The Brethren Evangelist - Fall 2014 Issue

Fall 2014

STORIES FROM OUR YOUTH CONFERENCE p8

THE BRETHEN EVANGELIST INTERVIEWS // MISSIOCHURCH PLANT p 14

GLOBAL CHURCH PLANTING OPPORTUNITY p 19

contents

“I WISH YOU HAD BEEN THERE!” How often have you heard that phrase uttered to someone else, trying to describe a memorable event? Someone said about distinct experiences, “If you haven’t experienced it, no description will suffice. If you have experienced it, no description is necessary!”

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FEATURE STORY // A. Gilmer

Such is the case with General Conference 2014. But in a greater sense, this was a truly memorable event…

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BEARDS of the BRETHREN //

For some it was the time of prayer we experienced with the “Elder Elders” laying hands on and praying for our younger and emerging leaders. What a transforming sight!

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WMS // Joan Ronk

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YOUTH STORIES // J. Howenstine, J.

It was clear that many were deeply touched as the Radial Band led in worship. Perhaps it was the deeper conversations that were experienced following these times of learning and worship.

Some were touched deeply by the teaching and presentations brought by Mike Perkinson and Jonathan Reitz. And for others it well could have been the times of prayer as they joined with others each evening to linger in prayer, asking that the Holy Spirit would engrave their hearts with the truths that had been communicated.

No doubt, this issue of the Evangelist will have a similar effect.

If you weren’t there, you might not understand. But you might!

And it will be good for all of us to rehearse these events in an attempt to understand how God is at work in the Brethren Church.

And as we do this, we can begin to make space in our lives to join in next summer as we celebrate our fellowship in Christ with the Southeastern District, hosted by our brothers and sisters at Grace Community Church.

M. Black

Showalter, B. Compton, R. See

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NEWLY ELECTED // Executive Board & Youth Advisory Committee

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EVANGELIST INTERVIEWS //

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BITS & PIECES

T. Hofecker, R. Hagopian

Let’s all plan and prepare in such a way that we won’t have to say “I wish you had been there!” Looking forward to learning and growing with you before long, Ken Hunn

stay connected Brethren@brethrenchurch.org www.brethrenchurch.org 419.289.1708 524 College Ave., Ashland, OH 44805

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The Brethren Evangelist Fall 2014

Let the Word of Christ Dwell in You Richly

SEVERAL YEARS AGO I interacted with a young man around his dining room table. The conversation led to me opening my Bible. He was aghast to see that I underlined and circled words in my Bible, and that I also used colored pencils to highlight thought patterns. I asked him why that disturbed him. His reply, “The Bible is sacred and holy so one should never mark in it.” I asked him if he had a Bible.

He said, “Yes, on the mantel.” When he went to retrieve it, he had to blow the dust off of it. This is one example of Bibliolatry, that is worshipping the Bible, but not interacting with it. We Brethren have always been people of “The Book,” and believe in the authority of Scripture, but we do not worship the Bible. Instead, we worship the Triune God whom the Bible reveals. The narrative of Scripture unfolds the unique story of the God who is both Creator and Redeemer. The Scriptures are not based on our thoughts or opinions about God. Rather the Bible is God revealing himself to us. Because of its revelation of God, the Bible is a precious treasure for us.

So how do we interact with Scripture on a daily

by Arden Gilmer

basis? Since it is foundational and formational, we need to stay current with God’s story of redemption. We do so, not to in any way change God’s narrative, but instead to bring ourselves into God’s story and to constantly and personally enter into it. Hear the apostle Paul’s counsel: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom” (Colossians 3:16). We are interacting with “the word of Christ.” This refers both to the word that reveals Christ and to the words that Christ himself spoke. Col. 1:5 identifies this “word” as the “word of truth, the gospel…” Maybe this Word of Christ could refer to “the Word who is Christ.” Jesus said, “Those who have seen me, have seen the Father,” Christ is the fullest, most complete revelation of God that we have, and this revelation is in the Bible.

Notice that Paul also wrote, “Let this word of Christ dwell in you.” This has both individual and community application. Dwell is a relational picture. Let the word of Christ take over every room, every compartment, in your life. Engaging daily with Scripture is essential to doing this. The main “hero” of God’s story, Jesus- the Son of Fall 2014 The Brethren Evangelist 3

when we read Scripture we look at the passage “as a problem to be solved or a nut to be cracked, as if God gave us a strange riddle wrapped in poetry, history, prophecy, gospel, epistle, and apocalypse that we have to answer to find out what it meant to us today” [Tony Jones. Divine Intervention, 35].

But another way to do it is to put ourselves under How can we “let” (i.e. allow) the Word of the Bible and let it enter us. Relationship with God Christ continually dwell in us? Read the Gospels! is about “heart” as well as about “head.” We may Saturate your heart with the life and words of try to dissect the Bible instead of listen to it. The Christ. Immerse yourself in Jesus. Read out loud only way to dissect something is to first kill it. We as well as silently. Read the Bible slowly, quietly certainly don’t want to deaden Scripture because and deeply. Reading the Bible is not a drive it is full of life. through at a fast food restaurant, but an elegant One way to open our hearts to the life of God banquet—a many course meal. Feed, not only as recorded in Scripture is to pray the Bible, to God, God’s anointed, the King of the Kingdom, the Redeemer and Restorer, the one who indwells us by his Spirit, is THE formative essential in our lives. How can we grow in Christ if we are not engaging daily with the Scriptures of which he is the focus? How can we grow in Christlikeness if we don’t know Christ (2 Cor. 3:17-18)?

“...the Bible is truly alive with the LIFE of God.”

take the time to meditate on it, to listen to it in silence. This can open up for us the liveliness of the Scriptures and we can discover that the Bible is truly alive with the LIFE of God. As a living book God will have new things to say to us through it The goal of any spiritual exercise is to make today. The Brethren approach Scripture humbly, room in our lives for the Holy Spirit and to create believing, yes knowing, that it still speaks Christ some space in which Jesus can live and act. This centered, life transforming truth today. certainly is true of interacting with Scripture. Often on his words but on his Spirit which he expressed through his words and actions. Sometimes we Christians express what we are convinced is our obedience to Christ, but unfortunately do it in unChristlike ways.

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The Brethren Evangelist Fall 2014

BEARDS of the

B R E TH R E N

by Matt Black

THE BEARD, a symbol of manliness.

Even more so than in the past, it seems that today’s society has embraced this trend as one that is here to stay. With social media as a driving force the beard seems to be more popular than ever before. There are websites, blogs, and more devoted to men with beards. I myself have embraced the beard as part of who I am. In fact, it is hard for me to recall the last time I did not have one, although I am sure I could find a picture on Facebook somewhere. Having a beard is something that I am very proud of.

We have come to a point in our history as Brethren where we have initiated the B4 project. What does that mean? B4 stands for “Bring Brethren Beards Back.” What is it? The B4 Project is a fundraising effort of Brethren Leadership Development, whose goal is to continue developing uniquely Brethren leaders to advance the work God is calling us to.

Cont. on pg. 6

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The fundraiser will run from September 14th, 2014 through July 7th, 2015. Men are encouraged to grow your beard. This is being done to raise funds not only to develop Brethren leaders but also for fun and to reconnect with our history. You may ask what does a beard have to do with our history as Brethren?

First, is a call to be separate from the world. Some of this comes from the vow of the Nazarite found in Numbers Chapter 6. Men or women could choose to follow this vow. There were many rules, one of which was to not have a razor touch their head. There were others as well, but for our discussion here we are focused on just one: the hair.

non-violence. It seems that there was a no-moustache rule. Now this was not followed by all, however, if you look at a lot of old photos, you will see many Brethren with no mustache and a long untrimmed beard. While you will see some Brethren with a full beard and moustache, you will not see any with a moustache only in those old photos. Why was this so?

If you look at old military photos, you will see the majority of men in the war with just a mustache. For the Brethren, to grow an untrimmed beard was an outward sign to show that they were not conforming to the standards of this world and also to oppose war. As a traditional peace church, the Brethren have a deep heritage as a

grow

BEARDS ff oo rr aa

c a u se

As Brethren who believe in “the Bible, the whole Bible, and nothing but the Bible” maybe some Brethren men took this literally. We find in the Brethren encyclopedia that “during the development of the Anabaptist movement, beards were worn by all classes of society, except the Catholic clergy.”

It was never mandatory for Brethren men to wear a beard, but it seems that the majority did so. In the 1804 Annual Meeting the decision was even made that only men with beards could be ordained and you were not to trim the beard either. Article 11 of the 1846 Annual Meeting minutes of the Church of the Brethren even discusses that the men who were ministers should have a beard. This was so that men would practice self-denial and not conform to the world’s standards. The fact that using a razor meant that you were conforming to the world’s standard of fashion seems absurd, but it was a reality for that day.

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Second, it was to promote peace and

The Brethren Evangelist Fall 2014

non-violent people. Not having a mustache like many of the military men was a way to show an outward sign

of an inward belief.

So if we men are to grow our “Brethren beards” these are the reasons why we should consider doing so. But maybe we can’t grow a beard for one reason or another. We can still consider giving to help develop and train future Brethren leaders, which is ultimately what this is all about.

I’d like to end on this note from the scriptures that I am sure those bearded forefathers who came before us took to heart: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:2).

WMS

Coach Ramsey Speaks at WMS Luncheon During General Conference

by Joan Ronk

APPROXIMATELY 100 attended the ladies luncheon to hear Coach Sue Ramsey speak enthusiastically about her journey with the Ashland University women’s basketball team. Coach Ramsey will be entering her 20th year in this position.

Her team of young Christian ladies represents Christ and Ashland University.

Two years ago the country watched this team from a small midwestern private college win the women’s national tournament in San Antonio, TX. The team returned the following year to defend their title, but lost by one point in an overtime game. The remarkable traits of the Ashland Lady Eagles are their prayers with and for one another and the team spirit of supporting, encouraging, and loving one another.

Coach Ramsey referred to Jesus and his team – 12 disciples who learned from him, followed

and practiced what he taught.

Similarly, the girls play to honor God. Their team’s practices and games begin and end with prayer.

She presented the five value posters which decorate the walls of the locker room, constantly reminding the girls: (1) Value your role, I Cor. 12:1226. We are all here for a purpose.

What if we were all an ear, or a foot or a guard or a captain?

(2) Be humble, I Peter 5:6-7.

When accomplishments and winnings come, it is hard not to be haughty, but be humble.

On the other hand, losing the national title by one point was truly a humbling experience.

(3) Embrace “we” thinking, Luke 6:38. “Great teams have great team-mates.”

(4) Maintain a positive mind set, Col. 3:2. Practice/do random acts of kindness.

(5) Be thankful, I Thes. 5:16-18.

In all things be thankful, not necessarily for all things.

Preceding Coach Ramsey’s talk, Sherry VanDuyne welcomed the ladies to the annual luncheon, promoted by the Women’s Missionary Society and enjoyed by all ladies of the conference.

Katina Eichelberger served a delicious lunch, especially suited for ladies: chicken or ham croissants, assorted salads, and a variety of fruit cobblers with ice cream.

Table decorations by Judi Gentle carried the purple and gold colors of AU: goldcolored plants, AU mugs and plates, and various AC/AU memorabilia.

Editor’s Note: In September,

Coach Ramsey announced her retirement after the upcoming 2014-2015 season.

Assistant Coach Robyn Fralick will take over as the head coach beginning in the 2015-2016 season.

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YOUTH STORIES

YOUTH MAKING CONNECTIONS

by John Howenstine Nappanee First Brethren

THE SUMMER OF 2014 has come and gone and with that so has Engage Conference “Take Hold”. This year’s theme verse was taken from Hebrews 6:17-19 “Because God wanted to make the unchanging nature of his purpose very clear to the heirs of what was promised, he confirmed it with an oath.

God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. ....” Dustin White from Radial Church, a church plant in Canton, OH, challenged us each morning to release our grip from those things in our lives that are a distraction of what God desires for us. If we have our hands firmly gripped on those things, we are not in a position to receive the gifts God has for us.

a time of worship though songs and hands-on activities that helped us to express and embrace the things God wanted to reveal to us. Having almost 200 individuals letting go of those worldly things and embracing the heart of God was very powerful.

The other thing that happened during the week was what we called Grip Groups.

During Engage Conference we always make sure that there is some time each day for each youth group to have some time together. Grip Groups were moments during the day for the students to interact with others from a mixture of youth groups on a personal and spiritual level. What was great about Grip Groups is that they were praying for each ot h e r ’s needs. Th e y we re p l a yi n g gam e s t og e t h e r.

And by the end of the week they were eating together as a group. Being in youth ministry for 20+ years this was a blessing to see. Having these students leave the comfort and safety of sticking with their own youth group and connecting with other Brethren Youth has been difficult in past years.

It’s my prayer that they are Each night The Connection still keeping in contact today that this trend of Band (a worship band from and Nappanee, IN) led us into stepping out of our comfort 8 The Brethren Evangelist Fall 2014

zones continues.

One of my students that attended Engage this summer summed up the week beautifully on a social media post: “This past week has been one of the best weeks of my life. I’ve never felt God’s presence so strongly in my life. I got to meet and connect with so many new people and I learned so many things about myself and my faith. Through the laughter, tears, worship and prayers, I’ve grown in my faith and relationship with God and I left with a feeling of refreshment and renewal.

I felt God move in so many ways this week and I’m so excited to keep the fire burning in my heart. The Connection Worship Band and Sing Love were amazing as always. Our speakers impacted me in unimaginable ways. I’m already counting down the days til next year.” Kaleigh Reed (NFBC Student) It is this kind of comment that encourages me and keeps me going in ministry and helps me realize the importance of giving students the right tools in life so they can see what else God has in store for them.

Thank you YAC, BYIC students and advisors for letting me serve you in a leadership role over the years.

YOUTH STORIES

TOOK THE LONG WAY

by Jenninfer Showalter Sarasota First Brethren OUR CONFERENCE TRIP started like any other.

We met on Saturday evening and packed the van and prayed for our trip. Grant and I slept at church while the kids stayed up most of the night. At 2:30 am the alarm went off and after a quick stop at the restroom (some zombies walked straight to the van) we were off at 3:00 am. We got about an hour down the road when Grant wondered aloud whether the van sounded loud. He was particularly concerned because the gas was low already. We stopped and got gas and calculated that we got about 6.5 miles per gallon. We normally got about 12 mpg when loaded down, so now we were sure something was wrong.

After breakfast an d ano ther tan k of gas i t w as mo r ning for t he regu l ar w o r l d , and we deci de d t o cal l o u r mechanic.

We had had the van “fixed” three times already before we left because it wasn’t starting consistently.

The first time they changed the fuel pump, and the second time they gave it a complete tune up. The third time we took it to a different mechanic and he spent a month trying to duplicate the problem enough to real l y di agnose i t . H e fix ed a probl e m t hat m a d e the v an not st ar t , bu t o bv io usly t here was s o m ething mo re wron g.

It was still a little early on a Sunday morning, but we got hold of our mechanic and he said that the only thing that it might be, related to the previous problem, was the

“chick lead” (at least that is what I thought he said, it was a bad connection) or it might be a totally different problem.

Anyway, he said to go to a NAPA certified garage and the repair would be under warranty if there was something wrong with his repair. We looked for every NAPA for the next 1000 miles, all the while thinking that every mile was costing us twice as much in gas, and the van may give up under the strain at any moment. There was no possibility of repair at NAPA (on Sunday especially, but not on Monday either unless we went far out of our way) so we called AAA to get a recommendation from them. They said the only place open on Sunday was a Pep Boys in Atlanta. Long story short, two Pep Boys and two hours later they told us it was our transmission (specifically the solenoid between 2nd and 3rd gear) and they don’t repair transmissions.

Well, now we had no choice but to make it to our destination (we were staying with a friend that night) and try to find a place to fix the van on Monday morning.

We did some research and found the AAMCO in Lebanon Tennessee had good ratings and more importantly, they

work on transmissions. It took them half the day to find out that it might not be the solenoids (they changed them anyway) and they would not be able to fix it that day. We may need a whole new transmission (to the tune of $3000) or it may be the central computer (which would not be cheap, but less than the transmission). All the while, the kids were hanging out at Dunkin Donuts watching movies and eating donuts.

So now we needed to rent a vehicle to get us where we were going. Matt (the repair guy at AAMCO) was calling around to find us something we could use.

Apparently, they don’t normally rent a 15 passenger van without a week’s notice, but somehow Matt worked it out. Also, you can never pull a trailer with a rented vehicle,

so we left the back seat of the rental van and our trailer (along with our broken down van) at the AAMCO repair shop in Lebanon Tennessee.

We filled the back of the van with luggage, then put the kids in the seats and loaded the rest of the luggage around the kids.

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YOUTH STORIES Worship Band. We also enjoyed a concert by Sing Love. I was saved on January 13, 2011, but going to ENGAGE made me feel like I have rededicated my life to him again.

Thankfully we didn’t need to stop for gas as often as before because it was a puzzle every time we had to get in and out of the van. Anyway, we made it to conference about half way through Monday evening worship, (about 6 hours later than planned). It was a great conference this year and we put the van out of our minds until it was time to hit the road for the return trip.

When we got back to our van we found out it was the central computer at a cost of about $1700. Other than the extra stress and the extra money spent, the trip turned out to be great. Some of the kids were new to this sort of traveling and some were old hands, but we had no complaining, and I think that was the best part of all our troubles.

BEST WEEK EVER

by Blair Compton Grace Community Church, Winchester, VA I am writing this article about one of the greatest experiences in my life. Engage youth conference is not only about getting closer to new people, but it’s about getting closer to God. Over the week we talked about some stories from the Bible, that all followed our theme of Taking Hold of God. Not only did we talk about God and how amazing he is and how he loves us; we worshiped him with some amazing songs lead by The Connection

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The Brethren Evangelist Fall 2014

There were so many emotional moments that were just so beautiful. I also made a lot of great new friends from all over the USA and Canada that were so sweet and loving. One of the things we did everyday was attending Grip Groups, where we met up with people in our groups about the message for the day. I was part of the Grip Group, The Monkey Fists. Every evening we gathered as a youth groups after worship and talked about the message we had heard and how we relate it with our own personal experiences to understand the message better. We then split into a smaller group and talked about the message. The people in my small group were Lilah, Hanna, Kristen, and one of our leaders, Evelyn.

Conference meant a lot to me because before I attended this year, I wasn’t as close to God as I used to be. I had outgrown the group I was part of, so my friend Lilah invited me to Grace Community Church. That is when I learned about ENGAGE and decided to go. I had the best week ever!

Not only did we learn more about God and grew closer to him, we also had a lot of time to make friends, play fun games, talk to people and laugh. We played a lot of games like gaga ball and man hunt. Some things we brought home with us were our purple bracelet, which we got as part of our grip group to remind us we are all a family in faith. We also got a rope bracelets for reminding us there are things that are in our way of getting closer to God and we need to let those things go. Another thing we made was our little sign with an anchor on it to go with Take Hold, our theme for the week. We wrote our theme verse on it. “We have this hope as an anchor for your soul” Hebrews 6:19.

We went to the top of the mountain where we heard our messages and worshiped around the campfire and had tons of fun. Conference is one thing in my life that I will never forget; I can’t wait to go next summer!

CLOSE TO GOD

YOUTH STORIES

was even better and I cried even more when the speakers talked to us. Their words just connected so much. We were with our church and with friends from other churches and we WHERE DO I EVEN START had our arms around each other, praying about conference? for every burden we ever had and ever will First I just want to have. say that this year’s One night when we were walking to the conference was the evening service I was talking to my best best experience of my friend. I told her that I felt like I didn’t fit in entire life and I can’t wait until next year! anywhere else but here. We talked for a long I’ll tell you what was awesome about the time about it. And when the praise band whole experience. Just to clarify, my writing came in we sang a song. Then the guy who can’t even do justice for how good the was the preacher there, Nate Bebout, walked experience really was because words can’t out on the stage during the second song.

He talked about exactly what I had shared begin to explain what it meant to me. with my friend! He said no matter what, you First I want to say it was a fifteen hour are wanted at the end. During that moment drive to the college where we were staying! I cried the most I have ever cried — EVER. But when we got there it was great. We But my best friend was there for me and we had to get our room keys, food cards, and stood there for 20 to 30 minutes afterward schedules then drive over to our rooms to and we hugged and talked to each other to get situated and unpack. While on our way ensure things would be okay. That is a true to the rooms the U-Haul detached from the best friend. back of the van but thankfully no one and nothing was hurt. After we finally got to our When I was at Conference, I felt the best rooms and unpacked it was very late so we I have ever felt. I felt so close to God. I felt like he was with me every night when went to bed.

I was singing and throughout the services.

The next morning, we awoke around six. The people at conference made me feel the This was very early for us, but it was all good most wanted I’ve ever felt and I hope I can because we had a heavy schedule for the continue to attend for many years to come. day. We ate breakfast and then enjoyed a bit of free time. On our third day there, The theme of Conference was to take a security guard woke me up because he hold of God and what he wants for you. The thought I may have passed out under a tree, main verse was Hebrews 6:19 “We have this but I was actually just tired and I had fallen hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” I learned that God wants us to let asleep! go of the things that are holding us back When we went to the morning and evening from the fullness of his glory. services I could really feel the presence of God! This was especially true during the When we had to go home there were so evening service where we would always many friendships that we made that will last start off singing contemporary Christian a lifetime. The sad part was when we had music. When we would sing I found myself to say our goodbyes and got in the van to just breaking down in tears because of all go home. But I have made so many friends the things that I’ve done and because of all that I will always remember and I will look the things that have happened to me. It all forward to seeing them next year. just kept flowing back to me. The service

by Ryan See Grace Community Church, Winchester, VA

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The Brethren Evangelist Fall 2014

NEWLY ELECTED

Newly Elected Executive Board Members

the Hagerstown First Brethren Church in western Maryland.

He made a personal profession Josh Coffee of faith in Jesus in 1956 and was is currently baptized in the Hagerstown leading Mission church. After graduating from Church in Ashland College, he married Columbus,OH his wife Linda an d they now as a missionary live in Ashland, OH and serve from Gretna as deacons at Park Street Brethren Church.

B r e t h r e n Church.

This After beginning a career as an work involves discipling two Industrial Engineer in basic steel young men who are currently and mobile home manufacturer, living with him and involving he obtained a license and served himself in the lives of his as a Health Care Administrator in neighbors and community. nursing homes for over 39 years During the day he works at until his retirement in 2011. He Abbott Nutrition as a project and Linda relocated to Ashland supervisor for new packaging when she opened The Georgia materials. On weekends he Belle Inn where he serves as the occasionally fills pulpits or maintenance man. They have leads worship in churches while four grown children and ten challenging people to live into grandchildren. the fullness of God’s calling for them.

Newly Elected Youth Advisor Committee Members

Josh enjoys board games, theology, and Star Wars. He is a student at Ashland Theological Seminary working on his Luke Dowdy Master of Arts degree and is a fullhopes to one day complete a time Youth PHD in Theology. He has been and Worship a part of The Brethren Church Pastor at the for 13 years now, being a part Berlin Brethren of Smithville Brethren Church, Church and Garber Brethren Church, his wife, Gretna Brethren Church, and Amanda, works now Mission Church. alongside him as a volunteer youth worker and full-time Gene Geaslen s h e n a n n i g a n - m e d i a t o r . has been a They have been serving in part of the Berlin since 2010. They have B r e t h r e n two children, Isaac (4) and church since Hadassah (2) who love life and he was a the outdoors. Luke also houses young child two hermit crabs, Hermie (age a t t e n d i n g unknown) and Cinderellie (age

unknown).

Luke is a lifelong Pittsburgh Pirates fan, outdoorsman, avid board game junkie, and movie critic. He has recently been enamored with the idea of eating strictly local as a sustainable way of living. Most of all, Luke’s passion is to see students live as difference makers for Jesus. The world is crowded with people who live with no purpose—but difference makers can provide the change the world needs to see, experience, and live.

Winter Lawson has served as a volunteer in youth ministry at College C o r n e r B r e t h r e n Church for the past 8 years and is currently the Jr/ Sr High Youth Leader. Her and her husband, Jesse, have been married for 14 years and have two awesome children, Brandon-10 and Rachel-6.

Her passions in life are spending time with family, photography (recently moving it from a career back to a hobby to have more time for family and ministry), scrapbooking, and chocolate! She is most passionate about helping others deepen their relationship with Jesus, to help them experience that "aha moment" of their true dependency on our Lord and Savior.

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interviews

Smoky Row & Agora Church

THE FOLLOWING INFORMAL QUESTIONS and answers will help you to understand the unique blessings that happen when established churches support so-called “daughter churches” as they expand the gospel witness through new church planting. Pastor Rich Hagopian is an Ashland Theological Seminary graduate and is currently enrolled in the Doctor of Ministry program there. He has been the Pastor of Smoky Row Brethren Church in the northern suburbs of Columbus, Ohio for eight years and serves on the Ohio District Board of Oversight. Dr. Terry Hofecker is the Ohio Regional Coordinator for MissioChurch, the Brethren Church’s North American church planting arm, and, in that role, is starting Agora Church, a new Brethren congregation at the northwest edge of the Columbus metro area.

As a mother church/daughter church team, Smoky Row and Agora, led by Rich and Terry, are clearly enjoying a fruitful Kingdom partnership as revealed in their responses that follow.

How did you two get connected?

RICH: I have no recollection of how we met.

Isn’t that funny? Maybe at General Conference, or something? Through Bill Ludwig? I can’t remember when we met.

TERRY: I am like Rich—I can’t recall when we first met. But I can remember when my wife Debbie and I got connected to the Hagopians and their ministry. After we took our role as Ohio Regional Movement Coordinator for the Brethren, we were blessed to begin attending Smoky Row Brethren Church where Rich is Pastor. One of our earliest times there in January 2012, Rich did his annual vision-casting message. In the message he described his vision and passion for Smoky Row’s outreach to the “suburban poor”—a growing segment of society in our country.

It engaged me, 14

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but it absolutely captivated my wife, whom I originally met doing ministry to the urban disadvantaged. I like to say, “Rich had her at ‘suburban poor’”—which is an allusion to the movie Jerry Maguire.

Everything we have experienced since has confirmed our first impression of a pastoral leader sold out to ministry to the “least of these” as Jesus desires. We feel so privileged to receive his leadership and pastoral care.

How did Smoky Row come to be the mother church of Agora Church?

RICH: Like all the best “Brethren” things, the process by which Smoky Row came to be Agora’s mother church was totally relational.

As our friendship (Terry & Rich’s) grew, and Terry gave voice to the hopes for Agora and its place in not only central Ohio but also

the Ohio District, it became clear that our What does it mean for Agora Church to have congregations (established and budding) Smoky Row as a mother church? could really benefit from each other in many RICH: In many ways we’re still discovering the ways. answer to this! Just like any foster parent– Rich shared Agora’s amazing story with Smoky foster child relationship can take a while to Row’s Governance Team, along with Terry’s become an intimate, trusting, and redemptive vision for what Agora was becoming and his one, Smoky Row and Agora’s relationship is great desire for organic Brethren connection, definitely growing all the time. and we were all clear that we wanted to be a And it’s tricky to play together well with others. part of what God was doing there.

Often one or the other of us will think, “Oh, Out of a number of conversations, the metaphor we should have invited them to be with us!” of “adoption” came up and we realized it fit or “Why didn’t we do this or that together?” perfectly: So, Smoky Row adopted Agora, and But we’re learning all the time how to do this we’re enjoying the journey God has us both well. on together!

As we learn how to live with each other in TERRY: Agora Church began as a project mind, Smoky Row tries to support Terry in his that became a passion. Since we are a important MissioChurch work and with prayer church-planting movement on the rise, and some funding. We offer space to a group MissioChurch Regional Coordinators all of folks in Agora’s orbit every Sunday night. need to be “player coaches”—engaged in (One of our Governance Team members has church planting at the church plant or mother been blessed to be a part of that group!) And church level. I have always believed that Rich and Terry meet regularly and make sure we new churches should always have “mother update our congregations and congregational churches”—a sponsoring congregation that leadership as to what’s going on, what needs can nurture them and keep them connected and challenges there are, etc. to the broader movement. It also supplies a shield of pastoral support and spiritual TERRY: Being a new congregation is scary for the people and the planters. Having a protection for the church planters. solid and motivated mother congregation is Since Debbie and I had briefly been very reassuring all around. We have even organically connected to Smoky Row, we had people drive over to Smoky Row and secretly hoped they would want to adopt us. drive through their parking lot to assure I have always believed that the best ministry themselves that we are part of a real family takes place in small, dynamic congregations of churches! Smoky Row provides facilities and not big ones. In my opinion, Smoky Row for some of our activities, funding for some Brethren Church is a great example of that of our missions outreaches, a model for our kind of model. Recently, when Rich and I did vision and ministry and many, many more a pulpit exchange, it was like coming home. practical helps. They pray for us regularly If anyone is good at being a good mother and allow Rich to care for and pastor us as a congregation, surely Brethren churches church planting couple. Like any challenging should be the best. Smoky Row certainly is. endeavor, church planting is safer and easier when you don’t have to go it alone.

Fall 2014 The Brethren Evangelist

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EVANGELIST INTERVIEWS What has it meant to Smoky Row to have I suspect that many of their friends would say Agora as a daughter congregation? this about the Hagopians. Beside friendship, however, Rich really is a great pastor to us— RICH: It’s been an encouragement in so many especially to me. In pastoral confidence I ways! As Smoky Row gets updates from Agora, can sit down with him and relate my fears, it’s like a little homecoming— the ways God struggles, confusion and challenges. I often is blessing and building their congregation walk away from one of our meetings feeling a are personal, and we find ourselves “rejoicing little guilty that I always take more than I give. as they rejoice.” (And there’s been a lot to rejoice about!)

I think the best friendships involve people who are a lot alike but very different. I think Rich Beyond this, those of us who have been able to interact more closely— during a small group, say, or when swapping preachers for a Sunday morning— these things end up really blessing us, collectively and personally.

So it is just really good, and getting better.

Like any parent, we’re proud, encouraged, and challenged by our “child’s” faithfulness and discovery.

TERRY: I think we could get into a friendly debate over who benefits more. I think it is safe to say that it is a mutual blessing when it is done well.

How would you characterize your personal relationship?

RICH: We have a great relationship: I trust Terry deeply, and not only find his insight and dynamism challenging, but his conversation refreshing. Terry models what it means to be a caring, involved pastor while keeping healthy boundaries and protecting his family life and personal health. Our time together goes by too quickly...but it always ends knowing that there’ll be more soon, even though we can both have pretty full calendars. Terry’s a gift.

(Our commitment to the Brethren Church, its related institutions, greater Columbus, and each other help make things easy, of course.)

and I are like that. He is a true peacemaker and I still spend a lot of time hanging around military and intelligence folks. He is young and I am not so young anymore. He is good looking—wait, we are both alike there! And we also share a love for good scholarship in all areas and a Kingdom perspective on what kinds of things truly matter. We love our Brethren heritage and have a shared passion for existing churches becoming more effective and new churches being started. And we love the Lord and our families dearly.

What dreams do you have for the partnership between your two congregations?

RICH: Oh, man: Don’t get me started. I hope that in the coming months and years we’ll continue to figure out ways to gather our TERRY: I have come to treasure Rich and Carolyn congregations together for faith-building as friends. Since so much of our bandwidth fellowship and Spirit-directed ministryhas been eaten up with Agora Church and our whether that’s a fellowship potluck, shared MissioChurch duties, they have been better worship services, celebrating milestones friends to us than we have to them. Although, 16

The Brethren Evangelist Fall 2014

in the life of Agora and Smoky Row, or just Also: Risk away. What have we got to lose in working alongside each other as we serve our trying to partner together well? Smoky Row has a long way to go to figure out how to become neighbors and neighborhood. aware of and help meet Agora’s needs in an Beyond this, I see Smoky Row and Agora excellent, strategic, and caring way. But we joining together to equip and nurture church only lose out on a greater realization of God’s plants around greater Columbus (in particular) providence and faithfulness if we decide we’re and intentionally inviting each other into the not “ready” for something like this. Trusting significant community engagement we do.

God—both as a pastor and as a Christian— Finally, it’s no small thing to remember that means trying things out now and then. you’re not alone. Having our congregational centers so close to each other physically enables us to keep in mind that there’s someone in our corner, and they aren’t far away if we need them.

There are other things, of course: Make sure leaders regularly meet. Try to figure out areas of ministry or physical overlap that can act to support your growing relationship. Put your money where your hopes are. Give each TERRY: I can’t say it any better than Rich— other plenty of stage (and prayer) time. Reject local connection and support with regional, insecurity in the process. even global impact. But, don’t be confused— But mostly, keep up goodwill and purse Smoky Row is one of the most missional the others’ good, and then watch how God congregation I know. They support more surprises both groups. incarnational ministries, especially locally, than most mega churches I have ever seen. TERRY: From Rich’s answers you can see that, Even though I don’t spend much time at the at its best, this kind of relationship is about SRBC facility, numerous times I have seen family, not functionality. The most important neighborhood people—of all religions— things that we get from our mother church stop by for anything from a drink of water to could come from a church of 15 people as emotional support in a crisis. In this way, I easily as they do from a church of 150 people. think Smoky Row will always be an example They love us and care about our health and ministry fruitfulness. They pray for us. These for us leading us into greater service. simple but special gifts are what any church What advice do you have for other Brethren should be able to give. Receiving them is Churches as they contemplate relationships spiritually empowering in a deep and personal like this? way. I would say that congregations who RICH: Go slow. Being in a relationship that is consider this should look to their hearts and mutually life-giving, nurturing of both group’s not their budgets because the real “maternal” particular vision and calling, and just generally support that makes a difference will come close takes an enormous amount of time. from there. My advice is to embrace it and Christians are sand-box people, even when not talk yourself out of being a mother church we’re “siblings” like we Brethren are: it takes to a church plant who needs it. You already a lot of work to leave your sandbox and go have what it takes. play in someone else’s, and then not quickly feel insecure or proud over where and how you play. Smoky Row and Agora are trying to play together well, and honestly, it’s pretty sweet.

Fall 2014 The Brethren Evangelist

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BITS & PIECES

in MEMORY 1918- 2014

REVEREND WILLIAM (BILL) HOFF KERNER of Ashland, Ohio passed away on Sunday September 14, 2014. Bill was known for his years of service to the Brethren Church. He was born on March 11, 1918 in Holmesburg, PA, a suburb of Philadelphia, to Frank and Maud Kerner.

After leaving the Army in 1945, Bill married Gertrude (Trudy) Boardman in 1947, and they were married for 67 years. Bill and Trudy moved to Mansfield, OH later that year, where Bill worked for Fort’s Auto Electric.

In 1968, Bill felt the call to Christian ministry and left Fort’s to attend Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, OH. In addition to his studies, Bill pastored Little Washington Church in Little Washington, OH from

1968 to 1971. Upon earning a Master of Divinity degree in 1971, Bill was ordained in the Brethren Church and was called to pastor the First Brethren Church in Roann, IN. From 1978 to 1981, Bill pastored Meadowcrest Brethren Church in Fort Wayne, IN. In 1981, Bill was named Director of Pastoral Ministries for the Brethren Church, and he and Trudy relocated to Ashland, OH. Bill subsequently served as Director of Home Missions for the Missionary Board of the Brethren Church until his retirement at age 70.

Bill’s surviving family includes his wife, Gertrude Kerner, of Ashland, daughter Charlotte (Edward) Chow of Leesburg, VA; daughter Virginia (Elmar) Goble of Batavia, OH; son William (Janet) Kerner Jr. of Overland Park, KS; and son David (Diane) Kerner of Beverly Hills, CA.

ELDEST BRETHREN ELDER GIVEN CERTFICATE Executive Director Ken Hunn recently sent a certificate to retired Brethren pastor Reverend G. Bright Hanna. He was recognized at Corinth Brethren Church during a celebration service on Sunday, September 21, 2014. Hanna had served as pastor at Corinth from 1959 to 1972. He resides in the Twelve Mile, IN area and currently attends Mexico Brethren Church.

On Sept 3, 2014 G. Bright Hanna turned 98 and is the oldest surviving Brethren Elder. In a previous issue of The Brethren Evangelist we had incorrectly stated Rev. Wayne Swihart was the oldest elder. G. Bright is 2 years older than Wayne at the time of Rev. Swihart’s passing.

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The Brethren Evangelist Fall 2014

Pastor Ben Pippen of Corinth Brethren Church stands with Rev. G. Bright Hanna and his daughter, Mary Champ with his certificate.

LATE THIS SUMMER we introduced a campaign to raise funds for a new Global Church Planting effort. The MissioChurch team of the Brethren Church decided to cross borders and collaborate in this effort to assist church planting both here in the United States and around the world. We believe that nothing communicates real connection and authenticity in a community like new churches that live, thrive and grow within communities. We don’t mean a temporary outside source that comes and goes with the tide, but one that is true and steady like the reef.

Our goal is to raise $100,000 over the next few months through donations and pledges. These funds will resource at least two new church plant startup grants in the United States as well as fund new endeavors for our Global Partners. This will apply to

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There are ways that you can DONATE.

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current partners looking to expand into new communities which may have never been possible before. It will also provide support for new works like the Godoy family who are members of the North Manchester Brethren Church. The Godoy’s are currently preparing for deployment and ministry in Chile. They are one of several families who are already leaning into our new Global Partners paradigm.

We are seeking for all of our churches to participate in this quest that will stretch us and take the Brethren to new frontiers and across borders we may never have imagined.

We ask you to prayerfully consider how you might partner with us on this grand adventure.

We know God is going to do great things in your local church, community and with your participation, in other countries around the world. You can help make this happen.

Visit our secure, online donation site at:

www.brethrenchurch.org/ contributions and click the

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Global Church Planting link and donate any amount.

Fill out the pledge card and mail it back to us with your donation or pledge for any amount.

Thank you for your partnership in growing churches that will impact lives in our country and around the world.

My Pledge/Faith Promise for GLOBAL CHURCH PLANTING I am trusting God to enable me to: Pray daily for GLOBAL CHURCH PLANTING

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The Brethren Evangelist (SSN 0747-4288) is published quarterly by The Brethren Church, Inc., 524 College Ave., Ashland, OH 44805-3792 (telephone: 419-289-1708; email: brethren@brethrenchurch.org; fax: 419-281-0450. Authors’ views are not necessarily those of The Brethren Church.

Subscription rates: Sent free to Brethren Church members; $15.00 per year to others. Member, Evangelical Press Association. Postage: Paid at Ashland, Ohio or additional mailing office at Mansfield, Ohio.

Postmaster: Send address changes to The Brethren Church, 524 College Ave., Ashland, OH 44805-3792.

Fall 2014, Vol. 136, No. 3

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This will save us much-needed funds for ministry.

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