could contain it or pass it on!!!) Andy body wants everything from me and Stanley really rocked my world in the when they don’t get it, someone feels final session to cause me to make a public apology the following Sunday to my congreWhen you wake up in the morning, don’t ask, “God are you with me?” gation for not trusting them enough. It was hard, still is, … instead ask, “Where are we going today, God? I’m with you.” but we’re sorting through things together. cheated. The truth is: someone will alAtlanta, I’m working on several things ways have to get cheated, so we have I’m working on all those things, addin my life to grow closer to God. This is to choose how to cheat appropriing balance and trust to my life so that what growth is about: drawing nearer ately. It’s good so far.

God can be glorified by to God. I’m wrestling through what I do rather than foCatalyst was a incredible place it. This area in my life cusing on how I should be to connect with God. I’ve needed isn’t easy! I love both glorified in what I’m doing. that for some time. (Yes, even pastors groups passionately The illustration during crave intense worship sometimes!) The and get energized by Catalyst was great. It went worship at Catalyst was not your averbeing part of them, like this. When you wake age Sunday worship, catered to new 100% each. But lately, up in the morning, don’t Christians and mature Christians both. it’s been more like 80% ask, “God are you with It was for the mature Christians. It was church, 20% family. me?” as if what I was doing meaty, It came with assumptions; you was more important than had a strong relationship with God, you Essentially, as Rob Bell killed me by saying, I’m what he has BEEN doing for were committed to serving him, you giving my family the scraps after I’ve ages. Instead, ask, “Where are we had a good grasp of your Bible, you given all the best of me to the church. going today, God? I’m with you.” understood the Christian’s responsibility Not good. in worship, and you were at least familSee more about Catalyst on the iar with seminary language. I needed The second thing, trusting people, is next page … that too. even harder. I’ve approached existing churches like the African lion who But after connecting with God, has become accustomed to the zoo I looked for ways to grow closer to We’ve been talking about a ConnectGrow-Serve model at our church since 2006, but only recently have we really been promoting it, teaching it, and branding it.

I wanted to take a moment to share some things that have been on my mind personally as it relates back to the CGS model.

After having spent nearly a full week soaking in the Catalyst Conference in

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120 General Conference to th

Our General Conference last summer featured a shift in emphasis that will carry through and be refined in this year’s gathering and for years to come. In addition to our times of fellowship, worship, and deliberation, we will especially focus on equipping local church leadership for embracing the NEW DAY vision of transforming to a more outward-focused or “missional” way of personal and congregational living.

No one is more prepared to help us in this effort than author, consultant, and leader Reggie Mc Neal. His 2003 book The Present Future was a gift to every pastor at our 2007 General Conference. Following in the same theme is his book released just last spring, Missional Renaissance: Changing the Scorecard for the Church. This most recent of Reggie’s books has been highlighted at various district, congre-

gational, and leadership gatherings.

These books have inspired many great stories of how our leaders are beginning to embrace these principles as a return to both biblical and historic Brethren values. These books have also been the focus of personal and group study among our churches, at times also using the companion study guides and DVD sessions featuring the author.

Based on the same understandings of the role and mission of the church as put forth in Reggie’s books, the basis for congregational reporting to General Conference has been updated, and similarly at last year’s conference three congregations we awarded the first-ever NEW DAY Grants to help fund outstanding missional activities in their communities.

This year’s General Conference will be held again on the campus of Ashland University in Ashland, Ohio on July

Our Catalyst Experience Catalyst is an experience. There are great conferences out there with famous speakers, talented worship leaders, cool free stuff, engaging teachers, funny emcees, good resources, etc.

— and then there is Catalyst. To try to explain what you can experience at this conference would only take away from it. All of the elements mentioned are there, but then there is this thing that happens to you while you are sitting in the workshops, worshiping in the corporate setting, listening to the speakers, walking through the halls … trying to replay what you were just part of. You realize that you cannot go home the way you came. You are somehow changed. Your outlook on ministry, family, life, all has been challenged. You don’t want to go back the same person as you came.

The time that our Brethren Catalyst team spent outside of the walls of Catalyst was just as invigorating as the conference itself. We shared meals, conversations, even rooms together.

As we sat around the breakfast, lunch and dinner tables each day we

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Brenda Webster, College Corner (IN)

were able to digest and dissect our workshops and sessions together. We discussed how the conference was challenging us personally; and how we could take the great information home to our different church families and the larger Brethren denomination. I took many notes that I was able to share with my lead pastor.

Some of my favorite quotes that I am still wrestling with include:  God doesn’t use perfect pictures, He uses broken people.

- Reggie Joiner The church doesn’t have a mission, The Mission has a church.

- Reggie McNeal 

You can either impress people or impact people.

- Nancy Ortberg 

God cannot fill hands that are not empty.

- Chuck Swindoll 

19-22, 2010. More information including registration materials will be featured online at www.brethrenchurch.org, and in the Evangelist magazine. For now we ask Brethren everywhere to first and foremost pray that through the conference experience our vision might become more of a reality. And secondly we ask that you begin now to join your pastor in identifying local congregational leaders who will serve as delegates and participate in these days of transformational learning.

The vision of the Brethren Church is to embrace a NEW DAY of transformed leadership, resulting in transformed congregations, whose mission is the transformation of their communities in the power of the Holy Spirit. Let us plan now to join together as leaders to embrace this vision and make it a reality for our day!



Trusting is risky. Refusing to trust is riskier.

- Andy Stanley

I think the best thing said within our Brethren group was that we needed to invite more people to join us next year.

If you are a pastor, ministry leader, or even just interested in a leadership role in the church, hopefully someone has invited you to Catalyst 2010. We would love to have you! I caution you as you think about joining us: this conference is not a vacation or place that you can leave your mind behind.

Catalyst will shake you. You have to be ready for your thoughts, ideas, plans, and blueprints to all be questioned.

You have to be ready for an experience like no other. www.catalystconference.com

Feature Reggie McNeal Reggie McNeal enjoys helping people, leaders, and Christian organizations pursue more intentional lives. He currently serves as the Missional Leadership Specialist for Leadership Network of Dallas, TX. Reggie’s past experience involves over a decade as a denominational executive and leadership development coach. He also served in local congregational leadership for over twenty years, including being the founding pastor of a new church. Reggie has lectured or taught as adjunct faculty for multiple seminaries,among them Fuller Theological (Pasadena, CA) and Trinity Divinity School (Deerfield, IL). In addition, he has served as a consultant to local church, denominational, and para-church leadership teams, as well as seminar developer and presenter for thousands of church leaders across North America. He has resourced the United States Army Chief of Chaplains Office, Air Force chaplains, and the Air Force Education and Training Command. Reggie’s work also extends to the business sector, including The Gallup Organization.

Reggie has contributed to numerous denominational publications and church leadership journals, including Leadership and Net Results. His books include Revolution in Leadership; A Work of Heart: Understanding How God Shapes Spiritual Leaders; The Present Future; Practicing Greatness; and Get A Life! His latest book, Missional Renaissance: Changing the Scorecard for the Church details the three shifts that church leaders must make to engage the missional movement and offers suggestions for a different scorecard to reflect missional ministry.

Reggie and his wife Cathy, have two daughters, Jessica and Susanna, and make their home in Columbia, South Carolina.

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.

November/December 2009, Vol. 131, No. 6

The Brethren Church 524 College Ave. Ashland, OH 44805

Periodical Postage Paid at Ashland, OH 44805

Brethren Ministry

Annual Fund

Our Annual Fund exists because so many of you have a desire to support the mission and ministries of the Brethren Church above and beyond your support to your local congregation. In these financially uncertain times, this “over and above” support is so much needed to keep our vision on track.

Yes! I’d Like to Help ______________________One time Gift _________________________________ Name _________________________________ Address _________________________________ City, State, Zip _________________________________ Phone # ________________________________ Home Church Please complete the information above, detach this form, and mail it to the address below, or call the toll-freenumber. Secure contributions may also be made online through PayPal by going to www.brethrenchurch.org/contributions.

Scroll down to “Annual Fund” and follow the prompts.

Thanks for contributing to the Annual Fund.

The Brethren Church 524 College Ave. Ashland, OH 44805

1-877-289-1708

We believe that leaders make the difference in our local churches, and we further believe that the hope of each community is the church. That’s why we continue to work diligently at encouraging and equipping local church leaders, and then keep working to strengthen existing and plant new churches. We know that our world is being transformed as the church goes on mission locally and globally.

If you feel the same way, then we ask that you prayerfully consider a gift to the Annual Fund. At year’s end or at the beginning of the New Year your support means so much to us here at the Brethren Church National Office, to all of us who join together in this vision, and to a needy world. Your gifts make a difference for now and for eternity! Thank you for your gift to the Annual Fund!