The Brethren Evangelist by The Brethren Church

Evangelist The Brethren

September/October 2011

In this issue: General Conference Engage Conference

DEDICATED TO ADVANCING THE LIFE AND MINISTRIES OF THE BRETHREN CHURCH

Is It Over Now? Gary Diehl Bill Ludwig

The 2011 Brethren Church General Conference is officially over. The business of the gathered Conference is completed. The equipment and decorations are packed away. While Reggie McNeal once again gave us his 35,000-foot perspective on God’s missional agenda, and Hugh Halter showed us one example of what that looks like when it’s lived out boots-on-the-ground, our guest speakers are back in their homes or off to other events. Ashland University has returned Hugo Young Theatre and other buildings to their intended purposes. Leftover Program Books, meeting minutes and ballot sheets are boxed and ready for the Archives. The dust has settled, and all who attended are getting back to their normal routines of ministry and daily life. It is over now. Or is it? A wise Brethren pastor recently asked one of the National Office staff a very good question. “Now that Conference is over, did it accomplish what you hoped it would?” How would you answer his question? Because there are so many facets to General Conference, it is difficult to answer with one yes or no response. There is the “family reunion” aspect of Conference, the “business” items that have to be accomplished, the showcasing of particular Brethren “ministries”, and the “leadership development” component that has seen greater focus recently. What did we have eyes to see? What did we have ears to hear? What did we experience? There was a 24/7 Call To Prayer before Conference began. How did we see those fervent, sincere prayers answered? Where did we see God’s fingerprints? Reflect on the “family reunion” component as just one example. Given that there are over 10,000 members of the Brethren Church in North America; can you say we had a good reunion

when only a few hundred gathered together in Ashland? On the other hand, for the first time in history, more than 1,000 Brethren came together for worship that Sunday morning through the use of technology in more than two dozen locations. Were there positive implications to that experience that go beyond the two-hour time frame on July 17? That Sunday morning event was probably the first multi-site, video venue worship experience for the vast majority of those who participated. For one worship experience we became a multi-site mega-church, meeting in 26 different locations. We were able to be part of a larger, gathered body and yet maintain various unique expressions of worship music and physical surroundings. Is it possible that this experience helped some congregations see in new ways their ability to use technology to expand their ministry impact beyond their own limited facility or personal preferences? Or did it perhaps allow one of our smaller, struggling

congregations see that connecting into technology can help them gain access to good teaching from great Brethren pastors, even if they aren’t able to support a full-time pastor on their own? Or, might there be future implications for using technology to connect several regional gatherings together in a national event? What if we were to translate the events into Spanish, Telugu, Tagalog, or Mandarin and connect with our global partners in real time? Do those kinds of brainstorming ideas have implications that go beyond General Conference 2011? So, what were we, your national staff and denominational leaders, hoping to see as a result of this year’s General Conference? Here are just a few:  New conversations – we wanted to incite a new level of healthy, forward-thinking conversation among pastors and the people in their churches, between pastors and pastors, among congregations, between congregations and the leaders of their communities,

between the people of God who are already inside the church family and those who are for one reason or another disconnected from the family—the underserved, marginalized, broken and hurting who are struggling to live life in the here-and-now.  New language – we wanted to give language and word pictures to those who feel they are stuck and wanting more.  Cultural Change – we wanted to start or continue to shift our collective culture from one of isolation and independence toward one of greater cooperation, interdependence, and engagement in the redemptive mission of God in the fractured world he died to restore.  Increased discontent - we wanted more people to be dissatisfied with the status quo of just doing church without seeing the real fruit of the Kingdom.

That same wise pastor then asked this question: “What is Kingdom fruit?” For us, it goes way beyond the concept of new converts, and includes the developing of fully devoted followers of Jesus who impact all of creation for good. Looking directly at scripture we see that Kingdom fruit includes but is not limited to: More disciples being made More leaders being identified and developed More widows and orphans cared for More hungry fed More homeless finding shelter More sick healed More lame walking More deaf hearing More blind seeing More of the lonely in community More prisoners freed More oppressed given value and dignity

Less abuse of all kinds, less crime, fewer addictions, less poverty. More literacy, better health, greater cooperation, and… More of God’s people released from church-focused tasks to be commissioned and deployed as missionaries for Christ’s Kingdom into the cultures they interact with on a daily basis. Is the pursuit of “Kingdom fruit” something that is capturing your heart as an individual or a congregation? How can we come alongside you for the purpose of identifying some first steps toward greater mission in your own community? It all begins with a conversation. Give Gary Diehl a call at 1-877-289-1708. Is the work of General Conference 2011 over now? Until we see Christ’s Kingdom come and his will being done on earth as it is in heaven… it isn’t over. Not yet.

Reflections on Reggie McNeal It was with great anticipation that we welcomed Reggie McNeal back to teach and challenge this year’s General Conference. With characteristic humor to get our attention, then lightening strikes to the soul, Reggie unpacked the call to be missional people during Friday night’s message, Saturday morning’s panel discussion with Hugh Halter, and a lunch and workshop at noon on Saturday. Beginning by reviewing content he introduced last year, Reggie also taught

and stimulated our personal and corporate wrestling with the implications of transitioning congregational life to a missional lifestyle. On initial hearing, one could make the assumption that Reggie’s presentation is random but that assumption would be wrong. First, the passion in him for the people of God to live as the people of God comes out from every part of his being. God has broken and molded his heart to empower, challenge, equip, and energize his brothers and sisters in Christ to stop being busy at church activity and engage whole-heartedly in the mission of Christ—so much so that his knowledge and passion flows out in abundance. Also, if you listen carefully, what appears to be a “rabbit trail” is in reality the foundation to crucial elements that come later. The message Friday night was summed up for me in this quote, referencing the Great Commandment and Jesus’s teaching in John 15, “Love

Tom Schiefer

your neighbor is a command, not some scripture Jesus made up.” We are to be the church, the body of Christ, the bride of Christ, right where we live. The call for our lives to be an on-going mission trip is a crucial part of being a disciple of our Lord and Savior. A major component of the message was five challenges we face as we make the move to being missional. Reggie’s workshop on Saturday noon allowed him and the participants to really examine the relational flow of vision, mission and journey in the life of the congregation. It also provided some crucial underpinnings for those who were wrestling with how this fits in day to day ministry. This session was a real help to some who were trying hard to understand how missional lifestyle reflects the unchanging truth of the gospel in an ever-changing world. I appreciate so much how God has used the voice of this humble servant to challenge and sharpen us as a denomination to be the people of God —the people of blessing, as Reggie said—in our local communities across this land.

Conference Business Matters

Ron Waters, General Conference Moderator

Board Members Elected General Conference elected two new members to the Executive Board, each to serve a three-year term. Tim Garner is District Pastor for the Indiana District and is a member of the Milford, Indiana Brethren Church. He served two terms in a previous organizational structure of The Brethren Church, serves on the Nurture and Support Commission of the National Association of Brethren Church Elders, and helped organize relief efforts for Hurricane Katrina and a tornado that struck Nappanee, IN. Garner said he hopes to contribute to the Executive Board a spirit of cooperation, creativity, and encouragement and to bring perspectives he has gained through 30 years of ministry in The Brethren Church. Patricia Gravatt is a member and six-year moderator of Mt. Olive Brethren Church in Virginia and a member of the board of Shenandoah Meadows (camp) in the Southeastern District. She is a member of the Ashland University Board of Trustees. Pat has been a senior level human resources management professional for more than 25 years and has served on the

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General Conference delegates approved a revised funding formula for the remainder of the year, adopted a statement in support of Brethren chaplains, recognized a new congregation, and elected new members to its Executive Board (see related article) during the 123rd General Conference business sessions. The revised funding formula will allocate undesignated funds given to the denominational fair share (tithe) support as follows: 94% for the mission and vision of The Brethren Church, 3% for Ashland University, and 3% for Ashland Theological Seminary. The change was recommended to the conference by the Executive Board, with the support of the leadership of the university and seminary. Brethren congregations are asked to give an undesignated tithe—ten percent—of the income they receive to support denominational ministries and educational institutions. The change was prompted by an anticipated shortfall of about $100,000 for The Brethren Church, Inc. for 2011. It will reduce that deficit for The Brethren Church by half, with the reduction coming equally from support that otherwise would be distributed to the two educational institutions. “The new funding allocation will significantly help The Brethren Church move away from deficit spending for the year,” said Moderator Ronald W. Waters. “However, it will still require a renewed effort on the part of the church and the schools to generate the additional funds needed to end their fiscal years in the black,” he added. All three organizations have been adversely impacted by the current economic recession. “The Brethren Church National Office staff has worked diligently to save money wherever possible,” Waters said. “In 2010, we reduced expenditures by over $300,000 compared to 2009. In some cases, those savings were realized by under spending budgeted line items for core ministries of the church, hampering the advance of the mission and vision to which God is calling us.” Leadership of The Brethren Church, Ashland University, and Ashland Theo-

logical Seminary agreed to continue conversations during the coming year to address significant differences of understandings of the paradigms that undergird their relationship. Conference also adopted a working budget for The Brethren Church for 2012 that returns the funding allocation to the previous levels of 80% for The Brethren Church and 10% for each educational institution. In other major action, delegates adopted a motion on behalf of Brethren chaplains serving in the US military, at the request of the chaplains. Recognizing the elimination of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy regarding homosexuality by the Department of Defense, the action states that “our chaplains will not perform marriages or civil union ceremonies for homosexual couples or provide any leadership support at gay pride or other such events.” According to Chaplain Colonel David Graetz, who presented the motion, the military will not require Brethren chaplains to perform such actions since conference enacted this resolution. At the request of the Indiana District, delegates recognized New Song Community Church, Union, Michigan, as a fully established congregation in The Brethren Church. The congregation had previously been recognized as a mission.

Missions YOU Can Do!

Brethren Peace continued * The purpose and value of the Brethren historical and biblical bases for peacemaking in the peace emails attachments.

Local Missions Get Specific

During General Conference there were two opportunities to hear from those who are being missional in their communities. Those presenting weren’t chosen because of the size of the church they attend or the budget they have available for missions. They were chosen because they are meeting a need in their community, and those who planned conference wanted to give attendees the exposure to a variety of ways being missional can work. There doesn’t need to be a budget or committee when you have a passion to help those in your community. Information was presented on ministry to the disabled and their families, partnering with schools, running a thrift store and fighting for justice in communities and around the world. Those who participated in the panel were: Steven Cole, Northgate Community Church (Manteca, CA), partnering with a school; Linda Van Dyke, South Bend (IN) First Brethren Luvability, ministry to disabled persons; Tom Sprowls, Berlin (PA) Brethren Church, running a thrift store; Heidi Weller and Linda McKibben from Park Street Brethren (Ashland, OH), partnering with a school; Sherry Searles, Heidi Stout and Issac Stout from North Manchester (IN), creating a Justice Ministry. Sherry Searles leads the Justice team from North Manchester (IN) First Brethren Church. She provided the list below of ways to become involved, specifically for Justice, but if you have another area of interest, Sherry’s points can easily be adapted for beginning any type of missional ministry in your local church. “Our church started a Justice Team spontaneously two years ago. Likeminded people with a passion for seeing people treated justly gathered together to explore ways of helping our church engage. We are volunteers with a heart for issues of justice who seek to bring the hope of freedom, both physical and spiritual, to the oppressed and voiceless in our world. “While no two churches are the same, the path that we have followed on this journey included:

* educating ourselves first, and then our congregation about issues of injustice, specifically modern-day slavery. * partnering with other organizations in the field who are rescuing and restoring victims of human trafficking such as The International Justice Mission, the Not for Sale Campaign, and Shared Hope International. * partnering with a local school where help is needed. No finances need to be involved. Set up a meeting with the school principal and see where there might be volunteer needs in the school. * becoming conscious consumers of God’s money by switching to fair trade coffee during our fellowship time and events, thus ensuring that the farmers who grew the coffee beans were not mistreated and were paid a fair wage for their work. * joining with other churches around the world in Freedom Sunday in the spring (www.freedomsunday.org).“

* Peacemaking activities people in the group were involved in, such as a Day of Prayer for World Peace, discussions about modern day slavery and trafficking, and conflict resolution classes. * The possibility of creating a peace video that could be shown in local churches. 4. General Information * A copy of our BPI Report to General Conference will be in an attachment to a peace email. * Six pages of peace literature were distributed, either to the adult or the BYIC conferences. For copies of either the report or peace literature, contact Phil Lersch (6301 56th Avenue, N, St. Petersburg, FL 33709 OR PhilLersch@verizon.net). We appreciate your interest!

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Conference Retrospectives from a pastor … National Conference this year had a lot of positives. I truly like the change of venue. While it was a bit chilly, I found Hugo Young Theater much more convenient. I could hear and see much better than years past. The schedule worked well. I especially like getting most of the business out of the way at the beginning, leaving us able to focus on leadership training. Thanks to everyone at the National Office for their hard work. Hugh Halter and Reggie McNeal presented an inspiring picture of what God’s people can do if we follow him and leave behind our traditional picture of “church.” They continued to challenge us to “go” share the gospel, rather than expect others to “come” to us. I pray that all who attended felt uncomfortable. I pray none of us returned home satisfied. I pray God stirred all of our hearts to hunger for more: more of him and more ways to be Christ in our communities. I also pray we took that discomfort home to our church families. Speaking of prayer, I think the best part of this year’s conference began before we all converged on Ashland. Several discussed, planned and organized folks to bathe every person and event at conference in prayer. The prayer room provided a great opportunity to continue that effort. I

felt in my spirit the difference from years past. I think the unity of purpose represented by the organized effort is pleasing to our Lord. I also believe he honored those prayers.

Dianna Teusch Huntington, Indiana

from a lay delegate … Attending the Brethren church National Conference as a delegate for the twenty-ninth time, I expected part family reunion, part encounter with God, part training in doing church, maybe a little Brookside Park ice cream—and I wasn’t disappointed. Reggie Harvey ignited us to journey out of Egypt and warned that change doesn’t come easy. We want to return to the security of bondage and oppression—the familiar. But God always wants to lead us out to freedom. We need to fight the fear of failure so God can bring us to a fruitful place. Change causes anxiety and stress, but we need to let our leaders lead. Let God be God, surrender, Harvey challenged. Reggie McNeal drove home our need to go missional with his trademark humor. Christians have created a silo in which they exist separate from the world. “We are steeped in an idolatrous pursuit of our ‘kingdom-making’ religion,” McNeal said. He asked us what we are doing to love our literal neighbors as ourselves. We will go missional, he said, at the point where our hearts break for people, not a project. Hugh Halter introduced us to his church plant, Abdullam, which intentionally made it difficult for Christians to join and easy for non-Christians. Halter idifferentiates between nominal Christians and those totally surrendered to Christ. He pushed us to go into our communities and make relationships, celebrate those who do so and purposefully focus our time on making apprentices/disciples the way Jesus did. Nate Bebout, Five Stones associate pastor, led the conference worship band of Drew and Michelle Tucker, Tony and Jillian Van Duyne, Michael Good, and Luke Miller. Other conference highlights included Executive Director Ken Hunn’s urging the denomination to pursue a New Day in the Brethren Church, WMS spotlights on Lost Creek, Muskoka Community Church (Canada), and the Ruggles family’s re-entry into American culture. A global fish fry raised $1,300 for the Puerto Maldonado, Peru orphanage. And I tackled two ginormous raspberry truffle cones at the park—only because they were out of my flavor the other two times I visited.

Ann Miller Gilbert, Arizona

from a lay leader …

from another pastor …

Each summer I look forward to General Conference. For me, it has been a refreshing time of encouragement, building relationships, and personal spiritual challenge. I return home with a clearer understanding of things I need to focus on in my ministry to others. This year’s conference hit the mark again. I have enjoyed watching how our conferences have improved and have become much more focused over the past several years. This in no little part is due to the Spirit-led staff at our National Office, who seek to listen to God’s heart and follow his guidance challenging our churches. I think God for giving them his vision for our denomination and the resolve to bring speakers in to convey it to us. If you haven’t been to conference lately or watched it on the web, you’ve really missed out on some great speakers and some wonderful chances to see what God has been doing in our various congregations. Reggie McNeal (Present Future Future, MIssional Renaissance) was one of our speakers both years. He challenges us to get out of our churches and into our communities and make a difference there. Ha longs for us to love our neighbors by being “people of blessing” wherever we find ourselves. He encourage us to have a missional focus instead of only being involved with our church programs. Last year he urged our churches to partner with a school in our area and find ways to help them. This year, I was really delighted to hear that 60% of our churches did just that! We also got to hear the creative ways congregations are making an impact in their neighborhoods. It was awesome! Hugh Halter’s workshop (Tangible Kingdom) is still challenging me to live my life more and more for God and others. The humble and unassuming ways that he has his family share their daily lives with others is still bothering me. Hugh has a wonderful way of just being friends with people and resting in God and letting him initiate spiritual conversations. I see Jesus like that. He didn’t live his life frenzied or frantic. He watched what the Father was doing and joined him. He rested in God’s care and in his guidance. What would it be like to live in God’s peace like that?! I want more of that in my life! Thanks, Reggie and Hugh, for touching my thoughts and challenging me to follow closer with Jesus and reach out more to the part of the world where God has placed me. Thanks Brethren Church for General Conference!

Praise the Lord for all that he is doing to re-awaken the Church! After attending General Conference this year I feel that now more than ever, the Brethren are among those responding to his beckoning voice. I am so grateful that someone invented the word “Missional” to give us shared language which simply explains a reclaiming of what the Church should have been doing all along. This year, Reggie McNeal and Hugh Halter were not only voices of challenge to us in that Missional vein, but also prophetic ones. With convincing clarity they perceive the coming shape of our rapidly changing world and provide strategy on how we reach it. Much of what was shared with the Brethren at first glance may have appeared to some as a radical departure from the church as many of us know it, but it was certainly not a radical departure from The Church as God designed it! We were given more than enough to keep us chewing on for some time, and my prayer is that we would. However, let us not stop at the “chewing” but may it lead us to the “doing”! One comment Hugh made that resonated with me was that the great sin of the North American Church is that we are educated far beyond our obedience. Ouch! May a new day arise in Christ’s Church, where we apply our knowledge, work hard and think creatively at how to live as Christ where he has planted us. Because of this year’s conference I am further spurred on to join God in his beautiful mission to redeem this broken world. Additionally, I am grateful to be a part of a portion of the Bride that genuinely wants to reclaim its mission. May it be so!

Sharon Heestand N. Georgetown, Ohio

Bart Shaw Nappanee, Indiana

Board Members Elected continued executive committees and governing boards of numerous community for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. She is completing certification in family mediation through the Commonwealth of Virginia. She said she has developed a deep love for The Brethren Church since joining Mt. Olive nearly 25 years ago as an adult. As a member of the Executive Board, she hopes to use her spiritual gifts and leadership experience to help The Brethren Church make and grow disciples. During a conference business session, Moderator Ronald W. Waters expressed his appreciation to outgoing board members G. Emery Hurd, pastor of the Cheyenne, Wyoming, Brethren Church, and Fred Miller, pastor of the Mt. Olive Brethren Church, McGaheysville, Virginia. They had served on the Executive Board four years and two years, respectively, and each had also represented his district on ministries councils as well. Hurd was elected to a new three-year term on the board of trustees of the Retirement Fund that oversees the pastors’ pension fund.

Thoughts on Brethren WMS Conference Peace Initiative Conference Report

Sherry Van Duyne WMS Vice President

Phil Lersch From our Brethren Peace Initiative perspective, the 123rd General Conference was a positive experience! 1. Leadership Team Meeting – The agenda included: sharing peace-related devotional thoughts and concerns; our low financial balance of $241; plans for our presence at Conference; BPI written reports at seven district conferences this spring; revising and updating our link on the Brethren Church website; creating more activity on the BPI BLOG; designing a BPI facebook link on the website; our Evangelist column; thanks for the possibility of a minor in Conflict Resolution and Human Rights at Ashland University; possible new members 2. “Inquiry” Responses – A short Inquiry response form was distributed in the ministers’ meeting and at an open discussion gathering. Of the 30 questionnaires returned, these were the results of how often they read the BPI semimonthly peace emails and attachments: 4 – Always; 22 – Sometimes or Often; 4 – Seldom or Never. 11 new names were added to our peace email list. Even more encouraging were these voluntary comments: * “Keep up the good work” and “Keep on being faithful” and “Good material.” * Thanks for facilitating this. * BPI is raising Brethren Church awareness of this aspect of “the Way of Christ.” * I truly enjoy the historical series that you provide. * I have used some of your stuff in teaching on peace at church. * Thanks for the work you all are doing. I appreciate those I have read. * I have enjoyed and appreciate the articles. They have prompted good discussion with others on an important topic. 3. Open Discussion – 16 folks gathered for conversation about “peacemaking” and Brethren Peace Initiative. Some topics mentioned were: * Peacemaking is the absence of conflict, but also handling conflict and solving conflict. * Peace involves health and wholeness (shalom). * Forgiveness and reconciliation and acting on behalf of others. * Peace in both interpersonal and international relations. * Peace does not always equal agreement and people-pleasing. * Peace issues in schools. * Confronting injustice nonviolently.

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I believe that National WMS Conference 2011 was one of the best ones ever … … and let me tell you right up front, “yes” I planned it. But the thing is that over the years of my life I have “planned” hundreds of events and programs and they were NOT all good. This one was good because… we honored Jesus, we shared stories of his work in our denomination, we ate chocolate, we experienced creative worship through dance, we laughed, we brainstormed about what women wanted in a ministry just for them, we asked our Lord to show us HIS direction, we enjoyed a missions focus, we ate a delicious luncheon (did I mention over 30 dessert choices) and we loved on each other. I can only take the credit for creating the space, not for how God used these times to bless his women. In our devotion time I shared with the ladies that I am on a quest to take Women’s Ministry to a deeper and higher level — this very much includes WMS. I am not just talking about more women joining but also about more women being exposed to the Kingdom of God on this earth and challenging them to become his faithful followers! So I asked the ladies at the luncheon to discuss two basic questions:

What do women like to do in groups?

(I’ll share some of these suggestions later.)

Why join an organization for women? I received over 120 DIFFERENT answers to these two questions. I learned that in order for women to take the time and energy for an organization it has to be “worth it” (my words). Some of the answers from the ladies when asked “Why join?” have made me rethink and wonder… Learn from each other Accomplish more Sense of belonging Fulfill a purpose Make new friends On mission together Support and encouragement Mentoring Share experiences Get things done Time away from routine Volunteer Friendships and fun Many voices better than one Lots of these reasons center on fellowship and mission—there has to be a purpose and a vision for meeting that is relevant and makes a difference in lives of others. One person said, “It has to be meaningful in order for me to take the time.” Most of us want to belong when something has a purpose especially “an important Jesus purpose”. So what should we be about? Why should other ladies join us? What will we accomplish? How deeply will we care for each other? This month ask your own group these questions and then explore their answers. What do they tell you? What insights and ideas could you generate? What does God want from WMS in this culture and at this time? Keep talking, thinking and praying…

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 September/October 2011 Vo l u m e 2 4 , N u m b e r 6

The President’s Pen Dear Ladies, Today this column is not being written by the president nor by any of her appointees. It is I, the editor, writing to introduce you to the new president of the Women’s Missionary Society — GLORIA RADCLIFF. Ta-da! Gloria is well qualified to be the president. Read her qualifications: She is a member of the Burlington Brethren Church in Burlington, IN. She is married to Mike, a mother of 4 children and soon-to-be 10 grandchildren. Gloria has worked for 13 years as an administrative assistant at The Villages in Kokomo, IN, an agency that provides various services to families and children in the foster care system. She graduated from Ashland University with a Bachelor of Music degree and later received a master’s degree in elementary education from Indiana University. She taught elementary music in Ashland and Fort Wayne. As the wife of a former pastor, she has served in many capacities within the church: leading music ministries and ladies Bible studies and helping with Vacation Bible School. Outside the church, she served as a peer counselor in Fort Wayne at the Crises Pregnancy Center and served on various teams in the Kokomo Great Banquet Community. One of her spiritual gifts is hospitality, which she loves to use both in the church and in the community. Working with Gloria as financial secretary is PEI ENG BURNS, a pastor’s

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Missionary Miscellany

Six missionary ladies spoke Wednesday and Thursday afternoons, giving insights to their ministries.

MARYLOU WILKINSON, co-director of PumpHouse Ministries in Ashland with her husband, Bruce, said she was a “leaper.” A leaper is one who jumps or moves abruptly and her leaps of faith have been because God called her to leap. She explained her very important leaps: her move to Ohio when Bruce entered Seminary in 1997, then their leap into Pump House Ministries, her leap into Seminary in 2007, then her graduation and ordination in May as a Brethren pastor. Her most recent leap is answering God’s call to start a women’s ministry called Morning Joy. With this mission, she wants to believe in and empower women, equipping them for God-given opportunities. With each leap she struggled with “but what if . . . “. In response, she knows each has been a leap of faith and God is with her. She concluded reading Proverbs 3:5-6, Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding. MaryLou’s prayer requests are for the under-served — those with whom they work: felons, those with records, single parents, and destitute families. They pray for knowledge to help them and prepare them for work and ministry. LEIGH ANNE RUFENER and her husband,Chris, serve the New Hope Church in State College, PA. During their six years, they realize the Lord has given them the world! Penn State University is located in State College and it has a large international student population. Several of these students attend New Hope, become believers, and return to their native home as a missionary in addition to their secular work. Leigh Anne quoted Matthew 28:1920, Go ye and teach all nations,

baptizing them .... , and lo, I am with you always . . . To better show the various ministries and outreach, Leigh Anne used slides for MOPS (Mothers of PreSchoolers), worship, and fellowship activities. A commissioning service is given for students who leave. Each is given a salt shaker and told to be “salt in the world.” Throughout their Bible studies, counseling sessions, and week of prayer each semester, decisions are made for Christ. Leigh Anne’s prayer requests include: a meeting place for MOPS, one without cost; a meeting place for their worship services; the pastoral families — Chris and Leigh Anne Rufener and Ben and Shannon Frank — to follow the Lord’s leading; a revival in State College. CINDY HANSON and her husband, Larry, are directors of Cross Bars in Mishawaka, IN. They minister to low income individuals and families. In addition to providing their free coat give-away and job-skills training, they gave a Health and Fun Fair, which provided sight, dental, and blood pressure screenings, games for the kids, food, and free hair-cuts given by students from a nearby beauty school. They served the Easter dinner and the story of Christ’s resurrection to 120 people. Cindy’s prayer request is money or contributions of food for their food pantry, which is in constant use. APRIL MC CLUNG and her family moved to Huntsville, Ontario, Canada, four years ago. She and her husband, Jeremy, built a church for “non-churchy” people and now the citizens of Huntsville refer to it as “our” church, not as “Jeremy’s” church. Every day they connect with people who are not Christians, but are being drawn to Christ.

(Continued on page 12)

Highlights ofJulyW.M.S. Conference 13-14, 2011 President Phyllis Roussakis opened the 123rd Conference of the Women’s Missionary Society by welcoming members and guests. The meeting was in the worship center of the Park Street Brethren Church. Joan Ronk played “Majesty” for the organ prelude and Sherry VanDuyne, vice president, read Psalm 145: 1-3. Sherry lead the theme song, “How Great is Our God.” She asked “What does God want me to do to speak Jesus into children? Women? Families?” In re-reading verses 1-2 of Psalm 145, she asked what importance that was to us. Several remembered those verses were the benediction of the Sisterhood of Mary and Martha. This reminded her and us of women who helped with SMM or influenced us in some special way. Sisterhood was the feeder for WMS and that association was an example of vs. 4, One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts. We were reminded of our responsibility: speak to young women and children about the love of God. Phyllis told of the joy from our missionaries in Argentina when they learned about our 2-year project to help renovate Camp DeQuecito. Pictures of the changed conference facility and meeting room were viewed and it is beautiful! This concluded our current support for the Camp and they are very thankful! They believe, as do we, that God is faithful! Again this year, each society was asked to vote on two questions: the project and the use of the Legacy fund. The results are India/Colombia mission areas are the new twoyear project and the Missionary Emergency Medical Fund (MEMF) is designated for the Legacy Fund. If your society has offerings for the project or thank-offering, please send your checks to Joanne Kroft before August 25 or, after that date, to the new financial secretary: Pei Burns.

HONOR ROLL Joanne Kroft presented certificates to societies with special achievements:

Increased Membership College Corner, Lanark Neoma, Oakville, South Bend, St. James, Williamstown. Increased Giving Beacon of Hope, Berlin, Canton Sr., Corinth, Cornerstone, Flora, Gretna, Highland, Johnstown, Loree, Masontown, Mexico, Milford, Nappanee, New Lebanon Afternoon, Northgate, North Georgetown Mercer, North Manchester, Oak Hill, Park St. Joy, Pleasant Hill, Pleasant View, Raystown, Roanoke, Valley, Vinco. Increased both Membership and Giving Bethlehem, Canton Jr., Dutchtown, Goshen, Sarver, Warsaw Congratulations to each of you! This total is 38 compared with 24 in 2010. The national WMS is blessed with your efforts. Lynn Herendeen announced the theme for the Devotional Guide is Experiences with our God. Each article is written by a lady who has had a special time when God revealed Himself in a significant way. Each experience may spark a memory for us, too, when God met us and we were changed. An addition to the prayer request column are names of WMS groups and youth for monthly prayer and a space to record answers to your prayers. When you use the recipe for the month, think of the Flora, IN, ladies, who gave the recipes. Karen Weidenhamer, general secretary, presented the statistical report. 97% of the societies reported a total of 680 members, 20 members less than 2010. Nineteen societies met all the goals. Phyllis thanked the ladies who served on the committees: Registration Committee: Nancy Laudenschlager and Sharon Williams, Indiana district; Lois Barnhart, Ohio district; Ilda Blair, N. California district. Registrants totaled 13 board members; 37 delegates; 28 guests.

Nominating Committee: Bonita Chamberlain, Northeast district, Joan Merrill, Indiana district. The nominee for president was Gloria Radcliff. The two nominees for financial secretary were Pei Eng Burns and Norma Waters. Auditing Committee: Dianna Clingenpeel and Gloria Radcliff, Indiana district. The financial books were audited and found to be accurate and in order. Phyllis recognized the district presidents and representatives: Southeastern ......... Tammy Thompson Northeast ................Grace Grumbling Ohio ..............................Norma Waters Indiana ............................ Linda Immel Central ............................Gini Peterson Midwest .......................... Helen Arnold Southwest ....................... Iris McKinney N. California ............. Carolyn Bennett The Board recommended the appointment of the following to serve in 2011-2012: General Secretary ..................... Karen Weidenhamer Assistant Secretary ...........Joan Merrill Literature Secretary ......... Corky Fisher Devotional Guide Editor ..............Lynn Herendeen Newsletter Editor .............Corky Fisher Subscription Secretary .. Joanne Kroft Sewing and Benevolence Coordinator .............................vacant Elected and re-elected officers are: President .......................Gloria Radcliff Vice President .........Sherry VanDuyne Financial Secretary .............. Pei Burns Treasurer ....................... Janet Rufener SCHOLARSHIP Kaelee Hendershott received the WMS scholarship to Ashland University for her senior year. She is from Ashland and attends the 5 Stones Community Schuch. Following graduation, Kaelee will be certified to teach pre-school through 3rd grade. Kaelee spoke briefly and was very appreciative of this gift.

Women’s Outlook Newsletter

SPECIAL PROGRAMS The luncheon was opened to all ladies of the Conference and more than 90 attended. The luncheon was in the Family Life Center of the Park St. Brethren Church. Tables were beautifully decorated with bird houses, tiny bird nests, “eggs,” and plants. Preceding the meal, guests were asked to discuss two questions: (1) What do ladies do when they get together? and (2) Do you have a mission to women and girls in your church and/or community? The catered luncheon included chicken salad or ham salad croissants, salads, and desserts. Sherry presented Jodi Thomae, an interpretative dancer. To the song of “I Know My Redeemer Lives,” Jodi gave a beautiful dance. Then after she explained her actions and colors and answered our questions, Jodi danced again. The song and her interpretation were much more meaningful. Ladies freely offered answers to the two questions asked above: (1) Talk, give support to another, become mentors, empower women to be what God wants them to be. (2) Plan a secret sister schedule, assist with fund raisers, give a lunch for stay-at-home moms, plan intergenerational activities. Sherry appreciated the efforts of several who helped with the luncheon: Judi Gentle for the table decorations and members and friends of the Joy Circle, Ashland, for the desserts. Phyllis and Sherry received the thank offerings and project offerings. During this, Phyllis read Colossians 3:15, And let the peace of God rule in your hearts . . . and be ye thankful and I Thes. 5:18, In every thing give thanks. She reminded us that our gifts serve where we can not and the recipients are also blessed, just as we cheerful givers are blessed.

NOW SEE THIS: Janet Rufener reported that the Board approved increasing the dues to $10 per member.

September/October 2011

FINANCES Janet presented the proposed budget. Copies were included in the program booklet for each delegate’s perusal ahead of time. Because the membership is less, finances in general are less. As always, this is a faith budget and the money received last year is spent this year. The budget was approved. Benevolence ............................ 11,381 ATS ........................................... 2,105 World/Home Missions ............ 2,551 Campus Ministry ..................... 1,200 Riverside School ..................... 1,200 Legacy Award ....................... 3,225 AU Scholarship .......................... 500 Ministerial Student Aid .............. 600 Outlook/Devotional Guide ....... 7,144 Salaries .................................... 1,950 Devotional Guide .................. 1,356 Outlook Newsletter ................ 3,675 Subscript. Secy postage ............ 25 Social Security tax .................... 138 Other Expenses .......................... 2,230 Conference expenses .......... 1,000 Gifts ............................................ 100 Postage ...................................... 140 Mileage ...................................... 650 Bank charges .............................. 20 Audit ........................................... 100 Bonding ...................................... 130 Printing ......................................... 50 Phone calls .................................. 20 Supplies ........................................ 20 TOTAL ........................................ 20,755 Gifts received to date for the project offering are $8,067.86 and for the thank offering are $7,553.36. You may send your offerings before August 25 to Joanne Kroft, 608 Twp. Rd. 1151, RD 5, Ashland, OH 44805. After that date, please send them to the newly elected financial secretary, Pei Burns, 406 E. 5th St., North Manchester, IN 46962.

President’s Pen (continued) wife in North Manchester, IN. Pei and Ron have been married 27 years and she describes herself as a “domestic engineer.” She has been employed as a dietitian for 33 years. Pei is a Stephen Minister, teaches 1st grade Sunday School, and is co-secretary of the local WMS. She enjoys helping with Vacation Bible School, nursing home visits, giving

In Memorium

Eighteen women were remembered during the memorial service. Sherry read their names and commented that she knew five and each had impacted her life. She wondered how each of us impacts another’s life. She gave a prayer of thanks for each one. Those who were remembered were: Northeast District Berlin . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vella Boches Highland . . . . . . . . . . . Ellie Woak Masontown . . . . Mildred Wheeler Raystown . . . . Debra Musselman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Arlene Cogan Valley . . . . . . . . . . LaVerne Kesler Southeast District Cameron . . . . . .Peggy Lemmons Ohio District Garber . . . . . . . . . . . .Harriet Perry Gratis . . . . . . . . Barbara Hileman Indiana District Burlington . . . . . . . Grace Radcliff Dutchtown . . . . . . .Verna Randall Nappanee . . . . . . . Freida Bowers New Paris . . . . . . . . . . . Betty Gray Milford . . . . . . . . . . . . .Anna Cain South Bend . .Ella May Overmyer Tiosa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Irma Riddle Southwest District Tucson . . . . . . . . . . . .Shirley Patty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marjory Grisso

hospitality, and participating in several small groups. A member of the WMS Board in a new position is CORKY FISHER, the new editor of the WMS Newsletter. Corky is also national literature secretary, a member of Park St. Brethren Church in Ashland, and secretary of the JOY Circle. Re-joining the Board in a new position is JOAN MERRILL as assistant secretary. Joan is the previous Coordinator for Sewing and Benevolences. She is a member of Cornerstone WMS in Muncie, IN. Many of you prayed for those to be elected. These ladies are the tangible answers to your prayers.

Missionary Miscellany (continued) April’s prayer concerns are: asking the Lord to prepare church leaders; guidance in delegating responsibilities; and finances. NANCY HOSTETLER represented the staff at Riverside Christian School in Lost Creek, KY. She reminded us that Riverside was started in 1905 as a faith ministry and the school continues to function on faith. Again this summer several mission teams have completed many projects on campus, ranging from landscaping, home improvements on the buildings to conducting a soccer camp and Vacation Bible School. Throughout it all, people are touched and the staff blessed. Satan continues to attack the school with problems: accreditation is questioned, enrollment is down, and teachers and finances are needed. Nancy’s prayer requests are for those problems, knowing God’s will, and strength for the staff. Their loads are heavy. TRACY RUGGLES and her family, husband Todd and sons Johnathan and Benjamin, completed 18 years of ministry in Mexico City. At present they live in Ashland, waiting for the Lord to open the next door of ministry. Tracy appreciated the gift the WMS gave last fall to enable them to attend the reorientation program in Colorado. This was a time of renewal, adjustment, and transition. Imagine their sons’ adapting, who knew the US only as a vacation site once a year with the grandparents! The parents needed adjusting, too. Tracy’s prayer requests are for continual adjustment and jobs. Wherever the Lord places them, they will be in ministry. Every missionary lady — MaryLou, Leigh Anne, Cindy, April, Nancy, Tracy — said thank you for the prayers, cards, notes, and gifts, which would arrive “just at the right moment!” Your cards are shared with others in ministry. Nancy hangs hers on a grapevine for all to see. Sending those is an easy thing for your society, but it means so much to those who receive them.

The Editor’s Ending Dear Friend,

With this issue I am completing 24 years as editor of the WMS Newsletter. This is an enjoyable experience and I thank each of you for being my friend. I appreciate your notes, phone calls, and hugs. As I previously stated, I have no reason to conclude, except to give someone else the opportunity to serve. I have received some suggestions and comments from you, which I will pass along. Another’s comments and experiences may help you. 1. Consider your WMS meeting as a devotional time with God, not “just another meeting.” Use the Devotional Guide as a suggested Bible study. Supplement the article with related scriptures and explanations from a commentary. Develop a few questions to stimulate discussion. 2. The primary purpose of your meeting is devoted to God, not to be a fund-raiser meeting. Keep your business to a few minutes! In the beginning of the year, let your officers decide what projects you will support and how you will earn your money.

Please continue to support those who represent us in other locations.

KEEP IN TOUCH with your prayers

and letters!

3. Remember, the primary purpose of your meeting is devoted to God, not a social hour. Visit with your friends during the refreshments. 4. Begin now to pray about your place in WMS. Finding nominees for officers is difficult for local, district, and national officers. Remember that “God equips the called, He doesn’t call the equipped.” And another maxim to remember is “God does His extraordinary work through common, ordinary people.” 5. And the benediction! The Board has received and heard your coments A newer version is suggested because some think the King James version is too old to appeal to young women. This is a suggestion, not a command. You may choose which version you prefer. The important thing is to pray it reverently, The WMS Board meetings are working meetings where many plans and decisions are made. They are also enjoyable and we members become good friends. A bond is formed. Presidents during my 24 years are Donna Stoffer, Deanna Benshoff, Helen Dickson, Shirley Black, Charlene Rowser, Cynthia Stout, and Phyllis Roussakis. Each lady brought a special form of leadership and I was blessed. Meetings are usually at the Williamstown Brethren Church and the WMS ladies prepare a delicious lunch. Meetings are good and I will be there in spriit. Enough of my sermon! When I began editing 24 years, I was a novice in publication writing, but those in the Brethren Church national office mentored me: Howard Mack, Dick DeVeny, Dick Winfield, and Nancy Hunn. Their help was greatly appreciated. To God be the glory! I hope to see you at next year’s Conference in Ashland, July 18-22, 2012. Your friend,

Joan

Ruggles Honored for 18 Years on Mission Field

Scott Soden

Henry Ford once said, “Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success.” This quote certainly sums up the theme of the 2011 Global Partners dinner held at General Conference. It was a night of great service, great food and great celebration; a coming together of the body of Christ to rejoice in amazing accomplishment, to be inspired by stories of God’s provision, to give thanks for sacrifice and perse perseverance and finally, bless new beginnings. I speak of endings and beginnings and of transitions and perseverance because 2011 was a year for just that. This year we welcomed home Todd and Tracy Ruggles and their sons Johnathan and Benjamin. For over eighteen years the Ruggles family worked and served in Mexico City ceaselessly praying and preaching the Good News of salvation and of lives redeemed and restored through the blood of Christ Jesus. This evening would be a time of reflection and celebration as we thanked them for their dedica dedication and tenacity through times of overwhelming loneliness and heartache as well as moments of incredible joy and satisfaction. This year’s event took place at Pump House Ministries, where a dedicated team of volunteers and staff prepared tables, trays and loads of tasty fried fish and veggies. As people sauntered in they found seats where they could spend time catching up with old friends and make new ones as well. Soon the place was abuzz as members of each table rose to the challenge of serving and poured tea, coffee and began delivering the delicious dinner. The room was a blend of mouth-watering scents, eye popping dishes and steady smiles and laughter.

…now—perhaps more than ever—people need to know of the love of God for his people. The evening’s program began with Ed Strickland as he spoke with great fondness and passion and introduced the Ruggles family. He gave thanks to God for the dedication of Todd and Tracy, who left home and friends and family and moved to a place where language and culture were foreign and unfamiliar, heeding Christ’s call to see the gospel preached far outside of their comfort zone. Todd Ruggles came forward and spoke of the loneliness of the field and the presence of Christ, of the great difficulties and of the astounding joy, of beginnings, endings and new beginnings. He reminded us all that God knows our names no matter where our feet take us, and that if we will trust him no matter what, we will always find a warm welcome when we return home. Todd also reminded us that there is still much to do and that now—perhaps more than ever—people need to know of the love of God for his people. Executive Director Ken Hunn and Rev. Scott Soden then asked the entire Ruggles family to be recognized and presented them with a special award in appreciation for all they had done and sacrificed in Jesus’s Name. As the family came forward the room stood as one with thunderous applause. Rev. Dave Stone also came forward and spoke at length of the joys and hardships facing many of our brothers and sisters around the world, asking all in attendance to not just pray but become partners with them. He and his team focused specifically on the work currently happening in Peru with Italo and Rebecca Abuid and the orphanage on the edge of the jungle. Rev. Roger Stogsdill rounded out the evening in prayer and song, reminding us that God allows us to see only a small part of the tapestry he is making. We came to celebrate the piece that God allowed us to see and be a part of, to rejoice in the ending of one journey and the beginning of something entirely new.

Partnering to Care Rich Hagopian, Pastor Smoky Row Brethren Church, Columbus, OH For the past few years, Smoky Row (Columbus, Ohio) has been in the process of rediscovering who God has made us to be. It’s a been a time of challenge, encouragement, and a deeply felt sense of God’s presence and guidance. Part of the journey has been a realization of who we uniquely are in our community, and ownership of the vision that God has given us for ourselves. Like many congregations, we’ve adopted a vision statement that really summarizes for us what we think God has called us to—both now and in the coming years: We will reveal Christ to one another and the world in dynamic, irresistible ways through programs, partnerships, and our unique, Christ-like personality. To achieve this vision, we will be a place of holistic growth, continuous multiplication, and intentional action. God is helping us realize this vision more and more all the time! One way this is happening is by helping to establish an Ohio Benefit Bank site in our community. “Helping” is key for us, here: Smoky Row is one of a handful of local churches—along with the principal of a local elementary school—that have begun partnering together to try to help those living in our neighborhoods. This hasn’t been easy. It can be hard to even figure out what “neighborhood” means in 20-year-old developments that span multiple school districts, zip

codes, and municipalities, but it has been way easier than we would have ever imagined. What’s the Ohio Benefit Bank? It’s basically a long, online questionnaire. Trained Ohio Benefit Bank counselors walk families or individuals through the question-and-answer process, and at the end of the process help them learn about all the public benefits the clients may be eligible for, whether that’s food stamps, WIC, childcare or homeenergy subsidies. Even things like registering to vote, filing state and federal taxes, and filling out the FAFSA—a document necessary to get governmental student loans— can all be done through the Ohio Benefit Bank site. Honestly, this is “low bar” stuff for a church to do. Volunteer training is pretty easy, consisting of a three-hour training that is usually available locally, with some onyour-own work. All that’s needed to set up an Ohio Benefit Bank site is a space, a printer/scanner and computer connected to the Internet. A phone line or voicemail box is critical, too. Another local church has volunteered a voicemail box for our site. A lockable file cabinet rounds out the setup. Our site will work this way: A family calls the number on our Ohio Benefit Bank marketing materials— available for free—and reaches our voicemail box. Our volunteer coordinator will regularly check this against a master calendar of times when volunteers are available and clients scheduled-—we’re using a free Google calendar. The coor-

dinator will schedule volunteers to walk folks through the interview process, which takes an hour to an hour-and-a-half. The best part? This is primarily lay led, and already most of those who have volunteered to be a part of the training aren’t “paid staff” in our partnering churches. As far as “programs” go, it’s an easy way to engage a congregation in service with tangible impact. The Ohio Benefit Bank is a program sponsored by the Ohio Association of Second Harvest Food Banks (www.oashf.org), which is part of a larger national organization. What’s this mean? It means that there is probably a Benefit Bank for your state, too. (Check out www.thebenefitbank.com to see!) We’ve been blessed to have a much larger OBB site, one that has connected its clients with over a million dollars since its inception, offer to mentor us as we get ourselves off the ground. For Smoky Row, this program is a win and a grace. It comes packaged and ready to use. All a church needs is volunteers and a few minor capital improvements. It helps us maximize our building for the good of the community since a seldom-used office in our church building is going to house the site office. It helps us forge even stronger partnerships with other neighborhood churches and our local elementary school (groups who help support the Smoky Row Food Pantry, which is housed in our building, too). It’s going to help us care for the least of these, the orphans and widows, the

New Paris Sponsors Cowboys for Christ In the interest of sharing the word of God, ministers knock on neighborhood doors, post Bible verses on Twitter and sponsor amusement park trips for teenagers. Now one follows people into the woods on horseback. On the third Saturday of every month, Pastor Ted Schowengerdt of New Paris (IN) puts on a Western hat, loads up his mare, Moon, and meets a couple dozen other weekend cowboys. Under the umbrella of the national organization Cowboys for Christ, they take to parks and backwoods trails for equal parts horsing around and Christian fellowship. Both are dear to Schowengerdt. He trained his first horse when he was 11 and rode cattle yards out West as a young man. When the ministry called, riding took a back seat to ministry. But he dreamed of someday being involved in a ministry that combined his love of horses with his calling to share Christ. Last summer when some horse owners wanted to form a “low-key” riding club with a Christian prayer, Ted approached the church’s board of directors. “They looked at me a little funny when I first brought it up,’ he said, laughing. But the directors gave their blessing. Ted applied for chapter status with Cowboys for Christ. Now he and his wife, Bev, and fellow riders from age 7 to 70 saddle up around the middle of each month. “We have something in common. Everybody here loves their horses, so everybody gets to get together and talk about them. We catch up,“ said Teri Reed of Elkhart. Horses are unequivocally what brings the riders together. Bringing themes of faith to such a setting fits in with the group’s mission of reaching beyond the walls of a church building and into the community to create relationships with people. “Most of the riders have probably been invited to churches before. The whole thing isn’t to get them to come to my church. It’s to present Jesus Christ and his church in general—his worldwide church. That’s what I’m most concerned with,” Ted said.

At right from top: participants saddle up; rides always include plenty of food; Executive Director Ken Hunn participated in the May ride; rides also include worship music and a message; 

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Partnering continued

hungry and thirsty and sick—the ones Jesus longs to see his Church reach out to in providence and love. It’s a blessing to be part of it, and to work with others of like-mind. If you’d like to talk about ways to help forge similar partnerships in your neck of the woods, or what it’s been like to work together with others to set up a community Benefit Bank site, feel free to email rich@smokyrow.org or call the Smoky Row office at 614-889-5224. Peace!

In Memory

Eugene J. Beekley

Janet S. Clayton

Chaplain, Lt. Col. Eugene J. Beekley (USAF, Ret.), age 93, loving father, husband, uncle, friend, grandfather, and great-grandfather, born June 30th, 1917, in Cerro Gordo IL, passed to his eternal reward on Sunday, June 5 at his home in Sarasota, FL. Chaplain Beekley’s first wife, Margaret (Gill) predeceased him in 1986. His second wife, Jeanne (Spencer) survives, along with sons Philip (Lisa) in Texas and Charles (Linda) in Maryland, step-children, grandchildren, and great-

grandchildren. Gene was an Ashland (OH) High School graduate, Ashland University and Seminary graduate, 32nd Degree Mason, former Ashland University Board of Trustees member, USAF Chaplain’s Advisory Board member, Peru (NY) Central School Board member, Fairborn (OH) Band Boosters member, and Kiwanian (many locations). Chaplain Beekley served his country and made friends around the world, with Air Force assignments in Geneva, NY (Sampson AFB), Taegu AB Korea, Plattsburgh AFB NY, Thule AB, Greenland, Incirlik AB Turkey, Wright-Patternson AFB OH, Kadena AB Japan, Kunsan AB Korea, and Lackland AFB TX, where he retired from the Air Force with 23 years of service. He then served as pastor of Park Street Brethren Church in Ashland. OH, for many years before eventually retiring to Sarasota. A memorial service was held on Wednesday, June 8 at the First Brethren Church in Sarasota, followed by a funeral service in Ashland on Saturday, June 11, officiated by Dr. Arden Gilmer. 

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Martha Ader Honored for 70 Years of Music The Crossroads Community Church, Bradenton, FL had a luncheon after church on April 3, honoring Martha Ader for playing the piano and organ at church for 70 years! She played at the First Brethren Church and Walcrest Church in Mansfield, Ohio until she moved to Florida in 1985. She has played in Florida since then. She played the

Janet S. Clayton, 95, of Ashland, OH died Thursday, August 18, 2011, at Brethren Care Viillage. Born October 25, 1915 in Dayton, OH, she was the daughter of Oscar and Minnie Stutz. Janet served as First Lady of Ashland University alongside her husband, Dr. Glenn L. Clayton, who was the 23rd president of the university from 1948 to 1977. Even after retirement, together they continue to serve AU and the community in a number of capacities. Janet was a member of the Ashland Symphony Board, Garden Study Club, AA Sorority, Park Street Brethren Church, Ashland University Women and the Country Club of Ashland. She is survived by one son, Glenn L (Karen) Clayton II of Burke, VA; daughter-in-law, Carol (Juhaz) Clayton of Naples, FL; four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband; son, John Marshall Clayton; and four brothers. A funeral service was held on August 23, with Dr. Don Rinehart officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Glenn L. and Janet S. Clayton Scholarship at Ashland University.

Norman E. Grumbling Norman Edgar Grumbling, Jr., 84, Upper Yoder, PA went to be with his Lord on May 8, 2011. Born April 24, 1927 in Johnstown, PA, he was the son of the late Norman E. and Alice M. (Leidy) Grumbling. Norman is urvived by his wife of 60 years, Grace L. (Stutzman) Grumbling; children, Norma, married to the Rev. Ronald Waters, North Georgetown, OH; David Grumbling, Johnstown; Robert Grumbling, married to the former Mary Ann Squires, Pattersonville, NY; and Linda, married to the Rev. Gary Firster, Etter, PA.; brother, the Rev. Glenn Grumbling, married to the former Nancy Thomas, Hickory, NC; sisters, Esther Daniels, Fredericktown, OH; and Wanda, married to the Rev. Arthur Larson, Boca Raton, FL; 10 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Mr. Grumbling was a University of Pittsburgh graduate and served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He retired from Bethlehem Steel Corp. in 1982 after 32 years. Norman was a ifelong member of the Johnstown Third Brethren Church and served as a deacon for many years, taught Sunday school and sang in the church choir, retired men’s club chorus and Bethlehem Supervisors Choir. Memorial contributions may be made to Third Brethren Church. 

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organ, accompanied on the piano by her daughter Bonnie, who passed away in 2009. Martha thanks God for good health so she could accomplish playing for so long.

Laudenschlagers Serve at Mexico, IN Brethren Church Pastor Ronald Laudenschlager and his wife, Nancy, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 25, 2011 with a dinner at the First Brethren Church, Mexico, IN. The church called Ronald to be their pastor in August of 2010. His official installation was held on December 12. Ronald graduated from Ashland College (University) in 1959, and from Ashland Theological Seminary in 1962. He and Nancy have four sons and one daughter, and eleven grandchildren. Ronald was ordained at the Peru First Brethren Churcn in August 1964 and has pastored Brethren churches in Oakville, Huntington, College Corner, and Center Chapel, all in Indiana. He also was an elementary school teacher in Wabash, retiring after 33 years of service.

Marylou Wilkenson Ordained On May 1, 2011, Marylou Wilkinson was ordained at The Pump House Ministries in Ashland, Ohio. Marylou completed her Master of Divinity degree in 2009 through Ashland Theological Seminary and continues to minister at The Pump House Ministries. There were 65 guests in attendance with many of those being Brethren elders, members of the Brethren Church, friends, and family. The day was truly anointed by God. The Spirit moved among us and touched all in attendance with his love and faithfulness. When the testimony of Marylou’s life journey with Jesus was shared through Word, praise, and dance, Christ was glorified. This was her prayer as she prepared for this day. Marylou is married to Reverend Bruce Wilkinson and they have four children: Tyler, 22; Shane, 18; Tucker, 16; and Emily,14. Marylou continues to carry the vision for Morning Joy Women’s Community and it is through this holistic transitional home that she desires to lead women in need to freedom in Christ Jesus. Thank you to all who attended this momentous occasion and thank you to all our Brethren family for their love and support. It has meant so much to The Pump House Ministries, Bruce, Marylou, their family, and best of all… the Kingdom of God. Grace & Peace to all!

Back L-R: Mrs. Sue Brooks-deaconess, Mrs. Nancy Laudenschlager,Tim Garner-Dist. pastor, Mrs. Marion Bargerhuff-deaconess, Troy Hattery-deacon & moderator Front: Pastor Ronald L. Laudenschlager

Brethren Elders gather to lay hands on Bruce and Marylou Wilkenson (seated) Left to right: Todd Ruggles, Dave Cooksey, Ken Hunn, Bill Johnson, John Shultz, Vickie Taylor, Dale Stoffer

Gretna Brethren Church of Bellefontaine, Ohio welcomed Bryan Baker as Associate Pastor on July 1, 2011. The previous Associate Pastor, Josh Coffee, is planting a daughter church in the Hilltop area of Columbus, Ohio.

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Ryan Smith

By now the roar and ruckus of Engage Conference has left the campus of Ashland University, but if Facebook postings are true, what began at Engage a month ago, has certainly not died down in the lives of the youth and advisors who attended.

Throughout the week the challenge was put before us to “find our place” in God’s STORYLINE. Chris Flomsbee, our speaker for the conference, unpacked for us the depth and grandeur of God’s story, as evidenced in seven episodes throughout the whole of the Bible. During the week, we came to understand that God’s story does not live in isolation from our own story, as each of us add to our life’s story every day. In fact, we learned that God so badly wants to connect his story to our story, and in so doing create a beautiful STORYLINE that has us, his people, on mission with him. He is calling us to be agents of redemption in a world that is broken and in need of him. This reality that God is calling us to find our place with him is humbling to say the least. Luke Dowdy, youth pastor at Berlin, had this to say: “Engage was a helpful reminder that we’re a part of God’s ongoing story of redemption. It’s pretty amazing to think that God includes us in the greatest plot ever written; his love in, through, and for his people. Once our group realized we were characters of divine love, it became a little easier to understand how the story unfolds.” Engage Conference was very much what people have come to expect. It was a week filled with friends, both old and new, as well as opportunity for fun and play and great times of worship also. There is something encouraging and motivating to stand in the balcony of the chapel and look down on 250 plus youth and advisors freely giving themselves to the Lord in worship. I see in that sea of bodies a hunger for God, and a desire to be a part of what he is doing in the world today. The challenge was to find our place, but the reality of the challenge was waiting for us when we returned home. Certainly Engage is a highlight of our summer, but more than that, Engage serves as an opportunity for us to deeply connect with God in ways that seem to be unique to our time there. Maybe it’s the sense of family we feel, maybe it’s being “home” in Ashland, maybe it’s all the pizza we can consume in a week? Whatever it is, God again wowed us with his presence and because of the time shared together we aren’t the same. Our story still has much to be written, but I think when you look back on the chapter that is Engage 2011 – STORYLINE, you’ll find what’s written there to be something that is very special.

The Brethren Evangelist (SSN 0747-4288) is published bimonthly except July/August by The Brethren Church, Inc., 524 College Ave., Ashland, OH 44805-3792 (telephone: 419-2891708; 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 addional mailing office at Mansfield, Ohio. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Brethren Church, 524 College Ave., Ashland, OH 44805-3792. September/October 2011, Vol. 133, No. 4

The Brethren Church 524 College Ave. Ashland, OH44805

General Conference Offering for Church Multiplication Momentum is building in our church multiplication movement! At our recent General Conference we recognized those individuals and couples who have begun the journey on our Planter’s Pathway and are benefiting from the careful stewardship of their call. With some plants begun and thriving, we continue to cultivate the kind of culture or “soil” where churches can be multiplied right where you are! Our conference offering goal was to provide the needed funds for the $25,000 start-up grant for one of several church plants in the planning stages now. Additional funds can be used for the assessment process that is so crucial to wisely steward the gifts of those who sense the church planting call. In the same way, funds are needed for regional training events that help pave the way toward equipping exist_________________________ General Conference Offering ing churches and districts to support the establishment of a new church. _______________________________

Yes! I’d Like to Help

Name __________________________________ Address __________________________________ City, State, Zip __________________________________ Phone # __________________________________ Home Church

Please complete the information above, detach this form, and mail it to the address below, or call the toll-freenumber. Secure contributions may also be made online through PayPal by going to www.brethrenchurch.org/contributions. Scroll down to “Conference Offering” and follow the prompts. Thanks for contributing to Church Planting! The Brethren Church 524 College Ave. Ashland, OH 44805

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We are well on our way toward this goal with $14,272 in offerings and pledges already in hand. Please prayerfully consider your personal, group, or congregational gift that will help us meet and surpass this goal.

late o o t t It’s no join in! to