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Making an impact in the fight against breast cancer Breast cancer death rates have decreased by 34 percent since 1989, contributing to more than 203,000 lives saved. The American Cancer Society has played a role in nearly every major breast cancer research breakthrough in recent history, including: • Establishing mammography as the standard for breast cancer screening • Discovering lifesaving treatments, such as Herceptin and Tamoxifen • Discovering genes that cause breast cancer • Confirming the knowledge that genetics, body weight, lack of exercise, and alcohol use can increase breast cancer risk by 34 percent The dollars you raise make a difference. • $20 Could help provide one night of lodging for a cancer patient and caregiver traveling far away from home for treatment • $50 Could help provide seven rides to and from treatment • $100 Could help guide four women facing breast cancer through every step of their journey
©2014, American Cancer Society, Inc. – No 0023.25 2/14
Christian Leaders Magazine | August 2015 - 3
August Issue 2015 Founder & Publisher
Bernard S. Harrison, Jr. Art Director
Tara Billups Haynes Sales Director
Roderick Chappell Inspiration Nation Corporation Distribution
John Blassingame Editorial Board
Matthew Lee Anderson Angela Fuentes Randy Kilgore Tasha Lachut Paul J. Pastor Natasha Pearce Dr. Peggy Turner Printing Company
Minuteman Press Norfolk, VA
Christian Leaders Magazine Hampton Roads is Published by
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Contents
Departments
Christian Business Spotlight 8
A welder creates a successful business and ministry using nails
Pastor’s Corner 10 Do you need a flock to shepherd souls?
In the Know 14
16 Features
Cover Story 16
Pastor Anderson Foreman Celebrates 30 Years in Ministry
Publisher’s Pen 8
A Personal Message from the Publisher
The Last Word 30
To Tattoo or Not to Tattoo?
Faith and Spirituality 22
White Collar Side Show
Special Report 24
Improve the Safety of your Vacation Bible School
Ministry at Work 26
These aren’t Grandma’s Puppet shows!
Commentary 28
What is a Christian Businessman?
It is well with my soul Christian Leaders Magazine | August 2015 - 5
The Publisher’s Pen A Personal message from the Publisher
T
his Summer the movie ‘’Jaws’’ is celebrating its 40th anniversary. Growing up on the beaches of Tampa Florida, that movie had a hugely negative impact on my beach life. I remember, my mother and father and younger brother and sister all going with me to see that movie. The only other movie I remember seeing with my parents was ‘’Gone with the Wind’’ which as a kid I thought was about the most boring movie you could ever see. Anyway, I saw Jaws from the very front row in the theatre because those were the only seats available. I can tell you, that movie sure wasn’t boring, it was terrifying! One of the great movie lines that came out of the story was from police chief Brody. He sees Jaws at the back of the boat and then says to crusty Captain Quint, ‘’You’re going to need a bigger boat.’’ The Bible tell us that after seeing the great catch of fish that Peter and his fishing buddies reeled in, and the boats so weighted down that they were beginning to sink, we might also add, ‘’Peter, it looks like you’re going to need a bigger boat!’’ In leading the disciples to a great catch of fish, Jesus was showing them the unrealized potential that they could make in the lives of people by following Him (v.10b). ‘’Don’t be afraid . . .’’ Jesus says to them. After that experience, they were all in! We all want to see God glorified in our lives, we want to make a difference in the lives
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of people, we know the Gospel is powerful to change lives, and we celebrate what God has done and continues to do in our lives and through His church. That is why we attend church services and read God’s word driven materials. CLM to name one! We are followers of Jesus our Lord and we’ve said, we’re all in! God wants to show us today from this simple and ‘’true’’ fishing story the unrealized potential and blessings that He can make in and through our lives as we continue to follow him and abide by his will. God is always calling us to ‘’Go Deeper!’’ He’s always calling us out of the shallows of life, to a deeper intimacy with him and others. He’s calling us to live courageously by faith, to leave our imprint in the lives of others! So, today I want to both encourage you and challenge us all to go deep today, to see the unrealized and often unseen potential and blessings that the Lord can make in and through our lives as we follow Him. Afriend and follower of Christ, Mary Kay Ash, said something that really stuck with me. Her words were “God does not ask your ability or your inability. He asks only your availability.” What does this say about what we need to do to apply this to our lives as Christians? It says we need to be available to God so He can use us. This is a simple task, at least it seems it is. But we often want to let God lead us. We are independent and we like doing things ourselves. We feel we have to be in control of everything for things to go smoothly. The truth is, what causes us to worry is when WE take control, go off the path HE gave us and go our
own way. The reality is God is our maker and all that He does for us is planning the good of our future. He knows what the outcome is before it happens. A great example of this is a story I read not that long ago. It was a true story about a woman in a third world country. She was caring for her baby and she was in need of a bottle to warm the milk for her baby. She prayed to God that He would provide her with this to keep her baby healthy, then added if you really love her send her a baby doll too. The next morning she received a package with just that, the funny thing was the package was dated 5 weeks before she ever said that prayer. Now, I am not saying that God will always provide us right away, but He always gives us what we really need. The Bible tells us in Proverbs 19:21, that man has many plans, but it is God’s will that will be what stands. Also in Romans 8:28 and Jeremiah 29:11 it states that God’s plans for you are for your good, to better you as long as you follow Him. This is not saying, however, that your life will be easy if you follow Him, just that the end result, the final outcome will be for your good. Then there are those who feel like they have messed up, are so messed up, that they are not able to be used by God. Or that they feel He can’t use them. Let me remind you of a very important person in the Bible who most never would have imagined him being a Christian. Saul was a murderer, he killed anyone who called themselves a Christian. This was a man that you would have thought God would hate. Even with all he did against God, God called him to be someone greater, he became
Paul, the greatest evangelist in the Bible who wrote several of the books of the Bible! God can use anyone. You don’t have to be rich, or strong, or good, you just need to be available. So, are you available for God to use, will you let Him control your life? If God is in control of your life you have no reason to worry or fear. Inside this issue we tackle several topics in today’s church community. To Tattoo or not to Tattoo. To some it’s a clear choice. In some churches the line is finely drawn in the sand, while other offer skepticism in today’s younger church community. As with most churches, the summer means Vacation Bible School. In this issue we offer tools to keep our children safe. So as you relax and enjoy this issue of CLM, we pray that it blesses your heart. If you get one thing from this passage is that God has designed you for a reason! You are not a haphazardly created person, God knew you in your mother’s womb and He had (has) a plan for you. Here is why this is important: The only way a person (me, you) will find fulfillment and meaning in our lives (which will ultimately leads to lasting peace and happiness) is to become the people God designed us to be, or better said, ‘’Fulfill your design.’’ Ships and planes are safe inside, but that’s not what they are designed for. Let God take hold of your life today and see where He leads you.
Bernard S. Harrison, Jr. Bernard S. Harrison, Jr.
CHRISTIAN BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
A welder creates a successful business and ministry using nails Written by Natasha Pearce
W
ho would have ever have thought that you could create a ministry for God by using something as simple as a nail? That is just what one man decided to do. After his church purchased 30 acres of land, Iron Nature owner, William Jones, created artistic works of art using buckets of nails that were prayed over by more than 400 members of the Lebanon Area Evangelical Free Church as part of a project to help build a strong community that would be a part of their ministry. As a former high school shop teacher, Jones used his metalwork training to build a cross as a way to commemorate the building project. “I asked the Lord what He would have me do with these nails”, says Jones, “It was through that time of prayer that He gave me a really neat idea which was to build a cross that was made from the nails.” By using his creative talents, he was able to build a thriving and successful business that would not only sell representational pieces but would also serve as a ministry to spread the message of God. When looking at the crosses from a distance, one would only see the large sized artwork of welded nails that make up the piece, yet as viewers move in closer they are greeted with the real spiritual message that is displayed on every piece made. “The words that are put onto the cross are representative of things that are free gifts when you come to know Jesus Christ and you welcome Him into your heart”, Bill says, “The meaning of the cross is that you can take it or leave it. If you don’t want it then from a distance you do not recognize it but as you come closer there is more to be found at the cross with Jesus.” While IronNature has been in business for 10 years, Bill continues to remain humble even as his success continues to grow. In his eyes he sees himself simply as a vessel for the Lord; one of God’s servants doing His will by spreading the word to each and every person he comes across. It is for that reason that he has been blessed to reach the hearts of many and hear inspirational stories from people who have dedicated their lives to God. One in particular was that of a young man named Jason whose testimony still causes Jones to tear up occasionally when he speaks of him. At a youth event held in Lebanon, PA, he came in contact with the young teenager who quickly fell in love with his work so much that he kept coming back to see him several times a day during the four day event. After feeling a close connection to the teenager, Jones felt a strong pull on his heart to send him a small cross with
8 - Christian Leaders Magazine | June Issue 2015
a note expressing his gratitude along with a closing message that read, “With everything that you do, always put the cross first.” It wasn’t until years later that Jones found out through Jason’s father how much his small gift helped change the young man’s life. On the day the cross was to arrive at his house, Jason was struggling with an addiction to drugs and was ready to take his own life. Five minutes before he decided to commit suicide, his plan was interrupted by the small gift that Bill had sent him. Upon reading his words of inspiration and seeing the spiritual message displayed on the cross, he dedicated his life to the Lord and decided to seek the help he desperately needed. Today he is living a happy and healthy life with his wife and family and still strong with his walk with Christ. When it comes to the future of IronNature, Bill is confident that God will continue to expand his business and allow him to spread the His word to reach the lives of the many people who have not had the opportunity to see his beautiful work.
For more information about IronNature visit www.ironnature.com or contact them at (717) 838-5470
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Christian Leaders Magazine | August 2015 - 9
PASTOR’S CORNER
The
GrassrootPastor Do you need a flock to shepherd souls?
By Paul J. Pastor If you drive south on the highway that runs from Galilee to the Dead Sea, you will see boys driving sheep through the desert. The boys are bright-eyed and full of smiles, many no older than 6 or 7, wearing old Nike T-shirts or white Adidas soccer jerseys, riding donkeys, running on foot, jumping like puppies, and keeping their animals safe—off the highway, away from roadside produce sellers, and moving, always moving, toward water and food in that dry land that rolls by Jericho. When you look at the little shepherds, you see something elemental, a sight—other than those ubiquitous soccer jerseys—that you could have seen a thousand years ago here. That someone will likely see a thousand years from now. The shepherds of the West Bank are an unchanging sight, tending unchanging sheep, working a profession nearly as old as human memory. Much like their (less dusty) namesakes—the “pastors,” who spend their lives tending God’s flock. Livestock and souls are universals. The world can change; these needs will not.
To follow the sheep Cross the world with me now, to the little farm where I grew up in Oregon’s lush Helvetia hills. We tended a small flock of sheep for our landlord. I was familiar with the hormonal bleats of ewes eager for a ram, with the copper smell of December’s midnight lambs, with helping my parents bottle feed (and sometimes bury) the runts. I loved the annual shearing buzz, clippers deftly wielded by a rogue New Zealander. I knew the feel of wet wool, and the stupidity of a spooked herd. Sometimes I laugh about the many little ways that sheep have intersected my life. My last name means “shepherd” in the language of my Hungarian ancestors. After my family came to faith, I was a pastor’s kid in a rural town. And my favorite outdoor activity is hiking our Cascade mountains, where sure-footed wild 10 - Christian Leaders Magazine | August 2015
sheep can be spotted scrambling over volcanic ridges and jagged scree. At any rate, I’ve always felt I shared some elemental thing with the shepherds of the Bible. Jacob, David, Amos of Tekoa, the shepherds of Bethlehem, the Good Shepherd; and kinship with their modern counterparts—the women and men who count people as their flock, and churches as their folds. Pastors. Coming of age, I felt a call to serve them as I was able, and so spent seven years studying theology in college and seminary, with the goal of shepherding souls myself, or at least of training and resourcing spiritual shepherds. But after seminary, it became apparent that life was leading me more to the pen than the pulpit. It’s a path that’s been deeply rewarding, and only cemented my sense of calling to the misfit band of disciples who have heard the ragged whisper in the night to “get up and feed the sheep.” But it’s also brought tension. The tension of—what am I doing? Is this my calling? Where do I fit into my church? Into the Church? What am I? I’m not quite a pastor, but at the same time I could never be anything else.
A growing number I’m one of a growing number of my peers who are trained for and called to pastoral ministry in a changing culture where many established notions of “church” are evolving or failing. Bi-vocational pastors are growing in number—many young seminary graduates ponder a future where a full-time paid pastoral job will never be a reality. Many others are called to ministry slightly outside the margins of traditional churches, and struggle to understand their place. Many of my friends from college and seminary are in similar places to me, with a call—and robust professional or seminary training—to serve Christ’s people, but without traditional
congregations to bestow the title of “pastor.” But they act an awful lot like pastors; people like my friend Luke, a trained and gifted preacher who supplied the interim pulpit for a struggling rural congregation for most of a year, leaving a small church much healthier than he found it. By day, he works at a nonprofit. Like Allison, whose gifting in discernment and intercessory prayer has dramatically impacted other believers at key points of their journey. She’s a homemaker and permaculture farmer. Like Fritz, whose international-awardwinning photography has brought a depth to “arts ministry” unmatched by any paid “arts minister” I’ve encountered. Like Brandon, whose work leading a lay-led Christian community in a looked-down-on part of town has done dynamic work that paid “community pastors” would do well to emulate. Like my boss, Marshall, whose dedication to volunteer service at his local church is exemplary in itself, let alone his ongoing work of encouragement that pastors formal pastors at pivotal moments in their ministries. Like my wife, Emily, who shepherds our three children, and whose leadership and hospitality have shepherded the college-age women of a community home, and helped lead a “small group” bigger than most house churches. Inspiring examples of ministry. Grassroots pastors. I could go on—I’m blessed to know 10 or 12 such people, all of whom express some personal sense of specific, pastoral calling, and have some degree of formal training that sets them apart from the average church attendee, but none of whom have “pastor” in their title. They do the work of shepherds, usually invisibly, and remarkably well. The world can change, these needs will not. So
if my friends look like pastors, and serve like pastors … aren’t they pastors?
What’s in a name? I think they are. Pastors, but with an important distinction—there’s no replacement for a leader committed for the long haul to lead and shepherd a specific congregation. So, I suggest that we introduce a new term into the modern ministry vocabulary—”grassroots pastor.” A called and trained informal minister shepherding souls, making disciples, and leading—even if informally—their neighbors and neighborhoods to the good news. Doing the work that all pastors are called to, but typically outside the walls of a local church, and generally without title or compensation. “Grassroots”— a term that conjures images of homespun activism; a vague musk of Pete Seeger. Loosely organized but with purpose, outside the mainstream but doing the work of renewal. Growing tall, even if spindly, growing from the dirt up because it has to. From my education, work, and travels, I see a growing population of Christians—especially young Christians—called and trained for ministry, but, for one reason or another, not in a formal church role. They—we—are people of the in-between, undervalued and often ignored. My only statistics to back this up are anecdotal, but I suspect that if we were able to quantify the evangelicals who fall into this category, we would uncover a significant, largely unrecognized pastoral workforce of skilled Christian leaders. It could be argued that I’m simply complicating the simple matter of the “priesthood of all believers.” After all, aren’t all Christians called to encourage and make disciples of their sisters and brothers? Without question. But from the very beginning, the church has acknowledged that certain men and women are called and gifted to be set aside for the work of ministry in a pastoral role. And at the margins of this formal calling are a ragged fringe of individuals who aren’t ordained clergy but aren’t just engaged laity either. They’re leading, shaping community, called and trained for ministry. Just … in-between. In no way are grassroots pastors a threat to established traditional ministry: we complement church work done by those with Reverend in front of their name. Nor are we some kind of replacement for formal clergy. We work day jobs, frequently have less experience, and are not sharpened by the unique pressures of organizational leadership in a faith setting.
We are called, many of us are trained, but the nature of our work is typically more roving than rooted, though the nature of grassroots pastors tends to elude typecasting. Moving to recognize and resource these people will consolidate efforts of church planting (a risky, though important, go-to outlet for young pastors), reduce the numbers of disenfranchised ministry thinkers (whose daily musings online often seem more the products of frustrated callings than fulfilled ones), and will further cement the vital, growing “redeeming work” trend that is reclaiming a strong understanding of Christian vocation. Allowing grassroots ministry to gently dovetail with local churches will unify communities (boosting vision and mission for new understandings of local “parish” ministry). It can bring the best rootedness and relationality of grassroots networks to the work of the pastor, a calling that is often isolating, misunderstood, and pressurized. It can energize mission, open community doors, and extend the reach of the local church into those tough-to-reach corners. If recognized, it could revolutionize local ministry.
Recognition, resourcing, and reliance We are all around; visible to God but few others. Noted perhaps as “good friends,” “that barista who took Hebrew,” a “prayer partner,” “the Christian mom who runs the playgroup.” But to maximize this tremendous latent potential, many of us need formal local churches that recognize, resource, and rely upon the work of grassroots pastors in our neighborhoods. Here are some ways local churches and grassroots pastors can work together. Recognition Many grassroots pastors feel their in-between-ness keenly. They often identify as outsiders, as iconoclasts, as someone who doesn’t quite fit. But that doesn’t take away the power of affirmation—the power of being seen by another. I’d wager that most church leaders can name at least three people connected to their congregation who have been called and resourced for ministry. Name them. Get to know them, listen to their story, begin to think of them as a co-worker in pastoral work. Is a grassroots pastor a member at your church? Acknowledge (publicly if appropriate) their specific avenues of ministry contribution, their sense of call, gifting, and training. Recognize their life season. Encourage them that regardless of their title, they are ministering—
serving and leading the sheep of Christ. Just saying that they’re seen carries power. Resourcing My friend Brandon pastors his neighborhood while selling produce from his bicycle. You know what would be nice? A little cash to help toward operating expenses for his business. (No, the IRS won’t let you write it off as a ministry donation, but I guarantee that it is one in the economy of the upsidedown kingdom.) With the creativity, passion, and quiet commitment that characterizes the grassroots pastors I know, a little resourcing goes far. For the grassroots pastors in your life, quietly and humbly ask if there are ways to partner with what they’re doing already to support common goals of ministry. Sometimes this will dovetail with an existing need or goal in your church. Sometimes it won’t look like any pastoral work that you’ve seen before. But if the goal is fostering a Kingdom presence in your neighborhood, foster pastoral work wherever it’s happening. A word of caution, though—you must be content sometimes with allowing powerful invisible ministry to remain invisible. Be sensitive, approach as a learner— as a servant to servants. Reliance As you build relationships with grassroots pastors, consider what their work can accomplish that yours can’t, and as needs arise in your ministry, rely on them for advice, perspective, community information and introductions, and pastoral care that they might be uniquely equipped to do.
The far reaches of the pasture I remember sitting with my sister in the hay loft of our red barn, looking down as that New Zealander sheared our sheep. His clippers moved like a thing alive, with a fibrous whine that peeled off great piles of wool without so much as a nick to the delicate skin beneath. Perhaps grassroots pastors are like that New Zealander—there when needed, supporting the work of the year-round shepherds, giving our best gifts at whatever time and place we find ourselves. There is a dynamic community of gifted pastoral leaders woven through our cities, suburbs, and rural communities. They serve you coffee, sell you insurance, nanny your children, teach at the middle school, photograph your weddings. Some of them even work in churches. So keep your eyes open. You will know us when you see us. We will, with you, be trotting down the trail in search of the sheep, though maybe on the other side of the fence. Copyright 2015.Paul J. Pastor/ Reprinted with permission from Leadership Journal.
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Christian Leaders Magazine | August 2015 - 13
IN THE KNOW
To Tattoo or Not to Tattoo?
Our inked-up generation doesn’t give it a second thought—but should they?
By Matthew Lee Anderson
T
he Pew Research Center reported in 2010 that nearly 40 percent of Millennials sport at least one tattoo, more than double the number of our parents’ generation. While most of those tattoos are covered up by clothing, that doesn’t mean we’re ashamed of them. If anything, us twenty- and thirty somethings are proud of our body art but cognizant that not everyone will get it. As sociologist Mary Kosut writes in the academic Journal of Pop Culture, people with tattoos today “are not exotic or deviant others—they are everyday people with aesthetic sensibility.” Now, when friends show off their new ink, many of us inquire what prompted it and then move along. Yet many younger Christians’ relationship to tattoos is still more complicated than most people’s. Those who grew up in the Christian subculture have memories and battle scars of
heated and contentious debates with parents and youth pastors over Levitical laws. My first confrontation over tattoos occurred when I was convinced that my neighbor’s newly minted Tweety-bird ankle tattoo was the first step on the short road to perdition. Parents and pastors may still have their objections, but most younger Christians don’t seem to be very concerned. Discussions about tattoos have often been limited to a single question: “Should I or should I not?” While that’s an important line of inquiry, it’s not the only one. And answering it requires first thinking through what tattoos mean and why they’ve become such a prominent form of self-expression at this point in our history. Why not poetry or pixels instead? The Christian faith is in a God whose concern for human bodies is such that He became one in order to accomplish
salvation. The most basic intuition of American culture is that our “rights” allow us to treat our bodies how we want, but the Gospel sets forth a startling alternative: “You are not your own, but you have been bought with a price. Therefore, glorify God in your body.” So what does that mean when it comes to permanently altering a body?
What the Bible says
It’s nearly impossible to draw a straight line from the Bible’s teachings on tattoos to today, as the meaning of tattoos has drastically shifted. The Bible knows nothing of tattoos for purely aesthetic purposes or as artistic self-expression. Instead, tattoos in the ancient Near East were punitive, expressions of fidelity to the local deity, or marks of ownership over slaves. The debates over Leviticus 19:28 are officially worn out, and most everyone
knows the exegetical troubles that come with trying to interpret and apply the Old Testament law. The more interesting Old Testament passages are in Isaiah, where the Lord suggests that some Israelites will one day write on their hands, “Belonging to the Lord” (44:5) and that the Lord has written their names on His hands (49:16). In the former, the marking seems to be tied to the Israelites’ perfection as the people of God. Isaiah points to a day when the people of God will be so faithful that some will mark the name of the Lord on their bodies. The tattoo, or tattoo-like mark, signifies a permanent status—a physical expression of human faithfulness and God’s ownership. As for the New Testament, Pastor Mark Driscoll of Mars Hill Church in Seattle has famously pointed to Revelation 19:16 as proof that Christ, the Tatted Warrior, will return with His sword someday. It’s a stunning image, and one that plays well in the grunge-oriented city where Driscoll preaches. There’s only one problem with it: It’s resting on a bad translation. Biblical scholar Grant Osborne points out that, grammatically, the verse is better translated along the lines of, “On His robe covering His thigh He has a name written”—rather than on His thigh directly. Otherwise, the closest you’ll find in the New Testament to a commendation of tattoos is when Paul writes that he carries on his body the “stigmata,” or the Greek word for tattoo. The reference is sometimes used as an argument for voluntary tattooing, but it shouldn’t be. Paul’s tattoo (if he, indeed, had one) was most likely administered as a punishment, as tattoos in GrecoRoman culture were almost exclusively punitive. Paul is undermining his punishment by identifying it with the sufferings of Christ. In other words, Christians shouldn’t collapse the distinction between the bodily persecution Paul experienced for the cross of Christ and a voluntary decision to add the ichthus
symbol to their forearms. Otherwise, there is the risk of emptying out the uniqueness of the suffering of the martyrs and improperly inflating an individual standing in the Kingdom. The record from Scripture is mixed. There aren’t necessarily any explicit prohibitions of aesthetic tattooing, but it’s not exactly endorsed, either. Instead of focusing on the diversity of selfexpression through the body, Scripture repeatedly turns its attention toward the pattern for self-expression: the person of Christ and the means He established to bring believers into conformity with Him. The Christian identity is given in union with Christ and by a life within Christian community, as the book of Ephesians repeatedly emphasizes—not in tattoos or the histories written on a body. The primary concern of the New Testament is not aesthetics or fashion but faith working through love.
Practical considerations
So, what can one make of all this? In one sense, the popularity of tattoos within the younger Christian culture could be read as an indictment of the Church, which has largely left the younger generation on their own to interpret their experiences and discover their own sense of meaning. And, not surprisingly, twenty somethings have turned to the culture for cues. The absence of meaning-making rituals within the Church has left an empty space that tattoos have admirably filled.
Yet in this, there may be reasons for caution. When self-expression takes a religious form through tattooing crosses or other iconography, there is the risk of obscuring how the Bible enjoins believers to express faith through their bodies. The faith, hope and charity that set Christians apart in the world are not aesthetic markings per se, but rather expressive behaviors that reshape a Christian’s muscles and organs (including the skin). Holiness, in other words, can’t be tattooed on—it can only be cultivated through the practices of the Christian life. Whether any particular Christian should get a tattoo is, then, an open question. But Christians should think about them differently than they have. In short, the question of whether to get a tattoo should be a question of Christian discipleship, rather than purely individualistic forms of self-expression. For instance, if Christians are tattooing themselves as a reminder of God’s work in their lives, it might make sense to bring a Christian community into the discernment process in order to ensure the correct meaning. The same principle holds, in fact, for those seeking tattoos simply because they look good. It’s tempting to treat tattoos as an expression of autonomy or the individual freedom to do to our bodies as we will. But if individuals are to avoid the chasm of individualism, then people must open themselves in the discernment process to the counsel of others.
Pastor Anderson Foreman to Celebrate
R
By Angela Fuentes
everend Anderson Foreman, Jr. grew up on the Virginia coast in Princess Ann County, which later became Virginia Beach in 1963. Having been raised in a Christian home, he became acquainted with God at a young age. His heart was tender towards God and his church, which was evident to his neighbor and great-aunt, Mrs. Lucy Eason-Whitehurst. Foreman remembers being eight-years-old when his great-aunt told him that she believed he would grow up to be a preacher someday. This resonated deeply with him and at age twelve he was baptized. Not being exempt, however, from the struggles of growing up in this world and finding a place in it, he stepped away from the church for some time in his early twenties. Years later, he never forgot about the spiritual encounter he had with God in his youth. He was moved to rededicate his life to God. He began to attend weekly bible study and go to church regularly. Through bible reading, visions and dreams he responded to what he believed to be God’s will for his life and serve in ministry.
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Once Foreman returned to the church there was no going back. He started preaching sermons in his home church and visited other local congregations. Rev. Foreman received his early education from Princess Anne County and Virginia Beach Public Schools. He continued his education at Roanoke Collegiate Institute in Elizabeth City, NC, at the Evans-Smith School Of Theology, a branch of Virginia Union University. He also attended Saint Leo College studying theology. He received an honorary doctorate degree from the Richmond Virginia Seminary and College. In later years, he retired from the city of Virginia Beach as the Superintendent of Waste Collection Department. Rev. Foreman has continued to receive many awards and honors. Foreman married Lillie Gregory in 1966 and had two daughters, Inger and Nicole, later taking into the family Donna Alston. You can sense the deep admiration Inger has for her father as she reminisces growing up as a pastor’s kid. “I never felt any pressure,” she says, referring to the expectations that often come with being the child of a religious leader. She commented that her parents managed a growing family and ministry well, with a balance of structure and fun. Her father’s fierce love and dedication to his work rubbed off on every member of the family.“It is his ministry and we support it 100%.”
From left to right: Tytiana Alston, Rev. Foreman, First Lady Foreman, Inger Foreman, Alexis Haynes
Foreman became the pastor of New Galilee Baptist Church in Chesapeake, Virginia in December 1985. NGMBC had a membership of 50 at the time. The church previously congregated at the intersection of Great Bridge and Dominion Boulevard, until in 2013 they were forced to make the difficult decision to relocate due to the city’s expansion of Dominion Boulevard. The move was a blessing in disguise. Two years later, membership has more than doubled. As an associate, Tim Freeman confirmed that almost every Sunday the church gains a new member. Location is key, he says, but when asked what else made the difference, Freeman said it’s the leadership. “When people meet the pastor and see how genuine he is, and see the love shown from the membership, it does their hearts a lot of good.” Foreman has been a spiritual leader and source of inspiration for his family and church for years, often
Sunday Morning Worship
ministering to people who aren’t even members of his church. “He’ll do these kind of things and not tell anyone,” said Tim Freeman. “The way he sees it, if they’re a member of his church member’s family, then they’re a member of the New Galilee family.”
The goal of New Galilee Missionary Baptist and its pastor is to serve the whole person – body, mind and soul.
home to hold services for the residents and spend some time with them. A women’s group that meets every third Saturday of the month to share some of the uphill battles women today have to face, as well as mentoring any of the younger ladies who are lacking the guidance that they need. The goal is to create an environment that feels safe for anyone who comes seeking healing and answers. Pastor Foreman describes the worship style of his church as “cutting edge” – both traditional and contemporary. Everyone has different worship styles, as they do learning styles, and he feels it’s important for there to be something that appeals to all.
Rev. John Robinson III, Nicole Collins, Kyle Collins, Donna Alston
Since accepting role as pastor, he’s received his honorary doctorate degree in divinity, under the recommendation of Board members Dr. Frank Gunn and Dr. Ted Little. Foreman credits Godfor leading in his life and blessing him in his thirty years in ministry. He’s particularly grateful for the strategic hand of God in placing mentors in his life he could look up to. To name a few, Dr. Jake Manley, Dr. Dwight Riddick, and Dr. James B. Williams. “These pastors gave me much encouragement,” said Foreman. Anyone can agree that it takes a special person for God to be able to use as an ambassador of his grace. God knew what he was doing, as he always does, when he called Pastor Foreman to do such a work. He is serious about his craft, his talent of touching lives. His sincere love for humanity and the deep desire to see them live happier lives in Jesus is so strong it can be felt even over a telephone interview.
Rev. Foreman hanging out with the Youth Choir
There are groups within the church to help accomplish this, with a special emphasis on giving the youth a big part. From choir to women’s ministry to being a greeter at the door, there is something for everyone to do and be blessed by. The church has established a variety of groups and outreach programs for members of the church and the community to become a part of. On the first Monday of every month a group goes out to a local nursing
When you’ve been in ministry for as long as Pastor Foreman has, it’s hard to single out one particular moment or sermon that stands out from all the others. It’s probably nearly impossible. In the end, though, one can only be thankful for such an opportunity and hope, as Foreman does, that God’s love has been demonstrated to all people. “He is not a perfect man,” Inger says of the veteran pastor. “[But] when I look at all that he’s done, I’m proud of him.”
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Christian Leaders Magazine | August 2015 - 21
FAITH AND SPIRITUALITY
By Tasha Lachut hite Collar Sideshow is a Christian band based out of Fort Smith Arkansas that make trips all over the United States and also in New Zealand, Germany, Poland and most recently, Brazil . Through music and original film, they tell them about the hope and redemption only found through Jesus. The performances are free of charge as they call themselves “musicianaries.” “The gospel was freely given to us so we freely give.” Veronica stated simply. This band has a truly incredible story to share and they set an example for all christians to follow. ”The group was created as a message to teach honesty, integrity, passion, and purpose. It’s just done in a weird way, like a horror movie version of Blue man group. We focus on the addictions that everyday people face and to be honest about them.” TD explains in an earlier interview. Before the creation of his band, TD explained, he was a drug addict, and had many things that he struggled with including having 7 lung surgeries.Through a friend, he was saved and then met his wife years later. T and Veronica got married after meeting in just 3 months, and at the time they had a lot to learn about one another, and both admit they still after 8 years now, have plenty to learn. By the time Veronica was 27, she was managing a multimillion dollar company in Arkansas. We had a 4 bedroom house, 3 cars, a hot tub, etc... all the glamourous things life has. “ For the first year and a half of our marriage, T would sneak out of bed to look at online porn.I would lay in bed and just cry and wonder what was wrong with me. 22 - Christian Leaders Magazine | August 2015
Why would he choose a computer over his new bride? He never knew that I knew. I tried to look prettier, have a cleaner house, good meals, anything to make him choose me. I constantly failed so I decided if I was skinnier, and looked like the girls on the screen, then maybe he would pick me.” Veronica stated, adding to TD’s statements. Struggling with what T was doing, Veronica fell into bulimia. Veronica, in a previous interview stated divorce was never on her mind, they were one, and divorcing would be like cutting off your arm because it was hurt. While all this was going on Meanwhile, they were volunteering on the praise team at church, feeding the homeless on the weekends and helping with the youth every week. They explain, they had on perfect masks, telling others about God’s perfect love and how He can fix anything, but they were struggling this much and no one knew. Why? TD explained, “How do you tell the church members who look up to you that
you’re dealing with this? Sometimes.. they are more likely to judge than nonchristian crowd.” Veronica then stated, “I ultimately got tired of hating myself and decided I needed help. I went to a local bookstore to find books on body image and eating disorders. I found an amazing book by Dr. Deborah Newman called ‘Loving Your Body.’ On the way to checkout, I saw a section called, ‘Men’s secret sins and hidden addictions.’ I was floored. I flipped through a few books and for the first time, I realized we were not alone. For the first time, I read that pornography is an addiction. So I got a book for myself and him and went home.” She explained, When he snuck out of bed on queue that night, she laid in bed and cried and prayed. Hoping that God would assist her and give her strength in telling him. “ He crept back in and I simply said, ‘I know what you’re doing.’ He confessed and started crying.” She added. Veronica began to cry and confessed her
addiction as well. “Finally, we knew each other’s secrets. We told our pastor and a few leaders at church and I became his online accountability partner.” Veronica said. Shortly after this...he was sneaking out of bed again. But this time, it was because he was having crazy dreams. He would tell Veronica that it was God speaking to him and he needed to write these dreams down. So, he did, for years. He started asking for money for this, and Veronica told him no time and time again. On July 16, 2006, a missionary from Arkansas who lives with his family in India was speaking to their church. He posed several questions that got to Veronica, and had her thinking but his final question was, “If your life was a bumper sticker, what would it say?” Immediately she knew. “The American Dreamer’. At that moment, God said, ‘Jump.’ I called T between services as he was in Minnesota at the time and said that God had told me to jump. When he asked where I
was jumping to, I said, ‘Well, God confirmed the dreams you have been having are from him and that we need to sell our house, cars and all of our stuff and I need to quit my job and we need to make these dreams a reality.’ He thought I was crazy. Well....maybe I am...a little. So....We did.” Veronica stated. Going from living what most of Americans dream of to living in an RV and pulling a trailer behind them. “It’s been a crazy, gypsy life but we love it. We have connected with people all over the world and been able to see freedom, hope and redemption all through the power of Jesus.” Veronica and TD stated. Finding it hard to imagine doing what they did, and wondering what their strength was in this is only natural. As if guessing what I was thinking Veronica explained. They stood on the verses that say, “Sell your belongings and give to the poor, pick up your cross and follow Me and go therefore and make disciples.” As you can imagine, everyone thought we were nuts. However, thanks to God and their incredible faith, they made the dreams a reality and those dreams turned into White Collar Sideshow, a traveling multi media performance that encourages the crowd to confront their masks and remove them. TD plays a huge, crazy drum set and is the “ringleader.” Veronica plays bass in a 9’ gogo cage and her character is “The Faceless Woman.” She represents how women are often seen without a face and simply a body or an object. The final member and best friend, Philip Wells (Herr Schwein) has been in their lives since 2001. He wears a pig mask and plays drums as well. He is T’s “Mr. Hyde.” The first show talked a lot about pornography and Veronica shares about being the wife of a porn addict. The newer performance, The WitcHunt, is based loosely on the 7 deadly sins and each sin shows a different addiction or struggle. White Collar Sideshow is currently working on a 3rd performance have hopes to release in 2017. You can read more about this incredible band at www.whitecollarsideshow.com or follow them on Facebook. If you are interested in supporting us either one time or monthly, you can do so at www.steiger.org/donate and specify TD and Veronica Benton in the memo. Also, if you want to talk or just send a message, please feel free to email them at booking@whitecollarsideshow.com. This is also how you can book them for any event you may wish to have them attend.
SPECIAL REPORT
Ministries across the country are becoming increasingly concerned with protecting the children they serve. Pennsylvania has really lead the charge because of a new state law overhauling its child protection policies. The new law expands the requirements for, and scope of, background checks for people who work or volunteer with children. The law demands that routine checks occur every 36 months and that employees and volunteers are mandated to report any arrests and/or convictions. But more states like New Hampshire and Delaware are making critical examinations of their child safety policies. The use of background checks is forefront in their renewed focus but there are additional steps faith-based organizations should incorporate into their children’s ministries, including Vacation Bible Schools.
Here are 4 steps to improve the safety of your Vacation Bible School:
1
Screen all instructors, volunteers, and
If
anyone who may come in contact
double-check the organization’s screening policies,
with children. Conducting background
but who it employs to conduct them. Does the
checks on these folks is the single-most
organization conduct its own screening? If so, what
effective tool you can implement to
methods do they use? If they use a third-party, who
protect the children in your care. If you’re
is it, what methods do they use, and what is their
a small ministry and don’t have the time
track record? Remember, an FBI fingerprint check
or resources to devote to screening your VBS workers
is NOT the same thing as a thorough background
and volunteers.
check so tread carefully if the VBS you invite into your
24 - Christian Leaders Magazine | August 2015
you outsource your VBS, be sure to not only
congregation uses only this method.
2
Incorporate
Child
Safety
Training into your curriculum. Estimates show that 90% of sex offenders don’t have criminal records.
This
means
that
prior to volunteering in children or youth ministry. This
predators may already be lurking
waiting period allows potential volunteers to become
in your congregation waiting
an active part of the church and begin to understand
for the right moment to strike.
the church’s mission, vision and values. It also gives
Training your volunteers and staff to identify odd
ministry leaders time to get acquainted with a
behavior, signs of abuse and how to handle reporting of abuse is mission critical. The key here is that your volunteers and staff need child safety training before they serve. Protect My Ministry has created an interactive child safety training course that can be completed online 24/7 at the person’s convenience. We believe that when staff members and volunteers have an awareness of the basic characteristics of a sexual abuser, the process by which an abuser picks and prepares a child for abuse, and indicators of child sexual abuse, they
3
are better equipped to recognize and prevent abuse in ministry programs.
4
potential volunteer, allowing a better match of ministry opportunity to volunteer interest and ability.” Keep
your
Brotherhood
ratios Mutual
in
check.
Insurance
Company has this great tip on its blog: “Maintaining appropriate staff-to-child ratios can be vital in preventing injuries and other incidents. In general, at least two adults should staff each area, no
matter how few children are in it. Only allow screened teenage volunteers if they are working alongside properly screened adults. Require open viewing in all areas, at all times, either through windows or doors.
Implement a waiting period.
Monitor restroom trips by having an adult check the
Many faith-based organizations
restroom before children enter (to ensure it is empty)
are implementing a waiting
and then standing outside while in use.”
period (six months seems to be the standard) before allowing
In conclusion, It’s always a step in the right direction
someone to work with kids or
when communities move to protect our innocent
vulnerable
LifeSpring
children from abusive predators. Even though the
Christian Church in Richmond
details might be overwhelming or confusing at the
Virginia has a comprehensive and publicly available
start, it’s imperative that organizations, including
volunteer guidelines process and procedure that
all faith-based groups, implement them as soon as
includes a standard waiting period. But LifeSpring
possible.
adults.
does a great job at explaining why it has all these policies, too: “Volunteers in children or youth ministry will attend LifeSpring for a minimum of 6 months Christian Leaders Magazine | August 2015 - 25
MINISTRY AT WORK
These aren’t “Grandma’s”
I
Puppet shows!
f you’re looking for jammin’ angels, hip songs and cutting edge issues, Hiz Handz Puppet Ministries has all of that and more. Custom written and produced showsto address today’s problems facing young and old alike Lord can make in and through our lives as we follow Him. Have you ever been affected by divorce, drug abuse, alcoholism, self-esteem issues, how about bullying? If so, then we have a show for you. Hiz Handz delivers an up to date profound message to reach everyday people no matter their age. Not only is it entertaining but the message will change your life forever. The full production shows are entertaining in that we have a variety of options, one being full-on blacklight with fluorescent puppets
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that really pop. Using fluorescent puppets crosses racial barriers. Good or bad, characters do not have specific race. Life size characters interacting with the audience’s pulls people right on stage with them. Then there are shows surrounding holidays such as Christmas and Easter. Ever wondered what happened before Jesus was born in the manager? Hiz Handz has a show to cover that. We’ve covered the entertainment part, now let’s get serious. The message is that Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life; no one goes to heaven and meets the Father without Him. (John 14:6) our signature verse. Every production shows how to have a relationship with Jesus and have eternal life in heaven. Every person who hears this message will leave with something new in their life as His Word never returns void.
It is a message that will last through eternity. Here’s the great part, puppets can get away with saying things to the audience that humans never could. Jesus is still real today. He knows our problems and He is the answer. That is why our shows are all custom written. If you want to combat the enemy (satan), then having at least the same tools in your arsenal usually works best. Bible stories like David and Goliath are wonderful truths; however they have no meaning to a young person that has never experienced church. Never tell a person what they should do without telling why, they will only have half the picture. Hiz Handz is one of the few puppet ministries in the Tidewater area willing to travel. As the great commission is given to go and tell, we believe
in reaching outside the walls of the church building and meeting people from all walks of life and faiths right where they are. Our biggest challenge is being stereo-typed as just a children’s ministry. The eternal message given in our shows is for all from young to old and every age in between. There is nothing wrong with good old fashioned virtues but Grandma’s sing alongs we are not.
If your organization is having an outreach, our passion is to help you. For more information, visit our website at www.hizhandz.com, Facebook or short videos on YouTube to give you an idea of what we do. Remember the Z’s.
Christian Leaders Magazine | August 2015 - 27
COMMENTARY
What is a Christian Businessman? By Randy Kilgore
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D
oes a Christian naturally conflict with his business responsibilities? Does survival in the modern business world mean ignoring Jesus’ teaching on personal conduct? Some would say it does. They argue that a capitalist economy is founded in greed and self-exaltation, so no one can do business according to Jesus’ teaching on compassion. On the other side, some believe that God is not concerned with secular things like business life, so a businessman who simply donates to the church is obeying all that God has asked of him. They say that God only cares about what a man believes in his heart, not how he lives in the world. That is, He isn’t concerned so long as the man stays within a few general principles on being nice to people. In CBMC, we believe that a Christian can and should conduct his business according to the Bible. Any conflict between business practices and Biblical principles isn’t within the nature of business itself; it’s within individual businessmen. When Paul appeals to Roman Christians to give themselves up “as a living sacrifice” and to “be transformed by the renewal of [their minds],” he meant that their whole lives, not just their Sunday habits, should be in submission to the Lord (Rom 12:1-2). The Lord created the world and our work in it for his glory. He calls us to honor him in every part of our lives, not just select parts of it. What may be lost in some circles is that Christianity is a whole-life perspective; it is a way of living and viewing the world. No part of life is excluded as if the Lord is not interested in it. The earth is the LORD’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein, for he has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers. (Psalm 24:1-2) This does not refer to nature alone. Industry and computers have not taken us away from this truth. Everything remains the Creator’s possession, even what we commonly call “manmade.” And every profession or job is of interest to the Lord.
Being a Christian businessman means working in honor of the Lord. It doesn’t mean having a painting of a Renaissance artist’s idea of Jesus in the office. It doesn’t mean having a Bible on the desk. It means working from a Christian perspective, bearing witness to the Lord through integrity, wisdom, love, and humility. That is the hallmark of a Christian in business, whether he’s an employee or a CEO. His work, even in a large, seemingly heartless corporation, is meant to be for the glory of God. Author Bob Tamasy tells a story of meeting with a man in a restaurant and having Bibles on the table. His server asked if they were pastors. He said, “No, we’re businessmen, but the Bible is the best business book you will find.” That’s what we mean by being Christian businessmen. The Bible teaches us how to live a life honoring to God, and business is big part of life. The Lord who created the earth and all humanity does not call us to live compartmentalized lives, keeping our faith confined to Sunday and living differently during the week. He calls use to integrated lives based on His Word. What is taught from the pulpit should have an application to our work in the office and at home. Good theology is practical, because God is honored by common work. CBMC aims to help businessmen and professionals, both Christian and non-Christian, become followers of Jesus Christ in every area of life. Through discipleship tracks like Operation Timothy, we help nurture an individual’s character, teaching basic ideas from the Bible, which are applicable to all of life. Through business groups like cbmc FORUMS, we help apply Biblical wisdom to business decision-making so that men can run their companies or departments from a Christian perspective. That’s the purpose of CBMC, recruiting and training Christian businessmen and professionals for the glory of the Lord God. By working through our personal and team ministry opportunities, businessmen can learn of the Lord Jesus and become His disciples. Being a disciple of Jesus Christ
is the essence of a Christian businessman.
Christian Leaders Magazine | August 2015 - 29
It Is Well With My S oul T here has been numerous articles, studies, and interviews regarding the nine victims of Mother Emmanuel AME who were massacred in the house of God during bible study, but it would be a disservice to the families of the slain to not honor the sacrifice of their loved ones. The missing link in generations past is a good old fashion history lesson. There have been so many famous and less known who have sacrificed their lives in the name of righteousness. The main one being Jesus Christ. Many would have us move on and claim, “It is time to heal.” How can a people heal from a travesty that has been escalating for the past 400 years? Recently there has been an all-out assault on African American people at an epic proportion. The murder at Emmanuel AME was vile, vicious, and blatant; it was as though the victims were props and not people with lives, families, friends, and a future. Now is the time more than ever before for the saints of God to tug heavily on the hem of His garment. Going to church on Sunday morning has become as fashionable as going to the club on Friday night. Who’s going to be there; who’s singing, and what are you wearing? Many pastors have become like the club owners where they have to keep the people entertained. REALTY CHECK! Let’s get back to that 30 - Christian Leaders Magazine | August 2015
old land mark where God’s word is true yesterday (old School) today (current) and forever more (future). No matter how you spin it, His Word covers all and is worthy to be honored. It is ungodly to ignore the injustice perpetrated on the people of God because it is not happening to you. If nothing else prevails, the prayers of the righteous avail much! Jehovah God is greatly concerned about the outrageous indignation that His people suffer. The bible tells us that a man named Saul had a life changing experience on a road called Damascus for his actions in killing, murdering and slaughtering the people of God. The bible doesn’t say who, but I believe someone was praying. This is not the time to bury our heads in the sand, but to fast and pray. What do we pray for? Start praying and God will do the rest. Stand on His word. Intercede for the families and friends of the slain.
In the1800’s there was a wealthy business man named Horatio Spafford. He suffered the loss of his son to pneumonia and lost his business during the great Chicago fire. In 1873 he sent his wife and four daughters on an ocean liner to Europe. Suddenly the ship collided with another and began to sink. His four daughters died during that wreck; unbelievably his wife survived.
When he found out what happened he immediately took the next ocean liner to join his grieving wife. There was a point during his voyage that the captain went to him and told him that they were passing over the place where his daughters had drowned. His reply was to write one the great gospel hymns we know today. “It Is Well With My Soul.” Christ who helps us to endure all things will make us victorious in the end. Ultimately the Spaffords went on to have three more children, and lived out their lives in Jerusalem. This story sounds much like the one of another man in the bible named Job. Eventually he also won. I pray the peace of God over our nation and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, shall keep your hearts, your minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7. To the Mother Emmanuel AME and families, remember when you’re in a dark place it is what you learned in the light that helps you to survive. Continue to press towards the mark much love. Stay Focused, Stay Connected, and Remain Faithful to the one who first loved you.
Dr. Peggy Morris-Turner
Christian Leaders Magazine | August 2015 - 31