2014 EDITION
W C M I S S I O N S M AG A Z I N E
Growing into Missions PAGE
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Family in the Field PAGE
Juárez: a Trip for All Ages
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PAGE
COMPASSION ASSISTING REACHING EQUIPPING
Worship Center’s plan to serve our world. PAGE
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Only ask, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance, the whole earth as your possession. PSALM 2:8
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few years ago I was in the country of Moldova. As I interacted with the people there, I was moved again by the utter hopelessness of those in poverty, and especially by those in poverty without Christ. My mind went to the hope I have in Christ and how that hope could make a difference in the lives of the wonderful people I met there. In Luke 12:48, Jesus said, “When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.” Here in America, we have been given so much, and in turn, we have lots to give. That is why we, the WC family, spend time, energy, and resources to help those around the world who are less fortunate. I hope that, as you read this magazine, you will be inspired to take the next step God is asking of you. There are so many needs around that world, and together, we can make a difference. As we act on what God is telling us to do, we will be able to serve our world with the hope and healing of Jesus Christ.
John Smucker WC | MISSIONS DIRECTOR
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CONTENTS
COVER STORY
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The CARE Plan Worship Center’s missions strategy
03 // Letter from John Smucker 06 // What Did I Get Myself Into? A First-Time Missions Experience 08 // India: A Regional Study 10 // Beginning in the Right Direction A closer look at the ministry of Joe & Linda Bird
14 // Serve Our World
p.22
Emily Allegretto
20 // 10 Ways to Spend $10
Continuing a family calling
22 // Keeping It in the Family: Emily Allegretto 25 // The CARE Plan 43 // Honoring Oliver & Ulla Lindberg 46 // Our World View A World Map of Worship Center’s Global Outreach
48 // Business as Missions Funding Missions Work in Unique Ways
The Lautsbaughs p.50 A family on the mission field
50 // Family On the Field A look into the life of the Lautsbaugh family
54 // Juárez: A Unique Mission // Look for this symbol after some of the articles. You will be able to go to serveourworld.org and find extra content for the article!
CONTENT CONTRIBUTED BY:
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Juárez, Mexico WC’s unique team experience
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Joel Allegretto Bonnie DiSciullo Kim Eby
Peter Hershey Lisa Hurst Lisa Kalbach Janice Kirk Petal Mattheson Tammy Pringle
Danette Shelly John Smucker Sam Smucker Don Wambolt
For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many. MATTHEW 20:28
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What Did I Get Myself Into? A First-Time Missions Experience
Danny helps his hosts cook dinner.
anny Fisher was born and raised in the heart of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Coming from a large, hard-working family, Lancaster was the only world he knew. He never thought much about traveling out of the country until a friend mentioned the idea of going on a mission trip to India. He shrugged off the comment until the persistent friend mentioned it again - and again, and again.
Persistence paid off, and three weeks later,
Landing in Calcutta at night, the team
Danny was on a plane with a team of 17
crowded its way through customs and
people heading to Calcutta, India.
common cow, the team arrived at the hotel, exhausted.
piled into a taxi to brave the traffic on the
Seeing third-world poverty firsthand
The thing that made Danny the most
way to the hotel. As long as the flight was,
made a lasting impact on Danny. “You can
nervous was the plane ride. Having never
the journey had only just begun. Culture
hear someone talk about poverty, but
even been out of the country, his first-
shock from peaceful Lancaster County
you will never know it as deeply until you go and see it yourself.” Danny’s
time-flyer emotions ranged from excitement, to fear, to the general thought of “what did I just get myself into?” Twelve hours on a plane gave him plenty of time to think. Danny’s thoughts were on
It’s only two weeks. I can do this for two weeks.
response to the chaos was, “It’s only two weeks. I can do this for two weeks.” Thinking a shower would be helpful, Danny was soon shocked to hear a voice on a loud speaker flooding through the city. Shouting
the unknown of what the next 14 days would look like and the realization
to boisterous, crowded, dusty, and hot
to his roommates from the shower, he
there was no turning back. Unsure of what
Calcutta would make just about anyone’s
asked what was happening. When he
to expect, he prepared himself to be open-
head spin. After miles of honking horns,
learned it was just the Muslim daily call
minded.
street vendors, complete gridlock, and the
to prayer, he again reassured himself that
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Danny with one of the vacation Bible school students.
everything would be fine. It was, after all,
in front of people one day and desires to
just two weeks.
challenge people to allow themselves to be
The team traveled to the small village of Churachandpur and spent the next 10 days running a Vacation Bible School (VBS)
pushed out of their comfort zones, just like India pushed him out of his own. For anyone on the fence about going on
for 1,900 village kids. It was during this
a mission trip, Danny would say, “Ask God
VBS that Danny was challenged to step
and jump at the opportunity if He says to
out of his own comfort. He never dreamed
go. It was an extremely good experience,
he would lead worship, speak in front of
it changed my perspective, and I never
Only when Danny arrived back in the United States did he realize the impact the trip had on his life. people, or be in a skit before 1,900 kids,
realized how much I took for granted until
but, he did! “There was the occasional
I got back.”
equipment which wouldn’t work quite right
Only when Danny arrived back in the
or forgetting what you were going to say in
United States did he realize the impact the
front of the crowd, but each day got better
trip had on his life. Sitting alone in his room,
and better.”
he broke down and cried. In just two weeks
By the end of his trip, Danny was no
Above: Danny with one of the teens from an orphanage/school. Below: Danny helping lead worship.
and in another country half way around the
longer thinking, “It’s just two weeks.” His
world, his heart had been changed by kids
perspective had changed. He no longer
he had never met before, but who left him
needed the comfort of the American
never the same.
lifestyle. Comfort was replaced with compassion and love for the kids at the home. “I would have stayed two months longer if I could.” Because of this experience, Danny dreams of speaking
Watch a video recap of Danny’s trip to India online. SERVEOURWORLD.ORG
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BenYehuda & Mrudula Adidala Serving Mandapeta BenYehuda & Mrudula, founders of Elim International, reach into the country of India. Their vision is to reach the unreached, equip individuals to reach others, and to meet the physical and spiritual needs of the underprivileged by making them aware of the love of the Heavenly Father.
Timbrel Adidala Serving Mandapeta Timbrel is the vice-president of ANCER, a ministry that reaches the for-
Andrew & Anne Taylor
gotten children of India. Through ANCER, she cares for an orphanage with
Serving Bangalore
fifteen children, serves in leprosy colonies, and is part of the administrative and teaching team in a school for underprivileged children. Timbrel
Andrew, founder of APT Foundation,
also leads the youth ministry at a church in Andhra Pradesh, India and
along with his wife, Anne, run three
mentors young girls in the village areas.
Bible colleges in Fiji, Indonesia, and India. They also operate two Christian schools in Fiji and India, and a medical clinic. They reach out into Asia-Pacific nations and Australia with the Gospel via their teaching ministry. They also run Door of Hope, a daycare center for
Sam & Dawn Taylor
destitute children in Bangalore, India.
Serving Rayakotta Samuel & Dawn Taylor, born and raised in India, established Eternal Light Ministries (ELM) with their base in Rayakotta, Tamilnadu, India in 1985. In 1990, Dawn and he established the Word of Christ Bible School. Over 7,500 students were trained, and its graduates have planted in excess of 4,000 churches and house groups. They also have a one-month praise, worship, and music school, graduating over 4,500 young people. In 2004 ELM began
MANDAPETA
an academic school with Grades K–10. Twelve hundred children are now enrolled.
CHENNAI
Mark & Vijeta Taylor
BANGALORE
Serving Rayakotta Mark & Vijeta Taylor serve under Eternal Light Ministries. They travel sharing the Gospel and praying for the sick in remote parts of India. They also direct a praise and worship school and school education for rural children. The Taylors are actively involved in starting Christian schools and colleges offering the best education for those who can least afford it.
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RAYAKOTTA
Spotlight on India
INDIA
That’s more than the entire population of USA, Mexico, and Canada combined.
How Worship Center is reaching the second most populated country in the world.
KALIMPONG
INDIA HAS 440 MILLION CHILDREN
FRIENDSOFSBT.ORG/STATISTICS
42% OF THE WORLD’S POOR
DIMAPUR
live in India.
BUSINESSINSIDER.COM
INDIA HAS 300,000 MOSQUES That’s more active mosques than in any other country, including the Muslim world. KNOWINDIA.GOV/MYINDIA
1 David & Debbie Hollinger
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After five years of classes, fewer than 60% of children can read a short story or do simple arithmetic.
Serving Chennai, Kalimpong, and Dimapur David & Debbie are the founders of HOME International, whose mission is to make orphans family. Girls in India who have been abandoned, orphaned, or otherwise at risk now live safely in one of the three homes
FRIENDSOFSBT.ORG/STATISTICS
MAP OF INDIA BY FREEVECTORMAPS.COM
HOME International operates. Funding for these homes is provided by churches, compassionate individuals, and businesses who also want to help orphans.
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A Closer Look at the Ministry of Joe & Linda Bird
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The day has arrived to trade prison bars for beautifully draped windows. single bed in a shared
of guards is transitioned to the love of
cell is exchanged for
family and a fresh introduction to freedom
a single bedroom in
after incarceration. This experience is the
a stately hundred-
one House of Ruth in Lancaster County,
year-old home with
Pennsylvania, aims to offer women coming
exquisite woodwork
out of prison.
instead of concrete walls. The scrutiny
Recognizing the challenges that women face when they re-enter society after
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two, “Martha,” teaches them to balance both their spiritual lives and practical obligations, helping them put their lives into proper balance–usually for the very first time. The “Esther” phase finishes out the first year at House of Ruth. During this time, women are encouraged to learn what it is that God is calling them to at this time of their lives. It is a time of discovering their unique purpose in God’s kingdom. Women who complete the first year are invited to continue through “The Lydia Program,” a second-year leadership course to train Christian business women. Participants of this spiritual training program are encouraged to take a role in ministry and develop accountability. The women who have completed The being incarcerated, Joe Bird, a chaplain
farmland, this peaceful, four-bedroom
Lydia Program are now making a positive
for Lancaster County Prison, and his wife,
home offers the ideal setting for healing
difference in their communities.
Linda, decided to follow God’s calling
and spiritual growth.
and establish “Beginning in the Right Direction”–or “BIRD”–Ministries. HOUSE OF RUTH
At House of Ruth, it’s definitely not all
“Every girl comes with baggage, and it
work and no play. Each Friday night is a
takes at least a year to unpack the bags
special ladies’ night for fun and relaxation.
and realize that ‘I’m valuable.’ This is a
Although their schedules are very strict
very painful process,
September through
The Birds actually began their ministry
and it’s hard for
May, the summer
in the prison system, preparing female
them to look at their
lightens up for days
inmates for re-entry through pre-release
stuff,” Linda explains.
life skills, education, and support. The
“For that reason, the
women inmates come from all walks of life,
women must commit
and their ages span multiple generations.
to living at House of
However, the one thing they all have in
Ruth for at least one
common is a painful past, and most of
year.”
them having been abused and terrorized.
Each resident
Healing and direction is needed in each of
moves through three
their lives.
distinct phases during
For the incarcerated women who truly
Miracles always include a process. There’s always something that we first need to do.
her year-long stay
at the beach, Hershey Park, and for attending an annual Beth Moore conference. These are experiences that many of the women enjoy for the first time in their lives. LIGHT ON A HILL
want to move forward in life and live
at house of Ruth.
beyond the devastation of their pasts,
Phase one, “Ruth,” encourages women to
enterprise of BIRD Ministries called “Light
House of Ruth becomes their new home
surrender their painful pasts to the Lord,
on a Hill is operated by the residents of
upon release. Situated on a hill overlooking
including their tightly held secrets. Phase
House of Ruth. The women produce,
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A creative social
History of Obedience: A Timeline of the Birds’ Ministry 1985
1989
1993
1994-2000
2007
2014
Joe & Linda marry in Florida
They obtain a license for a six-bed children’s home in Florida, operating as a Christian crisis center.
They receive a prophetic word: “You’ll be packing up and heading north!”
Joe and Linda serve as house parents at Christ’s Home, Paradise PA.
House of Ruth opens for women being released from prison.
“Pursuing the Promise” capital campaign launches to purchase the House of Ruth property.
package, market, and sell hand-poured soy and specialty massage oil candles.
other personal obligations. Linda explains, “These are candles with
all of its facilities, but Joe and Linda have consistently heard a “quiet persistent
a purpose. Buy a candle, help change a
instruction” from the Lord to pursue the
to boost the women’s confidence in
life.” Her goal for Light on a Hill is to grow
purchase of the House of Ruth property.
themselves and their skills. The paid
the business to the point where it covers
They are moving forward in this with the
positions provide on-the-job training and
ministry costs. Additionally, any extra
“Pursuing the Promise” capital campaign.
This creative opportunity has proven
money raised would go into a foundation
Once this campaign is completed and the
to give graduates a boost into their new
house is purchased, the Birds will welcome
lives. Linda would even like to be able to
workers from the community to provide
offer graduates a full-time position as the
needed updating for the aging structure.
business grows.
Unfortunately, not all of the women choose to finish the one-year program.
PERFECT TIMING
As in any ministry, finances are a constant
returned to jail. “Ultimately,” Joe and Linda
challenge. Joe and Linda have always
commented, “We can all help these women.
trusted God completely for His provision.
Love them, first by not judging them. We
“It’s a way of life,” comments Joe. “God
can just listen and offer them a safe place
always provides.” They both believe that
to talk.”
“if we do the natural, God will do the super part.” The women are not charged for any of
It’s a way of life. God always provides.
But for the 30 or more who did, none have
Joe is amazed at the amount of different “hats” they wear. But it’s all worth it “when the women become bright-eyed after
the services they receive, and the ministry
experiencing a light bulb moment–when
completely trusts God for its operating
they finally get it. Their word patterns and
capital. “If it’s God’s will, it’s His bill,” says
demeanor change. They are excited about
Joe. “God’s timing is always perfect. He’s
God and what He has done, right where
always on time and never late. Miracles
they are.”
always include a process. There’s always something that we first need to do.” As with most outreach efforts, the Birds have many practical needs. Consistent and
To learn more about BIRD Ministries, House of Ruth, and Joe and Linda Bird, visit birdministries.org.
reliable volunteers help to keep ministry learning opportunities in important areas,
flowing at House of Ruth, as well as a
such as promptness, following instructions,
stable flow of funds, which would allow the
House of Ruth resident Dawn Cunningham
teamwork, conflict resolution in a Godly
Birds to continue the ministry, purchase a
shares her story online.
way, and operating a business from scratch.
computer, provide supplies, and to support
Each woman earns a monthly stipend
other household needs.
which she then uses to pay fines and any
SERVEOURWORLD.ORG
BIRD Ministries is currently leasing
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Serve Our World Pastor Sam’s perspective on –then and now.
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W
orship Center’s first mission overseas was to Kingston, Jamaica in January of 1979. The team was sent to help
a pastor build a church building. That pastor was V.T. Williams, and while that church has since given in to the elements from the last almost 40 years, Worship Center’s call and efforts to serve our world are ever stronger.
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I had never seen or felt the needs of humanity. The reason WC sent those 44 people to Jamaica was to build a church building, but back then, it was viewed as sowing a seed for a church building for WC here at home. While traveling across the island country back to Kingston, I received what I call a mandate from the Lord. As I looked out the window of the van I was riding in, with tears running down my face, I sensed the Holy Spirit saying to me, “Go home and build a missionsminded church.”
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...with tears running down my face, I sensed the Holy Spirit saying to me, “Go home and build a missions-minded church.” Prior to that time, I had never seen or felt the needs of humanity. Back in Lancaster County, all I saw was lush green fields, prosperity, and blessing. I was never really acquainted with any part of the world that was hurting. But since that time, the Worship Center family and I have become deeply acquainted with human suffering, hopelessness, and despair around the world. But we have equally become more PHOTO GUIDE
and more deeply acquainted with, and have seen for ourselves, the
1 // Previous page: a crowd in Albania receives
life change that comes from God the Father through Jesus Christ
Bibles in their own language.
and the work of the Holy Spirit!
2 // Children in India
I believe with all my heart that this mandate will continue to
3 // Pastor Sam and V.T. Williams preach in
drive our missions outreach, not just to the far reaches of the
Jamaica, one of WC’s very first mission trips.
world, but to those in need right next door.
4 // Living Word Academy, Nigeria 5 // Poverty in Juticalpa, Honduras 6 // Word Fellowship Church, Nigeria ALL PHOTOS FROM WC | MISSIONS PHOTO ARCHIVE
_____ Taylor, one of Worship Center’s long-term 2014 CARE 17 missionaries, in India in 19990.
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PHOTO GUIDE 7 // Sam Taylor, a WC Missionary, baptizes a new believer in Bangalore 8 // Construction work, Nicaragua 9 // A crowd gathers to hear preaching in Bulgaria 10 // A 2014 young adult team on a trip to India ALL PHOTOS FROM WC | MISSIONS PHOTO ARCHIVE
We are seeing the emerging generations pick up the cause of serving our world, and they are going as missionaries from Worship Center. We can’t do everything that’s needed, but we can obey the Spirit of the Lord in what He is asking us to do. We will serve our world with compassion, assisting, reaching, and equipping.
We are seeing the emerging generations pick up the cause.
What Jesus said in Luke 4:18 applies to us today: The Spirit of the Lord is upon us, because He has anointed us to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, and to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.
See more photos from Worship Center’s missions history online. SERVEOURWORLD.ORG
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T e n Way s t o s p e n d T e n We asked our missionaries, “What would you do with $10?”
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Provide lunches for 25 girls for one school day. David & Debbie Hollinger, India
Pay the electricity bill at Reposo Divino for one month. Jalisa Godshall, Nicaragua
Deworm a class of 20 students. Roger & Dorothy Dulo-Godfrey, Kenya
Produce 35 loaves of bread in the bakery, which would feed 15-20 households for a week. Jörgen & Maria Lindberg, Republic of Moldova
Provide a day’s wage for most blue collar workers. Chris & Lindsey Lautsbaugh, South Africa
Dollars.
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Just $10 given to our missionaries
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Pay for an entire year’s school enrollment for one orphan. Aaron & Patricia Rissler, Mozambique
Place three Bibles in peoples’ homes with the Bibles for Nicaragua project. Rick & Karen Allegretto, YWAM
Allow a woman to attend one month of clinic visits for HIV/AIDS. Roger & Dorothy Dulo-Godfrey, Kenya
Pay a two-week salary for one staff person at the Home International children’s home. David & Debbie Hollinger, India
g o e s a l o n g w ay in various parts
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Provide corn meal and bread for a family for one week. Chris & Lindsey Lautsbaugh, South Africa
of the world. So what would you do with $10?
Consider spending $10 per month to sponsor a WC missionary. WORSHIPCENTER.ORG/PARTNER
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Keeping It in the Family An interview with Emily Allegretto
W
orship Center missionaries John and Elaine Allegretto have been serving the Lord through Youth With a Mission (YWAM) for over 30 years, discipling young people and sending them out to preach the Gospel. The Allegrettos have four children and currently live in
Lyndale, Texas. Their youngest daughter, Emily, now 21 years old, shares what it has been like to grow up with missionary parents.
WC: Emily, tell us about your family.
I am so fortunate to have had that strong
WC: Overall, what is your fondest
EA: I hold my family dear to my heart. I
foundation within my home. That’s where
memory of being a child of missionaries?
have three older siblings – two brothers
I received the most influence. My parents
EA: I have so many! When I was four, I
and a sister. They are all married, and
explained that homeschooling was a calling
remember going to Mexico. For some
surprisingly, for the time being, everyone
on our family. It wasn’t about sheltering us
reason, I thought Juarez was China, and
still lives in Lyndale. I feel so bonded and
from the world or to get us into missions. It
so when we’d get home I would tell people,
close to my family, especially my sister,
was purposeful. The Lord definitely used it
“We went to China today.” My mom would
Alyssa, who is my best friend. It’s such a
in some cool ways.
correct me, saying, “She means Mexico.”
blessing to be able to serve together. I don’t know how long that will last, but for the time being, I am totally enjoying that. WC: You were homeschooled growing up. What was that like? EA: Homeschooling was super fun, and it created a really strong bond between my siblings and my parents. When we were younger and living in El Paso, we would all try to finish schoolwork by Thursday. Our family would go over the border for the weekend into Juarez, Mexico, to the orphanage that we work with there. It was great to be able to take school “on the road.”
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Emily displays some of KEEPS Boutique’s name-brand apparel.
As I got older and realized that Mexico
EA: I remember going to YWAM summer
wasn’t China, I thought, “I really need to
camp at the age of 14. I listened to the
get to China!” I felt like God was leading
hearts of so many young people my age,
me there. I did my YWAM discipleship
and my heart really broke. It was eye-
course after high school in England, and I
opening to see the painful circumstances
ended up going to China on my outreach.
that are some people’s norms. This was a
WC: What have you admired about your
season when God challenged me with the
parents and their work?
struggles of my culture and my generation.
EA: That is an overwhelming question
When I did my YWAM Discipleship
because I admire my parents so much. Now
Training School (DTS), that was when, as
that I’m older, I feel like I need to serve
an adult, my life was completely changed.
alongside them. They spent so much time
He started to shape my identity and let me
pouring into us and discipling us as the next
know how much He truly loved me. It was
generation. They never brushed us aside.
so powerful. I walked away from that time
Instead, they poured into us. I feel like they
knowing who I was and Who I belonged
have really invested in me. They always
to. It has changed my journey, my identity,
stayed very active in whatever church we
the way I view love, and the way I can
were attending. I respect the way that they
love other people. Knowing that He really
were able to manage it all and do it so well.
delights in me just changes everything.
WC: What has been hard or do you have
WC: What is Keeps Boutique and
any regrets being in a missionary family?
what was your inspiration for your
EA: I don’t have any regrets about being
involvement?
a missionary kid. I wouldn’t trade it for the
EA: Keeps Boutique is a ministry for teen
world, but there have been hard things. I’ve
girls in foster care and works in affirming
learned that God is so faithful. I never felt
their value. Giving them brand-new stylish
that I never had what I needed. I just might
clothing fills a practical need and it gets
cannot believe my mom trusted me to do
not have always gotten what I wanted
them to visit us, enabling us to share the
this at 15!
when I wanted it. When you’re younger,
Gospel.
WC: What is the experience like for the
that’s hard to deal with. Trusting God
I was only 14 or 15 at the time when
KEEPS BOUTIQUE KEEPS Boutique offers new, in season, designer clothes at no cost to teen girls living in foster homes in East Texas. KEEPS also hosts KEEPS Kamps & Girls Night Out programs that provide encouraging messages of value and self worth as well as an opportunity to receive Christ.
livingalternatives.org/about/keeps/
girls who come to Keeps?
to bring in every dollar has really given
friends who had founded a Keeps Boutique
EA: The store runs by appointment only,
me a great perspective in my financial
in Dallas, TX randomly called me. They
and the girls shop one-on-one with me,
awareness.
wondered what I thought about starting
my sister, Alyssa, or my mom. We get to
WC: How has your faith been shaped
a Keeps Boutique in Lyndale. The Lord
know the girls and learn what they’re
by the work your parents have been a part of? EA: I remember so many church services, outreaches, sitting for hours, and our
going through. Before
I feel like I have received an inheritance. I don’t feel like I would be where I am today if it weren’t for that.
leaving, they write down prayer requests on a notecard, and we pray with them. These girls need love; they need to know what it looks like to know God.
parents reminding us that this was our family’s calling. I enjoyed
had been preparing the way, so when they
WC: Will you be continuing in
listening as my parents would share their
asked, it was like, “Yes, that’s it. I want to
missions work?
testimonies. I developed a passion to never
do that!” We were given a field on the
EA: I can’t imagine my life NOT being
settle for a little bit of Jesus–I wanted all
property of Living Alternatives ministry,
involved in missions. As believers, we’re all
of Him!
which is part of YWAM, and we began
in the same mission, even though it might
WC: When would you say your faith
construction with tremendous support
look differently. I am a missionary. My
became your own?
from our community. My parents and I
platform at the moment is business.
were the contractors for the building. I
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Left: Emily Allegretto. Right: Emily praying with one of the girls visiting KEEPS Boutique.
Giving them brand-new stylish clothing fills a practical need and it gets them to visit us, enabling us to share the Gospel. I am currently a junior at a college,
taught me to do the same thing. All along
majoring in Business Marketing, with a
the way, I want to obey the calling where
minor in Merchandising. It’s two and a
I am today, and I know that whatever the
half hours away from Keeps, so my mom
experience, He’s using it to build in me for
and sister have been a great help when
the future. I need to always be looking for
someone calls for a Keeps appointment
ways to serve people. I don’t need to be
and I can’t come back. My dreams include
on an outreach to do this. I can serve Him
running a business that will help women
anywhere.
and teens who have been in sex trafficking or perhaps been abused in some way. I would love to work internationally and possibly in the fashion industry.
Listen to the full audio recording of the interview with Emily Allegretto at serveourworld.org.
WC: How would you say your experiences being a part of a missionary family have shaped your ambitions today? EA: My parents felt called and they obeyed. Growing up in the family, they
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Learn more about an upcoming trip to KEEPS through WC Missions’ Give a Week Away program. GIVEAWEEKAWAY.ORG
PLAN
So what is the CARE Plan anyway? The CARE Plan is Worship Center’s response to God’s call to world missions in four distinct areas: showing Compassion to the poor and needy and children; Assisting those in crisis and rebuilding lives; Reaching individuals by sharing Christ and planting churches; and Equipping through education and training leaders.
Learn More about COMPASSION, ASSISTING, REACHING, & EQUIPPING
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COMPASSION
T HE CARE PLAN
JAMES 1:27
pure and genuine religion in the sight of G o d t h e Fat h e r m e a n s c a r i n g fo r orphans and w i d ow s i n t h e i r distress.
W HEN WE SEE THE PLIGHT OF OTHERS IN DISTRESS, CARE 2014
26
CHILDREN POOR & NEEDY
we should be moved with compassion just as Jesus was when He saw the multitudes. As we are moved to help others out of their distress, we begin to live out the life that we are called to in James 1:27. Worship Center works toward answering that call to bring compassion to people around the world.
FOCUSES FOCUSES
45%
UN WORLD FOOD PROGRAM
Poor nutrition causes nearly half of the deaths of children under five. That’s nearly 3.1 million children!
UNICEF
3 BILLION
1.3 BILLION
people live on less than $2.50 a day.
of those people live in extreme poverty.
That’s almost half the world’s population.
That’s less than $1.25 a day.
The number of orphaned children without shoes, in Sub-Saharan Africa alone, is estimated to be above 20 million.
REASONS FOR THE CAUSE OF COMPASSION
55%
SOLESFORSOULS.COM
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2014 CARE
T HE CARE PLAN
Compassion missionaries focus on: CHILDREN
POOR & NEEDY
Ruby Jones
Lauren Clark
Perish No More
YWAM El Paso/Juárez
Ruby is the founder of Perish No More, a minis-
Lauren serves the children at Rancho Los
try committed to loving God and loving people
Amigos, a children’s home, with Youth With
by living the Gospel in word and deed. This
A Mission El Paso/Juárez. She is a high school
is done through small groups and children’s
teacher for the school on base, works with
ministry, as well as pastoral care through prison
children in the community through a program
ministry, addictions support, hospital visita-
called Club Amigos, and is involved in the fight
tion, and one-to-one counseling. The ministry
against sex trafficking with the dream of seeing
meets the practical needs of food, clothing, and
it end.
support for families in crisis. This is all accomplished by partnering with churches, ministries, and individuals.
CARE 2014
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Ricky & Sarah Allegretto
Michael & Crystal Anderson
Children's Relief International
YWAM Tyler
Jörgen & Maria Lindberg People To People International
Jörgen & Maria serve with People To People
Ricky & Sarah serve with Children’s Relief In-
Michael & Crystal serve with Youth With A
International (PTPI), founded by Jörgen’s
ternational (CRI) to take Christ to the poor.
Mission in Tyler, Texas. Michael serves with
parents, Oliver and Ulla Lindberg. PTPI reaches
As development manager and part of the CRI
the Living Alternatives ministry at YWAM-
throughout Eastern Europe (Poland, Romania,
leadership team, Ricky’s ministry responsi-
Tyler, helping unwed expectant mothers with
and the Republic of Moldova). The ministry
bilities include vision building and direction
an opportunity to pursue their education while
finances pastors’ efforts to rescue street chil-
setting for the organization, developing and
living at a home called “Fatherheart.” He also
dren. They also support works among the roma
managing new ministry projects, mentoring
assists in the discipleship training schools.
(gypsy) children and conduct pastors’ confer-
new missionaries, developing CRI’s college
Crystal provides assistance at the maternity
ences. PTPI assists the Daily Bread Project with
internship program, and pursuing long-term
home by providing discipleship and love to
distribution of food packages to The Republic of
ministry growth. Sarah serves in the college
the residents. Together, they are seeing lives
Moldova.
internship program and in ministry partner
changed, restored, and redeemed.
development.
Anne Pierson Loving & Caring, Inc.
Anne and her late husband, Jim, founded Loving & Caring, a life-affirming ministry that provides support, and expertise to the fatherless, orphans, and children in foster care. By partnering with national and international life-affirming ministries, Loving & Caring provides resources, training, and restoration.
OTHER COMPASSION MISSIONARIES: Timbrel Adidala, see pg. 8 David & Debbie Hollinger, see pg. 9 Rodger & Dorothy Dulo-Godfrey, see pg. 48 Mary Beth Maifeld, see pg. 55
29
2014 CARE
ASSISTING
T HE CARE PLAN
m at t h e w 2 5 : 4 0
I tell you the t ru t h , w h e n y o u did it to one of the least of these m y b ro t h e r s a n d sisters, you were doing it to me.
th e re a r e m an y ti me s ar o u n d th e w o r ld a n d i n ou r nat io n
THOSE IN CRISIS REBUILDING LIVES
when disaster strikes or when people’s lives are shattered. It is during those times that the body of Christ needs to rally together to bring healing and hope to those that are hurting. Worship Center responds to those needs as we partner with missionaries and organizations around the world to help those in crisis rebuild their lives. Matthew 25:40 says that when we help those in crisis, it’s as if we are doing it for the Lord.
CARE 2014
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FOCUSES
the number of individuals around the world infected with HIV/AIDS. WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION
An estimated 23 million of these are in Sub-Saharan Africa.
20% of all pregnancies end in induced abortion.
2000
1.2 MILLION About 1.2 million people were killed by natural disasters between 2000 and 2012. Over 300,000 lost their lives in 2010, many from the
AGI
2012
REASONS FOR THE CAUSE OF ASSISTING
36,300,000
earthquake in Haiti.
UNISDR
31
2014 CARE
T HE CARE PLAN
Assisting missionaries focus on: THOSE IN CRISIS
REBUILDING LIVES
Bob & Melanie Lewis
Jim & Margie Johnson
Jalisa Godshall
The Gathering Place
Upward Call/Shepherd’s Touch
Reposo Divino
Bob & Melanie founded The Gathering Place, a
Jim is the director of Upward Call and Shep-
Ministering in Nicaragua, Jalisa offers spiritual
ministry to individuals who have been infected
herd’s Touch Counseling Services, a position he
and emotional support to church leaders and
and affected with the HIV virus. Their heart is
has held since 1992. Jim’s vision is to see the
the community by encouraging rest, refresh-
to bring the love of God to people with HIV and
ministry continue to expand in order to bring
ment, restoration, and rejuvenation. Her vision
their families and to restore and/or maintain
healing, restoration, and mending of broken
for ministry is to build a retreat center, Reposo
hope, dignity, and value to their lives.
relationships, along with educating others
Divino (Divine Resting Place), which will wel-
through a variety of seminars.
come many leaders from Leon, Nicaragua and its surrounding areas.
CARE 2014
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Dale & Tracy Weaver YWAM Orlando
Dale & Tracy serve with YWAM-Orlando. Dale is the founder of Mission Connect and has a vision to empower missionaries by providing them with technical support, installation, and repair of computer systems. Tracy’s passion is to help impoverished women and children by assisting them medically and, at the same time, encouraging them spiritually. Her long-term vision is to become a certified, missionary midwife.
OTHER ASSISTING MISSIONARIES: Joe & Linda Bird, see pg. 10
33
2014 CARE
REACHING
T HE CARE PLAN
MARK 16:15
go into all t h e wo r l d a n d p r e ac h the good news to e v e ry o n e .
wors h ip c e nt e r ta ke s je s u s’ co m m a n d se r io u s ly CARE 2014
34
SHARING CHRIST PLANTING CHURCHES
to go into all the world and preach the Gospel (Mark 16:15). We help others share the Gospel of Jesus around the world through missions because there are people dying every day without His saving knowledge. As we help people plant churches and share the Word of God throughout the world, we can make a difference in many lives and fulfill this commission of Jesus.
FOCUSES
people do not have any scripture in their language.
WYCLIFFE
Research shows that American millennials believe that universities, more than churches, have their best interests at heart.
BARNA RESEARCH
159,960 The average number of Christians worldwide who are martyred for their faith per year.
REASONS FOR THE CAUSE OF REACHING
180,000,000
ABOUT.COM
35
2014 CARE
T HE CARE PLAN
Reaching missionaries focus on: SHARING CHRIST
PLANTING CHURCHES
Christopher & Britta Alam
Kelly & Ursula Daniel
Shawn & Chapa Ginder
Dynamis World Ministries
Worship Center, Albania
Vienna Christian Center
Christopher & Britta are founders of Dynamis
The ministry home base for Kelly & Ursula
Shawn & Chapa serve as missionaries at Vienna
World Ministries, which holds Gospel cru-
is Albania, but they have also ministered at
Christian Center (VCC) in Vienna, Austria.
sades, planting churches, and training pastors
churches in the Caribbean and the United
Shawn oversees the ministries of VCC and is
in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and
States. Their church in Albania serves as an
involved in equipping and training leaders.
Latin America. Through their ministry, over
outreach to the gypsy community, where they
Chapa oversees the music ministry, which
1,400 churches have been started, including
are currently building a playground for chil-
includes leading worship, and also directs the
178 new churches in unreached areas of Burma.
dren, a gymnasium, volleyball and basketball
Alpha course. Together they conduct Encounter
Thousands of pastors have been trained in
courts, and a library.
retreats, which take place several times a year.
their schools of ministry. They also oversee more than 350 churches in Africa and Asia, a church-planting school, and an orphanage.
Josh & Dania Harder
Janelle Kauffman
Vereda Church
Campus Target
Mung Dam Suan & Vung Ze NIang Full Gospel Assembly
Josh & Dania pastor Vereda in Mexico City,
Janelle is part of a missions organization whose
Mexico. They are passionate about the local
heart is to see people come to know Jesus and to
Dam Suan Mung & Vung Za Niang, founders
church and are excited about what God is doing
see churches spread throughout East Asia. Her
of Full Gospel Assembly, desire to minister,
in the city. Pointing people to Jesus, connecting
passion is to reach the lost and disciple them
teach, and share the salvation of God with
them in the church so they can belong, and
through life. Her desire is to share the hope
people throughout the world. They especially
expanding God’s kingdom here on earth is their
they have in Jesus through investing in the
have a heart to reach the Burmese people - to
greatest pleasure.
students on the top college campuses in Asia.
see them refreshed in the Lord and to provide
Janelle will be leading teams to help disciple
them relief from their daily stresses through
young women and establish house churches.
fellowship in faith.
CARE 2014
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Rose Piazza
V.T. Williams
Agape Italia
Jamaica Evangelistic Association
Rose works in an art-based ministry as a part of
Born and raised in Jamaica, V.T. and his late
Agape Italia (Campus Crusade for Christ). Using
wife, Dorrett, founded Jamaica Evangelistic As-
her gifts and talents, she shares Christ with
sociation. His vision is to reach into new areas
those who have not yet recognized His beauty
of establishing and directing training pro-
through visual projects and at workshops that
grams, as well as conducting conferences, Bible
take place in various locations, including a local
schools, and schools of evangelism in order to
HIV care center, a nursing home, and commu-
reach the lost.
nity centers.
OTHER REACHING MISSIONARIES: BenYehuda & Mrudula Adidala, see pg. 8
37
2014 CARE
EQUIPPING
T HE CARE PLAN
M at t h e w 2 8 : 2 0
t e ac h t h e s e new disciples to obey all the commands I h av e given you.
j es us tells us t o “teach t hese new d iscip les to CARE 2014
38
EDUCATION TRAINING LEADERS
obey all the commands I have given you.” Part of Worship Center’s world mission is to continue to train future generations and leaders so we can make a difference for years to come. As we build into the lives of young people who are yearning to learn, we can help shape their futures. This is why we help start bible schools, academic schools, and universities around the world.
FOCUSES
Only 9% of all American adults have a biblical worldview. BARNA, FREEVECTORMAPS.COM
In developing, low-income countries, every additional year of education can increase a person’s future income by an average of 10%.
CENTER FOR GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT
544
310
MILLION
MILLION
55%
REASONS FOR THE CAUSE OF EQUIPPING
9%
Of the world’s estimated 854 million illiterate adults, 544 million are women. ABOUT.COM
39
2014 CARE
T HE CARE PLAN
Equipping missionaries focus on: TRAINING LEADERS
EDUCATION
Gary & Amy Hector
José & Mayela Davis
Aaron & Patricia Rissler
South American Touch
Ministers’ International Fellowship
Afrika Wa Yesu
Gary & Amy, founders of South American
José & Mayela, founders of Ministers’ Interna-
Aaron & Patricia serve as campus directors of
Touch, desire to see the Body of Christ increase
tional Fellowship, reach out to Mexico, Panama,
the Afrika Wa Yesu ministry base in Inhaminga,
in Argentina and neighboring countries. Their
Colombia, Costa Rica, Honduras, Guatemala,
Mozambique. Their passion is to share the love
foremost passion is to provide individuals with
and Nicaragua by providing continuing educa-
of Jesus with the people of Mozambique and
biblical truths and principles so they may grow
tion for the pastors and evangelists they over-
equip believers through evangelism, church
spiritually. They use every means available to
see. They manage three rehab-centers in San
planting, Bible schools, conferences, and
carry out the teaching of God’s anointed Word
José, Costa Rica, and have a desire to establish
literature distribution. They also work with the
in an understandable way, offering practical
Bible schools in each of the Central America
the poor and needy. They have been serving
application for everyday life.
nations in which they minister.
in Mozambique since 2000 and are part of a dynamic team of diverse nationalities, touching the nation through the love of Jesus Christ.
Tefera & Hannah Bekere
Mike & Lora Bordon
José & Adriana Curiel
Global Disciples
YWAM Lebanon
YWAM Guadalajara
Tefera ministers in Ethiopia and other nations
Mike & Lora serve with Youth With A Mission in
José serves as the base director with Youth With
throughout Africa through Global Disciples.
Lebanon, PA, training and mobilizing the body
A Mission-Guadalajara, Mexico. Training plays
He also holds Global Disciples Training (GDT)
of Christ to be effective in world missions. They
a large role in the work he and Adriana do as
sessions in the nations of South and Central
are also involved in evangelism and outreach
they continue to equip the staff, students, and
America, Asia, and Europe. Through his efforts,
efforts here in Pennsylvania and abroad.
people of Guadalajara. They recently started a
many nationals in these countries have been
School of the Bible for the staff, and plans are
trained in business principles and discipled
underway for the School of Foundation, a pro-
in the Word of God. He also desires to plant
gram specializing in community development.
churches in the nations of the world.
CARE 2014
40
Henry & Diane Fisher Dunamis Connections
Henry & Diane, founders of Dunamis Connections, focus on empowering individuals in underdeveloped countries to reach their potential and realize their purpose.
Emma & Chinyere Okorie
Joyce Englerth
Living Word Ministries
RETIRED
Emma & Chinyere are founders of Living Word
Since her husband Ray’s homegoing in January,
Ministries based in Aba, Nigeria. They continue
2010, Joyce relocated to Lancaster. She con-
their work in God’s kingdom through serving
tinues to stay in touch with the pastors they
churches, schools, and hospitals. They have
worked with in Mexico. Joyce also counsels,
also established a Christian university in
leads a small group, speaks at various small
Western Africa.
groups, visits people in the hospital, and prays for the sick.
Andy & Betty Petersheim
Steve & Rose Shank
Rick & Eileen Steffy
El Tabernaculo Del Señor
Eastern Mennonite Missions
Christian Motorcyclists Association
Andy & Betty have been missionaries in Guate-
Steve & Rose Shank work with Eastern Men-
Rick & Eileen oversee 15 northeastern states as
mala for 37 years. They continue to reach out to
nonite Missions and are currently developing
the northeast regional evangelists of the Chris-
the people of Guatemala, Nicaragua, Ecuador,
training to work with children in crisis and
tian Motorcyclists Association. Their vision is
Spain, and other areas of the world through
mobilizing people to work with street kids,
to train and equip leaders and members to take
preaching and teaching the Good News of Jesus
prostitutes, AIDS, and orphans throughout
the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the motorcycling
Christ.
the world.
community and the world beyond.
41
2014 CARE
T HE CARE PLAN
David & Krista Stoltzfus
Jonah & Mary Bedan
Rick & Karen Allegretto
Happy News Church
Christian Outreach Ministries, Worldwide
YWAM Tyler
David & Krista assist in establishing Happy
Jonah & Mary, founders of Christian Outreach
Rick & Karen serve with Youth With A Mis-
News Church in Hong Kong. They feel directed
Ministries, Worldwide (?) based in Kenya, are
sion in Texas. Rick & Karen train and mentor
by God to be a voice in and out of the nation.
reaching into the nations of Kenya, Uganda,
national missionaries for service in other na-
They host life groups and regularly gather to-
Tanzania, Ruanda, Burundi, Congo, and South
tions. Working with the underprivileged to the
gether leaders and pastors to teach and encour-
Sudan in East Africa. Since 1995, they have
professional, their principal vision and passion
age them in their places in the Body of Christ.
planted over 500 churches and trained 500 pas-
is to see individuals come to a relationship with
In September 2013, they pioneered Happy News
tors. They conduct a Bible school, whose main
Jesus Christ. They also desire to develop and
Training Centre with 8 students. The vision
campus is based in Nakuru-Kenya. They also
release leaders into Christian service and into
for their church is to bring every generation to
run two children’s homes in Lowar,
their God-given callings through teaching,
Jesus and to change lives through God’s love.
North Kenya.
leadership development and pastoral care.
Keith & Marian Yoder
Wayne & Ruth West
John & Elaine Allegretto
Teaching the Word Ministries
Praise Unlimited
YWAM Tyler
Keith and Marian are founders of Teaching the
Wayne & Ruth, founders of Praise Unlimit-
John & Elaine serve with Youth With A Mis-
Word Ministries, cultivating healthy leaders
ed, seek to present Jesus to people through
sion (YWAM) in Texas. John serves on the Inter-
who transform their worlds and finish well.
experiences of praise and worship and through
national Leadership team for the Discipleship
They develop and mentor marketplace,
teaching God’s Word to reveal His incredi-
Training School (DTS). John and Elaine work
ministry, and congregational leaders with the
ble love and grace. They minister in churches
together to train leaders and staff missionaries
Word of God.
of all denominations at spiritual life camps,
working with the DTS in 19 YWAM locations
conferences, and retreats. In addition, they
throughout Mexico and Central America. They
serve on the mission field by training pastors
provide leadership for training schools, pastoral
and leaders.
care, outreach teams, and hospitality ministries on their home campus in Tyler, Texas. Their ministry also includes Living Alternatives and KEEPS Boutique (see page 22).
Jeff & Cindy Weber RHEMA Singapore
OTHER EQUIPPING MISSIONARIES:
Jeff & Cindy teach, train, empower, and equip
Sam & Dawn Taylor, see pg. 8
Christians and marketplace leaders through
Andrew & Anne Taylor, see pg. 8
ministry in Bible schools, churches, seminars,
Osman & Barbara Kamara, see pg. 49
and evangelistic crusades. They also plant
Chris & Lindsey Lautsbaugh, see pg. 50
churches in partnership with local churches in Singapore and other areas.
CARE 2014
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Oliver & Ulla Lindberg Honoring 30 Years of Missions 2
1
I
3
n 1984 Oliver and Ulla
and insulin to sick children in Poland to
Lindberg founded People
speaking in underground churches and
to People International
Bible schools. Over the years, over 300
(PTPI), based on the
tracker trailers of humanitarian aid were
vision they received
delivered and numerous churches were
from God in 1978: “I, the Lord, have called
built. The Lindbergs sent in equipment
you for a special purpose; to support the
to set up print shops that would print
pastors and churches in the Soviet Union
Christian resources. Altogether, 10
and Eastern Bloc countries.”
presses were sent.
Since then, Oliver and Ulla have had
Since the fall of the Iron Curtain, the
a huge impact on the spiritual lives of
situation changed significantly. These
many people in the former communist
countries now have religious freedom,
states of Central and Eastern Europe.
which, in turn, has enabled evangelical
through PTPI. Under communist rule,
work to be done in a completely open way.
evangelical activities were banned or
The vision given by God still remains as
severely restricted, so outreach had to be
the core foundation and guiding principle
done in strict secrecy. They did everything
for the work that is going on today, even
from smuggling Bibles and providing flour
though the needs are very different.
See more on next page
43
2014 CARE
4
5
6
Congratulations from Sam & Sherlyn Sherlyn and I congratulate Oliver and Ulla Lindberg on their retirement from over 30
helped to provide leadership and vision
Today, PTPI continues to work mainly
years of Gospel ministry in many Eastern Eu-
in Poland, Romania, and the Republic of
for the ministry while being a constant
rope countries and the Scandinavian nations.
Moldova by the efforts and service of
companion and help for her husband.
Oliver and Ulla have faithfully taken the
Oliver and Ulla’s son and daughter-in-
Gospel to these nations through Bible distribution, supporting pastors, and conducting pastors conferences. Countless lives have been blessed and impacted with the Gospel
In January of 2014, Ulla decided to
law, WC missionaries Jorgen and Maria
retire from the ministry to be able to spend
Lindberg.
more time with Oliver. God has done incredible things through
Over 15 years ago, Oliver was attacked
of Jesus Christ. It has been our privilege as a
by a drunken man and sustained severe
the ministry of Oliver and Ulla. They are
congregation to help them bring hope, help,
injuries. Because of the incident, Oliver’s
very excited to see how God will continue
and healing to these nations. Blessings to
activities were greatly hindered, and Ulla
to enable PTPI to minister to those in need.
you, Oliver and Ulla, as you enter into a new season of life.
Sam & Sherlyn Smucker
7
PHOTO GUIDE 1 // Oliver at the dedication of a church building at Petru Groza, Romania 2 // Oliver loading a tractor trailer with flour 3 // The Lindberg family in 1984 4 // Ulla loading a trailer with flour 5 // Church in Petru Groza, Romania 6 // Oliver with one of the printing presses delivered by PTPI 7 // Oliver & Ulla in 2014 with Missions Director John Smucker
CARE 2014
44
Consider partnering with one of our missionaries! Missionaries can’t do what they do alone, but with the monthly support of partners like you, they don’t have to. They know they have a team of people supporting them, and it makes the difference in what they do.
Pick up a partner card along Main Street Or partner online:
worshipcenter.org/partner 45
2014 CARE
OUR WORLD VIEW
A WORLD MAP OF WORSHIP CENTER’S GLOBAL OUTREACH Countries where Worship Center missionaries currently live. Countries that Worship Center missionaries currently reach into. Countries currently unreached by Worship Center missionaries.
CARE 2014
46
WORLD MAP BY FREEVECTORMAPS.COM
47
2014 CARE
Business as Missions Funding Missions Work in Unique Ways
W
hile they rely on the financial support of their partners, many of Worship Center’s missionaries have created ways to supplement funding of their missions outreaches through business. Here is what three missionaries are doing:
Rafiki Africa Supporting children through Central Market.
All profits from the African market stand go directly to the ministry, with neither Rodger nor Dorothy receiving a paycheck. In an effort to maintain sustainability, they are currently looking for opportunities
Dorothy Dulo-Godfrey remembers being
to increase their sales volume through
a sickly young girl in Kenya. She was often
catering and supplying coffee shops with
hospitalized, sharing a bed with three
finger foods, salads, and sandwiches. “We
other children, and the child next to her
met lot of our most faithful supporters
usually died. She prayed to God to let her
through the business,” states Dorothy.
live so that she could grow up and keep
In addition, women in Kenya are being
children from dying. Today, that prayer
trained in a variety of trades and skills by
is being answered through the mission
Rafiki Africa. The women receive wages,
Dorothy founded called Rafiki Africa. Rafiki
and the profits from goods sold go directly
Africa provides clean water, education,
toward benefiting Lighthouse Academy, a
healthcare, food, and shelter to her home
Christian K-8 school sponsored by Rafiki
village.
Africa. Once the women master their
After becoming a nurse, Dorothy
trade and begin a business of their own,
worked hard at saving money for a
a percentage of their sales will continue
business, following the models like Jesus
to sustain the ministry in exchange
and His carpentry or Paul and his tent
for benefits, such as health insurance.
making. “I made a contract with God that I
The ultimate goal of Rafiki Africa is
would never ask people for money,” jokes
sustainability – for the ministry and for the
Dorothy.
village of Alendu, Kenya.
In 2003 Rafiki Africa opened for business in Central Market, a popular Lancaster City marketplace. Rodger Godfrey joined Dorothy’s vision for Rafiki Africa when the two were married in 2005.
CARE 2014
48
Visit giveaweekaway.org to find out more about the trip to help Rodger and Dorothy Dulo-Godfrey in July, 2015.
Central Market in Lancaster City, where Roger and Dorothy have their Rafiki Africa food stand.
HOME International Supporting girls in India through a thrift shop.
values and to enjoy healthy emotional
location in Bowmansville, will fully support
development, while also receiving an
all the girls’ higher education needs,
education -- none of which would be an
whether those needs include funds for
option for them otherwise.
college, nurse training, or to achieve other
In 2007, the Hollingers didn’t want the
goals the girls may pursue. It’s a long and
David & Debbie Hollinger started HOME
financial responsibilities for the nonprofit
sometimes frustrating road. “We’re up
International, a non-profit organization
to rest mainly on their family business or
against ’the big guys’ of the re-use-it shops,
assisting orphan girls in India, in 2000.
missions support alone. Debbie wanted to
Debbie explains, “but we just keep going,
“HOME does not operate orphanages,”
pitch in as well. Second Street, a re-use-it
hoping to grow into our goal.”
Debbie is adamant about making that
apparel and household goods shop, was
distinction. Abandoned or orphaned girls
established in Denver, PA, with the goal of
are brought into the homes at ages three
eventually supporting the higher education
or four to belong to a family, not just exist
needs of the girls in the three homes that
in a “warehouse.”
HOME International operates.
Each home is lead by a couple that
Visit giveaweekaway.org to find out more about the trip to help David and Debbie Hollinger in September, 2015.
While that goal is not realized yet,
raises each of the 15-20 girls as its own
Debbie hopes in the future that the
daughters, helping them to learn Christian
Denver store along with the newer
Horizons of Hope Harvesting cassava for missions Osman Kamara, missionary to Sierra Leone, does not expect a quick fix for this devastated land in western Africa. Years of civil war took an incredible toll on the country and its people, and although it has been nearly a decade since Sierra Leone has returned to peace, the infrastructure
A field of cassava in Africa
there needs much work. Osman’s mission, Horizons of Hope, has a wide approach
also be used for Horizons’ primary school,
of God, leadership, education, agriculture,
to ministering to Sierra Leone’s people,
a much needed learning facility, as access
business, community development, and
including plans for a future of self-
to educational facilities and supplies
health care. We believe when God has the
sustainability.
for children are scarce in West Africa.
heart of the people, amazing things can
Proceeds from the cassava harvest could
happen!”
While Horizons of Hope is still primarily funded through donations today, Osman
also help to support Horizon’s Life Training
is excited about its upcoming harvest
Centers, where locals can learn the Word
of cassava, a staple crop of the area.
of God and how to live a Christian life.
This harvest is to be a special one for
Health care is much needed in
Horizons, as it is the start of the goal of
Sierra Leone–clean drinking water and
self-sustainability for the local people. The
prevention and treatment of basic health
growing, harvesting, and processing of
concerns–are also funding goals for the
cassava into meal (or tapioca) will provide
profits earned from Horizon’s new cassava
agricultural and factory jobs to the adults
manufacturing facility. Osman states,
in the area, plus marketable goods for
“Horizons of Hope wants to empower
them to sell. The money profited could
people with skills and training in the Word
Visit giveaweekaway.org to find out more about the trips to help Osman in November, 2014 and February, 2015.
To help with these efforts, consider partnering with each of the above missionaries online: WORSHIPCENTER.ORG/PARTNER
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Family o n t h e
Field A look into the life of the Lautsbaugh family, living in South Africa.
very day in America, families wake up, get
“Our lives take a lot more logistical
ready for school and work, and strive to
work than a normal family,” replies Chris
make a difference in their communities.
and Lindsey Lautsbaugh, Worship Center
So, how different is this experience when a
missionaries currently serving in the
family is living as missionaries in a
Capetown area of South Africa. “We
foreign land?
are constantly sorting out international
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banking, applying and reapplying for visas,
have seen their boys embrace life as a
figuring out systems we don’t understand,
missionary family. “It’s part of their calling
as well as standing in long lines for random
for this season of their lives, at least in
legal requirements. Frankly, it can be
the way the boys understand it. Although,
exhausting.”
since all they know is living in a foreign
A FAMILY CALLING
Chris and Lindsey are both seasoned in missions work. Chris has been serving
A LIFE SET IN A
them,” shares Lindsey. “Most of what we
NEW DIRECTION WITH A BRIGHT-
student–not the usual YWAM experience.
ER FUTURE IS WORTH ALL THE
“We had been in missions for many years before we had children. When the kids came, the sacrifices seemed suddenly
and Lindsey do school runs, go to work, out what is for dinner. KEEPING BALANCE
They married, and their call to missions as a couple was clear.
fact that we do it in a different country is
manage after school activities, and figure
(YWAM) Discipleship Training School. Chris was an instructor, and Lindsey was a
do in our family life is very ‘normal’. The perhaps the ‘unusual’ part.” Each day, Chris
in missions for 23 years, Lindsey for 18 years. They met at a Youth With A Mission
country, it just feels like ‘normal life’ to
According to the Lautsbaughs, they are always trying to make sure everything and
HEADACHES.
everyone is thriving and doing well. They accomplish this with varying degrees of
much bigger and the ramifications more
success, just like everyone else. “We try to
far-reaching,” shares Chris. “But we
balance work, marriage, and family time
approach this calling as a ‘family calling’
like everyone else.” But Lindsey quips,
and not just what mom and dad are doing.
“Even completing kids’ homework is a
We view it as we are either all called or
challenge when you don’t know the local
none of us is called.”
way of doing the things that, for locals, is
Chris and Lindsey have two boys– Garett, 9, and Thabo, 8. The Lautsbaughs
Family fun in South Africa
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simply assumed.”
Garett and Thabo are exposed to
stories about situations that did not work
many wonderful people from cultural
out. And while missionary couples can
backgrounds, experiences Chris and
make their sacrifices, making them for
Lindsey never had when they were kids. In
a family brings on an added dynamic. To
addition, the Lautsbaugh boys will know
really know a missionary, one needs to
three languages by 8th grade. But while
get beyond the newsletter stories and
the imagination can create an adventurous
ask about the struggles, the failures, and
picture of life in an African nation, the
the frustrations. For the Lautsbaughs,
realities are not so glamorous. “The boys
the Lord’s faithfulness keeps them on the
go to a public school in South Africa and
mission field as a family. “We love seeing
are immersed in the nation in every way
lives changed. A life set in a new direction
possible. Unfortunately, they still get their
with a brighter future is worth all the
accents from their American parents. Our
headaches and disappointments.”
oldest gets bullied at school for the way
Besides the standards of “astronaut”
he talks. This has been difficult,” shares
and “firefighter,” Garett and Thabo include
Lindsey.
things like “missionary” and “worship
The Lautsbaughs are also exposed to a
leader” when answering the question
high level of crime. Unfortunately, this has
about their future dreams. The Lautsbaugh
become a normal living condition for the
boys hear stories of people who are paying
boys. “Just last week, Garett came home
a high cost to follow Jesus and then they
from school and said, ‘Mom, my teacher
get to know those people personally. Chris
told me to take a different route home
and Lindsey pray this shapes their boys
from school today. Three people were shot
deeply for the rest of their lives.
We APPROACH THIS CALLING AS A FAMILY CALLING, NOT JUST WHAT MOM AND DAD ARE DOING.
dead there yesterday!’” Lindsey pauses. “Well, this is an announcement my third grade teacher never gave me. And no one expects the need to define words like ‘rape’ or ‘smash and grab’ (when a car is stopped at a traffic light and thieves smash the car
NOSUPERHEROES.COM
window to steal a bag) to their kids so early in their lives.” What do the Lautsbaughs do for fun? Chris says, “Our favorite thing to do is travel. Even though outside ministry projects are missions-related, we try to make them a high priority because it
MUIZENBERG
The Lautsbaugh family lives in Muizenberg, South Africa, a suburb of Capetown.
requires us to travel, which the boys love to do.” The culture in Africa places a lot of value on children and does not view them as a burden. The Lautsbaughs receive positive feedback when their kids are with them, and they seem to receive a greater level of trust when they are presented as a family. FAITHFULNESS
SOUTH AFRICA
Missions work can be difficult and discouraging. Lindsey shares that, for every amazing testimony, there are ten MAP OF SOUTH AFRICA BY FREEVECTORMAPS.COM
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A UNIQUE
MISSION
JUAREZ
The WC trips to Mexico’s Rancho Los Amigos are an experience for all ages.
“EVERY YEAR I ASK... SHOULD I REALLY GO ALONG? AM I OF ANY VALUE? JOHN SHERTZER Age 71
Because as I get older, I don’t want to be a liability to the team. But I‘ve discovered that God can use us, no matter how old we are. And it seems like there’s always something I can do that makes a difference and contributes.”
ohn Shertzer, 71, has been part of
often more perceptive to God showing
to travel to Juárez because I feel like God
a Worship Center missions team
Himself in amazing ways.
really speaks to me through relationships.
Fifteen-year-old Madison Smucker was
I have built strong relationships with the
just six years old the first time she went to
kids down there, and no matter how old
five times. His is just one of many stories
Rancho Los Amigos. Since then, she’s been
they are–five years old or a teenager–God
that can be shared from the dozens of
on teams a total of eight times. “I continue
always seems to use them when He wants
sent to Rancho Los Amigos, a children’s home in Juárez, Mexico,
to show me something new.”
individuals who have gone on trips to
GOD REALLY
Juarez over the past 15 years. Of all the trips put together by Worship Center each year, the Juárez trip is unique because it is specifically designed for kids, adults, and families to experience missions together. The teams are typically sent to Mexico late winter/early spring, so most who go along are sacrificing schooling or vacation time. But by taking time away from a normal routine, individuals are
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MADISON SMUCKER Age 15
God reveals Himself to a mission team member in unique ways, even as
SPEAKS TO
he or she begins planning the trip. Often
ME THROUGH
funds come together or in the people He
RELATIONSHIPS.
God’s handiwork can be seen in how the matches up for each trip. While on the trip, His amazing creativity is seen as team members visit new places in the world and immerse themselves in a new culture. Karli Monger, 14, says, “Each year I
EACH YEAR
go back, the kids have grown up a little bit, and
I HAVE GONE
I feel I can get to deeper levels with them. I keep
ON A TRIP,
going back because each year, God teaches me something different.” On this last trip in 2014, Karli says God showed
AMY GREENLY Age 38
her that no matter the
GOD HAS SHOWN ME HOW
background, He can satisfy us with His love.
POWERFUL
She sees this as she spends time with the kids
HE IS.
at Rancho Los Amigos. Amy Greenly and her
team. Amy explains how
Part of the whole missions experience is how God uses the team members to
God’s provision was witnessed by the team
encourage each other and help each other
while at Rancho Los Amigos. “In addition
grow along the way. When team members
to dealing with children who were sick, we
work alongside each other and spend
were facing a situation where funds were
“down time” together for several days, they
unavailable to purchase supplies for a
really get to know each other more than
deck–one of the big projects we had hopes
if they were in everyday circumstances.
of working on. But, through prayer and
Many of these relationships continue long
faith, God was able to have the final say.
after the trip ends.
Children got healthy again and the needed
“I expected the experience to be eat,
funds for supplies became available. The
work, sleep,” says Scott Monger, 50.
deck was finished in just three days!”
“But it was much more about building
Amy says this was an amazing moment
relationships with the kids at Rancho, as
for the team.
Mary Beth is the director of YWAM El Paso/Juárez. Rancho Los Amigos, located at the YWAM base in Juárez, Mexico,
family were members of a recent Juárez mission
MARY BETH MAIFELD
provides love, protection, a clean home, good meals, and an education to an average of 35 children, primarily from the Juárez, Mexico area. It brings hope to children who find themselves growing up in very difficult situations and seek to “reach, raise, and restore” these needy and hurting children. Rancho is constructing a new children’s home, a facility that will house up to 90 kids. In 2015, WC will send teams to work on this new home.
www.ywamepj.org
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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EACH YEAR, GOD TEACHES ME SOMEKARLI MONGER Age 14
THING DIFFERENT.
missionaries affirms that they are on God’s
love spending time with them, and it makes
heart, and it helps to renew their vision and
me want to help others, too.”
purpose. In a unique way, the excitement of the team causes missionaries to “look up”
serve them, can look forward to more visits
from their daily schedules and see all that
from the Worship Center family in the
God is doing.
future as Rancho Los Amigos embarks on
For the kids of Rancho Los Amigos, they well as with our team members. And most
anticipate the teams coming annually and
of all, for me, it was about unplugging from
enjoy the consistency of the visits. They
life as we know it back home.”
look forward to meeting other children
“Seeing God work in Juárez is awesome. Each year I have gone on a trip, God has shown me how powerful He is, how His bank account is unlimited, and how He will accomplish something if He wants it accomplished,” shares Amy. Not only are team members encouraged, but the missionaries serving at Rancho Los Amigos are uplifted as well. For individuals to take the time to plan a trip communicates to them that what they are doing is important, and that teams of
SCOTT MONGER Age 50
FOR ME, IT WAS ABOUT UNPLUGGING FROM LIFE AS WE KNOW IT.
people want to be a part of their mission.
and adults, and it gives them and the
Mary Beth Maifield, the director at the
communities around them the chance to
Juárez YWAM base, says, “Teams that visit
observe the dynamics as families come
are able to multiply the work of the staff
to serve together. Laura, a10 year-old at
and help them reach more people.”
Rancho, has a dream of being a missionary
Team members serving alongside our
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The Rancho kids, along with those who
one day. She says, “When the team comes, I
their next project–building a new children’s home.
Read more of the Greenly family’s mission experience or watch the Juárez Mission 2014 report online. SERVEOURWORLD.ORG
Got a week’s vacation? Why not put it to good use. For a complete list of mission trips, pick up your copy of “Give a Week Away” along Main Street at WC.
giveaweekaway.org 57
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SO WHAT’S YOUR NEXT MOVE? worshipcenter.org/missions
giveaweekaway.org serveourworld.org worshipcenter.org/partner ©2014 WORSHIP CENTER MINISTRIES 2384 NEW HOLLAND PIKE | LANCASTER, PA 17601 717.656.4271 | WORSHIPCENTER.ORG