The Brethren Evangelist - September/October 2007 by The Brethren Church

A NEW DAY in The Brethren Church

Looking Ahead to…

A NEW DAY Two districts have already planned specific events designed to encourage and inform leaders and congregations in embracing the NEW DAY vision of the Brethren Church. Read more in this issue about the 2008 Brethren Pastors’ and Spouses’ Conference which will likewise focus on another facet of the vision implementation. Requests come in every week for direction in finding discounted copies of The Present Future book and DVD group teaching tool. This resource is our companion to the vision and its principles. Ownership, optimism, and enthusiasm are giving birth to action around our denomination. Even so we hear reports of those who yet are skeptical about whether or not the NEW DAY vision will take hold and have a transformative effect, or that it will go the way of so many worthy initiatives of the past. We can have a NEW DAY in The Brethren Church. This is to say that I believe with all my heart that God will honor our efforts with a generous supply of his transforming Spirit; but only if we do our part. The NEW DAY strategies must be embraced; which is also to say that we must specifically begin to act on the strategies themselves. These strategies are not difficult; they are measurable and attainable as well. Make no mistake however — this will be a difficult journey. The strategies in the vision document will require a fair amount of effort. Embracing the NEW DAY vision and its strategies likely will mean the setting aside of ourselves, our wants, and some of our most cherished congregational habits. Some present day congregational activities will need

in the Brethren Church

to be redirected. Finances likewise will need to be redirected to help fuel the vision. We can all be different. But we will need to shift our behavior into new patterns through which the Spirit will work his transforming power. Are you ready to get started? Here are ten things you can do right now to begin a NEW DAY in your congregation …  Contact Church Health and Resource Specialist Gary Diehl (toll-free at 1-877-289-1708) to inquire about scheduling a Natural Church Development inventory. We’re asking each congregation to establish a health baseline through this tool, sometime in the next two years.  Pastor and church leaders should set aside some time to begin a ministry audit. Examine whether or not your activities are resulting in changed lives. If no one is being transformed by this activity then ask how it can become more transformational, otherwise it should be discontinued in favor of activities that encourage mission and change. The vision calls for each congregation to embrace this task in the next twelve months.

have an uncluttered and clearer mission. This is another goal for year one.  Is your church doing a campaign this year? This is an annual goal. Why a campaign? It allows God’s Word a chance to do its transforming work as a common scripture passage is encountered three different ways each week by the whole congregation over a period of four to six weeks. Pastor Rick Warren says that of all the things his church has done, campaigns are far and away the most life-changing. You’ll be surprised to see what happens when the whole flock unites in a concentrated way.  Find a need in your community that God has gifted and positioned your church to meet in Jesus’ name. People will care about your message when they see that you care about them!

Please turn to page 14.

 Pastor and church leaders should begin now to examine our current church plants for the purpose of adopting a sister church that they can support with prayer, encouragement, dialogue, relationship building, and financial support. Local congregations will be transformed as they begin to see ministry through the eyes of those who likely

“Looking Ahead” Thoughts from Executive Director Ken Hunn

A Vision for The Brethren Church

VISION Such compelling encounters of spiritual and visual clarity are common in scripture. These were the experiences of our heroes, who in fact were people just like us. God invaded their lives with a picture or vision to propel them into their future. Abraham’s starry sky, Moses’ burning bush, Isaiah’s throne room, Peter and the fire and wind of Pentecost, Saul’s blinding light. These were all episodes of God reaching down into the hearts of his servants. But we also know of people themselves passionately reaching into God’s heart. Before his death, Jim Eliot envisioned a life of total abandon for the sake of Christ and the gospel. Mother Teresa displayed the same sacrificial lifestyle on a daily basis throughout her long life. Many of us were warned by our spiritual forebears to avoid such a passionate “mountaintop” expression of our faith. To be sure, we want to be solidly grounded. But why shouldn’t we join our Bible brethren and other faithful saints, whose lives were transformed on the heights! This is an invitation to risk. This is an invitation to dream; an invitation to a vision. You will recognize this vision, for much of it comes from you and through you. This is a vision for the Brethren Church; it is a vision for you and about you, for you are the Brethren Church. Our vision is not a statement of where we are, but rather a picture of where we hope to journey. We are not now living the vision. The vision therefore is one of change, or transformation. It is being more than we are, and being all God has

• The ability to see. • Seeing not so much with the eyes, as with the heart. • A picture with such clarity that we can easily and quickly describe it for ourselves and for others. • A future so compelling that it pulls us irresistibly and joyfully forward. • A unifying outlook that clarifies and directs all that we do.

designed for us. Transformation takes us to a different place than where we are now. Transformation is an ongoing process that has outward tangible results in our lives, and inevitably affects the lives of those around us. Transformation is continual change and growth. It is moving deeper toward God’s heart and ever further out toward the heart of the need in our communities. Transformation is a must for those who lead and for all of us who support that leadership, so that together we have the possibility of offering something life-giving and eternal to our communities. God is able to transform us, even beyond what we can envision. But this is not a matter of God’s ability, rather a matter of our obedience and willingness to engage with the Holy Spirit, who alone has the power to change lives for now and for eternity. This is an invitation to let go of you and grab hold of God. It is an invitation for leaders to lead, for congregations to expect and inspect leadership, and work together to embrace Christ’s control of, and direction for, the church. This is an invitation to engage in activities that the Holy Spirit would use as a part of the transformational process in our lives, our congregations, in our denomination, and in our communities. Some might dare to believe that we either should not or cannot change. This vision is based on the idea that change is the norm and that it is possible to see a new day in the Brethren Church. This letter is an invitation to a NEW DAY.

The vision of the Brethren Church is to embrace a NEW DAY of transformed leadership, resulting in transformed congregations, whose mission is the transformation of their communities in the power of the Holy Spirit. In other words … We can have a NEW DAY in the Brethren Church. Transformation is the key. We must change from where we are now. We must always be thankful and humbled by all that has gone before us to bring us to this moment of decision and destiny. However, this vision is neither a return to a previous day, nor a continuation of the present day. Because of Christ’s power to do more than we can imagine or think, we must seek a NEW DAY of greater fulfillment of the mission entrusted to us. We must embrace this NEW DAY. The purpose of this vision is to bring us to a crossroads. We are either going to do this or we are not. This is not a time to debate the details, for we will learn as we go. But go we must. To forego a decision or “take a wait and see” attitude is a decision in itself. The NEW DAY is focused on leadership. The role of leaders is to nourish the Body of Christ. It is required of leaders then, that they continually are leading the flock to green pastures. The vision is focused on congregations. Their transformation is dependent on a clearer understanding of their own gifts and the role of leadership in their midst. The vision is focused on communities. God

A Vision for The Brethren Church has placed us in our respective locations for the purpose of communicating the transforming message of Christ. How Can Congregations Begin the Transformation Process Now? We are the embodiment of Christ to our communities. The goal is to rekindle the transformative process in our congregations. Transformation is a work of the Holy Spirit. However we must involve ourselves in the kinds of processes that the Holy Spirit would use as a means of changing us more into the likeness of Christ. A NEW DAY of transformed congregations means that we will need to stop doing some things, change the way we are doing others, and also begin totally new pathways to transformation. Here are some first steps that we ask congregations to begin with as key strategies that would provide the hope of a NEW DAY.  Within the next two years, every church establish a health baseline by taking the Natural Church Development inventory (or a similar proven tool), and following up with strategies to address the lowest Quality Characteristic. Engagement in this process will be the most important self-focused activity of the church. Redo the NCD inventory at regular intervals (no more often than once a year) to monitor progress and prepare for future health, growth, and transformation. Twenty of our churches have already started this process.  In the next year, each church conduct a “ministry audit,” resulting in the possible elimination of fruitless activities that are not in some identifiable way a part of the mission of reaching the lost and thus transforming communities.  In the next year every church find at least one meaningful connection with a new church plant. (Specific prayer initiatives, lending ministry support and/or work teams, planting a daughter church, launching a multisite initiative, beginning an additional worship service on-site, financial support, etc.)  Participate in a Bible-based, mission-directed campaign at least once each year. (i.e. Experiencing

God, 40 Days of Purpose/Community, Just Walk Across the Room, and the like, etc.) These kinds of campaigns provide several different encounters each week with the same Bible passage related to the same topic, explored over a four to six week span. Most of us do not stay long enough with a Bible truth for it to transform us.

 Begin a process of regular participation in need-based service to the community for the purpose of actively demonstrating the life of Christ.  Gifts-based approach to mission and ministry. (Using approved curricula that also facilitates gifts utilization in the mission of the church.)  Group participation in a short-term mission trip at least every year (including an occasional international destination that would result in a sister church relationship with a specific country/location).  Stewardship teaching and training each year (using approved curricula).  Good faith participation in the mission of The Brethren Church. (As a part of the transformation of relationships and a tangible expression of unity we will expect all congregations to have some level of financial participation in the mission and vision of the Brethren Church. Churches with extenuating circumstances can apply for a reduction in the support request, with the minimum of $500 annually.) How Can Pastors Begin the Transformation Process Now?  Leading the congregation by word and deed in the aforementioned initiatives. The congregational activities listed above provide a transformational agenda that each pastor can embrace as they lead their congregation.  Using the Natural Church Development process as a connector to the Ministry Support Network through a coaching relationship with another NCD pastor/leader. We can utilize these relationships to build a supportive and nurturing relationship for pastors and churches to meet a variety of needs. A limited number of those interested in coaching the NCD process will begin training this fall.

 Yearly participation in transformational experiences such as conferences, missions trips (U.S. and/or international), or any “out of the box” experience that results in a greater understanding of mission and participation in the same.  Every pastor participating in one international mission trip (intentionally conducted by the BCNO, with personal transformation as a goal) in the next three years. One-third of our pastors have already met this goal, and will likely repeat this endeavor in the future.  Identifying and participating in specific transformational continuing education opportunities at Ashland Theological Seminary. Transformation is already a part of the vision of our seminary. We will begin discussing the possibility of more opportunities (specific to Brethren ministry and leadership, but open to all) to match a variety of transformational needs.  A variety of transforming activities could be pursued. We could camp our souls together around key scripture passages and watch for the Lord to bring the seed of his Word to life in our life and mission. Each pastor should be encouraged to seek a Paul, a Barnabas, and a Timothy in their lives. To facilitate these and other ideas that will arise, pastors will begin to connect monthly in clusters of generally no more than eight, for the purpose of prayer, study, and fellowship.  As much as possible, leadership initiatives should be open to lay leaders, who will inevitably challenge us with new insights, and assist by teaming with pastors to lead their congregations in the transformation process. Process Versus Program In the pursuit of this vision we need to be creative about different ways that we can embrace the same goal. The Vision is not dependent on certain programs for example, some of which have been mentioned here by name. As together we discover new tools that accomplish the same goal, a greater variety of options will surface. Financing the vision

will take creativity, discernment as we realize savings through the elimination of ineffective activities, and generosity in what we allocate for ourselves and what we share with others to assist them in their pursuit of the vision. In addition, those districts that are spread out geographically will need to think creatively about how to connect with each other via one-day events, telecommunications, web logs, etc. We will all benefit from a “Why Not!” attitude, rather than a “Why?” approach to these challenges. The goal of transformation is essential at every level. We must apply a faith attitude and a willing spirit. What We Can Do Together  It should be understood that this vision becomes our driving force for years to come. Everything we do together must somehow be linked to this vision or be jettisoned. The implications of a NEW DAY for the Brethren Church National Office will likely be a further decentralization of a significant number of organizational issues (i.e. certification of elders, statistical reporting, etc.) to the district level. A ministry audit similar to that asked of each congregation will also guide the Executive Board in the process of evaluating denominational programs, streamlining, and possibly delegating. The BCNO staff will bring an initial report to the Executive Board this fall on where we might begin this process.  An every-other-year schedule for General Conference could be considered by conference delegates, with a “Leadership Conference” format (focused on preparation for the vision) held on alternate years.  The vision would drive our annual themes, pastors’ conferences, and district conferences for years to come.  We can foresee that these beginning strategies will be the framework of a more complete method of tracking our progress with the Annual Statistical Report. It will be important for us to spur one another along as we embrace the vision.  Every church and every pastor should, at least on an annual basis, engage in some intentional

process of discovering their own effectiveness to each other in relationship and to the mandates of scripture with regard to effectiveness in mission. These are areas in which growth in numbers does not serve as a measure of effectiveness. The consequences of neglecting these priorities are too great a cost to make assumptions.  A big question mark continues to be the financing of our mission. It should be noted that with a membership of over 10,000, even a modest investment per person would make a dramatic difference in our financial picture. Additionally, a different approach to denominational support would hold the promise of significantly increased income. It would be a good thing for those pastors and churches who could assist others financially to do so, as an expression of love, support, generosity, sacrifice, and unity. The Brethren are in need of a transformation in the area of stewardship. As we seek this aspect of transformation, we can expect to see a difference at every level.  Communication will be a key. The level of communication from the BCNO and throughout the denomination will need to increase exponentially. We need to tell the transforming stories as they occur. New strategies will be developed as we travel this road together. Great and wondrous things are already happening throughout our family. Few of us ever hear of them! Let’s Pray The accomplishment of this vision will owe itself to a Spirit-driven prayer initiative throughout the Brethren denomination. Let us envision a day of fasting and prayer for the church and her mission one day each month. As mentioned earlier, leaders will give of a day to unite in regional settings for the purpose of confession, prayer, and seeking the Lord for strength in the journey. This NEW DAY must be a sought-after movement of the Spirit. No lasting fruit will be borne of our efforts if we do not pray as if it is a matter of life and death — it certainly is for the lives that will be touched by our mission.

SOME Q & A What do you mean by transformation? Transformed into what? What does it look like? The Bible word for transformation is the same as our word “metamorphosis,” a change into something with greater beauty, maturity, and completeness. In 2 Corinthians 3, this is a Spirit-given transformation more fully into the likeness of Christ. Paul describes this as something “glorious,” and that it produces “freedom” and “boldness.” This is the same word used of Jesus’ transfiguration. For leaders we have a vision not only for a personal spiritual transformation but also a transformation (especially for pastors) in their relationship with the congregation. This means that leaders are given an agenda to lead (through the vision strategy, and as a result of their own participation in transformational activities) and therefore show a greater boldness and confidence. For congregations we have a vision not only of individual Christ-likeness but also of a more missional engagement with their communities, a greater sense of unity with other congregations, greater generosity, and a stronger partnership in the mission of the Brethren Church — especially with respect to church planting and international missions. The key human component in this process is a NEW DAY in the relationship of pastor and people — a relationship characterized by love, trust, respect, and acknowledgement of the pastoral leadership role. For communities our vision is that through the witness of our churches there will be a transformation into the likeness of Christ as the gospel is livedout among them and their lives are surrendered to him. What are some core values of this vision? Transformation – it is possible to change, in fact this should be the norm. We can have a different future than what the present suggests. Unity – we are always better together. We must be true to our name and reject the tendency to go it alone. In all of our endeavors we need

Continued on page 6.

A Vision for The Brethren Church to seek to make our mission a shared experience. Generosity – we say it is more blessed to give than to receive, but our actions show otherwise. It is difficult to proclaim the Lordship of Christ if we don’t show it in our actions. Accountability – we must live examined lives, speak the truth, and live in the light. We must seek honest and loving communication about the status of our mission, at every level. Abiding – we often don’t stay with a spiritual truth long enough to be transformed by it. Mission – is a lifestyle; it should permeate all of our activities. Every ministry of the congregation should be evaluated in light of this core value. This vision is based on the truth that transformation happens by the power of the Holy Spirit, both when we venture into new territory of dependency on God, and/or when we actively wait upon the Lord through the intentional investment of our lives in a particular truth of his Word. Transformation in the Scriptures: Romans 12:1, 2; 2 Corinthians 3:7-18; 2 Corinthians 5:17. Our congregation has already been active in transforming activities. Can we use these as a part of this vision? Yes. The strategies listed here are only a beginning. As we dialogue and learn from each other, we will develop other strategic ideas that will fuel the vision. It is important however, to communicate your ideas with the National Office staff, to be sure that the tools you discover actually fit our shared vision. Additionally it is vital that we share our journey as it unfolds. We are always better together. As we learn new ideas we will all benefit together. Who knows what great things God will do as we make this a shared experience! We need a NEW DAY in the Brethren Church! This day will not come by continuing on the same path. We must change. We will know that transformation is occurring when the Holy Spirit is more manifest in our lives and relationships, resulting in others coming to Christ as a result. We must jettison the baggage of doing things as in the past. Leaders must lead. Congregations must rally to their under-shepherd as an expression of love and unity, and as a means of walking together in accountability. The outward mission of the church must precede and have first priority over the inward ministry of the church to one another. It is imperative that we rediscover the blessing of giving as a pathway to transformation and mission. A NEW DAY will come from moving with the Holy Spirit in new directions.

From the

U.S. Ministries Council… Larry Baker, Chair

General Conference brought some encouraging reports of activity among the Brethren and some changes in focus and how we do things at the U.S. Ministries level. First, let me begin by sharing some of the encouraging things that District representatives shared with the Council and just a few of the encouraging things that happened at Conference: • More congregations in all districts are becoming involved in mission trips. • The Bridge Ministry is helping retain and transition our youth into adult leadership positions within our congregations and denomination. • Hispanic Brethren congregations are growing in Florida and California • Pump House Ministries, the Indiana District Mission Ministry, and several congregations are working with Lifeline Ministries in Toledo, Ohio. • Ryan Smith and the Youth Advisory Committee developed, produced, and distributed S.A.L.T. (Students Advancing in Leadership Training) to each congregation. • United Community Brethren Church in Dayton, Ohio and Ft. Scott (Kansas) Brethren Church are seeking creative ways and events to reach out into their communities. • Three congregations in Indiana (New Paris, Loree, and County Line) are considering day care or after school programs to minister to children and families in their communities. • Hammond Avenue Brethren Church in Waterloo, Iowa is planning to begin another worship service — perhaps in a different location. • Summer camping programs continue to be emphasized in most of our districts. The Florida District reinstituted its camping program. • Grace Community Church (Winchester, Virginia), the Southeast

District, and other congregations are supporting the planting of a new congregation in Huntsville, Ontario with pastor Jeremy McClung. • Carson Oaks (California) Brethren Church has a renewed emphasis on prayer with three services per week, 8:00 a.m. Sunday, 5:45 p.m. Wednesdays, and 5:00 a.m. on Fridays. • Phil Lersch helped Brethren begin considering ways that we as individuals and congregations can be peacemakers in our families, communities, and the world. • Grace Community Church sponsors a missionary and is helping construct a day care center in Gatanga, Kenya and they have a daughter church of 6,000 in Blantyre, Malawi. I could go on because there were more. We need to celebrate the good things that are happening; and use them to help us take the next steps in our history. That brings us to vision — our preferred future. Our vision was focused by Executive Director Ken Hunn with the help of Brethren throughout the denomination. It speaks of a NEW DAY without disregarding our past and focuses us on encouraging transformed leadership and transformed congregations, which ultimately result in the transformation of communities. It gave suggestions for congregations, pastors, and for all of us to work together to see this NEW DAY in the Brethren Church. Delegates also adopted a new funding plan for our U.S., Inter-

national, and ministries through Ashland University and Seminary. It’s called a tithe. Instead of a growth index formula involving attendance averages and membership, we decided to ask each church to send in 10% of what their members contribute in their offerings. It sounds pretty simple and very biblical. In light of all these things, here are some suggestions that will help us see the NEW DAY we are talking about sooner rather than later. The U.S. Ministries Council recommends that: • Each congregation use the Vision Statement and the supporting recommendations as a basis to open discussion as to what a “New Day” would look like in their local setting. • Congregations who have not participated in Natural Church Development or a similar process in the past two years engage in this process during the coming year. • All Districts and Congregations seek ways to reach outside their “comfort zone” with the Good News of Jesus. We encourage partnerships and strategies that cross of social, cultural, and racial barriers within our communities in order to better communicate the gospel. • Districts send representatives to the Church Planting Summit, November 910, and work with Bill Ludwig to develop a strategy for church planting. • The development of a “new look” for Growth Partners which includes a heightened awareness of the potential impact if we all participate to some degree. • We encourage the continued planning of U.S. and International mission trips and advertising them on the denominational web site. • Young adults participate in the Bridge Ministry. • Each congregation implement the S.A.L.T. youth leadership development program with one or more students in the coming year. • Congregations consider how they can take steps to bring more peace into people’s lives. • Each congregation take steps that will enable them to willingly and cheerfully send their tithe to denominational ministries in this coming year. If the congregation is not able to send the whole tithe, we suggest that they send something and plan incremental increases to accomplish this goal.

and the

International Ministries Council…

Scott Soden, Chair

Over the last year International Ministries has really come out of the shadows and found a real place among the Brethren. If you weren’t at Conference this year you missed a lot. Conference week began with many of the council members acting in the role of deacons (helpers) during the opening evening communion service along with members from the U.S. Ministries Council and Executive Board. Wednesday over 36 people attended a workshop that was developed by Scott Soden and John Moore on planning and implementing short term mission trips. Topics included the overarching reason for the trip, the logistics and financial aspect of planning and finally the all important, “what happens when you get back.” This was a great way to help churches that really want to get people out in the field and change the way congregations look not only at foreign missions, but at the mission field right outside the front door. Scott and John had a second opportunity to speak during the annual Men’s Luncheon where they spoke with passion and excitement about the changes that come over those who go into the field and the kinds of things that happen to those churches when their members get back. They ended by challenging those at the luncheon to do whatever it takes to get their pastors and lay leaders into the field. Breaking a bit with tradition, there was no World Relief luncheon this year so that other topics on transformation and the new vision for the Brethren Church could be discussed and shared. Instead the Council combined both the World Relief Luncheon and the Missions Banquet into one event. The banquet featured a variety of elements that included special table settings

provided by the members of the council, a slide show of churches in Argentina and of course, as always, a really great meal. It isn’t Brethren if there’s no food involved! One of the neatest aspects were the little items that were laid around the tables for those attending to both look at and take home as reminders to pray specifically for that mission field. Many of the items were actually made by members of churches in the field and so were meant as special mementos for those in attendance. Some of the items were Mexican magnets in the shape of dolls, delicate scrolls, coins and prayer magnets. Chairman Scott Soden gave a short overview of the exciting work that is currently going on in the mission field and Rev. Kurt Stout introduced the guest speaker for the evening, the new area representative for World Relief, Mr. Gary Fairchild. Gary spoke to the audience about his excitement to be at the conference, the changing face of missions and the direction that World Relief is moving. Gary ended with an invitation for the Brethren Church to continue to partner with World Relief and change the world. All in all this was an exciting year for the International Ministries Council and I for one look forward with great anticipation to seeing where God leads both the Council and the Brethren Church. It’s a NEW DAY, and by God’s grace and mercy we’ll see our congregations and their communities transformed more and more, stepping beyond the boundaries of our homes into our neighborhoods and the world beyond in the name and power of Jesus Christ.

GIVE AND IT WILL BE GIVEN TO YOU

2007 General Conference Offerings as of 8/16/07 Offering

Received

Pledges

Total

Hope of Ireland

5,881.12

525.00

6,406.12

BYIC

4,368.37

175.00

4,543.37

Puerto Maldonado

7,122.17

625.00

7,747.17

World Relief

4,792.00

1,190.00

5,982.00

Ashland Theological Sem.

1,153.00

275.00

1,428.00

TOTALS

$23,316.66

$2,790.00

$26,106.66

2,385.74

0.00

2,385.74

India Silent Auction

The True Measure of Success Our world’s obsession with success conjures up all sorts of things to compare. In the church world, the size of our budgets, buildings, or programs often gets trotted out as a sign of success, or lack of it. Who hasn’t secretly thought, “Mine’s not as big as theirs” or “Mine can beat yours with one hand tied behind…” as we compare notes with other pastors or ministry leaders? We can easily find ourselves in the pride trap, especially when our “thing” comes out on top in the comparison. Or, just as bad, we slide into the super-spiritual trap when our “thing” doesn’t measure up to someone else’s. Isn’t that really just a clever disguise for the pride trap anyway? Andy Stanley told a group of pastors and leaders: “Your church’s strategy is PERFECTLY designed to get the results you are currently getting.” That should cause a few of us to wake up and listen. Are we focused on strategy, or results? If we aren’t getting the results we want, what needs to change?

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Rather than getting caught up in comparing the size of our strategies, methods, or inputs, shouldn’t we spend more energy focusing on the desired outcomes of those strategies? Do we actually know the desired results of what we’re doing? If so, how are we doing at achieving those results? Think it through. Are we striving for more classes, more small groups, bigger worship spaces, better praise teams, larger meeting attendance, and so forth? When examined more closely, we should honestly see those things not as the desired results, but as the means to the results we truly want. As followers of Jesus, the results we should truly desire are more people fully connected to God and more lives fully transformed into Christ-likeness. Focusing on those kinds of results and measuring our effectiveness are what the Natural Church Development (NCD) journey is all about. More than twenty Brethren churches are now participating in this journey of

self-evaluation in some form. Some are taking their 2nd or 3rd steps by reassessing their effectiveness, while a few others are just about ready to start their NCD journey. How about your church? If we actually plan to move forward into this NEW DAY of partnering with God to transform lives in our communities, it’s possible that something needs to change, based on the current results. An NCD journey can help bring focus to what needs our attention most. Perhaps your church is ready to shift her focus from strategies and methods, and take the journey toward producing more of those desired results: transformed lives. You can, so let’s get started now. Contact Gary Diehl by email (gary@brethrenchurch.org), or call the National Office at 877-2891708 for more details. Let’s embrace this NEW DAY by working together for God’s glory!

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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 2007 Vo l u m e 2 1 , N u m b e r 1

The President’s Pen Dear Ladies, How’s your Vision? Recently the frames on my husband’s regular eyeglasses broke. He was very disappointed because he had these rimless glasses custommade to his liking. Unfortunately, the former optician had retired, and his replacement said she could not assist with custom-made glasses. Since Peter doesn’t care for the current styles, nor does he want old-man’s style glasses, he searched until he found an optical store which was willing to cut the same shape lenses (no one would just sell him new frames; he had to buy the whole deal). He needed the new prescription anyway, so he bit the bullet, as the saying goes, and ordered what turned out to be a very nice pair of new spectacles. Many people, myself included, have imperfect vision. We don’t see as well as we would like without some correction. Similarly, the ancient Israelites had a vision problem, not a problem with their physical eyes, however. It was a problem with the eyes of their minds and hearts. They had a spiritual vision problem. I’m sure we all recall the account in I Samuel 16, which tells of Samuel. Israel’s last great judge (who also served as priest and prophet) was led to seek out God’s choice for a replacement for King Saul. God revealed to Samuel that one of the sons of Jesse of Bethlehem would be the next King of Israel. After interviewing all but one of Jesse’s sons, each one of whom looked as though he could be a successful leader, The Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider

Missionary Miscellany

One of the bright spots in Conference is visiting with our missionaries those who represent us around the world. Brenda Ray from Ireland and Nancy Hostetler from Kentucky were the special speakers Tuesday and Lindsey Asbury from Stow, OH, spoke Thursday. All the ladies appreciated your prayers, your cards, and many remembrances. Brenda gave us her view of ministry. They are a team — Mark is in charge and uses his gift of administration in the over-all program in Co. Roscommon; Brenda uses her gift of hospitality by opening their home, sharing the gospel, and showing the love of God. For Brenda, loving people is simple. “People understand the love of God when they experience it from God’s people — us. Evangelism begins with our lives, not with our words.” Later, Mark said that hospitality is an underrated spiritual gift. Mark and Brenda’s goals are 1) to develop youth discipleship, 2) to develop leaders, and 3) to do God’s plans and purposes. To fulfill these, Brenda and Mark believe that “Every believer is a priest; every home is a temple; every table is an altar; every meal is an offering; and every life is a treasure.”

Nancy assumed the ladies knew quite a bit about Riverside Christian School, so she conducted a quiz. She was correct — we answered all her questions correctly and she gave bookmarks (pictures of Riverside) as prizes. Nancy praised several summer work teams whose responsibilities ranged from leading the Bible School to gardening, building a storage unit for PE equipment, and something resembling a “house make-over” which included

most of the campus: Wheeler Hall, the cafeteria and kitchen, a staff apartment, and the school. This involved new windows, walls, carpeting, painting, and lots of etc. School beginsAugust 15, and she said the staff is committed to transforming lives, just as they have done the last 100 years. Two high school teachers and a librarian are needed to complete the staff. She asked for prayers for this specific need. Lindsey Asbury and her husband, Tom, minister from The Center in Stow, OH. To them, church planting is all about faith. She answered the question, “What are we about?” by explaining the Center is a multi-site church and was birthed out of a coffee house. They continue to meet in public places — bookstores and coffee shops, enjoy beverages, read the Bible, talk, and pray. Their meetings are throughout the week in any of ten sites. The mission statement is “Rescue Those Tired of Church.” The age range is wide and their numbers are increasing. “A family reunion” is scheduled monthly in Stow, when people from all sites come together for fellowship and worship. Since both Lindsey and Laly Huaman-Vega are trained therapists, the Center opened a counseling center, which is an additional outreach to the community and especially to the unchurched. Lindsey paraphrased the Great Commission, Matt. 28:1920: “You go and affect people everywhere.” This they believe and practice. As domestic church planters, she requested our prayer support, for “there is nothing greater than praying for a wife, a mother, or a daughter who is lost.”

(Continued on page 12) 9

Highlights of W.M.S. Conference Cheryl Schmiedt, national WMS vice president, chose a theme which complemented the theme of General Conference. We women considered “Finding Joy in His Promises,” based on Nahum 1:7: The Lord is good, A stronghold in the day of trouble; And He knows those who trust in Him. Frequently Cheryl reminded us of God’s promises, starting with His promise to Noah: Neither shall there any more be a flood to destroy the earth (Gen. 9:11 KJV) to Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world (Matt. 28:20 KJV). Cheryl said that happiness occurs when things happen. Happiness is temporary. Joy is the inner feeling we have in every situation in our lives, knowing we are never alone. When we see the rainbow - either actually or mentally, we trust God to keep His promises. And He does! God is the original promise keeper! The theme song was “God is so Good.” Sing this chorus a capella in your meetings like we did; it is beautiful. SPECIAL PROGRAMS Sandy Sharp, Dutchtown, was assisted by Joanne Kroft, national financial secretary, in receiving the thank offering Tuesday afternoon. Sandy questioned why do we give a thank offering. Quickly she answered “This is our expression of appreciation for what others have done for us.” The thank offering is designated for benevolences; what comes in, goes out and is designated for Ashland Theological Seminary, Ashland University Campus Ministry and WMS scholarships, Riverside Christian School, and Home and World Missions. After offerings were received, Sandy gave our prayer of thanks. The luncheon Wednesday noon is a highlight of the week. Some of you come especially for that occasion. After a delicious ladies’ luncheon (soup, cashew and Mandarin orange salad, rolls, and carrot cake), Cheryl introduced Gloria Beau from the Meadow Crest church in Fort Wayne.

Gloria sings beautifully and her testimony to God’s presence in her life of difficulties is a witness that, indeed, He is with her. She is an advocate of Silent No More, a ministry for hurting women. She agreed that “Nothing compares to the promise I have in You” and concluded singing “On Eagle’s Wings.” This was a meaningful program. The Berlin ladies made the centerpiece for each table, which continued the theme of “Finding Joy in His Promises.” The ladies set the rainbow on a fluffy white cloud, reminding us of God’s promise to Noah and his family. Multi-colored napkins continued the rainbow colors. Cindy Hanson, County Line, received the project offering. This concluded the two-year project for purchasing land and building a home for orphan children in Peru, the home of Italo and Rebecca Abuid. Linda Immel, who recently visited the development, said that this home will take girls off the street and out of brothels, protecting them from slavery and prostitution. After the first building is completed (about the first of 2008), smaller buildings will be constructed for adults and children, developing a “family” atmosphere. Cindy asked God’s blessings upon our offerings as they assist in His ministry in Peru. The memorial service, Thursday afternoon, was given by Karen Weidenhamer, Janet Hoffman, and Joan Ronk, Park St. Joy Circle. Karen told the story of “Water Bugs and Dragonflies,” a water bug who left the comfortable pond, climbed the stem of a lily stalk, observed the change in his body from a bug to a beautiful dragonfly, and unsuccessfully tried to return to the other bugs in the pond. Karen likened the transformation of a bug into a beautiful body for those of our sisters who have left this earthly life for their heavenly home. As Joan read the names of the deceased ladies, Janet attached a “water bug” to the lily pad. Joan thanked God for letting us share the lives of these dear sisters:

Southeast Bethlehem: Edna Logan Linwood: Joanna Hesson Oak Hill: Catherine Ingles Northeast Berlin: Betty Hess Pauline May Lucille Ritchey Brush Valley: Gloria Jean Crissman Masontown: Mary F. Davis Pleasant View: Betty McDivit Indiana Bryan: Arlene Lockhart Meadow Crest: Grace Haus Warsaw: Mildred Smith Tiosa: Ruth Stutzman Central Cerro Gordo: Helen Lantes Hammond Ave.: Ruth Lamb Lanark Neoma: Grace Truman SCHOLARSHIPS Jenna Gribben from Ashland Garber and Carly Cronin from Ashland Five Stones were awarded the WMS scholarships. Both are seniors at Ashland University and active in their home churches. They are appreciative; WMS is pleased to honor these recipients. BUSINESS Phyllis Roussakis presided over the business meetings. She thanked those who served on the committees: Registration Committee: Maxine Craver and Sharyn Rehfeld, NE district. They reported 12 officers, 72 delegates, and 2 guests; a total of 86 registrations. Nominating Committee: Amanda Moore, SE district, and DeAnn Oburn, NE district. The present officers were nominated and elected: President - Phyllis Roussakis, Financial Secretary - Joanne Kroft. Auditing Committee: Bonita Chamberlain and Lorinda Schildt, NE district. They examined the books of the financial secretary and the literature secretary and found them to be accurate. Janet Rufener, treasurer, reported her books were audited by a CPA firm in Loudonville. Her books were accurate also.

Women’s Outlook Newsletter

Sewing and Benevolence Coordinator: In the absence of Joan Merrill, coordinator, Cheryl Schmiedt expressed Joan’s appreciation for the contributions of many societies for the “buy and take” sale, as well as items for the auction. The historical quilt, which Joan pieced and was quilted by several ladies during the week, will be displayed next year at the tercentennial conference in Richmond. She thanked the quilting ladies and Tom McConahay for being the auctioneer Thursday afternoon. Joan revised the Service Guide. Two copies are inserted in the membership packs for each society. Needs for the U. S. special ministries are listed in the Guide and are suggested for monthly projects. Needs for International Ministries are not included because the excessive cost of postage discourages sending specific items. Their financial needs are listed and you may send financial gifts to Joanne Kroft and state to whom your gift is intended. Please make two changes in the Service Guide: under ARGENTINA, Monica Santiago’s married name is Romero. Under IRELAND, Need 2: due to currency changes, the attic conversion is estimated to cost $27,000. Requirements for quilt squares are listed inside the back cover of the Service Guide. Refer to these when you are in the quilting mood; Joan welcomes squares all the time. General Secretary: Lila McCann referred to the statistical report on the back cover of the program. This year we gained one new society (Manteca, CA) and 20 members, although two other societies didn’t report. Nurturing your faith and financial commitments were most often met, so we lack showing social outreach, Commitment 3 in the Devotional Guide, page 46. The Executive Board recommended two changes to the W. M. S. Constitution, pertaining to Article IV, Officers, Section 2: This change was accepted unanimously and now reads: “The officers shall be elected for one year and shall be installed before or at the September meeting, but shall serve until their successors are elected

September/October 2007

and qualified. The election shall take place in time for the new officers to be included in the statistical report due to be returned to the General Secretary by May 30.” Article IV, Duties of Officers, Section 3: The first two sentences are the same. The change was accepted unanimously and now reads: “She shall complete the statistical report and return it to the General Secretary by May 30.” These changes were necessary since the date for General Conference is no longer in August, but in July. Many of you have elected officers early and submitted the statistical reports in May; now with these changes all is legal. Please make proper changes in the Constitution of the Devotional Guide, page 42.

FINANCES Janet Rufener, treasurer, presented the budget which the Executive Committee prepared and recommended. Janet distributed copies of the proposed budget Tuesday, giving the ladies time to consider the receipts and expenditures. As always, this is a faith budget, only the money received last year is disbursed this year. She explained that money received from dues and general receipts (interest earned from checking, savings, Brethren Church Revolving Fund accounts) are budgeted toward the costs of producing the Devotional Guide, the Newsletter, and operating costs of WMS, such as postage, conference costs, mileage, etc. Sometimes interest is also added to the thank offering to fulfill those budgeted amounts.

Phyllis recognized the district presidents and representatives and appreciated all their efforts: Southeastern. . .. . Edith Fabrick Northeast. . . . . . . . DeAnn Oburn Ohio. . . . . . . . . . Brenda Blessing Indiana . . . . . . . . Cindy Hanson Central. . . . . . . . . . Gini Peterson Midwest. . . . . . . . JoAnn Belcher Southwest. . . . . . . Iris McKinney N.California. . . . Carolyn Bennett Both Lila McCann and Helen Garner, general secretary and assistant, chose not to continue in their respective positions. Phyllis and the ladies recognized and appreciated their efficiency and accuracy. The Board recommended the appointment of the following to serve 2007-2008: General Secretary: Lynn Herendeen Assistant Secretary: Karen Weidenhamer Literature Secretary: Mary Lee Stout Devotional Guide Editor: Cheryl Schmiedt Newsletter Editor: Joan Ronk Subscription Secretary: Joanne Kroft Sewing and Benevolence Coordinator: Joan Merrill Elected and re-elected officers are: President: Phyllis Roussakis Vice President: Cheryl Schmiedt Financial Secretary: Joanne Kroft Treasurer: Janet Rufener

Benevolence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $9,530 ATS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,476 World/Home Missions. . . . . . . 3,054 AU Campus Ministry. . . . . . . . 1,200 Riverside Christian School . . . 1,200 AU Scholarship. . . . . . . . . . . . 1,000 ATS Ministerial Student Aid. . . . 600 Publications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $8,433 Newsletter Devotional Guide Other Expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . $3,187 Administrative Gifts and Conference Social Security Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $21,150 Janet commented on the increased cost of printing the Newsletter. Over a two-year period, the cost has increased from $475 to $670 per issue. Realistically speaking, your dues will not cover this increase; hence, interest in general receipts will be needed. In replying to the inquiry about funds for the India girls’ orphanage, Janet reminded the Conference that interest from $8,000 invested with the Home Missions Revolving Loan Fund was always designated for the girls’ orphanage. The 2006 Conference voted to withdraw this fund and give it to Brethren missions undesignated. Without that interest of $320, no budgeted item was included.

(President’s Pen continued )

(Highlights continued )

their appearance or their height, for I have rejected them. The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (I Samuel 16:7). Eventually David, the youngest son of Jesse, was interviewed. When Samuel saw David, a young man of exceptionally godly character, he was stirred in his heart and he knew David was God’s choice. David was anointed by Samuel in a private ceremony. There is a difference between being world-oriented vs. being God-oriented; a difference between the way the world thinks and behaves and the way God’s people are to think and act. It’s the difference between earthly-minded and heavenly-minded; seeing things as the world sees them vs. seeing things through the eyes of God. Do we have Godly vision? When churches discuss whether or not to be engaged in a new project which would expand their ministry, but which would necessitate parishioners increasing their financial contribution, do people refrain from taking leaps of faith because they might be more earthly-minded rather than seeing ministry potential through spiritually-discerning spectacles? Is it being more self-centered than Godcentered? Are we like the Israelites who refused to cross the Jordan, or like Nicodemus who did not grasp Jesus’ description of spiritual birth? The world has a spiritual birth-control and ministry progress-control campaign going on all the time. We must see through these, and make sure God’s work is not thwarted by any spiritual short-sightedness or blindness on our part. In our churches and ministries, yes, even in our Women’s Missionary Societies, let’s allow God’s Spirit and Word to shape our thinking, decisionmaking, and projects, so God’s choices will be our choices, so His will will be accomplished through us faithfully in increasing fashion. How’s your vision? Prayerfully,

In a similar move, the 2007 Conference voted to withdraw $5,000 from the Revolving Loan Fund and designate it for International Missions. That amount of interest is $200, which is included in the “general receipts” category, needed to meet the budget. Phyllis reminded the Conference that, if they want these special designations to continue, extra funds need to be given. Designate such funds and send them to Joanne Kroft. Interest from the legacy fund amounted to $2,600. Conference voted to designate this for an expansion of ministry (from two to three neighborhoods) in Paraguay, where Claudio and Karina Castellis serve. For the two-year project, Conference voted to support the Florida Hispanic Outreach day-care center and youth soccer league in Bradenton, FL. Miguel and Sonia Antunez and Monica Simbaña serve here. Joanne Kroft gave these preliminary totals for WMS offerings: $1,571.50 for the quilt auction; $9,408.93 for the Peru property project; and $9,000+ for the thank offering, designated for benevolences. Should your society have late offerings, please send them to Joanne Kroft. Good News: The Women’s Missionary Society in Argentina is celebrating their 40th anniversary! They invited a representative from our WMS to celebrate with them. At this time, Phyllis Roussakis, our national president, plans to be with them in October. This is an honor! Conference voted to reimburse Phyllis $1,500 for travel expenses. If you/your society wants to help, send your gift to Joanne Kroft. Todd and Tracy Ruggles have a new address: Todd and Tracy Ruggles Cda. De Coahuila #30 — Depto. Epsilon 42 Col. Cuajimalpa Cuajimalpa, Mexico D.F. MEXICO C.P. 05000 Their e-mail address is: theruggles@prodigy.net.mx.

Phyllis Roussakis

The Editor’s Ending

Dear Friend, It was a very good conference! The General Conference speakers and the WMS missionary speakers were outstanding. I hope your delegates can share some of the wonderful spirit that filled the week. In preparing this Newsletter, I have re-lived Conference. The good things are still good. Linda Immel and others from the North Manchester Church recently returned from a missions trip to Peru. She brought greetings from Rebecca Abuid to her WMS sisters. Rebecca and Italo greatly appreciate your remembrances throughout the year and the gift of our project offering for developing a home for orphans. Plan now to attend next year’s Conference to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the Brethren movement. Conference will be held in conjunction with the Church of the Brethren in Richmond, Virginia, on July 12-16, Saturday - Wednesday. We will have our usual General Conference and Women’s Missionary Society meetings, and we will also have combined worship experiences with the Church of the Brethren. If you can not attend the entire week of Conference, come for the weekend, SaturdayMonday. They are the special days. The International Ministries Council plans to bring all the international missionaries home for the Conference. They alone will make this an exceptional Conference! Your delegates received information or you may contact the national church office in Ashland: 419-2891708 for specific information. In 2009 Conference returns to Ashland. Several times I have mentioned sending financial gifts to Joanne Kroft, financial secretary. Her address is 608 Twp. Rd. 1151, RD 5, Ashland, OH 44805. Your friend,

Joan

Mississippi Missions: Growing Through Brokenness by Bill Ludwig, Church Planting Coordinator

The Indiana District and Pump House Ministries, Inc. are announcing the call for a denomination-wide rebuilding blitz in the Biloxi/Pass Christian, Mississippi area. This joint effort seeks to have 200 Brethren blitz this Katrina-devastated Gulf Coast in January, 2007. Hurricane Katrina hit the gulf coasts of Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana so hard that nearly all residential and municipal infrastructures were destroyed within a half-mile of the coastline. In the early days of recovery it became apparent that more than just property and material were washed away by the killer waves and devastating winds. For the survivors, the end of the storm brought a new reality of personal brokenness. The Church heard the call of broken hearts and broken lives and responded with overwhelming obedience and speed. Those who answered the call in those early days of recovery saw the Spirit of God move in powerful ways with a great harvest of souls brought into new life through Christ. That great work is ongoing and your name has been added to the list of those God has called to join in his mission! Will you join together in the work God is already doing and multiply the effectiveness of Brethren ministry in the region?

Currently, our Brethren missionaries have been working through two interfaith ministries to facilitate recovery efforts in this South Mississippi region. Operating through these ministries you and your teams will have safe, comfortable places to stay, good food to eat and plenty of organization to assist your ministry efforts. There is a growing presence of the Brethren Church in several small towns on the coast and many of us believe that God is calling us to establish ourselves as a permanent life-giving body in this region. Let’s begin thinking and praying long-term that we might rebuild lives and create opportunities to plant a church or two along the way. In this way we can guarantee our work will have eternal impact! Indiana District Pastor Tim Garner will serve as the main contact for registration and for answering questions you and your team might have. The Indiana District and Pump House Ministries are joining to coordinate the logistics — transportation and supplies for this ministry opportunity — and will be available to assist as necessary in your planning process. Registration materials will be available in future Brethren publications.

Work opportunities include: General debris removal General labor Skilled labor in all trades Kitchen prep Servers (all meals) Hosts and Hostesses Soft shoulders Warm hugs Loving broken people Leading broken people to Christ

For more information on work and accommodations in Mississippi, visit www.godskatrinakitchen.org.

Average per cost participant: $200 Includes transportation, food, and lodging (from the Mississippi River east).

Interested, or have questions? Contact Tim Garner:

* (260) 768-9185 * bcintpg@ligtel.com, or * Brethren Conference of Indiana 9105 W 275N Shipshewana, IN 46565

Your chance to change the world …

…right in your own backyard! 13

Looking Ahead (continued from page 2)  Do you have a gifts-based approach to ministry? Try Bruce L. Bugbee’s book, What You Do Best in the Body of Christ, as a good place to start moving in this direction.

resources? This is also a yearly goal in the vision strategy.

 Ask someone who’s been on a shortterm missions trip “How did this experience change you?” You’ll never get another word in on the conversation! If your church hasn’t gotten on to this dynamic, then why not check out each issue of the Evangelist for upcoming trips? Or, plan your own!

 Is your church ready to go with the new support system adopted by your delegates at this year’s General Conference? Something good happens inside when we give. We are changed. We become more oriented toward the recipient of our gifts. It is more blessed to give than to receive, because in giving we begin to enter into the very heart of God. Churches that are making this a priority are finding more joy and a greater sense of mission.

 Most congregations suffer for lack of training in biblical stewardship. When will pastors and leaders in your church sit down and plan for an extended time of teaching and reflection about God’s claim on our

 Pastor, it’s your job to lead the way in these initiatives. But don’t you dare do it yourself. Plan for a time of earnest prayer and seeking the Lord with your leaders as you consider what it means to embrace a NEW DAY in your church!

Folks, these are things we can get started with now! Many are already on the journey. Need further explanation, help, assistance, encouragement, ideas? Contact the Brethren Church National Office toll-free at 1-877-289-1708, and ask for someone to assist you in embracing a NEW DAY in your congregation!

Join the 2008 Brethren Heritage Tour to Europe Plans for the Brethren Heritage Tour to Switzerland, Germany, and Holland have just about been finalized. The dates for the tour are July 27 through August 6. The tour price will be $3,434, which includes all costs except for airport taxes which are unknown at this time (probably between $200 and $300). The price includes accommodations at first class hotels, all breakfasts, and seven dinners. Sites of special interest to the Brethren and related groups will be featured in the tour: Zurich, Bern, and Basel in Switzerland; Heidelberg, Schriesheim, Schwarzenau, Krefeld, and Munster in Germany; and Surhuisterveen in Holland. The highlight of the tour will be the 300th anniversary activities and celebrations in Schwarzenau on August 2 and 3. If you have ever wanted to know more about the Brethren, especially where they came from and why they came into existence, this is the tour to take! A brochure providing full details will be available shortly. For further information, please contact Dale Stoffer by email at dstoffer@ashland.edu or by phone at 419-289-5985.

Schwarzenau, Germany

Relief Funds Sought for Earthquake Victims On August 15, a powerful 7.9 magnitude earthquake hit the coast of Peru, not far from our Brethren mission there, killing over 500 people and injuring hundreds more. In Lima, buildings shook violently during the prolonged tremors. Rush-hour traffic in Lima came to a halt as buildings shook with the force of the powerful tremors and hundreds of people spilled onto the streets. Here is a summary of what we have recently learned concerning conditions there: •

Relief efforts continue to focus on the heavily devastated areas near the epicenter of the quake. While this represents the greatest need, there are many areas closer to our mission that are not receiving help.

•

There are reports of people killing common animals such as donkeys for food — even boiling the leftover carcass to make soup.

•

There are reports of looting and hoarding of food and clothing meant for relief efforts.

•

Commercial fishing activity has stopped in Pucusana (where we have a property that can be used in connection with relief efforts) due to the amounts of debris and dead fish floating in the sea.

Our plan is to forward funds for food and clothing to be distributed personally by our church there. This “in-house” approach to relief efforts will ensure that the needs are addressed and the problems just noted are avoided. More important, we will have the opportunity to offer food and clothing in Jesus’ Name through our own Brethren on location. Therefore we ask each congregation to assist with this effort through offerings sent directly to the Brethren Church National Office and marked “Peru Relief.” Gifts can be sent to The Brethren Church, 524 College Ave., Ashland, OH 44805. On-line contributions can be made by going to our website at www.brethrenchurch.org, and clicking on the “Contributions” tab, where you will find specific information on giving for Peru relief efforts. We have already forwarded an initial amount to begin this work. It is essential that you plan now with your leadership to coordinate whatever steps are necessary in order to raise and advance funds or hold offerings for this urgent need. Above all else let us pray for the lives and well-being of those who have been affected, that through our efforts they will receive not only what they need for this life but for the next as well! Thank you so much for your dedicated response for the people of Peru!

Grace Community Church Continues Katrina Outreach by Sandi Webster, Outreach Ministry Leader Grace Community Church In August 2005, the country and the world watched as Hurricane Katrina slammed into the Gulf Coast and caused the worst natural disaster in American history. As I watched the never-ending media coverage of this horrific event, God began tugging at my heart with an intense desire to go and help. The more I watched the recovery effort, the stronger the desire grew and the more I prayed for God to make a way if that was what he wanted me to do. In January 2006, Grace Community Church sent its first short term missions team to New Orleans. While the physical labor we did was evident from the piles of debris that grew in front of the houses, the work that God had called us to do was to bring hope, healing, and peace in the midst of tragedy and destruction. However, at the end of our week, possibly the hearts that had been touched the most were those of the team. So much so that it was not possible to go home, share some pictures and forget about what we had seen and experienced. In April 2006, and again in January and April 2007, three other teams traveled the 1000 plus miles to do what God expects us to do — love our neighbor as ourselves. In looking back at the high points of each trip, it is awesome to see how God was surely at work. Our team was a wife’s “answer to prayer” for her husband who had become very angry at God. We were “family” at least for a day, to a lonely, struggling lady who had not been back to her home for 20 months. And we helped several families move one step closer not just to getting back into their house but to learning to lean on Jesus for their strength, hope and joy in the good times and the bad. Our continuing work, even when we are not there, is to keep our “neighbors,” who are still struggling to get their life back to normal, in our prayers and to never forget that even after nearly two years, they are still living through the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina.

Ashland University Develops Pre-Seminary Program The Call: a Kern Pre-Seminary Initiative is a program designed to help young men and women discern the call of God and prepare them for seminary and vocational congregational leadership. Ashland University is excited to offer this new opportunity for undergraduates who are considering Christian church ministry. The Call is funded by the Kern Family Foundation (which currently provides resources for Kern Scholarships awarded to seminary students), and is a brand new effort to increase the number and quality of college graduates who enter seminary with the intention of serving in congregational leadership. The program will tap into the resources of AU’s Religion Department and Religious Life Network to provide academic training, spiritual formation, and experience in hands-on ministry. The Call is underwritten by a $552,000 grant covering a span of three years, 2007 to 2009, with the option and likelihood of renewal for another three years. The program is designed to identify and recruit participants in their freshman year, completing the application and interview process in order to enter the program in the beginning of their sophomore year. In the three years they participate in the Call (as sophomores, juniors, and seniors) they will complete a mentorship with a seminary student, an internship in a local church, and hours of John Swope spiritual direction and reflection to discover the fullness of God’s call on their life, and help them prepare for that calling. Participants will also gain ministry experience through leadership in Religious Life activities, such as planning and leading worship, organizing events, or leading small groups. A $2500 scholarship is included for each year participants are in the program. To be eligible for the Call, students must be Christians active in the body of Christ, who display confirmed leadership potential, a passion for God and his people, and who feel God is calling them to leadership in the church. This may include, but is not limited to, pastoral ministry, worship pastors, Christian education, youth ministry, or church missions. Students must also maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. To head up the operation, Dr. Dan Lawson, Dean of Religious Life, has hired Rev. John Swope, most recently the Pastor of Youth and Family Life at Park Street Brethren Church in Ashland. John has also pastored in Virginia and taught middle school in Florida. He came to the Brethren Church in 1997, after graduating from ATS, and is currently completing a dissertation for a Ph.D. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, IL. Please encourage any undergraduate or high school student considering congregational ministry to contact John Swope at 419-289-5624 or jswope@ashland.edu.

2008 Brethren Pastors’ & Spouses’ Conference Set Pastors, begin planning now to attend the 2008 Pastors’ and Spouses’ Conference, to be held March 25-27 at the Quality Inn & Suites in Bellville, Ohio. Bellville is located in the heart of Ohio, just a short drive from Amish Country in Holmes County as well as attractions in the Mansfield area, such as the Richland Carrousel Park and Bible Walk Museum. The Quality Inn offers an indoor pool and spa, fitness center, and free wireless high speed internet. Lunch and evening meals will be at Troyer’s Dutch Heritage Amish Restaurant. Cost for the conference is $125.00 per person (2 guests per room) or $200.00 per person single occupancy. The cost is $75.00 per person without housing at Quality Inn & Suites. Registration forms will be available this fall, with registration and payment to be received by March 1. This is a great opportunity to get away for rest and relaxation! You’ll have time to get together with fellow Brethren for fellowship, worship, and prayer. You are invited to purchase, read, and bring along a copy of Color Your World with Natural Church Development by Christian A. Schwarz. Please complete the “NCD Color Profile” on pages 73-74, as well as the evaluation of the profile on pages 75-79 prior to your arrival for the conference. It is our hope that you will attend with a longing in your heart to experience more of what God has in store for you and his church. For more information, contact Lynn Mercer at FirstBrethren@peoplepc.com; phone, 937-676-2802; fax, 937-676-2807.

While BYIC Convention seems to always be a summer highlight for many who attend; this year, personally, was excellent. It was exciting to be a part of the energy that was produced throughout the week. I absolutely love watching young people worship hard after God as well as serve hard for him and play hard too. See you in ‘08! ~ Ryan Smith 2007 Convention was such a great time. It’s encouraging to see youth desire to glorify God. United States Postal Service

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation

1. Publication Title: The Brethren Evangelist 2. Publication Number: 0747-4288 3. Filing Date: 10-01-2005 4. Issue Frequency: SemiMonthly 5. Number is Issues Published Annually: 6 6. Annual Subscription Price: Free for members of the Brethren Church; $15 for others 7. Complete Mailing Address of known Office of Publication: The Brethren Church, Inc. 524 College Ave., Ashland, OH 44805-3792 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters of General Business Office of Publisher: The Brethren Church, Inc. 524 College Ave., Ashland, OH 44805-3792 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor and Managing Editor Publisher: The Brethren Church, Inc. 524 College Ave., Ashland, OH 44805-3792 Editor: Kenneth D. Hunn, The Brethren Church, Inc. 524 College Ave., Ashland, OH 44805-3792 Managing Editor: same as above 10. Owner Full Name: The Brethren Church, Inc Complete Mailing Address: The Brethren Church, Inc. 524 College Ave., Ashland, OH 44805-3792 11. Known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of total amount of Bonds, mortgages, or other securities: None 12. Tax Status (for completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at nonprofit rates) 13. Publication Title 14. Issue date for Circulation Data below The Brethren Evangelist July/August 2006 – July/August 2007 July/August 2007 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation Average No. copies No. copies of single each issue during Issue published nearest preceding 12 months to filing date a. Total Number of Copies (net press run) 7100 7100 b. Paid and/or requested circulation (1) Paid/requested outside-county mail Subscriptions on Form 3541 6950 6950 (2) Paid/In-County subscriptions stated on Form 3541 0 0 (3) Sales through dealers and carriers, street Vendors, counter sales and other non-USPS Paid distribution 0 0 (4) Other classes mailed through the USPS 25 25 c. Total paid and/or requested circulation 6975 6975 d. Free distribution by mail (samples, complimentary) 0 0 (1) Outside-county as stated on Form 3541 0 0 (2) In-county as stated on Form 3541 0 0 (3) Other classes mailed through the USPS 0 0 e. Free distribution outside the mail 75 75 f. Total free distribution 75 75 g. Total distribution 7050 7050 h. Copies not distributed 50 50 i. Total 7100 7100 j. Percent paid and/or requested 99% 99% 16. Publication of Statement of Ownership: Publication required. Will be printed in the Sept./Oct. issue of this publication. 17. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner : Date: Signed by Kenneth D. Hunn, editor October 1, 2007

Conference this year was unique because we had really interactive speakers and worship band. They spent time with the youth outside of worship services and allowed us to get to know tham. The speakers all brought different and important messages that were challenging and covered many things that kept me from being truly free in Christ. It was an amazing year for the BYIC. ~ Lacey Champion

I believe that the majority of young people attending convention this past summer did not come with the expectation of freedom, but I know that my young people came away from convention with a newfound freedom in God and have been putting that freedom to work in our church and community. ~ Ellen Gooden

Help

Bring them home General Conference 2008

! Here’s How

The Brethren Church • 524 College Avenue • Ashland, Ohio 44805-3792

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. September/October, 2007, Vol. 129, No. 5

The Brethren Church 524 College Ave. Ashland, OH 44805

Be a part of helping to bring all of our missionaries “home” for General Conference 2008. Imagine the thrill of being with them, and their chance to be with each other! Clip this form and enclose your gift to help with travel, food, or lodging. Thank you so much for helping with this important goal.

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