The Indiana

CVolume 100 • Numberhr 2 is IndianaDisciples.orgti anSummer• 2018 Legacy Gifts Undergird the Life of the Church he Christian Church It was given In 2000, two in Indiana is pleased then as a sisters in the First to announce the receipt “no-interest Christian Church, of a substantial gift to no-term” loan Highland, Indiana, undergird our life and to the Region Rose Loretta ministries from Maurice to create some and Florence and Janalie Robeson of working capital Lovinna Sass Flora, Indiana. This gift of to fund new made the Region $250,000 has established church starts. administrator the Maurice and Janalie of a fund they Shortly before Robeson Endowment Fund established to his death in to support the general Maurice and Janalie Robeson support Disciples Regional Assembly November operations of the Region. congregations in Lake County, 2017, Maurice Robeson of the Christian Church The fund will be invested Indiana. Each year, and in communicated that he desired (Disciples of Christ) in Indiana with the Christian Church perpetuity, this fund gives to make this long-term loan a Foundation, the general us opportunity to distribute gift to be used for the Region’s October 5-6, 2018 ministry of our church that about $7,000 to each of those greatest need. The Regional Light of the World Christian Church / Indianapolis holds long term endowment four congregations. Board first learned the identity funds for our congregations of this long-time benefactor More recently, we received and the Region. couple in April 2018 and notice of a gift of $25,000 In actuality the Robesons with joy and deep gratitude from the estate of Mary Jo quietly provided the Region established the endowment Graham, a former member with these funds in 1997. fund in their name. of Speedway Christian Church. Her gift was Janalie Robeson has recently designated for the support Friday Dinner Saturday Women’s Saturday Men’s Saturday Worship relocated to Carmel, Indiana Bishop Jennifer Breakfast Breakfast Dr. Ron Allen of the Indiana Christian. Baskerville‐ Bethany Watkins Rafael Sanchez Professor of Preaching and has become active in the Lowery News Anchor and Gospels and Letters Burrows RTV6 ‐ The Indy Channel Christian Theological Director of Development Episcopal Diocese Member of Tabernacle Seminary Carmel Christian Church. Their We also receive gifts each Disciples Church of Indianapolis Christian Church Extension Fund and daughter, Miriam Robeson, year from the Christian Franklin, Indiana Hope Partnership has served for a number of Church Foundation from years as the Treasurer for the endowment funds that www.indianadisciples.org Region, and granddaughter faithful Indiana Disciples Background by Mrsiraphol ‐ Freepik.com Samantha Pickens is a regular have established to bless camp counselor at our MAD their local congregation camp. We give thanks for the and the Region. Others “Can We Talk?” About multi-generational commitment have let us know that they of this family to our church and have included the Christian Regional Assembly for this most generous gift that Church in Indiana in their ou have been hearing about our next Regional Assembly, will bless generations to come. will. That is an efficient and but NOW is the time to begin registering to attend. There effective way for you to use The Robesons are not alone is something strengthening about being with the larger a portion of your estate in using their accumulated community of Disciples as we gather from 140 congregations to undergird the ongoing resources to benefit the in Indiana. We’ll sing together and pray together, hear about life of your local church Region and congregations of our shared ministries, greet old friends and meet new ones. Best and other ministries of the the Region. Mamie Young of of all, together we’ll deepen our faith and strengthen our witness Christian Church (Disciples Evansville, Indiana, who died and spirit by learning to “speak the truth in love.” of Christ). For information in 1960, named the Christian on how to establish such an It has been said that the world changes ‘one conversation at a Church in Indiana, alongside endowment fund with the time’. As people of faith we want to be sure that our conversations other charitable causes, in her Christian Church Foundation (even about potentially divisive subjects) are shared with hearts of will in 1952. Our Region has contact India Bobadilla, grace and care for the other. That is what we will spend some time received an annual gift from [email protected], practicing during our time together. We hope you will come away her estate for 58 years and we (317) 713-2420 † with some skills to offer our communities that can really impact were just informed this year

The IndianaThe Christian Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Indiana #150 42nd Street, W. 1100 IN 46208 Indianapolis, our world for the better ‘one conversation at a time’. that future gifts will increase. † 2 The Indiana Christian

In The Spirit Richard L. Spleth, Indiana Regional Minister

n October 5-6 the To do so we would need to of us who would never think Christian Church practice. That is what this of carrying a concealed in Indiana will year’s Regional Assembly weapon walk about at the gather once again is all about, to have an same time armed with “bullet for Regional Assembly. experience, in a safe space, points.” We do “pack heat” in We have been doing this with of talking about some difficult that regard. The Gospel calls regularity since we first issues so that we feel more us to a different way. came together as Disciples confident to engage in such I hope you will join me at Light churches in Indiana in 1839. discussions in our families, of the World Christian Church Important matters have been our neighborhoods, our This is not a new Anti-Burgher Seceder for this conversation. I believe decided at our assemblies, workplaces, and our church. phenomenon. The church Presbyterians. They were it will be worth your time. Can like in 1883 when we decided Our Assembly this year is not in the New Testament was part of a sect of a sect of we talk? We must. to build a church camp, or in similarly fractured. The Spirit a sect of the Presbyterian about debate, in fact there 1914 when we provided for of God brought communities church in their day and are no resolutions, rather it May God’s blessings be on the transportation needs of of faith into being in surprising the common rule was that is about practicing respectful you and your congregation. † our Regional staff with a fleet places which then created you did not associate with, conversation. Our intention is of Model T Fords, or in 2000 unexpected and suspicious and certainly did not share not to coerce or convince one when we committed to study diversity. In Acts 15 we read communion with, persons another around any topic but the concerns around human how Paul and Barnabas whose credential was unlike to practice active listening sexuality, and in 2008 when testified to the Christian your own. The Campbells with one another. Richard L. Spleth we launched a partnership Regional Minister community in Jerusalem believed this was wrong. It Truthfully, we do not always with Congolese Disciples. their first-hand experience of misrepresented who Christ operate in that fashion. Most Our Regional Assembly has the church in Galatia whose is. It squandered the gift of often given us impetus for life did not mirror that of unity that is offered to us by our life together. And this their Jerusalem cousins. In God that gives us capacity to year we will come together to describing this meeting, the transcend our differences. 2018 Regional Calendar talk, to really talk. It is most scripture says that there The Campbells, with Barton important that we do so. was “no small dissension and W. Stone and others, launched AUGUST debate.” I imagine. The glaring There is no question that a new movement. Their hope August 11 Anti-Racism Pro-Reconciliation Training - FCC, Bedford differences forced deep our society is polarized. It was not to start yet one more August 25 Youth Conversation on Race - Central Christian Church, reflection on identity is not just our geographic denomination but to inspire Indianapolis and purpose. states that are divided into Christians to come together, to August 29 Regional Board Meeting, Regional Office red and blue camps. Most That day in Jerusalem our be a light in the world, to be the of our families are similarly SEPTEMBER ancestors came to an uneasy people God longs for us to be. September 3 Regional Office Closed - Labor Day Holiday divided. It all causes many truce, a sort of “you go your If that could happen it would September 13 Regional Elders Meeting, Regional Office to lose heart and lose hope. way and I will go my way” not only benefit the church, Fear and pain inhibit our kind of settlement. Likely but it would provide a healing capacity for conversation it was the best outcome balm for the whole society. OCTOBER and robs us of the desire to that could be derived. But October 5-6 2018 Regional Assembly, Light of the World Christian Church, Fast forward to today. In initiate discussion. the consequence was that Indianapolis 2018 we know this same division has always been a October 5 Anti-Racism Pro-Reconciliation Training - Regional Office Sadly, the church in our day need. We are reminded daily latent possibility in our life. October 9 Nurture and Certification Meetings, Regional Office too often reflects this division. of the brokenness in which October 12-13 Financial Literacy Academy, Marriott East, Indianapolis Persons of all viewpoints can Fast forward to the 19th we live. But what if the church October 26 Healthy Boundaries, Tabernacle Christian Church, Franklin feel at odds with their pastor century and our founders could be a countervailing or their fellow congregants Thomas and Alexander force that could begin to be which can leave them feeling Campbell found themselves witness to an alternative way Unless otherwise indicated, meetings will be held at the Indiana Interchurch quite lonely and discouraged. troubled about this same for the people of God to live? Center. All times, unless otherwise indicated, are for the Eastern Time Zone. I hear about this often as issue. When they migrated What if we could offer that You can also view the regional calendar by visiting our website at: your Regional pastor and it from Scotland to the United balm to our world? http://indianadisciples.org/upcoming-events. has me concerned. States they were Old Light

The Indiana POSTMASTER Regional Minister Send change of address The Indiana Richard L. Spleth Christian notices to: (ISSN 0279-179X) Christian Church Volume 100 • Number 1 hristian IndianaDisciples.org [email protected] C Spring • 2018 in Indiana Bethany Watkins Lowery speaking to women New Regional Sta and Raphael Published four times a year by the 1100 W. 42nd St. , #150 Sanchez speaking Welcomed to men. Lowery is a development officer for Disciples Church e have welcomed three new Editors staff persons to the Region in Extension Fund and Indianapolis, IN 46208 Hope Partnership. 2018. Joining us in January Sanchez, a as a new Ministry Associate Christian Church (Disciples of is Sandy Kincaid member of . Sandy is a professional graphic designer who was Tabernacle the creator of our Regional logo. She Christian Church FALL ISSUE is an avid gardener and grandmother. Sandy Kincaid in Franklin, is a Her husband, the late Keith Kincaid, served a number of news anchor and reporter with Periodical postage paid at Indiana congregations, the last of which was River of Life RTV6 in Indianapolis. Christ) in Indiana, 1100 W. 42nd Christian Church in Logansport from where she recently On Saturday we will connect moved. Sandy will serve as the Region’s “concierge” and By Diane Zehr, Interim Associate Regional Minister with friends from the region assist us with communications and registrations. of Indiana, do the business Minister of Faith Formation Maggie Archibald completed [email protected] Indianapolis, IN 46206 t has been said, “Life of the church, hear the news child, or even one’s own internal her work with the Region on March 4. She is now the happens one conversation of our ministry in Indiana, dialogue with yourself, our ideas Director of Communications for the Christian Church at a time.” Whether it and be inspired by music and of reality and truth are discerned Foundation. Succeeding her as the new St., #150, Indianapolis, IN 46208. is two friends having worship together. We will also Coordinator and affirmed or questioned one of Camping Ministries is Charissa Ramey coffee, a contentious have the opportunity to choose . Charissa conversation at a time. is the pastor of Nameless Creek Christian Church in board meeting at church, a to join in two conversations Greenfield, Indiana. She is a graduate of Christian political speech, a ‘middle of This year, the Regional of your choice on topics that Assembly will offer a time to Theological Seminary and was ordained the night’ question from your are challenging for all of us DEADLINE have some of those important to have. We want to talk about by the Indiana Region in 2015. She also transforming discussions that issues that so often divide and holds a bachelor’s degree in aquatics This publication began in 1918. The from Ball State University. She knows a Candace Boyd Wylie perhaps can open our eyes, isolate us and offer ways to minds, spirits and hearts to each expand our conversation to be lot about swimming pools! Charissa has other in life affirming ways. life affirming and creative. been an active counselor and director in Subscriber change of address or our Region’s camping ministry. We will begin on Dr. Ron Allen, professor Friday night with at Christian Theological Following Maggie in the area of Youth Ministry is Nate Kibler who began March 5 as the an All Assembly Seminary, will be present name, The Indiana Christian, Dinner with our Coordinator of Youth Ministries. Nate is the Associate [email protected] our preacher Minister at First Christian Church, guest speaker, at closing Kokomo. He graduated from CTS in 2016 Reverend worship. Allen request to subscribe e-mail name Jennifer and was ordained by the Illinois-Wisconsin has taught Region of our church. Nate’s wife Theresa Baskerville-Burrows , preaching and is a pediatric physical therapist and Bishop of the Episcopal the New Testament co-owner of their dog, Tillich. dates to January 1891. Diocese of Indianapolis, at the seminary since 1982 and OCTOBER 22 who will offer some ideas will be retiring this year. We welcome Sandy, Charissa, and for how we can have Nate to the Indiana Regional Staff! meaningful and transforming Mark your calendars and † and address information to save the dates of October Managing Editor conversation. She is the 5th and 6th to gather with a first African-American few hundred of your closest female Episcopal bishop in Disciple brothers and sisters the US. She has expertise in See back page for our full at Light of the World Christian helping congregations and 2018 summer camp schedule. Church in Indianapolis. organizations address You may register online at EARLY BIRD DEADLINE Bridget Gurtowsky Website: [email protected] or issues that matter. www.indianadisciples.org. † IS MAY 15 Saturday morning will begin with breakfasts that highlight Register now at www.indianadisciples.org

The Indiana Christian Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Indiana 1100 W. 110042ndW. Street, #150 [email protected] www.indianadisciples.org call 317.926.6051. Indianapolis, IN 46208 Summer • 2018 3 Shelbyville First Christian Funds Accessible Entrance and Renovations irst Christian Church has been in its current location in downtown Shelbyville, IN since 1901. In 2004, the congregation began planning to move to a new location and even purchased land for that Southside Kokomo’s purpose. But the relocation of the hospital in their community suddenly gave them more Little Pantry options to remain in their own neighborhood if they could facility and its members more their remodeled space. A new Ful lls Mission make their building assessible. programs and events to meet entrance coupled with an the social and spiritual needs elevator makes all three floors Their surrounding n Pentecost Sunday, Rev. Margaret of the community. of the facility accessible. neighborhood now features Hickman, Interim Minister, led a dedication Improvements to HVAC and a new upscale senior With the help of Disciples service for the new Little Pantry at South electrical systems and a housing facility within a Church Extension Fund, the new roof have prepared the Side Christian Church, Kokomo. The outdoor block of the church, and congregation conducted building to continue to serve Little Pantry idea evolved when a large local food the city has additional a capital campaign and for many more years. And the pantry closed and the organization moved to plans for revitalization and exceeded their goal of sanctuary is refreshed. distribute food in a different manner. South Side’s improvement of retail and $500,000 by more than living spaces. First Christian $100,000. After worshipping Bill Horner and Beth Crouch Outreach committee felt that there was still a Church has a unique for several months in a serve this church as ministers large section of the local community that faced opportunity to be a part of this local funeral home the alongside a host of generous food insecurity and that the church location was resurgence by providing its congregation is now back in and visionary members. † ideal for a free outdoor food pantry. Tim Gasaway, congregational member, volunteered to craft an Supporting the Indiana Christian outdoor pantry. The Little Pantry is filled three times per week with approximately 30-35 non-perishable food The Indiana Christian has been in continuous publication since 1891 The Indiana connecting Disciples of Christ congregations in Indiana with each items and toiletries. Each time it is to be filled, it is CVolume 100 • Numberhristian 1 IndianaDisciples.org found nearly empty. With no outside funding, South other and with our mission to the world. Today the publication reaches Bethany Watkins Spring • 2018 Lowery speaking to women and Raphael New Regional Sta Sanchez speaking to men. Lowery Welcomed is a development officer for Disciples Church e have welcomed three new Side has moved on faith to continue this ministry. over 5,300 households, including yours, with news about our church. Extension Fund and Hope Partnership. staff persons to the Region in Sanchez, a 2018. Joining us in January member of as a new Ministry Associate Tabernacle is Sandy Kincaid Christian Church professional graphic designer. Sandy who is was a in Franklin, is a the creator of our Regional logo. She news anchor and reporter with is an avid gardener and grandmother. The paper is supported by a portion of Disciples Mission Fund and by RTV6 in Indianapolis. Her husband, the late Keith Kincaid, served a number of By Diane Zehr, Interim Associate Regional Minister Indiana congregations, the last of which was River of Life On Saturday we will connect Christian Church in Logansport from where she recently t has been said, “Life with friends from the region moved. Sandy will serve as the Region’s “concierge” and of Indiana, do the business South Side Christian’s mission statement is happens one conversation child, or even one’s own internal assist us with communications and registrations. of the church, hear the news at a time.” Whether it dialogue with yourself, our ideas of our ministry in Indiana, Minister of Faith Formation Maggie Archibald completed is two friends having of reality and truth are discerned and be inspired by music and her work with the Region on March 4. She is now the coffee, a contentious and affirmed or questioned one Director of Communications for the Christian Church the annual gifts of readers who value this publication for the way it board meeting at church, a worship together. We will also conversation at a time. Foundation. Succeeding her as the new political speech, a ‘middle of have the opportunity to choose of Camping Ministries is Charissa Ramey the night’ question from This year, the Regional to join in two conversations Coordinator Assembly will offer a time to is the pastor of Nameless Creek Christian Church in your of your choice on topics that . Charissa have some of those important are challenging for all of us Greenfield, Indiana. She is a graduate of Christian “To Share the Love of God.” The pantry joins transforming discussions that to have. We want to talk about Theological Seminary and was ordained perhaps can open our eyes, issues that so often divide and by the Indiana Region in 2015. She also connects and energizes our congregations consistent with our mission minds, spirits and hearts to each isolate us and offer ways to holds a bachelor’s degree in aquatics other in life affirming ways. expand our conversation to be from Ball State University. She knows a life affirming and creative. We will begin on lot about swimming pools! Charissa has Friday night with Dr. Ron Allen been an active counselor and director in an All Assembly at Christian Theological, professor our Region’s camping ministry. Dinner with our the Little Library, the seasonal Giving Tree of Seminary, will be Following Maggie in the area of Youth guest speaker, our preacher Ministry is Nate Kibler who began March 5 as the Reverend at closing Coordinator of Youth Ministries. Nate is the Associate as the Regional church. You are invited to use the enclosed envelope Jennifer Minister at First Christian Church, worship. Allen Baskerville-Burrows has taught Kokomo. He graduated from CTS in 2016 Bishop of the Episcopal, preaching and and was ordained by the Illinois-Wisconsin Diocese of Indianapolis, the New Testament Region of our church. Nate’s wife Theresa who will offer some ideas at the seminary since 1982 and is a pediatric physical therapist and for how we can have will be retiring this year. co-owner of their dog, Tillich. warm clothing, and the annual Community meaningful and transforming We welcome Sandy, Charissa, and conversation. She is the Mark your calendars and to make a gift, of whatever size, to undergird this communication save the dates of October Nate to the Indiana Regional Staff! first African-American 5th and 6th to gather with a female Episcopal bishop in † few hundred of your closest the US. She has expertise in Disciple brothers and sisters helping congregations and at Light of the World Christian organizations address See back page for our full Church in Indianapolis. issues that matter. 2018 summer camp schedule. Thanksgiving dinner in fulfilling their mission You may register online at ministry. Or go online at www.indianadisciples.org and hit the donate Saturday morning will begin www.indianadisciples.org. EARLY BIRD DEADLINE with breakfasts that highlight † IS MAY 15

The Indiana Christian Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Indiana 1100W. 42nd Street, #150 Indianapolis, IN 46208 Register now at button to make a secure electronic gift. Thank you for your support. www.indianadisciples.org in the community. †

Ministry Milestones MINISTRY CHANGES Greg Eberhard began serving as Lanny Lawler began serving as wife Blonde Bekonda, welcomed a son, Interim Minister at Eastgate Christian Interim Minister of First Christian Jules Beau-Jack Ilondo, on March 23. Melissa Kleinschmidt began serving as Church, Indianapolis on May 20. Church, Kokomo on July 1. Pastor of Countryside Christian Church, Heath Jones, senior minister of Winchester on March 18. Rachel McLoughlin began serving Paula Pettis-Garrett began serving Northwood Christian Church, as Associate Minister at West Street as Associate Minister of Avon Indianapolis, and his wife, Kelly Jones, John Rich began serving as Pastor of Christian Church, Tipton on June 11. Christian Church, Avon on July 9. welcomed a son, Abel Gene Jones, on East Side Christian Church, Evansville March 26. on March 18. Will Jewsbury retired as Senior Pastor of First Christian Church, ORDINATIONS Cheryl Russell began serving as Senior Kokomo on June 20. MARRIAGES Minister of First Christian, Noblesville James Petty was ordained on on April 1. Laureen Hartig concluded her ministry May 20 at Hazelwood Christian Ashley Sherard Clarke, minister of with Hobbs Christian Church, Hobbs Church, Muncie. Beechwood Christian Church, French Haley Asberry began serving as Senior on June 24. Lick, was married on March 21. Minister of Wabash Christian Church, Whittney Ijanaten was ordained Wabash on April 1. Luis Gierbolini concluded his ministry on May 27 at Central Christian at Danville Christian Church, Danville Church, Indianapolis. CHURCH CLOSINGS Becki Nunnally concluded her Interim on June 30. Hobbs Christian Church closed its Ministry at First Christian Church, Fort Ellen Corcella was ordained on visible ministry on June 24. Wayne on April 8. Ronn Oren began serving as the June 9 at Zionsville Christian † minister of Danville Christian Church, Church, Zionsville. Tod Iseminger concluded his ministry Danville on July 1. at Eastgate Christian Church, BIRTHS Indianapolis on April 29. Dan Bair began serving as Pastor at First Christian Church, Fort Wayne Jean Baptiste Ilondo, minister of Jeffery Deaton concluded his on July 1. the Southport Congolese Disciples of ministry at Central Christian Church, Christ Church, Indianapolis, and his Connersville on May 13. 4 The Indiana Christian Together

By Pamela Pettyjohn Pastor of Floyds Knobs Christian Church

The Manna Process reiterated the need for our region to renew relationships and connections The Haven Youth Center celebrates its 20th birthday. with one another. Staffing is now configured to intentionally nurture relationships throughout the region. Some of our congregations have already found ways to share ministry. Other congregations First Christian Martinsville are seeking these opportunities. This “Together” column is a space to celebrate the bridges being built and the ministries being shared. It features Celebrates Twenty Years stories of coming together to be the region. If you have something you would like to highlight, send to Supporting a Youth “Haven” Carolyn Reed, Associate Regional Minister. By Rev. Linda Presley, Director, The Haven Youth Center

On Thursday, March his summer, First prevention professionals. this summer they received a 22, about twenty Christian Church Topics included honesty, grant from the Morgan County elders from four (FCC), Martinsville creativity, forgiveness, Substance Abuse Council, to Southern Indiana celebrated the 20th caring, responsibility, help underwrite the cost of churches came anniversary of The Haven respect and purpose. On sending 12 youth and 5 adults together at Floyds Youth Center. Their ministry Fridays, they took field trips on an overnight prevention Knobs Christian provides a free and safe in the Haven van to places retreat at Highland Church for a delicious place for middle school youth they’ve helped choose. Lakes campground. to hang out with friends and The van also transports dinner and an Elder During the last school year, Rev. Pamela Pettyjohn (left) learn new skills. The Haven, students from the two Workshop with The Haven Youth Center and Rev. Diane Zehr run by church volunteers, is middle schools to The Haven Associate Regional served a total of 70 youth with open afternoons from 1:00 to during the school year. Minister Rev. Diane Zehr. This event grew out of a approximately 45 different 5:00pm during the summer, request from the Floyds Knobs elders for training FCC worked over the years students attending during the and 2:30-5:30pm during from the Region, as they were preparing to more to purchase a building week. The average attendance the school year. Youth are fully embrace their role as pastoral care providers in that would provide a safe during the 2017-18 school year allowed the freedom to drop partnership with their pastor, Rev. Pamela Pettyjohn. place for youth. Through was 22 youth per day. Students in for a short time or spend When Pamela contacted Diane, she enthusiastically memorials and gifts to the were offered homework the afternoon visiting, playing agreed to conduct a workshop, and Pamela extended Morgan County Foundation, help when needed and given computer or board games, invitations to other ministers and congregations in the permanent funds for The opportunities to serve the shooting hoops, playing pool, area to join them as well. Rev. Lee Huckleberry, from Haven were established. community. They helped with and enjoying snacks. Park Christian, New Albany, and Rick Hartig, from The Haven has also received the town square clean-up, Corydon Christian attended with their elders, and This summer, Haven youth many County and Federal provided music and cookies Central Christian, New Albany was also represented. met with and heard from Prevention grants over at the community Christmas Great discussion about the important role of elders community leaders including the years, allowing them to Cookie Stroll, and baked in the church ensued. Participants had a chance to the mayor, a county sheriff, purchase computers and cookies and served food at First ask questions and all attendees felt the workshop Morgan County District recreational equipment, Christian’s Monday Community was very worthwhile. Rick Hartig suggested that all Prosecutor, artists, and and to employ staff. Just Table that is held quarterly. † congregations consider hosting such an event for the elders in their areas as well, as a refresher for seasoned elders and a training course for newer ones. Lindsey Fleming, the Elder Chair at Floyds Knobs, felt that an added benefit is that it signaled to the congregation that pastoral care is not just for the pastor, but part of the expectation of elders. And that the elders are taking this responsibility seriously by attending training from the regional staff. South Haven Youth Center kids help pick up trash on the MHS Basketball Coach Kip Staggs speaks to Haven kids about hard This was not the first time that Floyds Knobs town square. work and the “pay day” for it. Christian hosted a training event with Rev. Diane. South Haven Youth On September 23, 2017, Pastor Relations Committee Center provides kids (PRC) members and pastors from Floyds Knobs, with computer and Corydon, and Evansville had a wonderful training gaming activities. with her on the role of the PRC in their churches. † Summer • 2018 5

Southport Christian Church is Now Tapestry Church (a Disciples of Christ Congregation)

he Southport Christian Church in Indianapolis has taken a new name. The congregation is now known as Tapestry Church (a Disciples of Christ Congregation). This renaming of the church coincides with Church Security: the physical relocation of the congregation to northern Johnson county and an increased focus on mission-based and inclusive ministries. Emergency Procedures The change to Tapestry represents the honoring By Catherine Carvey, CCFM of the different strands and gifts that make up Member, Allisonville Christian Church; Director of Facility Management the church. and Security, Second Presbyterian Church Indianapolis Tapestry will soon leave their current location of over 60 years and relocate for 18 to 24 hen the discussion of church • How will you handle the media, if it is a months to the Sugar Grove Elementary School, security comes up these days, slow news day or the person is prominent 4135 Smith Valley Road, Greenwood, Indiana. which it does often, people in the community? immediately want to know what The church has purchased nearly 13 acres If you aren’t able to answer all those we are doing about active shooters. Have we of land on Smith Valley Road, just east of Hwy. questions you won’t be able to respond if increased our security? Have we changed 135 (Meridian) which will give the church the unthinkable occurs. our procedure? I think these are the wrong high visibility when it relocates. Smith Valley questions and the wrong focus. Homeland Other Emergencies which should be at the has been identified as a primary east-west Security and local law enforcement will tell top of your list are: connector between Indiana State Road 37 and you to prioritize your emergency procedures Interstate 65. • Fire – As a third grader I watched a church based on those which are most likely to occur. burn from my classroom window; and Tapestry will celebrate its final service at In Indiana, you would never have a tsunami as a youth I experienced a small fire in 201 E. Epler on August 26th. That building will procedure, but you better have a severe my church that caused significant smoke continue to house the Chin Christian Church weather procedure. damage. I bet you can think of other church (Disciples of Christ) and the Southport Congolese What are the emergencies most likely to fires of congregations you know personally Disciples Church. † happen at your church? For us at Second or may even have been a member. Presbyterian Church, Indianapolis it is a • Severe Weather/Tornado – Churches medical emergency. We have had two people in Henryville, Kokomo, and Monticello can die of natural causes in our church building attest to the impact tornado damage can in less than six months. Preparing for those have on the life of a church. emergencies will prepare you for more serious emergencies. Questions you should be able to • Missing Child – Children become separated answer are: from even the most diligent parent. Are you able to lockdown your building? When do • What is the church’s address? you decide you have searched long enough • Where is the nearest exit? and need to call law enforcement? • Where are the first aid kits and AEDs (automated external defibrillator)? Are • Suspicious Package – See something, say the batteries and pads in good use? something. If something seems out of place report it to law enforcement. They will not • How do first responders find the emergency? ridicule you. No one wants to be that person • What will you do if the person doesn’t survive? that says yes, I saw that but just figured it wasn’t important until it was too late. • How will you notify a family member? Someone placed a wooden pumpkin at the • How will you support those who provide exterior sanctuary door. The mailman saw it emergency help? Especially if it was and thought it looked odd, so we evacuated unsuccessful. This should include the building. It turned out to be nothing, but first responders. police agreed it was suspicious behavior. • What will you do if first responders call law Taking time to work through the possible enforcement to clear and secure the area procedures for these emergencies will until the coroner arrives? prepare you and your congregation for the next emergency. † 6 The Indiana Christian

FLOURISH! UPDATE: From Hope to Impact Sixth Financial Literacy Academy is on The Horizon! s we approach the completion of s we near the completion of phase one of FLOURISH!, phase one of FLOURISH!, the Region’s the Region’s clergy economic empowerment program, clergy economic initiative, we are we prepared to host the sixth installment of the excited to report tremendous Financial Literacy Academy. Sponsored in collaboration success. What began as “hope” for clergy has with the Pension Fund of the Christian Church, the academy will now translated into “impact” after three years take place on October 12-13, 2018, at the Marriott East Hotel of education and training for both clergy and and Conference Center. congregational grantees. During this time, we have: The Friday session (October 12) will focus on Preaching and Teaching Stewardship and features • Conferred 24 Financial Relief Grants Dr. Ron Allen, Professor of Preaching and Gospels offering direct financial assistance of and Letters at Christian Theological Seminary and up to $15,000 with and additional 20% author of Sermon Treks: Pathways to Creative funding to offset taxes Preaching. This session is for clergy only and • Conferred 12 Compensation Support will explore effective ways to preach and teach Grants to congregations providing stewardship by casting a dynamic vision. Clergy $21,000 over three years to bolster the do not have to be a FLOURISH! grantee to attend. Dr. Ron Allen compensation base of clergy staff (when Due to the success that we have Saturday’s session (October 13) features combined with laddered Regional funds) garnered, we have been invited by Rev. Dr. Eric Law, Founder and Director of the Lilly Endowment, Inc. to submit a • Graduated the first cohort of grantees Kaleidoscope Institute, and author of Holy proposal for the second phase of where we issued $220,000 in checks to Currencies: Six Blessings for Sustainable FLOURISH! which will allow us to program participants and Missional Ministries. During the session, expand the program and broaden clergy and congregational leaders will explore • Conducted five (5) Financial Literacy our reach. While we have made great stewardship as entrepreneurship through Academy events equipping nearly strides, we continue to seek generous creative ways of funding mission and ministry. 200 leaders from 32 congregations in donors to partner with us as we raise personal and congregational finance matching funds to complete matching All Financial Literacy Academy sessions are Rev. Dr. Eric Law funds as required by our Lilly grant open to all Disciples churches and both clergy • Trained 32 clergy and lay leaders in the and support clergy in our Region. and congregational leaders are highly encouraged to attend. Lake Institute’s Executive Certificate Cost for training is $25 per session and includes breakfast, lunch in Religious Fundraising (training to be If you would like more information and materials. Commissioned ministers may use FLOURISH! completed by September 2018) about FLOURISH! or you desire educational events to earn continuing education credits. Interested to be a financial contributor in • Hosted nine Launch and Progress parties may register at http://indianadisciples.org/commissions/ this worthwhile effort, contact the events around the state to raise over commission-on-ministry/lilly-grant/financial-literacy-academy/. Project Director, Cynthia Newman at $160,000 in matching funds [email protected]. For questions regarding the academy and any aspects of • Opened the conversation about clergy FLOURISH!, contact [email protected]. † Thank you for your support! † and congregational economic challenge

n June 22-24, nearly 100 worship service. Using her father’s in reconciliation by appreciating Church, Winchester; Catherine women of the Heartland reminder as she was growing up, that the many points of view present in Carvey, Allisonville Christian Church, Regional Fellowship “you are not the only person in this the church. Rev. Dr. Marti Steussey Indianapolis; Kris Ohneck, First gathered on the campus of house,” Rev. Hord Owens challenged provided a Bible lecture on creation Christian Church, Fort Wayne; and Culver-Stockton College in Canton, the women of the Heartland Regional as told in the two opening stories Maribeth Westerfield, First Christian Missouri. It was a weekend of Gathering to remember that whatever of Genesis 1 and 2. Workshops and Church, Martinsville and Christian networking, learning, worshiping, our personal preferences might networking time rounded out a very Church in Indiana. Marti Steussey, and having fun while getting to know be, we are not the only participants full schedule. Christian Theological Seminary, also sisters in Christ from Nebraska, the in the life of the church. Therefore, attended, along with General Church The women of Indiana oversaw Upper Midwest, Kansas City, Kansas, our charge for Christ is to engage staff ministers Pat Donahoo and a Hospitality Suite which provided Mid-America, Illinois-Wisconsin, Chesla Nickelson. opportunities for women to gather and our own delegation from the after each evening session. The suite We look forward to seeing many Christian Church in Indiana. The allowed for games, conversation, and Indiana Disciples women at the event encouraged women to be refreshments (of course). Indiana Regional Assembly in October. The “Called, Connected and Charged women attending the event consisted Assembly Women’s Breakfast on for Christ.” of Janet Schantz and Becky Canary October 6 will feature speaker There were messages from from Union Christian Church, Franklin; Bethany Watkins Lowery. There is Dietra Wise, on Friday, Lori Tapia on Kay Koenig, First Christian Church, also a task force planning an event Saturday, and Rev. Terri Hord Owens Shelbyville; Linda Brown and Melissa for women in the spring of 2019. Stay who preached the Sunday morning Kleinschmidt, Countryside Christian tuned for details as they develop. † Summer • 2018 7

he Christian I serve what was event just to be in touch The Poor People’s Campaign: Church in once called the Four with our Disciple folk. Indiana is blessed Rivers Area, overseeing The regional elder 16 Long Hours with regional elders congregations in northeast ministry is challenging By Rev. Heath Jones, Pastor, Northwood Christian Church, Indianapolis who work hand-in- Indiana including Kentland, and rewarding. There hand with the regional Rensselaer, Rochester, have been moments when ministers. Most are Winamac, Logansport, On May 14, 2018, bag as a pillow, as it is the congregations have had retired ministers who Monticello, and Flora. I I risked arrest for softest thing they have. I myself to iron out problems and have found the ministry seek to meet with pastors the Poor People’s tried to rest. This was difficult I have joined one of the of being a regional elder once a month however, Campaign. (Read as everything was concrete, other regional ministers an opportunity to honor their busy schedules, more about it at www. filthy, and smelled of urine. to help care for a given our ordinations and serve time constraints, and poorpeoplescampaign.org). congregation. My area Through conversation, I the larger church. Each emergencies sometimes This, I believe, is in keeping has had a series of clergy, learned that the county jail elder is assigned a given make it difficult to schedule with my calling as a disciple clergy spouse, and lay can keep arrestees up to 72 area in Indiana where we our gathering. But when of Jesus whose followers deaths so that I have sought hours without charge. I met are elders or overseers we do meet it proves to be have often found themselves to be of care in these several who claimed to have of several congregations. very helpful. in jail. Here is a very brief difficult circumstances. been held for 72 hours only to We meet as a group three account of my 16 long hours. A personal goal of mine is be released without a charge. to four times a year at the I have also had the to visit a worship service Upon arriving at the Marion regional office where we privilege of presenting Sometime in the early in each congregation in a County Jail we were brought report on our ministries, Outreach Certificates morning hours we were given year. Regional elders into a holding cell that was support to one another, and to congregations and processed and moved to a also can be available to about 10’ x 15’. Everything pray God’s blessings on our celebrating their missional different room. We were pastors who need someone was concrete, except for the congregations and pastors. endeavors. All in all, being a finally, after 10 hours, to fill the pulpit when they metal toilet. By the time we The volunteer ministry is regional elder is a blessing allowed a phone call. Before are on vacation. Over and were moved there were 30 designed to aid the overall in my life. I am overjoyed this moment we were unable above, I keep in touch with people packed into that ministry of keeping in that I can be a part of to contact our families or pastors by phone and seek small, hot, humid space. touch with our Disciple this vital ministry to the a lawyer. to care for them and their The people detained with congregations as well as Christian Church (Disciples We sat in this room for an families, especially in times us were gripped by various caring for our pastors and of Christ) in Indiana. † additional 4 hours, while of crisis. I also may pop in degrees of fear, resignation, their families. receiving contradictory on a special congregational and inebriation. I was sitting information about our release. on the floor by the holding It was but 30 minutes after cell’s entrance, when a man being told we’d be in for had his head slammed into another 12 hours that my the window next to my own name was finally called and I Crawfordsville First head. His response was, was released. “Why’d you slam me? Why’d Facilitates Reconciliation you slam me?” He proceeded At 9:00am, I left the jail after By Raymond B. Williams, Member of First Christian Church Crawfordsville, and to request medical help 16 hours of being under LaFollette Distinguished Professor in the Humanities Emeritus, Wabash College for over 1 ½ hours and arrest for obstructing early four relationships between diverse to do research on the was eventually taken to traffic—a glorified traffic years ago, First people was First Christian’s Underground Railroad. the hospital. ticket. Sixteen hours under arrest seems harsh for such Christian Church larger vision for their Bethel AME was started by After 2 ½ hours we were a crime, at least to me. Crawfordsville began community. The partnership freed slaves in the 1830s moved to a larger cell filled the work of reconciliation in of these two churches spilled and was a location on the with close to 60 people. This This experience has their community. Their vision over into other areas, including: Underground Railroad. room was twice the size as changed my life and opened was to embrace their love of • A joint worship service and • Members of Primera Iglesia the holding cell, and again, my eyes. I was a tourist. I was neighbor by partnering with fellowship lunch of First Bautista, once housed at everything was concrete, in a world that I did not have Bethel African Methodist Christian and the African- First Christian for a decade, except the toilets. The spigots to confront except by choice. Episcopal (AME) Church to American congregations provided volunteer labor to on the top of these toilets are Others have no choice. For preserve a church building for of Bethel AME and Second help with the preservation the only source of water. many who were locked up, their worshipping congregation. that jail served as a gateway Baptist Church of Bethel AME. We were fed twice; mystery First Christian collected an to a life of institutional living, • A member of First Christian • Wabash students and meat sandwiches with a very offering that made it possible disenfranchisement, and received a Lilly grant for members of the Malcolm X small container of apple juice. for the church’s restoration, deep-deep-deeper poverty. Public School Teachers Institute for Black Studies I was told that this is the meal including the purchase We cannot be ok with this. volunteered restoration always served. Many use the of new front doors that Something’s got to give. † labor, while the Bethel sandwich in the brown paper replicate the facade of the historian introduced them original 1892 building. to Bethel and Black history Restoring the physical each time they gathered. help in completing college partnership with Bethel, which appearance and scholarship applications. is evident in the changes in • Members of FCC helped a functionality of a building attitudes and hearts. † young woman from Bethel Most importantly, members was just a beginning. with tuition to attend Ivy Tech of First Christian Church Restoration of broken and another student received are enthusiastic about their 8 The Indiana Christian

302 THE AMERICAN HOME MISSIONARY

This poem was reproduced from the 1913 Year Book of Churches of Christ, a publication of that time by The American Christian Missionary Society. That annual publication was a precursor to our current day Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Year Book & Directory.

By Rev. Bere Gil Soto, Reconciliation Program Minister I AM THE IMMIGRANT. and Pastor, Iglesia Hermandad Cristiana Since the dawn of creation my restless feet have beaten In June, Alex, Leanne, Mimi, Rubi and Vicente, all children from Iglesia Hermandad new paths across the earth. Cristiana, attended CROSS and Explorer summer camps. For a couple of them this was their first summer camp EVER, and though the rest had previous camp My uneasy bark has tossed on all seas. experience, they all were very excited about it. Upon their return we asked them My wanderlust was born of the craving for more liberty what they liked most about camp? These are their answers: and a better wage for the sweat of my face.

1. It was like living in a perfect world I looked toward the United States with eyes kindled by the fire of ambition and heart quickened with 2. The hikes were so fun new-born hope. 3. The balance of church and sports was perfect I approached its gates with great expectation. 4. Conocí muchos niños y niñas que se volvieron mis amigos I entered in with fine hope. 5. I didn’t want to come back! I have shouldered my burden as the American 6. Afternoons at the pool were awesome man-of-all work. 7. I like that I could go with all the other kids from church I contribute eighty-five per cent of all the labor in 8. We learned about God AND we had fun the slaughtering and meat-packing industries. 9. ¡Quiero regresar el año que entra! I do seven-tenths of the bituminous coal mining. 10. Our counselors were super cool! I do seventy-eight per cent of all the work in the woolen mills. Iglesia Hermandad Cristiana extends a big thank you to the Christian Church in I contribute nine-tenths of all the labor in the Indiana for granting scholarship funds so our kids were able to have this amazing cotton mills. experience. The generous giving of every congregation has made a huge impact in the lives of this younger generation. ¡Gracias! † I make nineteen-twentieths of all the clothing. I manufacture more than half the shoes. I build four-fifths of all the furniture. I make half of the collars, cuffs and shirts. I turn out four-fifths of all the leather. I make half the gloves. I refine nearly nineteen-twentieths of the sugar. I make half of the tobacco and cigars. And yet, I am the great American problem. When I pour out my blood on your altar of labor, and lay down my life as a scarifice to your god of toil, men make no more comment than at the fall of a sparrow. But my brawn is woven into a warp and woof of the fabric of your national being. My children shall be your children and your land shall be my land, because my sweat and my blood will cement the foundations of the America of tomorrow. If I can be fused into the body politic, the melting pot will have stood the supreme test.