Evangelist THE BRETHREN
DEDICATED TO ADVANCING THE LIFE AND MINISTRIES OF THE BRETHREN CHURCH
Vol 130, No. 3 May/June 2008
A NEW DAY in The Brethren Church In this issue …
Counting the Cost General Conference Details
Looking Ahead
Preparing for General Conference As we celebrate three hundred years, we stand today in need of a renewed message and a revived and transformed people .…
In this Looking Ahead, it’s quite difficult as I write to look too far ahead. For sure the deadlines and details of our upcoming celebration of 300 years of the Brethren movement at the General Conference in Richmond, Virginia are looming before us. However there remains so much to be done today and tomorrow and this week and next, that it’s difficult to lift our eyes too far down the road. We’ve been working diligently on the logistics of travel and accommodations for almost fifty of our international leaders from twelve different countries outside the U.S. who will be joining us for this experience. For a variety of reasons they don’t all arrive at the same time, and many of them have varied itineraries due to family here in the States, and churches that have a special relationship and have requested a visit while they’re here. It’s a daunting task. And then of course there is the preparation for all of you, our United States delegates, as we move closer to July 12-16. The preparation of reports and other printed material, registrations, credentials, fees, and activities, and meetings and many other aspects of our work for you and our collaboration with our cousins in the Church of the Brethren has all kept us focused in preparation.
“Lord, help me to be open.” This year’s General Conference will be different. Different location, different schedule, different guests, different partners, different participants. Different is not necessarily bad. God often speaks to us in the challengingly different episodes in life more clearly and dramatically than in sameness. “Lord, help me to watch.” In this year of change, we will undoubtedly have many opportunities to do good, to bless, to encourage. So often we approach our family time from the perspective of what we will get. This is a chance to give of our time, our attention, and our godly affection to many who could be changed by this encounter. Watch for the Holy Spirit to open new doors to you in this opportunity before us. “Lord, help me to listen.” May we all be like little Samuel, who even in his sleepy recline was able to clearly hear God’s voice, answer, and obey. Samuel’s message changed his generation. As we celebrate three hundred years, we stand today in need of a renewed message and a revived and transformed people who will carry forth the story of Jesus in this generation. How might the Lord speak to us at this historic gathering? We have much to do before July 12.
And then there are other preparations. Wouldn’t it be sad if we focused only on those administrative aspects of our work to the neglect of the more important inward preparation that is necessary? Every individual called to preach the gospel realizes the importance of study and writing as preparation. But woe unto the preacher who fails to prepare their heart! To be sure, this form of preparation is the work of the Holy Spirit. However we must do our part in cooperating with the Spirit in ways that allow him to transform us. Let me suggest a three-part prayer that would invite the Holy Spirit to use our Richmond experience to prepare us for the next three hundred years:
On the cover … the stained glass window from the front of the Ronk Chapel on the Ashland Theological Seminary campus
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Thoughts from Executive Director Ken Hunn
Counting the Cost
by Dr. Peter Roussakis Pastor, First Brethren Church Burlington, Indiana
For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost …
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n 1720 the first Brethren hymnal, Geistreiches Gesang-Buch (Spiritual Song Book), was published at Berleberg, near Schwarzenau, Germany, the town of our Brethren origins. Included in the hymnal were many hymns written by Brethren who had been imprisoned. Some of the 295 hymns were devoted to the distinctive Brethren practices, such as the three-fold Love Feast, feetwashing, and trine immersion baptism. Of particular interest is the inclusion of a hymn text, “Count Well the Cost,” composed by Brethren ‘founder’ Alexander Mack, Sr. (1679-1735), and based on the thoughts of Luke 14:25-33. As given in verses 28-30 in the NKJV, Jesus said: For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it; lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’ And verse 33 concludes: So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be my disciple. Alexander Mack extracted and wedded the ideas of counting the cost and denying self when deciding to be a disciple of Christ (that decision being portrayed as laying the foundation of one’s faith and discipleship), and formulated the first of the thirteen stanzas of his hymn text. As translated by Rev. Ora W. Garber (1903-1981), noted Church of the Brethren pastor who served for many years as the literary editor and book editor for the COB, stanza one of Mack’s hymn reads:
Creek, not far from the location of the present Germantown [meetinghouse] and cemetery. When the party reached the banks of the creek, the group knelt and there offered a fervent prayer to the throne of grace. The Luke 14 passage, which speaks of counting the cost [of Christian discipleship], was read. There To be sure, as it was a risk in Jesus’ was also the singing of the baptismal day to be one of his disciples, it was hymn composed by Alexander Mack also a risk in 1708, for in the Germanic …” 2 Reading the Luke citation and singprovinces it was illegal to baptize by immersion and to be a member of a church other than one of the three state-approved churches (the Catholic, the Lutheran, or the Reformed). Violators, if caught, would be imprisoned. And if not Schwarzenau, Germany: The prince’s castle is to the imprisoned, then right; Alexander Mack’s house in the trees on the left. warned, ridiculed, perhaps avoided. When deciding to ing Mack’s hymn became a tradition at become a Christian, one must truly Brethren baptisms for many years. weigh the cost, the possible societal Deciding to be a disciple of Jesus is consequences of one’s decision. serious business, as the Luke passage After the early Brethren in America emphasizes. Declaring one’s faith in finally began meeting for worship, as Christ, followed by deciding to follow him they did in the autumn of 1722, and then in one’s living, is a matter of serious proon Christmas Day 1723 baptized six portions. Of course, the test of genuinenew converts, Mack’s hymn was a part ness of the declaration, the professing of of the ritual. Headed by Peter Becker, one’s faith in Jesus, is the manifestation an early Brethren convert in Germany of one’s confession of faith. Jesus made who led the first migration of Brethren to it clear that one is not truly a Christian America in 1719, and who was selected disciple unless one’s profession of faith by the Brethren in Germantown to be is accompanied by one’s performance their pastor, the Brethren and the six to of faith. Inner conviction without outer be baptized “journeyed to the Wissahikon expression is non-faith. Christ Jesus says, “Count well the cost When you lay the foundation.” Are you resolved, though all seem lost, To risk your reputation, Your self, your wealth, for Christ the Lord As you now give your solemn word?1
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We may ask: What does it take to be a disciple of Jesus? Our Lord said: … any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple (v. 33). How may we understand this? A disciple is one who is willing to say no to himself and yes to Jesus. The disciple is willing to say no to the natural love of ease and comfort and is willing to relinquish self-seeking and self-will, and replace it with devotion to Christ, concern for others, and otherwise doing the will of God. Deny oneself ease and pleasures? This is hardly the way of many in the world today. After all, in this country in particular, we are a people striving to acquire as fine a quality of life, liberty and happiness as possible. We seem to place high value on wealth and acquiring things. Many think happiness is achieved if families have a big house, several cars, a boat, a dog and a cat, an LCD TV and DVD player, a stereo system, swimming pool, and (as the commercial says) debt up to their eyeballs. Are any of these things wrong in and of themselves? Probably not. However, if one were to ask himself, how much of his resources are spent on pleasure for him and how much is devoted to the work of God and helping others, could he say he was denying himself? Denying oneself can also mean saying no to the instincts and desires which prompt us to touch and taste and handle forbidden things. Many people are attracted to pleasure-seeing avenues without regard to their own physical or spiritual well-being: as in living together before marriage, drugs, alcohol, etc., all of which really lead to sadness for individuals and for those around them. The only way a person can truly be on the right track of fulfilling the requirements of a God-directed life, the only way anyone can begin to live the life of a disciple of Jesus, and have an impact in the world, leading others to God, is by first denying himself some of the pleasures which the world values. Jesus expects disciples to be disciplined, reserved and restrained in the areas of acquisitions and conduct. Other aspects of being a disciple are expressed by Jesus in a way which seems harsh. Verses 26-27 say: If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters, yes even his
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own life, cannot be my disciple. What Jesus was saying was this: a person desiring to be a disciple “must be ready for a loyalty test which would sacrifice the dearest things in life, if need be, for suffering which may be like the agony of a man upon a cross.”3 In these verses, however, we need not take our Lord’s words with a cold literalness. “[Near] Eastern language is always as vivid as the human mind can make it. When Jesus tells us to hate our nearest and dearest, he does not mean that literally. He means that no love in life can compare with the love we must [have for] him.” 4 And what does it mean to take up one’s cross? In New Testament days, martyrdom was understood as a possible consequence of being a follower of Jesus. Crucifixion was the penalty for being a criminal. Associating with radi-
cals was viewed as a crime; and Jesus was viewed as a radical, a threat to the state. “To take up one’s cross” meant a person was willing to be regarded as a criminal and willing to die for their beliefs and associations. This is certainly a radical discipleship to which Jesus called his followers. “To take up one’s cross” meant to be willing to suffer for the sake of the good, the right, all that God desires and intends for human beings. Another way Jesus described the followship aspect of being a disciple is given in verses 28-29: Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it? For if he lays the foundation [that is, if he makes a profession of faith in Christ as Savior and Lord], and is not able to finish it [that is, if he doesn’t follow
through and grow spiritually inwardly and outwardly through service], everyone who sees it [that is, everyone who observes he made a profession of faith, but had no performance of his faith], will ridicule him, saying, ‘This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.’ The tower given in Jesus’ illustration, as Barclay comments, “which the man was going to build was probably a vineyard tower. Vineyards were often equipped with towers from which watch was kept against thieves who might steal the harvest. An unfinished building is always a humiliating thing.” 5 In the same way, Jesus was teaching that starting on the faith road, but not continuing on it and doing and striving to complete the task of followship makes no sense. In this adulterous and sinful generation, Christians are called to live lives of faithful discipleship; to stand up for Christ-like principles and values. We are called to back up our profession of faith with unselfish performance of faith, deeds of love and mercy, with lifestyles which are self-sacrificing, genuine, and modest. In this same vein, the early Brethren emphasized the “necessity of doing, as well as the necessity of saying.” 6 So, counting the cost of Christian discipleship remains today, as it did for the early Brethren and for all believers in Christ from the early days of the Church, a matter for serious consideration. Would you call yourself a disciple of Jesus? There are many who might rightfully call themselves followers of Jesus, yet who have not expended much effort in doing the things disciples do. We’re called to evaluate our own lives, and perhaps to identify ways we may exemplify in greater measure true Christian discipleship, even if it might mean a cost to us in some way. Have you counted the cost? Are you performing your faith? I invite you to sing this adapted version of the Alexander Mack hymn, reworked and set to a familiar tune specifically for the 300th Anniversary proceedings in Richmond, Virginia this year in July. References: 1 The full text of the translated hymn is given in William R. Eberly, ed. The Complete Writings of Alexander Mack (Winona Lake, IN: BMH Books, 1991) 107-109. 2 Homer Kent, Sr., A History of the Brethren Church (Winona Lake, IN: BMH Books, 1958), 44. 3 William Barclay, The Gospel of Luke, rev. ed. (Philadelphia: The Westminster Press, 1975), 196. 4 Ibid. 5 Ibid., 197. 6 Carl F. Bowman, Brethren Society: The Cultural Transformation of a “Peculiar People” (Baltimore, MD: The Johns Hopkins University Press, 1995), 77.
The picture at the top of page 3 is a section of one of twelve wall panels depicting Brethren history at Camp Alexander Mack in Milford, Indiana. This scene depicts the first baptisms in 1708. Alexander Mack has already been baptized and is baptizing seven others. Above and to the right of the baptismal scene is a cloud that represents persecution. In it a judge may be seen giving a sentence of imprisonment for those who have left the state church to join the new one.
Update:
Missionary Travel to General Conference
E S EA Thanks to the L many supporters, Growth Partners, P and churches adopting families, E thus far we have ! raised V I $43,789.11. This brings us just past the halfwayY point. Praise L G the Lord! S U O Please continue to pray for their financial support and for Rare going through the U.S. the International Leaders E who N visa application process GE now and are waiting approval for U.S. tourist visas.
To bring 12 countries (47 people) to Richmond, VA it will cost approximately $80,000. (This includes travel to the U.S.A., and food and lodging while in Richmond only.)
Missionary expenses include: Hotel in Richmond - 6 nights @ $140.00 per night
= $ 840.00
Food Costs - PER PERSON - 6 days @ $30.00 per day = $ 180.00 Misc. Expenses Approximately
= $ 100.00
Flight to the U.S.A. - PER PERSON - depending on distance of travel = $ 500.00 - $ 2,800.00 APPROXIMATE TOTAL For family of two = $2,300.00 - $6,900.00 Plus each individual will need extra: lodging, food, and travel expenses while visiting our churches here in the U.S.A.
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General Conference Details WORKSHOPS
Sunday afternoon 2:00 - 4:30 Short-term missions trip planning
What’s a pastor to do?
Frustrated with unrealistic expectations of being a pastor? Not sure where to turn? Find out the role of a pastor. This workshop will be a good resource for both pastor and congregation members as we take a look at what the Bible calls a pastor to do.
Natural Church Development Natural Church Development is an assessment tool that measures the eight characteristics of a healthy church. This workshop will introduce the eight characteristics, show you where some of our Brethren churches measure, and learn how you can bring this assessment tool home to your own church.
U.S. and International Council Orientation What does it mean to be on the U.S. or International Council? What does that group do? How often do they meet? What roles do they play in our ministry? As the Brethren Church enters a new day of ministry, the roles of both the U.S. and International Council will be redefined to become more effective and more efficient in the ministries to which they have been assigned. Come find our more about these changes and what it means for you.
Will our children be stewards? Come challenge yourself — pastors, lay leaders, and congregations — to take a serious look at the issues of consumerism and materialism that are being forced upon our youth today. What are the messages that our culture is sending our kids, and what are the countercultural responses that the church can offer? How do we begin to build in our homes and our churches a spirit of generosity and giving back, while living within our means?
Church Planting A team has been assembled to reignite a focus on church planting in the Brethren Church. Come find out what this team has been working on, the plans they’ve made and how you can get involved as an individual, church or district.
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Is your church still talking about a short-term missions trip, but doesn’t know where to start? This workshop will walk you through the planning process of a short-term mission trip. You will have an opportunity to meet others who have planned mission trips to various locations.
National Office — ask us anything! This workshop is an opportunity to sit with staff from the Brethren Church National Office and ask questions that are important to you! Questions on finances, missionary relationships, future church plants, etc. If you want to know, all you have to do is ask.
International Leadership Panel
Ever want to ask some of International Leaders a specific question? Here is your chance! We will be assembling a panel of leaders to answer your questions. From what their favorite hobbies are to how they make the gospel real in their home countries.
Other Points of Information All-Conference Choir A combined choir of Brethren Church/Church of the Brethren singers will be presenting special numbers during two of the combined Conference services. Rehearsals will be held during Conference week. For a list of songs and a registration form go to: http://brethrenchurch.org/ events/2008-general-conference/conference-choir.
Bus Transportation A free shuttle bus will be available to all of the hotels listed on the Brethren Church room block. If you are in need of transportation to or from the Richmond airport, you can reserve your spot through our website at http://brethrenchurch.org/events/2008-general-conference/bus-schedule.
Website Information http://brethrenchurch.org/ events/2008-general-conference Information includes: Bus Schedule, Commemorative Calendars, Conference Choir, Food Drive, Richmond Housing, International Leaders Info., Schedule, Service Blitz and more.
Council Updates
Executive Board General Conference Request for Baptism Waters
Tom Schiefer General Conference Moderator
As we approach this year’s celebration of the 300th anniversary of the Brethren Movement in Richmond, the Joint Worship Services planning committee has a special request. The act of believer’s baptism was a deeply spiritual and scriptural ordinance for the early Brethren and the power of that act of commitment continues today. A primary visual aid in front of us during our joint worship services will be a fountain, and as an act of celebration and worship, we will be filling that fountain with baptismal waters from the gathered Brethren Churches. We will even have water to add from the Eder River in Germany (where the original eight were baptized) and from the Wissahickon Creek (where the first baptisms in America were held). To add water from the congregations of the Brethren Church, we are requesting that the local congregations bring samples of the water from wherever they do baptisms to their respective District Conferences to be poured together. Then the collected baptismal waters are to be brought by a representative of each district (potentially the Moderator) to General Conference in Richmond. During the Sunday morning worship service, a representative of each district will be asked to come forward at an appointed time to pour their district’s water in the fountain. There is no pressure that this has to be done by or at District Conference and, in fact, you have the possibility of collecting the water from now until General Conference. We do ask that you let General Conference Moderator Tom Schiefer know who will be bringing water from your district, so that you will be able to receive instructions on the service logistics. You may contact Tom with any questions by e-mail at tubapastor@ maplenet.net or by calling 574-773-4252 (Nappanee First Brethren Church).
The transformation included in the New Day vision for the Brethren Church was an encompassing element in the Executive Board meetings on March 5 and 6. We received reports — but they became testimonies of God moments in the lives of our national office staff, in the early indications of denominational tithe, in the impact of a coaching culture within the Brethren churches, in the anticipation of our international leaders coming to the U.S. this summer for the 300th celebration in Richmond, and in the initial stages of future General Conferences. Some of the highlights: • While the financial reports we received for the end of the year were in the red, they reflected a strong commitment to ministry. • While it is still early (2 months of giving, and not yet to the 1st quarter), the denominational tithe has seen an increase in funding for the mission of the Brethren Church.
• Anticipation is growing for General Conference in Richmond and plans are coming together for all the unique elements of this celebration. • There is no doubt that God has been doing a major work in the church planting team work. • Coaching is becoming a key word: coaching for our denominational leaders and coaching for local churches and their pastors. • Approval was given for moving forward with the sale of the former Living Waters/Walcrest property in Mansfield with funds to be used for church planting.
to keep up with the growth of internet and discount suppliers. • We authorized the formation of a General Conference planning task force to work on our gatherings for July 13-17, 2009 and July 19-23, 2010. One last crucial and important element revolved around how we do ministry as an executive board and as councils. Our councils are working groups that bring the resources of our districts to the mission and vision of this part of the Bride of Christ called The Brethren Church. We need the participation of gifted and passionate individuals for this important work from all our districts. Our councils continue to make progress in being more effective and engaged in mission and not busy work. Several steps are being planned to assist them in that effort. We also need your prayers. The work of prayer while these people gather and do their work is so important and I ask for you to intercede for all your leaders.
• We received a very concerned report from the Carpenters Shop, that is facing the same situations that have affected many local Christian bookstores in that revenues are not able
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Council Updates
United States Ministries
International Ministries
Larry Baker, Chair While examining mission statements of congregations, I came across one that read: “Our congregation’s mission is to create more and better followers of Jesus Christ.” I’d like to think that the mission of the U.S. Ministries Council is similar: “To facilitate the creation of more and better congregations of Christ-followers.” With this statement in mind, allow me to share about the March U.S. Ministries Council meeting in Ashland. First, let’s talk about more. Since our October meeting, there has been the development of a Church Multiplication Team headed by Church Planting Coordinator Bill Ludwig, which consists of individuals from the U.S. Ministries Council, District Leadership, and Church Planters. The vision of this team is to develop and operate a church planting mechanism within the Brethren Church which, in cooperation with other entities, recruits, assesses, trains, places, and cares for planters, planting teams and newly launched congregations, positioning them for health and success. The team is pursuing partnerships with Ashland Theological Seminary, Pump House Ministries, and a coaching relationship with Bob Logan of Coachnet International Ministries. Last fall the team attended a Church Planting as a Movement Seminar. Several of the team members will be attending the Exponential Church Conference in April, focusing on The DNA of Reproducing Churches. The team is well on its way to establishing a process or a pipeline for church planting. Second, let’s talk about better. We are concerned about not only maintaining but also improving the health of existing congregations. We encourage each congregation to engage in a regular congregational health check up using the Natural Church Development process or a similar process. Church Health and Resource Specialist Gary Diehl reported, “Available funds no longer support employed staff to care for the needs of church planters, existing churches, and pastors. Developing a denominational team of trained, certified, and accountable coaches that can be effectively deployed to serve our
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churches and leadership base is vital for meeting those needs.” The Council supports the establishment of a coaching network so that each pastor and congregation can be mentored or coached. To further this goal the denomination is establishing coaching relationships with George Bullard and Bob Logan. Third, we are still fighting the battle of the budget. We encourage congregations to send their tithe regularly; and to help bring the National Church Leaders to the United States for General Conference. We encourage individuals and congregations to invest in the Revolving Fund when possible and have rewritten the brochure for that fund. Other items of interest from the Council include development of District email chains, and the approval of a Peace Emphasis Committee.
Marisa Meyers, Chair I bring you greetings from the International Ministries Council. The council finished up its spring meetings and made it out of Ashland just before the winter storm hit. We had the opportunity to visit with Mark and Brenda Ray as they are transitioning back to life in the States. The rest of our time was spent brainstorming and planning for General Conference in July. With all of our International Leaders traveling to Richmond we will become their hosts for the week. We want to make sure that they have a time of rest and relaxation and time to visit with everyone. We are excited for the opportunities for everyone to meet our International Leaders and worship together. What a unique opportunity for us and them as they meet each other in most cases for the very first time. I urge all of you to make the trip to Richmond and spend time with our international leaders as we all gather to celebrate the 300th Anniversary of our denomination. If you would like more information on how you can help support our international leaders as they travel to the USA, please contact Jenn Pinto at the Brethren Church Office: jenn@brethrenchurch.org. Let’s all continue on the journey of a NEW DAY in the Brethren Church.
SCHEDULED MISSION TRIPS Date
Destination
Group
June 19-30 Puerto Maldonado, Peru Sarasota First Brethren Leader: Pastor Dave Stone: DandJStone@aol.com July 18-29 Puerto Maldonado, Peru Park Street Brethren Leader: Jennifer Pinto: jenn@brethrenchurch.org July 31-Aug.10 Puerto Maldonado, Peru Leader: Jeff Robb: fgmiller58@yahoo.com
Mt. Olive Brethren
October 10-20 Puerto Maldonado, Peru Mt. Olive Brethren Leader: Pastor Fred Miller: fgmiller58@yahoo.com February, 2008 India Brethren Church Nat’l. Office Leader: Executive Director Ken Hunn: ken@brethrenchurch.org Please keep the BCNO updated on your mission trip plans (Foreign/Domestic). Contact Jenn Pinto at jenn@brethrenchurch.org with your updates. For more information on these trips, please contact the trip leader.
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 May/June 2008 Vo l u m e 2 1 , N u m b e r 5
The President’s Pen Dear Ladies, The Brethren heritage has been part of my life back as far as 1770’s from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The Brethren remain a part of my life. My great grandfather (William E. Roop) and my grandfather (John D. Roop) started several Church of the Brethren congregations in Maryland. My great grandfather was elder of the Meadow Branch Church of the Brethren and my grandfather was an unpaid preacher. I would go visiting with my grandparents to other churches at Love Feast time. The churches at that time would have the Love Feast at different times, so the people could visit. I would feel a lot of brotherly love at these churches. My grandfather taught me lessons of the Brethren belief and the reason we immerse in water three times. I wanted to take part in the Love Feast and bread and cup, but I had to be baptized. We went through lessons and, to make sure my sins were washed away, I was baptized in a stream in March, so I could attend the Love Feast and Communion. We wore prayer covers. My father would take me to the Old Order Brethren Church once a year at their Homecoming, which was the day after their Love Feast. Homecoming had all kinds of pies, my favorite was shoefly pie. There church men sat on one side and the women sat on the other side with the children. The men had their suits on, but no ties. The women wore their ankle-length dresses with prayer covers and bonnets on. The services were at a long table with several men who would
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Missionary Miscellany
Sam and Sara Wright, pastoring The Road in Tucson, Arizona, are the MAY US missionaries-of-the-month. Prasanth and Nirmala Kumar and their son Sudhir and his wife Latha are the international missionaries-of-the-month. The senior Kumars are pioneer missionaries in India and Sudhir and Latha continue and have expanded their ministries. The Kumars’ daughter is Dr. Shanthi Edwin, pastoring with her husband, Vincent, the Brush Valley Brethren Church in Adrian, PA. Nirmala wrote: “Love and greetings to each one of you. “We are highly pleased to inform you that we will celebrate the 40th anniversary of our Brethren Mission in India next year, 2009. At this time, we really want to thank each and every dear person who has helped us to take care of hundreds of orphans, give free sewing training to hundreds of widows and destitutes, and helped them with sewing machines, as well as helped to reach people with the Gospel, to plant churches and to build church buildings in the villages. “The national WMS and through the auctions, the Brethren have helped us to build a kitchen to the orphanage. We are so thankful for the liberal contributions to buy cooking utensils and dining furniture. “We just finished our 40 days Lenten fasting prayer meetings in our church members’ homes. Each home has new believers. The people are able to know the way to heaven! Prasanth and Sudhir baptized all the new believers. “These 40 days and the Christmas gospel meetings all through the seasons have helped us to take the message of the birth of the Savior to the masses, as well as to the people in Rajahmundry. “The Christmas season was a wonderful time, as we could conduct gospel
meetings every night in a different village, where we have a Brethren congregation. In Rajahmundry we had a real big Christmas celebration in the open air, and all our youth and the children from the orphanage enacted Christmas playlets and Indian dances through which they could communicate the true message of the birth of the Savior in this sinful world. “We are having a great big revival in our churches through our praise and worship times and through wonderful spirit-filled servants of God. The allnight prayer meeting on the last Friday night of every month is bringing a great revival in the church as we wait upon the Lord all the night. We are able to reach the people with Christ through very personal testimonies and the congregation is growing day by day, by leaps and bounds. “We have trained 1,580 poor widows and destitutes in our free sewing training school and have given most of them the sewing machines with which they will earn their living. We also have given free computer courses to the poor young people, through which they are getting jobs. “Today we are able to give free medicine to the poor and down-trodden at the hospital at the same time we present Jesus the great Healer to them. Detection of AIDs, cancer, and other deadly diseases are diagnosed in our charity hospital. All are blessed. Many people have come to the saving grace of Jesus through our medical ministry by getting both the physical and spiritual healing. “Thank you so much. We look forward to seeing many of you at the Conference in July. “Yours in His love, Nirmala and Prasanth Kumar”
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Missionary Miscellany (continued) The JUNE US missionaries-of-themonth are Gustavo and Gladys Miranda, who pastor the Centro Cristiano Para La Familia of Pacoima in California. You will remember that Gus is the son of Juan Carlos and Maria Miranda. His report of the birth of their congregation and its growth is one of God’s miracles! “Blessings in the almighty name of our Lord, Jesus Christ! “By now most of you have already heard something regarding the Pacoima, California, Hispanic church, a daughter church located some 30 miles northwest of our Pasadena, California, congregation. We truly believe that this congregation was birthed under the divine and miraculous direction of the Lord. “This wonderful group of Brethren began meeting in a San Fernando Valley area home, sometimes in the living room and sometimes in the patio, with just two families. At the point that we outgrew two different homes, my parents, Dr. and Mrs. Juan and Maria Miranda, began searching for a local church building, where we could rent at least a room or two. “So how did God answer that prayer? He led us to a marvelous congregation of Japanese Christians in the city of Pacoima, with a 90-year history in the area. The local pastor, a second-generation Japanese-American, opened the doors and his heart to our group, so that we might continue the Spanish-language work in the neighborhood. These brothers and sisters not only allowed us to use their chapel, but their entire facility! Our Brethren congregation here is thrilled, and feels so very welcome and at home. It’s a real miracle! “Our group is growing, both spiritually and in numbers. So many are now inviting their friends and family, and during testimony time they are full of enthusiasm as they describe their personal growth and new experiences in their Christian walk. “And, as in so many heavily Hispanicpopulated metro areas happens, some of our Flock came to this country “asis,” undocumented. Yet our great joy is in knowing that after coming to Christ, many are rectifying their personal situa-
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tions, and that now — no matter where they are today or tomorrow — they are living testimonies of the transforming power of our risen Lord and Savior. “The work is exciting, the potential is extraordinary, and the need for your prayerful support is crucial. This would include prayers for additional leadership, help with the children, and special support for our youth. “We are thankful for this opportunity to serve our loving Lord, and we are especially grateful to be a part of the growing Kingdom of God. And, as of several months ago, my wife Gladys and I are also working as associate pastors in our Pasadena congregation, so our “plate is quite full.” It’s absolutely wonderful! “Our love and blessings from sunny Southern California, Gustavo and Gladys Miranda” The international missionaries-of-themonth are Mark and Brenda Ray, who served in Ireland. They concluded this ministry in March and are living temporarily in Williamsport, MD. Continue to pray for them, as they seek God’s will. David and Jenny Loi sent a brief note following their recent trip to China, when David ministered to and taught the Bible teachers. “Greetings to you all from Bintulu. We are thankful to God we have come back safely from China. We saw once again the work of the Holy Spirit in such an explosive way. Praise the Lord! “Though we are tired after we come back, His grace is sufficient for us each day. “May blessings and honor, glory and power, riches, wisdom and strength be unto Him who sits at the right hand of God! Hallelujah! In His service, David and Jenny” Many of you support Riverside Christian School in Lost Creek, Kentucky, with monetary gifts, coupons, Christmas gifts for students and staff, prayers, and labors of love. Mr. Terry Schumaker, teacher and director of development at Riverside, reminds us of additional support.
“The canceled stamps on envelopes seem to be of no value, but here is a way to help Riverside continue its nutritional food ministry to children. You and others are invited to cut a border of ¼” around each canceled stamp and send the stamps to Riverside Christian School. The canceled stamps are worth $6.00 per pound! They do add up making nickels for nutrituion.” “Remember singing the commercial ‘um…um…good; um…um…good.That’s what Campbell’s soup is, um…um… good.’ ? The Campbell labels are redeemable for a variety of tools for helping to increase the literacy level of children. The goal at Riverside Christian is for labels looking like coupons being removed and mailed to us. It will be um…um…good! The ‘Box Tops for Education’ program is labels looking like coupons redeemable for supplies for students’ use in the classroom. You can join others in cutting out these labels and sending them to Riverside for providing children with tools for education. “Please continue or begin to remove and save Labels for Education, Box Tops for Education, and canceled stamps. Send them to: Riverside Christian School Labels for Literacy General Delivery Lost Creek, KY 41348 Attn: Mr. Terry Schumaker” Let’s stuff his mail box!
Pastor Tom and Lindsey Asbury (The Center, Stow, Ohio) are the parents of a baby girl, Isabella Deborah Asbury, on Monday, March 10 at 3:15 p.m. She weighed 7 lbs. 15 oz. and was 20¼” long.
Women’s Outlook Newsletter
T
! s k n a h
Through an application process, the WMS gives scholarships to young ladies who are active members of the Brethren Church during their senior year at Ashland University. Jenna Gribben and Carly Cronin are the recipients for 2007-08. Jenna wrote: “Dear WMS Ladies, “Hello! I would like to thank you for the scholarship money. I cannot express how helpful it has been this year. I am living in the senior apartments with three roommates. In this arrangement I am learning a little bit about life outside of college — buying groceries and cooking. “Here is a little about my life this year. I am a major in costume design. This is a major that Ashland University does not offer, so I went through a process of creating my own major (an interdisciplinary major). I am incredibly excited about my major! This is something I have always loved doing. I absolutely love sewing and designing! My great grandmother, both of my grandmothers, and my mom were all sewers, and I learned about sewing at an early age. I actually have the blessed opportunity to design and make my own wedding dress in one of my classes. It’s really exciting! “With my major, I am involved a lot with Ashland University’s theater department. This year I was the costume designer for “Expecting Isabel” and assisted in designing “Dead Man Walking.” This semester I designed a fairy tale-theme one-act play called “The Ugly Duckling.” I work in the costume shop, where I do a lot of sewing. In other theater-related things, I am a member of Alpha Psi Omega (a theater honorary). “For three years I was on the worship team for HOPE Fellowship at the university. Now God uses my talents at my home church, Garber Brethren Church in Ashland. I had the honor of singing “Oh, Holy Night” on Christmas Eve. God has instilled a passionate love for singing in me. “This summer I will participate in a drama called “Life is Great. Yea!” at the
May/June 2008
President’s Pen
(continued from p. 9) Brethren Conference. I will also sing with the Park Street 8:30 worship team. “Life after graduation is a little scary and unsure for me. I know God’s plans will be revealed in His time. My boyfriend is starting at the Ashland Theological Seminary in the fall, and we plan to be married in December, so this leaves me in Ashland for at least three more years. I am keeping my ears and eyes open for work opportunities in the area. I pray that I will be able to find something closely related to my sewing and/or designing passions. I would love to go to grad school, but for my major there is nothing very close by. I will wait. What exactly is in store for me, I am not sure, only God knows at this point and that’s good enough for me! He hasn’t let me down in the past. “Again, thank you for your generous gift and your prayers are always appreciated. God bless you all. Jenna Beth Gribben” Carly Cronin worships at Five Stones Community Church, the Brethren church on AU’s campus. Carly wrote: “I was very blessed to receive the WMS scholarship this year. I am currently studying Middle Grades Education with concentrations in science and social studies. I plan to complete my student teaching this fall and graduate in December. “After graduation, I will be married March 14, 2009, to Glen Mercer, who is currently working toward a Master of Divinity degree at Ashland Theological Seminary. I will apply for middle school teaching jobs in and around the Ashland area. “The Lord has truly been blanketing me in blessings throughout this year and the WMS scholarship was just one more way that He did so. Thank you so much for your gift and the help that it provided financially. “Many blessings, Carly Cronin”
preach. Their songs were sung a capella from a little book. Another Brethren practice is found in James 5:14-15. We read Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, anointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. Such a prayer offered in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well. And if you committed any sins, you will be forgiven. That is not the “last rites.” This affected my life in my family from my grandmother (Edith Roop), mother (Louise Knight), and niece (Heather Knight). Sincerely, Edith Fabrick President, SE District
Signs Along the Highway ● Why does God bless America? Because He’s merciful. ● Do good, and never mind to whom. ● Do the job you promised to God. ● Honk if you know Jesus. If you don’t know Him, stop and come in to meet Him. ● Come inside for a faith lift.
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FIFTY DAYS ‘TIL WHAT???? Not too long ago kids were counting off the shopping days until Christmas — 22, 13, 10, and finally 0! Soon after, but not so urgently, they counted the days until Easter. Now Christians count the 50 days until what? Beautiful Palm Sunday is past, when crowds praised Jesus as their King. A few days later some of that crowd changed their praises to “Crucify Him.” Their will prevailed and Christ died a most painful and humiliating death. But — Christ arose! What a glorious Resurrection! Jesus told his disciples that, although He would ascend into heaven, the Holy Spirit would come to live among (within) them. Fifty days after Jesus’ resurrection, thousands of Jews were gathered in Jerusalem to celebrate the Feast of Weeks. It was here that the Holy Spirit came upon the believers! This was Pentecost! Peter preached Jesus to a crowd from many nations; they were excited and talked in their own native language; 3,000 believed, repented, and were baptized! The church was born! Although many congregations do not “celebrate” Pentecost, many hymns are appropriate for that worship service. A relatively new hymn is “We are the Church:” “I am the church! You are the church! We are the church together! All who follow Jesus all around the world! Yes, we’re the church together.” and “Spirit of God, descend upon my heart, … And make me love you as I ought to love.” A very personal favorite is “Spirit of the Living God fall afresh on me… Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me, Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me.
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The Editor’s Ending
Dear Friend, There are only a few weeks until the 300th anniversary of the Brethren Church is celebrated with the Church of the Brethren in Richmond, VA. In keeping with plans and thoughts of the early Brethren, Edith Fabrick has shared her roots in the Brethren Church. Edith is serving her 7th year as WMS president of the Southeast District. She is a member of the Linwood, MD, Brethren Church. I assume many of you have deep roots with the Brethren and I would be interested in hearing from you. Please tell me. When I read the note from David and Jenny Loi about their recent trip into “Spirit of the Living God, move among us all; Make us one in heart and mind, make us one in love: Humble, caring, selfless, sharing, Spirit of the living God, fill our lives with love.” Celebrate the birth of the church on Pentecost Sunday, May 11, 2008! I know that Mother’s Day is also May 11. I am thankful for Christian mothers who have given birth to children who are also followers of the Lord! A reading book a few years ago was I’m Too Young to be This Old by Patricia “Poppy” Smith. Using the nickname her father gave her, Poppy presented the Proverbs 31 woman from her perspective: “Charm and beauty may fade, but the woman who fears the Lord will be praised. Looking attractive and well-dressed makes a difference in our society because looking our best gives us a sense of confidence. “I see beauty in the lined faces of many older women who have had a deep relationship with the Lord. She has a glow, a softness and radiance that comes from within, whether or not she wears blush.” Later Poppy wrote “My goal is to enjoy life and to live each day aware of the Lord’s presence with me.” That’s a goal to claim as my own!
China, I remembered the reading book for this year, THE HEAVENLY MAN by Brother Yun with Paul Hattaway. Yun is a Chinese pastor who is imprisoned many times and endures extreme punishment for preaching Jesus Christ. He writes about the terrible dangers of the house churches and the extreme strength and faith of those who worship secretly. The families of the preachers are endangered and months may pass without knowing where their husbands are or if they are alive. Yun wrote of their joy in receiving boxes of Bibles, which were secretly distributed. Soon boxes arrived with denominational books and Bibles. The denominational books were divisive — one group felt that denomination was correct, so they followed it. However, another group felt that their book was the right way, etc. Too soon the cohesiveness of the house churches was split apart because of denominationalism! Could that be a problem in the United States also? Yun worked many months to emphasize the truth of Jesus Christ, that denominational beliefs were not the important part of Christianity and Christ is the focus. Eventually the barriers were broken and unity was restored. I think you should read this book! David and Jenny’s trips into China are to teach these pastors and to encourage them in their dangerous mission of evangelizing the Chinese people. Our prayers for the Lois are needed — for their safety and continued good health. David and Jenny’s daughter, Rebecca, graduates from Ashland University in May. David and Jenny will attend her Commencement. Many requests for prayer are included today: the Kumars, Wrights, and Mirandas; the Rays and Lois; the two senior ladies at AU, final Conference preparation and travel, and each other. God is faithful! Your friend,
Joan
Ashland University Campus Ministry Update News from the Center of Religious Life by Dr. Dan Lawson Sparks reflects our core value of Prayer. The Sparks ministry hosts a 24/7 prayer week each semester, and helps students learn about and experience different kinds of prayer.
God continues to do amazing things with the campus ministries at Ashland University. So far this year we have seen five students come to faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and seven students have expressed a calling to vocational ministry through The Call, the Kern Pre-Seminary Initiative. Already, for next year, twelve incoming freshmen have expressed an interest in the PreSeminary program. This program is made possible through a $552,000 grant from the Kern Family Foundation. I encourage you to invite Brethren pastor John Swope, Director of the Kern Pre-Seminary Initiative to visit your church and talk about The Call. You can reach him at 419-289-5624 or send him an email at jswope@ashland.edu. This year the Center of Religious Life has reorganized into a network structure so as to streamline our administration and more effectively organize around our core values. We encourage you to visit our website www. ashland.edu/rellife and see how this new structure operates. On our website you will find sample audio files of the sermons at The Well, pictures of our mission trips, and news about our current ministries at the Center. Our newly reorganized Religious Life Network is divided into areas that match our core values. Alabaster reflects our core value of Worship and continues to be our Creative Arts ministry, allowing students to express their faith and worship to God through any artistic expression they desire. I encourage you to invite an Alabaster Worship Team to your church. Logos reflects our core value of Scripture and is structured to help students read and study scripture daily. Logos also provides a mid-week devotional time as an emphasis on scripture.
Grow reflects our core value of Discipleship and helps students be a mentor and find a mentor for their personal spiritual growth. Our Grow ministry pairs freshmen with juniors and sophomores with seniors in a mentoring relationship. We also help students find adult mentors. Isaiah Project continues to demonstrate our core value of Missions and Outreach. The Isaiah Project helps students respond to God in love and service both near (in the United States) and far (International missions). Isaiah Project has visited several Brethren mission sites.
Thanks to the financial support of the Brethren Church, Ashland University continues to be the college of choice for Christian students throughout Ohio and surrounding states. Be sure to invite someone from the Center of Religious Life to visit your church and talk to your high school students about the many ways they can get connected to the Christian life at Ashland University. Give us a call at 419-289-5489 or send me an email at dlawson@ashland. edu. We would love to hear from you.
HOPE Fellowship reflects our core value of Community and sponsors fellowship events, connection events, men’s ministry, women’s ministry, retreats, and 242 Groups (Acts 2:42 – our small group ministry). Hope Fellowship is a ministry that creates spaces and places for individuals to connect with God and each other. The Center of Religious Life continues to host Fellowship of Christian Athletes, The Well, and the Newman Campus Ministry each week. These ministries are the engines that drive the programs of the Religious Life Network. In addition, the Center hosts Adventure Club, an outdoor m i n i s t r y, O n e Church, a racial reconciliation ministry, Christian Activities Day and Christian Concert, and a variety of programs cooperatively hosted with other departments on campus.
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youth
NEWS
by Ann Hasse, YAC Member
As I sit writing this in Northern Indiana I’m excited about two things. One is that we have had sunshine for about two and a half days now, and that just makes me happy! The other is that there are many great things going on across the Brethren denomination and with the Brethren Youth, and that means that God is at work in many lives! I have heard exciting reports about Winter Retreats/Rallies, preparation for summer ministry opportunities, fund raising for the van project for the Philippines, and lots of God stuff happening in
(I hear they broke the fast with a 36 FOOT HOAGIE — now that’s a sandwich!) **There is still time for us to continue to support this ministry: if you have raised funds, drop us an e-mail and let us know how your group did it and how much was raised. We’d love to share the stories of how we will bless Gary and our fellow Brethren in the Philippines. Due to the National Crusader Program hiatus, many across the denomination are putting together district and local ministry opportunities for students. One opportunity is happening in the NE/SE Districts. Two teams have been established and will serve throughout both districts this summer. They are as follows: Team 1
Cory Smith, Oak Hill, WV Lindsey Dull, Johnstown III, PA Emily Menhorn, Berlin, PA
Team 2
Cassie Trimpey, 3 Seasons, PA Ian Dively, Berlin, PA Monica Lyons, Berlin, PA
Be in prayer for these two teams as they prepare and train for all that the Lord has in store for them this summer!
Northeast District Youth broke their missions fast with a 35-foot hoagie.
I know there are many other exciting things going on and we’d love to include them in future editions of the Evangelist. Please let us know about the exciting moments your group is experiencing by e-mailing us at yac@brethrenchurch.org. May he continue to meet you all as we journey through this NEW DAY !
everyday life. I’d like to take a few minutes just to highlight a few of the things I’ve heard about. The Brethren Youth National Project for this year is to raise funds to help purchase a new van for Jesus Our Firm Foundation in the Philippines. As we mentioned at last year’s convention, they have one van that is used to transport children and families to and from the church for various activities and that van has been “on its last leg” for quite some time. The Northeast District held their Winter Rally March 14-15 in Berlin, PA. Sixty-six students fasted and raised about $2,100 to go toward the National goal. Gary Castro from Jesus Our Firm Foundation was able to attend and was very appreciative of the support received. WAY TO GO NORTHEAST ! ! !
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Philippine pastor Gary Castro speaks at the Northeast District Winter Rally.
Brethren Information Camp Berea, California
Directors: Stuart & Ruth Hester 21533 Cedar Springs Rd. Twain Harte, CA 95383 Phone/Fax: (209) 928-4676
Camp Peniel, Pennsylvania Teresa Landis tg10001@aol.com
Camp Shipshewana, Indiana
Director: Rick Miller, breship@juno.com 9095 West 275 North Shipshewana, IN 46585 Office: 9260) 768-44519 Fax: (260) 768-4615 www.brethrenretreat.org
Camp Bethany, Ohio
Director: Kenton VanDuyne campbethany@gmail.com Camp Dates 2008 Mini Camp June 13-15 Completed grades 1-2 Sr. High Camp June 15-21 Completed grades 9-12 Elementary Camp June 22-29 Completed grades 3-4 Middler Camp June 29-July 5 Completed grades 5-6 Jr. High Camp July 6-12 Completed grades 7-8
Philippines 2008 Mission Diary Do you want to know what it’s really like to go on a mission trip? A group from Carson Oaks Community Church (Stockton, CA) went to the Philippines in March of this year. Pastor Paul Stanley was kind enough to share his daily writings with us. We will be running them in installments in the next few Evangelists. This is a daily journal of our trip to the Philippines in March of 2008. I think it is the best way to get an idea of what we do and what we experience. It was written as it happened and even though I have tried to give details, this article just scrapes the surface. The sights, sounds and smells do not transfer to paper nor does the love you experience from the people we have been blessed to serve. Hopefully this will excite you to step into the world of missions. DAY 1 Just the idea of taking a midnight flight to Hong Kong seems somewhat surreal, but what does one expect when they are going on a mission trip halfway around the world! The traveling, while exhausting, is just a very cool part of going on a mission trip. Seeing the world and the different people that God has created is just a blessing to experience and certainly opens your eyes to a whole different world that is unlikely to be experienced in your day-to-day life. Participating in his great plan to bring the gospel to different parts of the world is something that you just have to experience for yourself. While we sit in the San Francisco airport waiting for our plane — which will eventually land us in Manila — to board, I am going over all that we will see and do and praying that God will set divine appointments and give us the word that he wishes for us to speak to our brothers and sisters in the Brethren Church in the Philippines. Once again, one of my traveling companions is Grace Tolentino, or Lola (Grandmother) Grace as she is known to what seems like everyone in Manila. Also traveling with us is Chuck Davis, a member of Carson Oaks Community Church. I find it interesting to be traveling with these two, because on one hand we have a lady over 80 years old who is still willing to go on a mission trip, and on the other hand we have Chuck, who is pretty nervous (well, really nervous) yet is still willing to go on his first mission trip 8000 miles away from home, simply because he knows it is the will of God in his life. That spectrum pretty much wipes out the myriad of excuses most of you reading this use not to go on a mission trip, huh? To Be Continued …
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In Memory
Dale J. Long
Bonnie Munson — by Phil and Jean Lersch
Dale J. Long, age 77, died peacefully at home in the presence of family on Friday, March 21. Dale and wife, Marjorie, of 57 years, recently moved to Milford, Ohio to be close to their children after living in Mt. Gilead for the past 22 years. They worshipped and served at the First Baptist Church, while maintaining membership in the Smithville Brethren Church where Dale had earlier served as pastor. An ordained minister in the Brethren church for 30 years, he also served as student minister at Little Washington Congregational Church, and as Minister of Christian Education at Hagerstown, MD. He attended Ashland Theological Seminary and Ashland University under special training for the ministry. Prior to entering this special training, he was a public and private accountant for 12 years. Dale served as Associate Secretary of the Missionary Board of the Brethren Church (4 years); General Conference Treasurer (5 years); Ohio Conference Board of Oversight (11 years) and was past Moderator and Treasurer of the Ohio Brethren Conference. He retired from Ohio Health in 1995 as Director of Charity CARE at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, with prior experience as Administrator of Twin City and Joel Pomerene Memorial Hospitals. Involved in numerous community efforts, he was a past Rotary president and District Governor representative, and served on the Morrow County Hospital Ethics Advisory Committee. Dale was Co-Founder/Director of the Morrow County Prison Ministries, and was a volunteer for Hospice of Morrow County. It is notable that Hospice of Cincinnati provided cherished service to Dale and Marjorie during the last few months of his life.
Bonnie Christina Munson was born on November 16, 1943, in Johnstown, PA, to Charles and Aida May (Snyder) Munson. When Bonnie was a preschooler, the Munsons moved to Ashland where Charles trained for the Brethren ministry and later joined the Ashland Seminary faculty. Bonnie attended Ashland City Schools, graduating from Ashland High School in 1961. She attended Ashland College for one year, then graduated from Wayne State University in Detroit (1965), trained in Chicago as a Volunteer in Service to America (VISTA) in 1966, earned a Master of Arts Degree in Special Education at Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ (1970). She served as a Summer Crusader in 1971 and then (from 1971 to 1996) joined the Brethren House Ministries Team in St. Petersburg, FL — a special ministry of the National Mission Board. During those 25 years she assisted with a weekly church school for children and adults, an after-school program and teen night, the publication of over 50 products (books, learning kits, filmstrips, games, monographs, and videos), and traveled in over 40 states, leading hundreds of Christian Education workshops for several denominations. She received a Community Service Award from the Tampa Bay Chapter of the National Conference of Christians and Jews in 1995 for “her efforts at Bayfront Medical Center in the pastoral care department and for raising awareness of accessibility issues. She also volunteered at the Free Clinic during the Christmas holiday season for 10 years.” Bonnie lived independently for most of the next 12 years at the Greencroft Retirement and Nursing facility in Goshen, IN, before her death from pneumonia and other health complications on March 5, 2008 at age 64.
Dale was the loving father of three children, Nancy (Ken) Blaha of West Chester, OH, David Long of Oak Ridge, TN, and Bruce (Becky) Long of Cincinnati, OH. He loved his two granddaughters, Melissa Blaha and Amy Long. Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Adam and Florence Long, and two brothers, Dean and Don Long. A Celebration of Life service was held Thursday, March 27 at Faith Community Church in Canton, with burial at Forest Hills Cemetery. Rev. Ray Aspinall, Rev. Jerry Mathias, and Chaplain Gary Sims officiated.
Bonnie with young friends at Brethren House
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—“Mountain Climber” WHAT A LIFE of dedication to the Lord and service to others! But then, as many of you readers know, there is a parallel track to Bonnie’s fruitful life to remember. When Bonnie was seven years old (in 1951 during General Conference), she was stricken with polio while traveling on a bus from Ashland to Johnstown to visit her grandmother. The Conference prayed for her and her family. There she was confined in an iron lung for three weeks, enduring many hot towel treatments, painful physical therapy, then later body casts for months at a time, operations for broken legs and an arm, a spinal fusion, months of recovery in bed, periods of depression — and leg braces, crutches, wheelchairs (manual and power) year after year after year. Yes, WHAT A LIFE! How did Bonnie keep going? Where did she secure her strength? How did she climb all those “mountains”? Here are some comments, either said about Bonnie or what she said herself through the years: ** When encased in the iron lung from neck to toes, at seven years of age, she said, “Daddy, even if I never get well, we can still believe in Jesus.”
municate with children on their eye level (from her wheelchair vantage point), her compassion for people — young and old, and so much more. Still, you see the beautiful picture of this special Christian servant. And when her father Charles leaned over her hospital bed and gave her a final farewell kiss, he lovingly whispered “No more mountains to climb.” WHAT A LIFE we joyfully celebrate!
** When left alone in Detroit to continue her college education, missing her parents and sister Deborah, she said, “If it hadn’t been for my faith, I would’ve gone home.” But knowing Bonnie, we understand her new friends’ willingness there to assist her. Her cheerful acceptance of help, without expecting or demanding it, drew others to her. Many of her friends found Bonnie their ready counselor when they had problems. ** Commenting on her interest and training in social work, Bonnie said, “Even though you can help only a fraction of the needy, the fact that you can help a few is rewarding.” And, “People have done so much for me; I want to repay them.” ** “I don’t think my parents ever gave me a chance to feel sorry for myself.… I have learned to enjoy activities from my own position.… If God can use me better sitting down, that’s fine with me.” ** With determination, sturdy leg braces, and the help of a faithful school friend, she slowly walked across the stage to receive a diploma at her high school graduation. ** To know Bonnie Munson was a privilege. And it was easy to become her friend, because she so willingly shared herself. She was truly a thankful, outgoing, goodhumored, intelligent, well-adjusted Christian woman, who was an especially good listener. Limited space here prevents us from elaborating upon her sensitivity to those people marginalized by society, her super gifts of organization and problem solving, her ability to com-
Bonnie with her 1995 Community Service Award
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In Memory What I Learned About Ministry from Pastor Jim Black ~ Pastor Tony Price
Assistant/Associate Pastor With Jim Trinity Brethren Church Canton, Ohio 1997-2001
Love People
Make regular visits to the elderly and shut- ins.
Love People
Support the youth of the church, even when you don’t understand where they are coming from.
Love people
Challenge my congregation to think outside the box.
Love people
Support local and national missions.
Love people
Don’t be afraid to preach an old favorite: Seven Ducks in Muddy Water
Love people
Use real life-real people illustrations.
Love people
Remember where you’ve come from.
Love people
Be concerned about people’s eternal destiny.
Love people
Ask people about their eternal destiny.
Love people
Wash your car, especially if you are leading a funeral procession.
Love people
Vanity plates aren’t vain if they contain scripture.
Love people
When I approach the pulpit, pray that I will be the servant of God hidden securely behind the shadow of the cross.
Love people
Pray for and with people.
Love people
Take a chance on a young, untrained, seminary student; who knows that God might do with them through you?
Love people
When called by God to preach, never fully understand the meaning of “retirement”.
Dr. Fred Burkey
DEEPER
He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. Revelation 21:7, KJV
Love People
Enjoy fellowshipping with my congregation.
A Tribute to Rev.sharper James R. Black
Love people
Believe with all my heart that indeed we do not grieve like those who have no hope. God Be With You Till We Meet Again.
How might one describe the character and service of Rev. Jim Black? Honest; sincere; caring; dedicated; energetic; committed; down to earth; sensitive; evangelist… all these and more. But one adjective always comes to mind when I think of my friend of nearly 50 years: Jim Black was an “overcomer” who never lost sight of his life’s purpose. Despite the obstacle, he would say: “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance” (James 1:2 & 3 NASB). In whatever role (and he served in many: son, soldier, husband, father, grandfather, pastor, evangelist, chaplain, and administrator), Jim was challenged by weakness, personal tragedy, setbacks, and disappointments. Born at the threshold of the Great Depression to a family with few resources and an alcoholic father, life was anything but easy. Lacking even a place to live, he related in his little book, Predestined to be Conformed to His Image, how his parents literally dug out by hand the space that became their basement house in Akron, Ohio. After serving in the Army and Air Force, he was an alcoholic, without faith or sense of direction. He married Violet Jackson only to have her taken from him thirteen months later, just five days after delivering their son, Bob. In the midst of despair and sorrow, a friend led him to grasp the Savior’s outstretched hand and he never let go. Soon he married Shirley Andrick (“Bobby’s baby sitter”) and together they responded to God’s call to the ministry. But there were serious obstacles — no high school diploma, limited Bible knowledge, bills to pay, new babies (Jim, John, Glenn and Barbara), to coddle, clothe and nourish — to name a few. Well, since God had called him, they would trust him and go for it. Jim had only one sense of direction: forward. He was admitted to Ashland College on the authority of Dr. Glenn L. Clayton who intervened on his behalf. He held all kinds of jobs yet made the time to pastor one or two churches. Busy as he was, he never neglected his family. He graduated from college in 1963 and went on to seminary. Through it all, he never wavered; never dwelt on his misfortunes. He moved cheerfully into full time pastoral ministry living out his motto: “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father” (Colossians 3:17 NASB). Jim sowed; God gave the increase. His pastorates flourished. And so it went. Then in 1976, Bob was wrenched from this life under suspicious circumstances. Rising above the pain of that loss, Jim continued to lift high the cross of Christ that he might draw all men unto himself (John 12:32). He effectively led Brethren Missionary outreach, inspiring people around the world by his example of Christian commitment and constancy. Though experiencing serious health issues, Jim remained optimistic. He continued serving his Lord and the church. Then, Shirley was called home. Battered but unbowed, Rev. Black, as always, moved forward. Three years later he found happiness and wonderful companionship with Ellen Woode Black who survives. His final pastoral act was to make a hospital visit. Of his kind may there be an infinite increase.
2008 General Conference Greater Richmond Convention Center & Richmond Coliseum Richmond, Virginia
July 12 - 16, 2008 (Please note this is a Saturday through Wednesday conference.)
Conference Schedule Saturday: 6:00 - 7:30 pm 8:00 - 9:30 pm Sunday: 8:00 - 8:45 am 9:30 - 11:00 am 2:00 - 4:30 pm 7:00 - 9:00 pm Monday: 7:00 - 7:45 am 8:00 - 9:30 am 9:45 - 10:45 am 11:00 - 1:00 pm 2:00 - 4:00 pm 6:00 - 7:30 pm 8:00 - 9:30 pm Tuesday: 8:00 - 9:30 am 9:45 - 10:45 am 11:00 - 1:00 pm 7:00 - 9:00 pm Wednesday: 8:00 - 8:45 am 9:30 - 11:00 am
Brethren Church Worship Gary Castro, Sudhir Kumar speaking National Christian Choir Prayer Combined Worship with Church of the Brethren Combined Anniversary Celebration Workshops Combined Worship - Celebrating Missions
Sudhir Kumar
Prayer Missions Breakfast Business Session I Auxiliaries Brethren Church Workshops Brethren Church Worship Ken Medema Prayer & Worship Business Session II Auxiliaries Brethren Church Worship Marcelo Ferreri speaking
Gary Castro
Prayer Combined Worship
The 200+ voices of the National Christian Choir, based in Washington, D.C., will share their powerful ministry with us on Saturday night. Don’t miss this tremendous opening event that immediately follows opening worship. Ken Medema is a blind musician, composer, and songwriter who will share songs, stories, and improvisational skills with us. He has performed previously at Church of the Brethren Annual Conference and congregations around the country. Don’t miss Ken Medema, Monday evening after worship.
Marcelo Ferreri
July 12-16, 2008 Greater Richmond Convention Center Richmond, Virginia 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. May/June 2008, Vol. 130, No. 3
The Brethren Church 524 College Ave. Ashland, OH 44805
Periodical Postage Paid at Ashland, OH 44805