Sheila Walsh Announced

THE CHURCH OF GOD YEARBOOK CELEBRATES ITS 100TH BIRTHDAY THIS YEAR. LOOK FOR A NEW-AND-IMPROVED VERSION IN 2015!

April 2015 In this issue CHOG Convention 2015: CHOG Convention 2015: Sheila Walsh Announced...... 1 Sheila Walsh Announced Update: Church of God Yearbook...... 2 Six Pastors Weigh On ‘Jesus is the Subject’...3 By Carl Stagner Invitation to Prayer, Fasting for CHOG Convention 2015...... 5 deeply personal struggle. A loving to Jesus Christ and her family. Suffering CHOG Convention 2015: Sandi Patty, Redeemer. A life once battered in the throes of depression, this breakout Larnelle Harris Announced...... 6 and scarred by depression—now contemporary Christian singer of the 1980s Areclaimed in Jesus’ name! This is the story and ’90s found herself alone, confused, and It Takes a Team: An Interview with CHOG Ministries’ Anissa Hilligoss...... 6 of Sheila Walsh, Scottish-born singer- ostracized—even by some in the Chris- Women’s Luncheon to Feed speaker-author noted for her four million tian community. Though on the outside Body and Soul at CHOG Convention...... 7 books sold and her appearances on the she appeared to have it all together, on the Luncheon for Young Lead Pastors Women of Faith tour. Out of her story inside, an unrelenting war was waging. Returns to CHOG Convention...... 8 flows honest reflections on God’s uncon- Looking back on her journey through A.D. 2015: Oklahoma Church Makes 2015 the Year of Jesus...... 9 ditional love and mercy. It is with great Indiana Church Awarded excitement that Church of God Ministries Community Partner of the Year...... 10 announces Sheila Walsh as a speaker Missionary Announcement: for Church of God Convention 2015, Bob and Jan Edwards...... 11 topping off a list of incredibly gifted Missionary Announcement: speakers, including Francis Chan, Deborah Hunnicutt...... 11 Anita Renfroe, Andy Thompson, Gil- Ohio Begins Search for New lian Grannum, Steve Rennick, Steve Director of State Ministries...... 12 Southards, and Jim Lyon. Subscribe Sheila Walsh comes to Church of To subscribe to this e-newsletter, please go to God Convention for the first time, with www.chog.org/chognews-subscribe great anticipation for the Holy Spirit’s Your news ministry through her teaching. Her passion for the reclamation and trans- To submit news items regarding your church, district, state/regional formation of lost and struggling souls is assembly, or organization for only matched by her personal dedication possible use in CHOGnews, send an e-mail to [email protected] along with a short summary, including contact information. For the most up-to-date news, go to www.chognews.org.

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CHOGnews 1 April 2015 Update: Church of God Yearbook

• For more than one hundred years, it’s been one of the key connections in the ministry life of the Church of God.

• It provides mission-critical information for our church body: how we are organized and where we can go for answers, assistance, and direction.

• It tells a story: about who we are as a fellowship and about the partnerships that unite us in ministry. Sheila Walsh is a powerful Bible teacher and best-selling author from Scotland. Sheila Walsh Announced • In recent years, we have been producing a Yearbook that is not credible. Dates, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses were out of date; only 50 percent continued from page 1 of those included were registered; and data had not been verified or scrubbed the valley, Sheila recognizes the ever- for years. present hand of a loving heavenly Father. • In a time when Christians are being increasingly persecuted because of their Her ministry, often exercised in packed faith, Church of God Ministries must do everything in our power to help houses at Women of Faith events, has ensure the safety and security of our pastors and congregations. This includes been shaped by her long journey and protecting your information. her genuine encounter with grace. The Church of God will no doubt be blessed WHAT IS THE REASON FOR THE DELAY? by her profound words of soul-deep origin. Hear Sheila Walsh on Tuesday, June • We acknowledge that the 2015 Yearbook has been long delayed, and for that 23, during the evening service which will we apologize. begin at 7:00 pm. For more information • We are rebirthing the Yearbook to make sure that it is what you believe it is. about Church of God Convention 2015, online registration, and downloadable • We are committed to making it a secure, accurate, living document that will be promotional material, visit www.chog- a useful, value-added tool for the church. convention.org. • We are in the process of finalizing a re-imagined Yearbook designed to deliver real-time information–that you control–in a convenient, mobile format.

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO DO?

To help us collect and report the most secure, accurate information possible, please create an account at CHOG24-7.org.

Through this portal, you can update your contact information at any time, control what information we disperse to our membership, and ensure that the Yearbook tells our story accurately and in real time, both now and for years to come.

For more information, or to ask a question, please contact “You know what? Lori Kinnett at 800-848-2464, ext. 2170. I love our small group!” ©2015 Kevin Spear - http://kevinspear.com [email protected] CHOGnews 2 April 2015 Six Pastors Weigh In On ‘Jesus is the Subject’ By Carl Stagner

For this moment in history. For all it-feels-right” mentality, and make Jesus and leaning on the empowerment of time. “Jesus is the Subject” is more than the subject. the Holy Spirit, they made Jesus their a catch phrase—it’s new life breathed Stephanie: The emphasis “Jesus is the focus at the expense of their very lives. into our very existence. It has already Subject” is crucial for the Church of God I believe that ISIS and its diabolical reinvigorated ministries across the at this point in history. Throughout the activities will challenge and force the movement, inspiring the Church of history of the movement, we’ve focused Christian church worldwide to return God back to its foundation, its pur- our time, energy, and money on many to “Jesus is the Subject.” pose, its core—Jesus Christ our Savior things that have been good, but may not Steve: I believe we have come to a and Lord. Six Church of God pastors, have kept Jesus the subject. It is critical place in the history of the Church of including Tom Dougherty, Stephanie that we shift our focus again to what we God of staleness or, as Scripture puts it, Collins, Milton Grannum, Steve Nel- know it should have always been: keep- lukewarmness. This is the result of con- son, Mitchell Burch, and Mark Fast, ing Jesus the subject of all things. If we gregations and individuals making all have each weighed in on what “Jesus is ever lose sight of keeping Jesus the sub- kinds of other things (and some of them the Subject” means to them. Here’s what ject, we’ve failed as Christ-followers and very good things) the subject. We have they said: as a movement. This motto is the right been in desperate need of a truly unify- Why do you believe that “Jesus is emphasis for what we’re doing because ing purpose for decades, and only Jesus the Subject” is the right emphasis it is more than a cute hashtag—it is the is that purpose. for the Church of God at this biblical truth that we must be commit- Mitch: Organizational focus and critical juncture in the movement’s ted to if we are to receive God’s blessings re-focus is imperative in the church history? and anointing in the Church of God. because it re-ignites the leadership and Tom: Christianity has drifted slowly Milton: I am personally and excit- constituents to move toward its mission to a place of spiritual complacency and ingly impressed with the recognition and ministry vision. It is the “Nehemiah tolerance for sin. We have slowly begun that Jesus is indeed the church’s subject. Principle” which is the “re-statement” of to justify everything we do, and have The critical juncture of our movement the vision every twenty-six days. “Jesus fallen ever-so-slowly into giving in to today, and the critical juncture of the is the Subject” is a powerful statement sin. This is a critical time in the Church entire world today, can scarcely be com- that speaks to the very heartbeat of the of God. We must preach “Jesus is the pared to the life-challenging nature of church and its ministry purpose. Subject” and teach people to recognize the world in which the church came into Mark: We must make sure we’re it has always been about Jesus. The being, and the issues and political sys- focused on the essential things. It’s not Church of God must stand up, and not tems that threaten the very lives of the about petty differences or personal pref- let Jesus be diminished because of what early apostles and Christians. Yet they erences, but rather on proclaiming Jesus! the world thinks. We must stop the “if- understood their divine assignment, continued on page 4

is the

CHOGnews 3 April 2015 Six Pastors Weigh In On ‘Jesus is the Subject’ continued from page 3

What does “Jesus is the Subject” meaningless. If Jesus is the subject, how- word—his love in action—to those who mean to you, personally? What does it ever, everything we do will further the are far from God, in order to help them mean for your church? kingdom. draw closer to him. Tom: This question profoundly Milton: Most individuals, corpo- Mitch: “Jesus is the Subject” is not touches the depths of my heart. On rate or nonprofit organizations, and just a focus statement I use in ministry August 13, 1992, my wife’s and my life churches fail because they major in the or church. It is a personal conviction! were changed forever. My wife had gone minor things. Jesus is the major person In every experience, in every relation- to a women’s leadership meeting in and his mission is the major thing that ship, in every decision, in every crisis, Anderson, and my five-year-old son and God and the Holy Spirit are focusing in every victory, I desire to make Jesus I were at my wife’s parents’ in Washing- on in the world. “Jesus is the Subject” and his will the main influence and ton, playing a board game. I randomly calls me back to a consciousness of why consideration. asked him this question: “Luke, what I am saved, and what is my God-given Mark: It means that everything flows is most important to you?” He said, mission. It helps us to recapture why out of a personal, vibrant relationship “Daddy, God is.” I said, “What do you the Church of God movement began with Jesus. For our church, it’s clearly mean, Son?” He said, “Daddy, I just want in the first place—it was not to simply making the main thing the main thing. to live for Jesus, that’s all.” I didn’t know build an organization or to have great It’s an emphasis on our unity in Christ! that eight hours later he would be in a religious experiences and activities, but What do you think could happen if freak accident that would have him on to proclaim Jesus. This is still our high- all of the congregations of the Church the lap of Jesus whom he loved so dearly. est calling. of God truly made Jesus the subject of I know parents talk about their kids’ Steve: Jesus had a mission, and before their ministries? faith, but everyone in our church who the ascension, he charged his followers Tom: If all the congregations of the had ever been around Luke knew he had to continue that mission. I view the Church of God made Jesus the subject, something special with Jesus. Jesus was mission of the individual follower of the gates of heaven would open and we always the subject for him. Jesus was Christ, and the church, simply as going would see revival like never before. One the subject for Luke during his entire to those who are far from God with might say, “Well, Pastor, are you seeing short life. The church began to flour- this message—“Jesus loves you!” In the revival?” We have seen the Spirit of God ish following Luke’s death, and people sentence “Jesus loves you,” Jesus is the work powerfully over the last number understood all the more that “Jesus is subject. You (those the message is taken of years, baptizing some four hundred the Subject.” to) is the object. Loves is the verb. I am people over the last fifteen years—I wish Stephanie: In my life, “Jesus is the that verb. We are the verb! When Jesus it were four thousand—but God is work- Subject” reflects the truth proclaimed in is the subject, we become an action continued on page 13 Matthew 6:33. If I am constantly seeking Jesus above all things in my life, everything else of importance will be worked out for my good. The same goes for my church and ministry. If our focus is always on Jesus, keeping him first and submitting to his authority, nothing but God’s blessing and anointing can come. If Jesus ever becomes a secondary source in our ministry, we are likely to forfeit any blessings and favor he would have offered us. As C.W. Naylor so eloquently wrote all those years ago, “The Bible is our rule of faith, and Christ alone is Lord.” If Jesus ever becomes anything less than Lord of my life or of my church’s life, everything we do will be

CHOGnews 4 April 2015 Invitation to Prayer, Fasting for CHOG Convention 2015 By Leroy Quashie

hese are extraordinary times in our country and world- Regarding the fast, we recommend the following levels wide, as well as in the life of many of our congregations. of participation: We face many challenges, and are presented with Tunprecedented opportunities for kingdom work and growth as • Partial fast—abstaining from certain foods, liquids, a community of faith. But as we prepare for Church of God Con- or activities such as television viewing, some favor- vention 2015 in Oklahoma City, we extend an invitation to each ite activity, or pastime for the duration of ten days. of our congregations to imagine with us a Pentecost-like invasion • Normal fast—limiting oneself to only water, only and impact of the Holy Spirit upon the gathered body of believers bread and water, or only fruit juices for ten days. and upon the entire Church of God family. • Normal fast on a select day—limiting oneself to only Like the disciples who were gathered in the Upper Room, water or fruit juices on a chosen day from 12:00 am awaiting the promised infilling of the Holy Spirit to empower to 6:00 pm. them for Jesus’ global mission (Matthew 28:19–20), we invite you • Skip a meal—choosing to omit one meal a day, as a church family to join us in a season of prayer and fasting for either breakfast or dinner, for one day or for each an extraordinary anointing of God’s power upon his people at the day of the ten-day fast (Daniel 6:18, Nehemiah 9:1). convention. Our prayer is that this will result in a church family • Vegetable diet—eat only fresh vegetables for the ten- renewed, empowered, and united to greatly impact cities, neigh- day duration of the fast. borhoods, and communities, and around the world. As such, we invite each congregation to select one day each week, We believe this year’s convention will awaken and beginning the week of May 10, through the week of June 14, to fast inspire our passion for doing amazing things in Jesus’ and pray for your own congregation’s needs, the global church fam- name. Be Bold. Reclaim. ily, and for the convention. A weekly prayer guide is provided to facilitate this united effort. Download the PDF at http://www.jesus- Register for Church of God Convention 2015 at www.chogconvention.org. isthesubject.org/promos/.

More than ever before, the world needs Christ. Jesus is the subject. The convention will awaken and inspire our passion for doing amazing things in his name

WE’LL WORSHIP TOGETHER • Selah • Crossings Venue Band • Shane & Shane

WE’LL EXPERIENCE HIS WORD TOGETHER. • Andy Thompson • Francis Chan • Anita Renfroe

CHOGnews 5 April 2015 Sandi Patty & It Takes a Team: An Larnelle Harris Interview with CHOG added to the Ministries’ Anissa Hilligoss Convention Lineup By Carl Stagner

By Carl Stagner How long have you worked for Church of God Ministries? What is your role? Anissa: My role at Church of God Ministries is gift data entry specialist in the accounting department. That means I receive the donations that come in by mail, and I prepare the deposit. I identify the specific funds supported (basic budget, missionary, or project), donor information, and record it. Then I provide data entry for gifts from churches and individuals. I print the giving statements and mail them to donors for tax purposes. Over the years, I’ve also worked for Christian Women Connection and Warner Press. Accounting is about as behind-the-scenes as it gets. How Now you’ve got two more reasons to register for is it is essential to the work of Church of God Ministries? Church of God Convention 2015—Sandi Patty and Anissa: The accounting department is vital to the work of Larnelle Harris. Sure, you’ll save money and avoid last- Church of God Ministries. It’s about stewardship and donor minute stress by securing arrangements sooner than intent. There is more to accounting than just my part, and the later. Indeed, speaker names like Francis Chan and whole purpose of accounting is to manage and report how the Anita Renfroe make CHOG Convention 2015 quite funds are being used. Speaking of my position alone, it is put- appealing, and Christian music trio Selah just sweetens ting the funds that are received where the donor intends it to the deal. No doubt, even without all the special guests, go, whether to the basic budget, to a missionary, or to a project. you’d still want to attend for the incredible worship Without the accounting team, funds intended to go to a specific services and the fellowship of Church of God people place would end up in one pot. from around the globe. But with the addition of award- How were you introduced to the Church of God? winning vocalists Sandi Patty and Larnelle Harris to the Anissa: I was first introduced to the Church of God when lineup, Church of God Convention 2015 is shaping up my brother started going to church with his friends, Jack and to be better than ever. Jerry Hilligoss. Their dad, Bill Hilligoss, was the pastor at Over the past decade, convention-goers have been Florida Station Church of God (Anderson, Indiana) at that time. blessed by a few special performances from Sandi Patty, Sometimes I would get to go with them to Sunday school and who was born and raised in the Church of God. But in continued on page 15 an unprecedented worship experience slated for CHOG Convention 2015, Sandi Patty will reunite with Larnelle Harris to sing inspirational duets, including the power- house classics “I’ve Just Seen Jesus” and “More Than Wonderful.” You won’t want to miss this little taste of heaven, but you’ll need to register at www.chogconvention.org. Don’t put this off any longer. Perhaps you don’t feel like you have the time, but who knows if you’ll have the time later? Make time now to visit www.chogconvention. org and click Register Online. You’ll be glad you did. Join us in Oklahoma City, June 22–25, for Church of God Convention 2015: Be Bold. Reclaim. It will be more than wonderful!

CHOGnews 6 April 2015 Women’s Luncheon to Feed Body and Soul at CHOG Convention 2015 By Carl Stagner

ecades before the United States granted women the right to vote, outstanding Church of God women pastors preached the gospel from platforms and podiumsD across the country. Though the Church of God hasn’t always lived up to its foundational principles sup- porting women in ministry, many female ministers have which will take place on Wednesday, June 24, from 12:15–1:45 courageously carried the mantle of gifts-based leadership pm at Crossings Community Church. into the present day. One organization which has perse- “Christian Women Connection is all about connecting vered through the years, offering support, resources, and with women,” Mary continues. “What better way to do that partnership opportunities to reach the world for Christ has than to share a meal with the women in attendance at the been Christian Women Connection. Formerly known as CHOG Convention? During this time of fellowship, we hope Women of the Church of God, CWC brings together not we can share the mission and vision of Christian Women only women clergy, but also missionaries, spouses of min- Connection, encourage the women in attendance, and have isters, and laywomen. During Church of God Convention fun!” 2015, women from all backgrounds and places of origin will If you’re a woman in the Church of God, this event is gather together for a special luncheon that will leave attend- another way to get the most out of Church of God Conven- ees encouraged, inspired, and rejuvenated for another year tion 2015. It’s also an opportunity to connect with persons of service to the Lord. who have similar experiences. “This is a great opportunity for women in the Church of God to get to know and learn FEATURED SPEAKERS from other women in the movement,” Mary explains. “A few years ago, Christian Women Connection did a national sur- vey about the needs of women in our churches. The number one need was relationships. Certainly, it is important that we build relationships in our local churches and communities. But the benefits of connecting nationally and internationally are vast. Not only can we learn from each other’s successes and challenges, but we can do so much more for the kingdom when we are connected and unified together.” No one who attends the CWC luncheon at CHOG Con- vention 2015 will go away empty. The CWC luncheon promises to fill both body and soul. “My hope and prayer,” Arnetta McNeese Bailey Anita Renfroe Mary reflects, “is that those who attend the CWC luncheon will feel encouraged and inspired about ministry to women in Featured speakers for the luncheon will include CWC the Church of God, and that they will leave the luncheon with executive director, Arnetta Bailey, as well as popular Chris- new connections to women and to the ministry of CWC.” tian comedienne Anita Renfroe. Anita will speak during Wednesday afternoon’s convention session immediately Register for the CWC luncheon by June 1, 2015 at following the luncheon—attend the luncheon, and hear her www.christianwomenconnection.org/womens-luncheon.html. before anyone else! “Anita is a fabulous comedian,” Mary The luncheon is scheduled for 12:15–1:45 pm on Wednesday, Stephens, ministry coordinator for CWC explains. “She has June 24. Questions? Contact CWC at [email protected]. a unique and hilarious voice that speaks to real-life situations that all women have experienced. We are really excited that Register for CHOG Covnention 2015 (June 22–25, 2015 in she will be sharing her humor and her heart at the CWC Oklahoma City) at www.chogconvention.org. luncheon.” For just $15, reserve your spot at the luncheon,

CHOGnews 7 April 2015 Luncheon for Young Lead Pastors Returns to CHOG Convention By Carl Stagner

he Apostle Paul said to Timothy, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, Tin love, in faith and in purity” (1 Tim 4:12 niv). But sometimes, it happens. It happens to older saints, too. It happens to female ministers. Sadly, it still happens to those of a different skin color. As the Church of God seeks to lift up Jesus as our subject, our prayer is that differences will fade under the blinding glow of the Son. At Church of God Convention 2015 (June 22–25) in Oklahoma City, several young ministers will be featured, instead of ignored. Then on Tuesday, June Steve Southards 23, young lead pastors in the Church of God, between the Matt Anderson ages of twenty and forty, will gather for a special luncheon to share common struggles, as well as common joys. Matt Anderson agrees. As preaching associate at Cross- The first-ever Young Lead Pastors’ Luncheon was held ings Church in Oklahoma City, and former lead pastor of last year at Church of God Convention, and received much McDowell Mountain Community Church in Scottsdale, Ari- acclaim for those who attended. No one should ever have zona, Matt knows the necessity of networking with those on to face a particular struggle alone, especially when so many similar ministry paths. He’s also helping to coordinate the in the movement can relate to, and encourage, each other. luncheon. “We need to support, encourage, build up, affirm, “For example, it may be establishing credibility and trust as challenge, and pray for one another,” he explains. “We need a young pastor,” Steve Southards explains. Steve, lead pastor to share ideas and dreams, talk about best practices and the of Salem Church of God in Clayton, Ohio, is not only helping greatest challenges we face. We are a relational people, and to coordinate the luncheon, but he will also speak during this is an important part of being in a tribe like ours.” the Tuesday afternoon session of the convention. Steve has Between seventy-five and one hundred young pastors had his fair share of challenges commonly associated with attended the luncheon last year. Connections were estab- young pastors, so he can relate. “It may also be managing lished that would never had otherwise been formed. “I think time with a young family and ministry demands. We need this year can build on that, and perhaps reconnect some folks to understand that ministry is a marathon, not a sprint. We and be an environment for new connections,” Steve explains. have to be able to balance passion with wisdom. We need “We are encouraging spouses to attend, as well.” deep friendships with others in ministry, not to mention that This year, the luncheon will be sponsored entirely by typically, as young leaders, we are not as aware of our gifts, Servant Solutions. Thanks to our friends at this outstanding passions, weaknesses, and dysfunctions, as those who are agency of the Church of God, the luncheon will take place more experienced in ministry.” at no cost to those who attend. “This is a great opportunity for us to connect, network, build relationships, and encourage one another,” Matt concludes. “We need each other. We weren’t intended to do ministry in isolation, but as a part of a greater picture, a tribe of like-minded and like-hearted brothers and sisters in ministry.”

Invitees will need to register for the Young Lead Pastors’ Lun- cheon by sending an e-mail to Carrie Armstrong at CArmstrong@ chog.org by Monday, June 1. The event will take place on Tuesday, June 23, from 12:15 pm to 1:45 pm in Room 250 at Crossings Commu- nity Church Register for Church of God Convention 2015 at www. chogconvention.org. CHOGnews 8 April 2015

A.D. 2015: Oklahoma Church Makes 2015 the Year of Jesus By Carl Stagner

ld history textbooks are full Individuals of Shartel Church of God ways that people could of two letters that appear can choose to spend the year focusing together with every recorded on Jesus,” Pastor Steve Odate since Jesus walked the earth. A.D., The Essential Jesus • Complete (one hun- explains. “I considered which stands for the Latin term anno dred Scripture readings about Jesus; various learning styles, Domini, translates as the year of our Lord. published by Scripture Union), while keeping in mind While the Church of God seeks to • read through the four gospels (Bibles the varied level of time advance the message that Jesus is the are available to those who need them), commitment people subject, Pastor Steve Chiles of Shartel • read (or listen to) one book per month would be able to make. Church of God in Oklahoma City, Okla- about Jesus (a library of resources is I ended up with these homa, got to thinking about what might available), seven different chal- ATTENTION PASTORS! forwardPlease this e-newsletter as an church. your to encouragement happen if his congregation truly made • watch one movie per month about lenges, and decided that 2015 the year of Jesus. Three months into Jesus (a video library is available), people needed to commit Anno Domini 2015 at Shartel, transfor- • attend at least two of five classes Shar- to at least three to make it meaningful mation of hearts is already taking place. tel is offering on the subject of Jesus, for them—though they could do more “We’re in the third month of the • memorize one scripture per week if so inclined.” Anno Domini challenge, and it is awe- about Jesus (Shartel provides the The commitment component of Anno some,” one Shartel congregant named scripture that corresponds with the Domini 2015 is necessary to bring about Betty, explains. “I have learned so much message each week), and/or spiritual growth across the board. Steve so far, and it is changing my life. I have • complete two forty-day devotion- Chiles knows the power of accountabil- gained a peace and understanding that als—one leading up to Easter, and one ity to accomplish spiritual goals. “The I have not known before…He is in my leading up to Christmas. opportunity to discover Jesus more inti- thoughts day and night—even when I mately is there for all of us every day,” am asleep…You know what? When this “Knowing that people need to know he explains. “But most of us don’t really year is up, I’m not going to quit spending how as much as they need to know what, seize it. People often need commitment, my time with him. I want to do all I can I tried to come up with several different continued on page 12 to be like him, and do the things he has planned for me.” Anno Domini 2015 isn’t just another preaching series. For Shartel Church of God, the theme permeates every area of their ministry. But it’s also not just another passing theme. Not only has Steve Chiles ensured that practical resources are plentiful and accessible, he has also issued seven unique challenges to the congregation. Of these seven challenges, individuals have been instructed to select at least three to complete for the year. These commitments shouldn’t be taken lightly, but neither should the cross that Jesus endured for our salvation. Shartel’s taking this seriously.

Steve Chiles preaches about the centrality of Jesus at Shartel Church of God.

CHOGnews 9 April 2015 Indiana Church Awarded Community Partner of the Year By Carl Stagner

f your church were to close its doors, congregation to hone in on whatever participation with Freedom Sunday and would anyone notice? Would anyone direction the city could give. Interest- the fight against human trafficking, to outside of the congregation care? ingly enough, the city had longed to see their local community service, they have IYou may have been asked these ques- the community park turned into a place been motivated by one purpose—to lift tions before. Or, perhaps this is the first for summer movie screenings. Without up the name of Jesus. By talking about time you’ve considered the implications the necessary funding or equipment, the ordinance of foot washing, Matt of such congregational introspection. the city couldn’t accomplish their goal illustrates how sometimes the Church CitySpring, a Church of God congre- alone. But in God’s sovereignty, the city continued on page 14 gation in Westfield, Indiana, has asked soon discovered that the mobile nature these questions several times. So they of CitySpring meant that the church came up with a wild idea: instead of had projectors and sound equipment starting a bunch of outreach programs at-the-ready, and stored in a trailer. On they were interested in, they would average, seven hundred people now STOP ask the local government what the city attend CitySpring’s Movies in the Park. needed. Just a couple of years later, the “There are some perks to being a por- WAITING church is humbled to receive the first- table church!” Matt reflects. ever Partner of the Year award. The church wasn’t always portable, “When we started dreaming for however. As a restart, the church has had START CitySpring, we asked the question, to overcome some hurdles, including its What would it look like for our church facility, to experience the momentum it ACTING not to be just another church in our city, sees today. Matt and his wife entered the but to be a church for the city?” explains scene to help re-start a church that was Degree programs Matt Gaylor, lead pastor of CitySpring. struggling. Two years passed before the Not wanting to use precious resources previous church’s chapter closed, and designed specifically on ideas that had no real impact on the new chapter of God’s unfolding for adults the community, Matt encouraged the story in Westfield could commence. On June 3, 2012, CitySpring was launched, and they have been self-sustaining ever On Campus or Online since. But they’ve never let it go to their heads. “We need each other,” Matt explains. “For prayer support, for moral support, and yes, for financial support… We’ve also learned that people in our churches want to make a difference in the world; they just don’t always know the tangible steps to take in order to do that. I’ve learned that my job is to help create stepping stones to help people see how they can make a difference. In the process, they are being transformed into people who look an awful lot like Jesus.” CitySpring has made Jesus the sub- adults.macu.edu ject of everything they do. From their

CHOGnews 10 April 2015 Introducing: New Missionaries Elect

NAME: Bob and Jan Edwards

COUNTRY: Kenya NAME: Deborah Hunnicutt

ASSIGNMENT: Bob will be teaching and consulting COUNTRY: Roatan, Honduras at KIST (Kima International School of Theology); Jan will serve as hospitality coordinator. ASSIGNMENT: English Teacher and DATE OF APPOINTMENT: March 11, 2015 administrator

LENGTH OF TERM: Four Months DATE OF APPOINTMENT: TARGET LEAVE DATE: April 7, 2015 March 31, 2015

INTRODUCTION: INTRODUCTION: Bob and Jan were mission- Deborah grew up in the aries with the Church of God Church of God and as part for thirty-two years. They of the Missionary Board of served in rural Tanzania, in the Church of God. Her the large urban centers of parents, Kenneth and Sue Kenya, and then as regional Jo Good, were career missionaries in Korea, Jamaica, Austra- coordinators (RC) for Africa. lia, and Tanzania. Deborah spent her growing-up years on For their last four years on the field until she began attending Anderson College (now the mission field, they served University) in 1977. After graduating in 1982, she moved to as the RCs for Europe and Oklahoma, where she earned a master’s degree from Southern the Middle East. Before his Nazarene University. retirement at the end of 2013, Deborah lived in Oklahoma for twenty-eight years, sev- Bob served for eleven years enteen of which she spent serving in Christian education. In as the director of Global Missions for the Church of God December 2005, Deborah’s husband died, and by 2010, her two Ministries. He holds a master of divinity from the School of children were no longer at home. At a time in her life when she Theology in Anderson University, and a master of theology was finally comfortable, the Lord had other plans. In October in missions, and a doctor of missiology from the School of 2010, Deborah followed the Lord’s call to the small island of World Missions, Fuller Theological Seminary. Bob and Jan Roatan, Honduras. In a very short time, the Lord has opened have two grown children—Dontie (Edwards) Kidwell and many doors for ministry, including Samuel Raymond Chris- Nathan. They have three grandchildren. Dontie and her tian School (a community-based, bilingual Christian school), husband Christopher served as missionaries with Samari- English classes for adults, and English classes for the police. tan’s Purse in Zimbabwe for two years. Their son Nathan During the summer of 2014, the Lord made it abundantly is presently serving as a missionary with Global Missions clear that Deborah was to renew her ties with Global Missions, in the role of mental health counselor at a large missionary and in early 2015, she rejoined the Global Missions family. It kid’s school in Kenya. Bob and Jan are world Christians has been thrilling to see God bring things full circle. She is who love the Lord deeply and have dedicated their lives overjoyed to have her daughter, Sarah, joining her in Roatan to making Christ known across the cultures and peoples and is looking forward to partnering with Global Missions to of the globe. further God’s kingdom work in Honduras. PROJECT #: 42.11170 PROJECT #: 42.11455

CHOGnews 11 April 2015 Search Committee Meets to Seek New $800,453. The total raised so far for Director of Ministries Christ’s Birthday Observance 2014!

Oklahoma Church Dear Leaders in the Church of God, Makes 2015 the Year of Jesus continued from page 9 Greetings from the state of Ohio and the Search Committee for the director of Ohio Ministries. accountability, resourcing, and encouragement to excel.” We want to inform you that the Search Committee for the Steve Chiles is greatly encouraged by the Church of new director of ministries for Ohio Ministries has begun meet- God emphasis, “Jesus is the Subject.” He not only wants ing, prayerfully taking on the mission of replacing our current, to see his local congregation, but also the entire Church retiring director of ministries, Dr. Randy Spence. of God movement, rally around Jesus Christ. “I love the We are very thankful for the nine years Dr. Spence has spent new Church of God emphasis. It addresses the question— pouring into pastors, churches, and ministries in Ohio. Truly which I’m trying to address with our people on a personal he has been leading leaders, and for this we have all grown and and church-wide level—on a movement-wide level. What’s benefitted. on Jesus’ heart? What would he be about if he were lead- The Search Committee will meet twice per month, with ing our church or our movement? How would my life be one monthly meeting at the state office and the other online. different if I really did get up every day and ask, ‘What If you know of a candidate that should be considered for would Jesus do?’ and ‘How would Jesus do it?’ There’s a this position, please send a recommendation to the Search lot of conversation right now about how the world hates Committee via Pastor Brad Lewis, chairperson of the Search the church, but loves Jesus. Maybe if we all leaned into Committee: [email protected]. Jesus a lot harder, we could change that view a bit. And Also, if you sense a call to apply for this position, send your maybe we could become the kind of church that Jesus had information, along with your résumé, to Pastor Brad Lewis. in mind all along.” In both instances, you will want to review the job description Learn more about how the Church of God is making Jesus the for the director of ministries. This is posted on the Ohio Min- subject at www.JesusIsTheSubject.org. istries website: http://www.ohchog.org/ohiogeneralassembly/. The FINAL date for receiving recommendations and resumes for the director of Ohio Ministries position is May 1, 2015. Please be sure that all recommendations for consideration and résumés have been submitted to the Search Committee by that date. Please keep this process and the Search Committee in prayer, as this position is vital to the ongoing ministries in the state of Ohio. Pray that the right, God-chosen leader will fill this position. In Ohio, when it comes to excellent leadership, we have been blessed, are being blessed, and desire to continue to be blessed. Thank you for your faithfulness in prayer.

Trusting in Christ,

Dr. C. J. Plogger, Chair Pastor Brad Lewis, Chair Ohio General Assembly Search Committee of the Church of God

CHOGnews 12 April 2015 Six Pastors Weigh In On ‘Jesus is the Subject’ continued from page 4 ing, though, like so many churches, we ject, the church will continue to live in more pastors leaving the ministry than have had ups and downs. But the one the wilderness with no commitment to, entering the ministry; and we wouldn’t constant that remains is that Jesus is or strategy for, active evangelism. Since have more churches closing than being the subject, and people are getting it. he is the subject, let’s develop training planted. Working with CHOG TraffickLight materials for evangelism seminars and Mitch: We would become agents that has been a powerful time of reminding equip the saints in as many congrega- God would use to establish his kingdom the church that Jesus is the subject, and tions as possible, for the work of the in our communities to help bring trans- that we must teach, proclaim, and count ministry. Satan always wins when he formation to our lost families, seeking on him to help us help the victims of succeeds in the blurring of our focus by neighbors, troubled and confused human trafficking, as well as the other encouraging our preoccupation with the friends, and a hurting world. hurting people of our community, and little and minor things. Mark: Tremendous growth and do what we can to bring people to Jesus. Steve: If every congregation of the unity! Stephanie: In one simple word: Church of God would truly make Jesus If Jesus is the subject, what revival. I believe God is looking for the subject of everything they did, the then is not the subject? How individuals, churches, and movements number of people added to the kingdom does this vision work to focus to humble themselves and once again of God would increase exponentially, the church? How might it make Jesus the subject. If the Church daily! We would be known for our love augment, rather than diminish, of God became serious about seeking for one another, and for the world. If the important doctrines of the out Jesus as the subject of all we say and congregations made Jesus the subject Church of God? do, the powers of hell could not stop the of everything we did, unity would Tom: If Jesus is the subject, then we revival that would take place all across become our reality, instead of a good are not the subject! We must stop doing our movement. Lost sheep would come idea that we state in our doctrine. If we things in our churches to satisfy us, but into the kingdom, Christians would be made Jesus the subject of everything to lift up the name of Jesus. A concen- discipled, believers would be equipped we did, there would be trust between trated vision brings a church together. to do the work of the ministry, and our congregations and pastors and leaders, When one knows their church is about world would be a much different place. and groups working to help churches knowing the Son of God, it brings unity. If the Church of God truly made Jesus become healthy, growing churches. Unity occurs when the body of Christ is the subject of all things, Satan would be If Jesus was the subject of everything on the same page, not scattered to and shaking in his boots! we did, we wouldn’t fight so much; fro, but recognizing the power that Jesus Milton: Without Jesus being the sub- we wouldn’t gossip; we wouldn’t have brings to each one of us, personally. Jesus being the subject of the church should augment the doctrine of the church as Anderson University School of Theology we accept every believer in Jesus to be a part of the Church of God. Master of Arts in Christian Ministry Stephanie: If Jesus, the divine Son of God, is the subject, then opposing This 48-hour program is offered 100% online. This degree is fully accredited by the subjects will always begin with human Association of Theological Schools, one of nature—egos, money, quarrels, pride, or only six fully online professional degrees in status. Keeping Jesus the subject of all we North America. Students from across the say and do helps to encourage those two globe have benefited from this intentionally biblical truths that the Church of God designed degree program. Why not join them? was founded upon: holiness and unity. If we keep Jesus the subject, we will not For more information visit only be transformed into holy living, we www.anderson.edu/sot/academics/onlinemacm. will also be unified with other believers who are living out this biblical mission. Apply online today! 765.641.4526 • www.anderson.edu/sot continued on page 14 CHOGnews 13 April 2015 Six Pastors Weigh In On ‘Jesus is the Subject’ Indiana Church continued from page 13 Awarded Community Partner of the Year If Jesus truly is our subject, we can sing, Jesus is the subject, his mission—and continued from page 10 just as D.S. Warner wrote, “Jesus, my only his mission—becomes the mis- life, and my joy evermore, Jesus forever sion of his church. And the mission of my heart’s deep store; glory to God for Jesus is not the preservation of history, redeeming love, oh, wondrous peace of heritage, or tradition. The mission of God that flows from above.” Jesus is to seek and save the lost, and Milton: The Church of God when owned by his mission, we won’t movement is not united around an orga- have time, energy, or even the desire nization, but could be united around to debate, argue, and split over such mission with Jesus being the subject. things. Mark 16:20 states, “And they went out Mitch: “Jesus is the Subject” could and preached everywhere, the Lord never diminish any important doc- working with them and confirming the trine of the Church of God. The truth word through the accompanying signs” is that Jesus is our unity, Jesus is our (nkjv). One of the signs that followed justification, Jesus is our sanctification was their unity because they had clear (holiness), Jesus is our salvation, Jesus of God fails to make Jesus the subject. leadership, a clear mission, and a Holy is our freedom, Jesus is the Lord of the He doesn’t advocate against the prac- Spirit-inspired passion for Jesus. church, Jesus is the King in the king- tice, but hopes that the Church of God Steve: If Jesus is the subject, then dom, and Jesus is our soon-coming will live out the teaching behind what nothing else is the subject! That doesn’t Redeemer! To remove Jesus as the sub- sometimes becomes merely a ritual. “To mean that other things aren’t important ject, or to include other things as part of be honest,” he reflects, “we have these things, but they are not the subject. If the principle subject, is to diminish all cool little foot washing services where Jesus is the subject, then everything else the doctrines of the church. tons of ‘holy’ people attend and wash is subject to Jesus! Attendance is not the Mark: If Jesus is the subject, then each other’s feet, but I think we miss subject. Finances are not the subject. methods, preferences and the past are the point of what Jesus is calling us to The name on the church sign is not the not. This kind of vision directs our be. He wants us to serve each other and subject. What songs we sing and how attention up, and ahead. our communities. Jesus is the subject, we sing them is not the subject. Where not the Bible. Jesus is the point, not the the Church of God holds national and Tom Dogherty is the senior pastor of sacrament of washing feet. Jesus calls us international meetings is not the sub- Cloverdale Church of God in Boise, Idaho. to serve our neighbor.” ject. But when Jesus is the subject, there Stephanie Collins is the NextGen pastor of CitySpring never set out to win an are implications on every one of these The Gathering in Muncie, Indiana. Milton award from the city. To this day, they things. How we deal with attendance Grannum is bishop and founding co-pastor have no ambition to be recognized & finances is based on Jesus being the of New Covenant Church of God in Phila- for their community service. But as subject. What songs we sing and how delphia, Pennsylvania. Steve Nelson is the they point to the cross, and away from we sing them is based on Jesus being lead pastor of Oaklawn Church of God in themselves, people are taking notice. the subject. What name best identifies Hot Springs, Arkansas. Mitchell Burch is “There are all sorts of ways to grow a a local congregation is based on Jesus the lead pastor of Towne Boulevard Church church. We dream of being a church being the subject. I love our history and of God in Franklin, Ohio. Mark Fast is the that reaches people. We think it would heritage, and being third-generation lead pastor of Centralia Community Church be awesome if people first heard of Church of God, I appreciate many of in Centralia, Washington. CitySpring not because they received a our traditions. But I have observed the cool flyer, but because we served them plateau and decline of congregations in some capacity.” and the Church of God movement due to unintentionally making history, heri- Learn more about how the Church of God tage, and tradition the subject. When is making Jesus the subject at www.JesusIs- TheSubject.org.

CHOGnews 14 April 2015 It Takes a Team Interview continued from page 6

church services. It ended up that I I’ve been over the nursery and Junior Church of God Ministries relies on your liked Jerry, so in high school I started Church. I’ve created and printed the financial support of the unrestricted portion dating him. Then after high school, I bulletins, newsletters, and directories. of the World Ministries Budget to enable married him, and we moved to Florida I am now involved in our Silent basic, necessary operations to continue—like so he could go to Warner University Messengers Ministry, where we use ensuring your gifts go precisely where you (then Warner Southern College) for sign language in songs during church intend them to go. Support the behind-the- ministry education. We moved back to services, dramas, and fundraisers. We’ve scenes work of the Church of God today at Indiana and he was the associate pastor signed for community events, too. I www.jesusisthesubject.org/world-ministries- of youth at Florida Station Church of really enjoy it, and it’s so beautiful to budget. Learn more about the Church of God God. Then we felt called to go to the watch! I’m glad to see how this ministry at www.JesusIsTheSubject.org. Church of God in Saratoga, Indiana. has grown at our church. Florida Station ultimately was without What are one or two of your a senior pastor, and almost closed its favorite worship songs? What doors. Jerry felt like he was called to go hobbies do you enjoy? back to Florida Station Church of God. Anissa: I have a lot of favorite So, we did. We’ve been there nineteen worship songs, but if I can only pick two, years! My brother-in-law, Jack Hilligoss, here they are: “Great I Am” (Phillips, also pastored Florida Station Church of Craig & Dean) and “One Thing God for a time, then went to Warner Remains” (Kristian Stanfill). Outside University (then Warner Southern). He of work I like to watch my boys play is now the pastor at HighPoint Church their sports. I enjoy playing volleyball, of God in Lake Wales, Florida. I think softball, and golf with our church, and he’s been there about eighteen years! I love getting together with our family What are your primary to visit. responsibilities at Florida What do you appreciate Station Church of God? most about Church of God Anissa: I believe my primary Ministries and the Church of responsibility at Florida Station is to take God movement? care of my husband and family as he Anissa: I have worked for Church pastors the church. If there is anything of God Ministries for about ten years. I I can do to help him, I do my best to do appreciate the fact that if I am struggling it. I’ve had several roles in the church. with life, they will pray for me. They will come and be there for me. That’s a family! I enjoy working with all my coworkers, even though I don’t work closely with all of them. The Church of God has molded and shaped my family and me into the people we are today. My oldest son Jerad plays guitar and sings in our worship services with our praise team. My youngest son Seth helps lead in Junior Church. Then he mentors them as they come into the youth group. I love seeing how God works!

CHOGnews 15 April 2015 Church of God Convention Oklahoma City, OK | June 22–25, 2015

More than ever before, the world needs Christ. Jesus is the subject. The convention will awaken and inspire our passion for doing amazing things in his name.

WE’LL WORSHIP TOGETHER WE’LL EXPERIENCE HIS WORD TOGETHER. • Selah • Andy Thompson • Crossings Venue Band • Francis Chan • Shane & Shane • Anita Renfroe

Join Us in Oklahoma City Register today at www.chogconvention.org

CHOGnews 16 April 2015