are the xper1ences of a Lifetime! The Brethren Homes of the Atlantic Northeast District invite you to explore the care and refreshing lifestyles at your doorstep ...

"Life as good as it " We enjoy living at "Living at Peter Becker can get! - in a relaxed, Brethren Village because Community offers us care - free, attractive it provides choices for us the opportunity to meet environment among to iive in an upbeat well- new Christian friends congenial contempo- managed, caring, Christ - with similar interests. raries, supported by centered community of We have peace of mind Christian love and persons from diverse knowing all our needs service. Praise God! " backgrounds." will be met."

- FRANK & DOROTHY HORST · CURTIS & ANNA MARY DUBBLE · WILMER & RUTH HARTLEY

Lebanon Valley ~q¼~,, ~ Perer Brethren Home R E TIR EM E NT C O M M U N I TY Becker 3001 Lititz Pike Community 1200 Grubb Slleet ~ Palmyra, PA 17078 POBox5093 800 Maple Avenue (717) 838- 5406 Lancaster, PA 17606 Harleysville, PA 19438 G:r (717) 569-2657 (215) 256-9501 --OPPORTUNITY NOVEMBER 2000 VOL.149 NO.10 WWW.BRETHREN.ORG

Editor: Fletcher Farrar Publisher: Wendy McFadden News: Walt Wiltschek Advertising: Russ Matteson Subscriptions: Peggy Reinacher Design: Cedar House Design

ONTHECOVER 10 John Kline rides again Each year the Elder John Kline Memorial Riders retrace It takes but little stretch of the imagination to see the some of the hoofmarks of the famous 19th-century cover painting as a symbol of the community of Christ. minister who logged 100,000 miles on horseback Candlelighting, no less, in honor of the One who said to visiting Brethren. This year's travel through time was in his followers, "You are the light of the world" (Matt. 5:14). western Pennsylvania. Artist Young June Lew, a Korean Christian residing in \, ',,,., San Francisco, titles her mixed media painting "Time." The title serves to remind us who bear the Christlight 'f '}N O.Vl ./hi L~½\- a\- #it Woi!A today that we are not alone; we stand with a vast company of believers, including the faithful who have 14 The inward journey gone before. The first of this month's cluster of articles on spiritual To look at what it means to be light in the proverbial sea formation describes the programs, publications, and of darkness and to nurture the bearers of light, MESSENGER events that have grown out of the General Board's provides a cluster of articles on spiritual formation. The emphasis on the spiritual life. An accompanying article stories and testimonies provide grist to congregations for recommends books for spiritual growth. lifting up the theme of light for Advent and for inviting support for the Christmas Offering for General Board 16 Seven symptoms of wellness Ministries. Presented as a color insert, this artistic meditation uses Rich and wondrous as light is as a symbol, we who are text by Paul Grout and photography by Glenn Mitchell to committed to following Jesus do well to remember our evoke the joy of life with God. Design is by Cedar House. own little light is not the source of light, but only a reflection of the Light. And given that our light is forever 18 Spirituality for the young diminishing, forever in need of tending, how crucial it is Preparing youth for a private devotional life leads adults to that we turn again and again to the Source from whom all model prayer, meditation on scripture, and quiet reflection. light springs.-Howard Royer 20 Finding God in the everyday Our prayers often happen in the midst of daily routine. Four Brethren share glimpses of how they seek and know God's blessing.

DEPARTMENTS

2 From the Publisher 3 In Touch 24 National Older Adult Conference 6 News 33 Letters There were 1,050 Brethren over 50 at Lake Junaluska, N.C., 35 Turning Points in September for the fifth National Older Adult Conference, 36 Editorial sponsored by the Association of Brethren Caregivers. "We're branches on a vine," Marva Dawn told participants. "If you don't stay stuck, you don't bear much fruit."

Messenger November 2000 - How to reach us

MESSENGER 1451 Dundee Avenue Elgin, IL 60120

Subscriptions: FROM THE PUBLISHER preinacher_ [email protected] Phone: 847-742-5100 Fax: 847-742-6103 n many quarters it's now more popular to talk about spirituality than about religion. For these people, religion carries all the connotations of shoulds and Display advertising: oughts, of rules and rigidity, of institutions marred by hypocrisy and other rmatteson_ gb @brethren.org I Phone: 800-323-8039 human imperfections. Spirituality, on the other hand, is more like those websites that customize themselves to you once you've registered. It's a make-your-own­ Fax: 847-742-1407 Sunday bar, where you pick and choose whatever elements are cool for you. At least Editorial: that appears to be the case for a growing number of people in the US . ffarrar [email protected] "Spirituality is religion with all the things you don't like about religion taken Phone: 217-525-9083 out," was Martin Marty's wry observation at a conference I attended last spring. Fax: 217-525-9269 Because "spirituality" is so vague (as evidenced by the eclectic, even wacky, set of titles in this section of your local bookstore) , the term doesn' t appeal to every­ Subscription rates: body. Some assume it's just a synonym for New Age. (Actually, the rise of $16.50 individual rate "spirituality lite" in the 1980s and 1990s has given way to books with considerably $13 .50 church group plan more depth and breadth, notes Publishers Weekly.) $13 .50 gift subscriptions But spirituality belonged to the church before it belonged to the booksellers, and we would do well to explore what the interest in spirituality means. Pollster If you move, clip address label and send with new address to George Gallup has researched this individualistic spiritual questing, and says, M ESSENGER Subscriptions, at "Americans are seeking something more meaningful, deeper, and healthier. I think it the above address. Allow at least stems in part from what they perceive to be a failure of materialism in (the 20th) five weeks fo r address change. century and the fact that there are so many problems that surround us without apparent solutions .... The surge in this desire for spiritual growth is perhaps one of Connect electronically: the most dramatic movements of the 20th century." For a free subscription to Among Gallup's findings, reported in Surveying the Religious Landscape (More­ Newsline, the Church house Publishing): 1) More than 80 percent of Americans desire to grow spiritually. of the Brethren e-mail news 2) There is a glaring lack of knowledge about the Bible, basic doctrines, and the tra­ report, write [email protected]. ditions of one's own religion. 3) Too often the faith professed is superficial, with people not knowing what they believe or why. To view the official Church of the Brethren website, go to Sociologist Wade Clark Roof has also studied religion in America. His book http://www.brethren.org. Spiritual Marketplace: Baby Boomers and the Remaking of American Religion (Princeton) concludes that "while religion may be losing some of its influence in public life, spirituality is becoming a more important component of people's per­ sonal lives." When Oprah Winfrey debuted her new magazine 0, one media critic who noted that the magazine makes spirituality its centerpiece concluded: "O will likely end up being more for people who like the idea of spirituality and change, who want to be associated with these things, without necessarily treating it as scripture." It's hard to compete with the glitzy spirituality so prevalent in our culture, but MESSENGER is the offi cial publication of the Church perhaps the best response is to strengthen our own spirituality, forming it daily of the Breth ren. Entered as periodieal postage matter Aug. 20, 1918, und er Act of Congress of Oct. 17, through closer communion with God and a faith that is lived out by modeling our 1917 . Filing date, Nov. 1, 1984. Me mb er of th e lives after Jesus. The spiritual questing around us is a search for something authen­ Associated Church Press . Subsc riber to Rel igion tic. I trust that our congregations can speak the simple language of authenticity News Service & Ecume nical Press Service. Biblical better than any magazine ( even this one). qu otations, unl ess otherwise indica te d, are fr om the New Rev ised Standa rd Ve rsion. MESSENG ER is published 11 times a yea r by Brethren Press, Church of the Brethren General Board. Periodical postage paid at Elgin, Ill ., and at additional maili ng offi ce, Nove mber 2000. Copyright 2000, Church of th e Brethren General Board . ISSN 0026-0355 . Postm aster: Send ad dress cha nges to MESSE NGER, 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.

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- Messenger November 2000 IN TOUCH

Dirty cars meet was given a small card God's love with the church's name, address, and "Who's taking the phone number. donations?" Everyone was sent "No one. We're not off with "Have a good accepting donations." day" and a big smile, "What! You've got and they left with a to accept donations." smile of their own. "We just want to -Lester Boleyn show that God loves you, and that God's Kelsey Vost brings love is free." home the gold This was the conver­ saton repeated in some Twelve-year-old Kelsey form many times on Yost, a member of the Sept. 2 as members of Ridgeway Community the Living Stone Church Church of the of the Brethren, Cum­ Brethren, Harrisburg, berland, Md., washed Pa., returned home cars-for FREE. from California as a Seventeen adults national record-break­ and children washed ing athlete. She won 45-plus cars in three five gold medals in hours between 9 a.m. swimming and archery and noon-that's one events at the Junior car every four minutes. National Wheelchair Many drivers had a Championships, held hard time believing in San Jose. The event that the group actually drew 200 young ath­ didn't want anything letes from 32 states for their services, not and several countries. even a donation. As Kelsey is affected by cars were being wiped spina bifida, one of the dry, some drivers got most common dis­ Bookmark benefactors: Ansley Crull, left, and Kelly Remnant. out and wanted to talk. abling birth defects. Some asked about the Kelsey, whose photo­ How bookmarks help people in need church, and each driver graph was on the October 1995 cover of Summer is a wonderful time for the entrepreneurial spirit of children to kick MESSENGER, was the in. Many children opt to set up lemonade stands, but Kelly Remnant and subject of a re_cent fea­ Ansley Crull were looking for something different. They chose to make ture article in the bookmarks instead. While designing, cutting, coloring, and decorating their Harrisburg Patriot­ bookmarks, they discussed what to do with their proceeds and decided to News. Her father, Don donate the money to people in need. They made a sign and set up a table Yost, told the newspa­ along East College Street, just down the street from Bridgewater College, per his daughter's and began to sell. People stopped to purchase the bookmarks at a price of determination is an 25 cents each. When they were done, the girls had collected a total of $16. inspiration. He said, "If Ansley, who attends the Spring Creek Church of the Nazarene in you are born without Bridgewater, donated her share to church missions. Kelly, of the Bridgewa­ something, it seems ter Church of the Brethren, decided to put her share of the money into the like God gives you 2-Cent Club Offering, collected every second Sunday of the month. At 2 something else to cents a meal, her contribution of $8 is equivalent to 400 meals!-Robert Alley make up for it."

Messenger November 2000 - INTOUCH

Elizabethtown Greenville, Ohio, co-pastor Joyce died unexpectedly Stoltzfus learns to Sept. 4. He was a know one of the young member of West patients of Or. Hilcias Charleston Church of Ricardo. the Brethren, Tipp City, Ohio. Russ was signifi­ cantly involved in Champaign the creation of the marks centennial Resident Aid Fund to assist residents The Champaign (Ill.) of The Brethren's Church of the Home during its Brethren will cele­ financial reorgan­ brate its 100th ization from 1976 to anniversary Nov. 19. 1982. He also served A century ago several 11 years on its board Church of the of trustees, the last Brethren families seven years as chair. began to meet infor­ Owen Shankster, mally in homes for of Roann, Ind., fellowship and Bible died Sept. 5. Known study. Later, space as a builder and was rented in adjoin­ manager of the wells ing Urbana, and then program in Nigeria, there were tent meet­ Owen had retired ings as the interest from General Board ~ and ministries grew. mission service in -g: The Brethren bought 1991 after serving ~ property on Market 41 years. ~ Street in Champaign, Dorothy G. Murray, the fastest growing 84, died Aug. 24 at area of the city. The her home in Elizabethtown talDominican Republic constructed in 1950. book This is Stevie's The anniversary Story was for many Fourteen members of the Elizabethtown (Pa.) Church of the Brethren have celebration theme is years the guide returned from a 10-day intergenerational workcamp in the Dominican "Keeping on in the given by the National Republic. They went to work, but also to get to know the members of the Spirit of the Lord." Association for emerging Church of the Brethren there. The church is served Retarded Citizens to The congregation's special ties to the people of the DR began a year by a pastoral team of parents of r~tarded ago when the congregation took on the financial support of a Dominican James and Mary children. She also physician, Dr. Hilcias Ricardo, who offered to work among the poorest of Houff, Paul Kohler, wrote Sister Anna, a the poor in her land-illegal Haitian refugees who came as sugar cane and Rex Richardson. biography of Anna workers. (See "A medical doctor with a mission," April.) Mow, published by To prepare for the workcamp, participants studied Spanish one day a Brethren Press. A week for several months, taught by Sheila Rodriguez, a member of the member of the church and a Spanish teacher at Elizabethtown College. Remembered Cloverdale (Va.) Dr. Ricardo took the group by burro and horseback to one of the distant Church of the Haitian villages where she has a weekly clinic. Russ Flora, chair of Brethren, she served Ralph Detrick, co-pastor of the Elizabethtown church, preached in the board of on the General Board Spanish on Sunday in Dr. Ricardo's home church, Peniel, in Santo Brethren Retirement and on Standing Domingo.-Wayne Zunkel Community, Committee.

Messenger November 2000 Elmer Frantz, a member of the Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren, The Ridin' Rev' Brighton, Ind. Nick­ Littleton, Colo., pictured here with his granddaughter, Caitlin Frantz, preaches to named "The Ridin' receiving an Outstanding Volunteer Award from Jan West Schrock, director bicyclists Rev,"' Barkey chal­ of church-community relations for Heifer Project International. lenged the youth to be More than 1,100 bicy­ "Dan Henrys," mark­ clists took part in the ers along the road, for others. He based his 1 Amish Land and Lakes Hymns for Heifers• gathers a unique Michiana bicycle tour message on Hebrews men's chorus to benefit Heifer Project in September, and 60 12, in which Paul of them attended the admonishes the Chris­ A men's chorus sang "Hymns for Heifers" at a benefit concert for Heifer first Sunday morning tians to run the race Project International in Greeley, Colo., Aug. 27. An enthusiastic audience worship service offered set before them. responded with generous applause and the choir's rendition of "Angels in the annual event. -Wanda Yoder Rolled the Stone Away" earned a standing ovation. The service was What has been dubbed the Rocky Mountain Men's Chorus-made up of planned by Ray men from across Colorado and neighboring states-is already considering Barkey, a bicyclist and another benefit concert next year. pastor of English Organizers Elmer and Dan Frantz-Elmer a long-term volunteer for Prairie Church of HPI and his son Dan, also a music director in Greeley-were encour­ the Brethren, aged by the response and want to widen the welcome of the chorus next year. A variety of faith backgrounds were represented, including Church of the Brethren congregations in Littleton and Windsor, Colo., as well as Lutherans, Mennonites, United Church of Christ, and Latter­ Day Saints. During the concert, HPI recognized Elmer Frantz for years of vol­ unteer work spreading the word about Heifer Project. Jan Schrock, daughter of HPI founder Dan West and a former director of Brethren Volunteer Service, was present to give the award. - Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford

Messenger November 2000 - NEWS

Jerry Naff of Boones Mill, Va., and Earl Traughber, Idaho district executive, discuss visions for church planting during a mid­ September seminar on the topic in Ashland, Ohio. The seminar was sponsored by the General Board's Congregational Life Ministries office and New Church Development Advisory Committee.

Seminar teaches tools rial into four full days. A look at the various for church planting dimensions of one's spiritual journey, postmod­ ernism, and ministry philosophy was followed Nearly five dozen Church of the Brethren pas­ by 13 principles of church planting. tors, district executives, and others interested in "I think we've had some excellent presenta­ new church development gathered Sept. 17-21 at tions here," said Marianne Pittman of Ashland (Ohio) Theological Seminary for an Blacksburg, Va., a member of the advisory com­ intense training program in church planting. mittee. "They've done an excellent job, I think, of The event was sponsored by the General covering a variety of very important issues in a Board's Congregational Life Ministries Office and short time." New Church Development Advisory Committee. Several people said they thought the event They offered full scholarships to two members of was a good use of the General Board's resources each district (most of which were represented), and wished there would be more such opportu­ and several districts sent additional people at nities and emphasis; some said they wished their own expense. such training could be offered within a Church of Members of the Ashland faculty who special­ the Brethren theology. Pittman said the commit­ ize in church planting and leadership issues led tee will be exploring the possibilities for ongoing the event, which packed a large amount of mate- training.

Volunteer teachers to effort of the General Board's tors Jerry and Becky Crouse. begin work at Brethren Global Mission Partnerships Sally Jo Caracheo of Elgin, Office, BVS, the Dominican 111., who has worked in the Mission House Brethren, and Brethren Revival Dominican Republic previously, Fellowship, with a main focus will serve as teacher Five members of Brethren Vol­ of teaching English as a trainer/coordinator. Daniel unteer Service unit 240 are second language. Earl and Bar­ Greenawalt of Harrisonburg, forming the first group of vol­ bara Eby arrived there from Va.; Denise Negley of Green­ unteers at the Brethren Mission Pennsylvania earlier this castle, Pa.; Kenda Negley of House in Azua, Dominican summer to serve a three-year Mercersburg, Pa.; and Jewel Republic. term as "house parents," Sheeler of Newville, Va., will be The new project is a joint reporting to mission coordina- English teachers.

- Messenger November 2000 Brethren Witness office UPCOMINGEVENTS announces 2001 trips Oct. 26-Nov. 3 The General Board's Brethren Brethren Witness Faith Witness office has announced Expedition to Honduras, dates for Faith Expeditions to women's delegation Central America and the Nov. 3-4 Shenandoah Caribbean for the coming District Conference, year. The trips invite Brethren Bridgewater (Va.) Chu rch of to grow in their faith while the Brethren learning about peace, justice, and environmental realities Nov. 3-5 Illinois and around the world. Trips are as Wisconsin District follows: Conference, Virden (I ll.) • Jan. 8-18: Up to 15 Brethren Church of the Brethren will travel to Belize and Nov. 5 National Junior Guatemala for an environment­ High Sunday oriented trip. Leadership will be provided by former Brethren Nov. 10-11 Virlina Volunteer Service workers More than 150 Dominican Brethren gathered on Sept. 76 District Conference, Samantha Morris and Robert for the dedication of the new San Jose Christ, the True One Fran klin Heights Baptist Stiles. church, built with the help of the Indian Creek Church of Church, Rocky Mount, Va. • May 7-17: Jerry and Becky the Brethren (Harleysville, Pa.). It is part of a growing Crouse of the General Board's ministry in the Caribbean nation through the General Nov. 12-15 Outdoor Global Mission Partnerships Board's Global Mission Partnerships. Ministries Association National Conference, staff will host a learning tour to Camp Mack, M ilford, Ind. the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Focus will be on social Nov. 17-18 Brethren justice issues facing Christians Expeditions include a willing­ Cuban Council of Churches, Benefit Trust board and others in these Caribbean ness to grow in faith, a respect an eight-member National meetings nations. for other cultures, openness Council of Churches delega­ • June 13-22: A Guatemala for adventure, and willingness tion packed 12- to 15-hou r Nov. 18 National Youth delegation will be led by Tom to endure very basic living days with visits to four over­ Ministry Workshop, Chambersburg (Pa.) Church Benevento of the Global Mis­ conditions. Approximate cost flowing Havana churches and of the Brethren sion Partnerships office. This is $200-$400 plus airfare. Spe­ the dynamic, ecumenical experience will have an envi­ cial scholarships are available Matanzas Theological Semi­ Nov. 29-Dec. 1 ronmental education focus, but for youth and young adults. nary. They also toured a Ecumenical event on will also deal with social justice Contact the Brethren Witness polyclinic, a center for chil­ "Stewardship: A concerns and visit Brethren­ office for more details, 800- dren and adults with Downs Celebration of Grace," supported development 323-8039, ext. 228. Syndrome, and the Latin Ft. Lauderdale, Fl a. Ca ll projects. American School of Medicine. 800-835-5671 • June 18-27: Brethren will They held a cordial, first­ Dec. 10 Christmas return to the southern coast of ever NCC delegation meeting offering emphasis Honduras for the third year in a NCC delegation with Roman Catholic Cardinal row to live and work in a poor makes visit to Cuba Jaime Ortega, had two work­ rural community. Participants ing sessions with Cuban will visit villages where Global The Cuban and US national church leaders, met with rep­ Food Crisis Fund grants have ecumenical councils met in resentatives of both the supported small livestock pro­ Cuba Sept. 2-7 to consider Cuban and US governments, jects for women's groups. "what's next?" in their relation­ and delivered 1,500 Church Brethren Witness director ship that has held fast for more World Service "Gifts of the David Radcliff will lead the trip. than 40 years. Heart" School Kits for primary Requirements for all Faith Invited and hosted by the school pupils.

Messenger November 2000 - NEWS

Red Cross office plans administration. The Peace Place. OEPA closed move to New Windsor "Emergency Response/Ser­ the bookstore as of Sept. 30, vice Ministries has had a and the agency's offices will move into the campus' Blue A new tenant is expected soon working relationship with the Ridge Building as of Nov. 1. at the Brethren Service Center national office of the American The Red Cross office is in New Windsor, Md. Red Cross for many years in moving from an existing office The Carroll County (Md.) Dis­ disaster response and disaster in nearby Westminster. Its trict of the American Red Cross child care," said Stan Noff­ blood donation program will announced in late September singer, director of the Brethren BRETHRENSPEAI< continue to operate there. that it would be opening a full­ Service Center. "The Carroll service office there in County Red Cross office is a Know that the November, pending final wonderful and welcomed addi­ agreement on the terms of the tion to our community." McCullough becomes Sudanese lease. The space will be used The Red Cross will be utiliz­ new director of CWS churches hold for health and safety classes, ing space in the lower level of board and disaster team meet­ Windsor Hall, formerly occu­ The Rev. John L. McCullough of the Church of ings, for volunteers to meet pied by On Earth Peace Montclair, N.J., was named the and work, and for general Assembly and its bookstore, new executive director for the Brethren in Church World Service Inc., fol­ lowing a unanimous vote by the high regard and CWS board of directors Sept. 13. YOUTH BEAT McCullough had served since are extremely June 1 as interim director and The General Board's Youth/Young Adult Office has announced previously was associate gen­ several new resources and events for the coming year: thankful for our eral secretary of the United long and warm • The junior high ministry theme for 2000-01 is "Find your Methodist Church General place in this world," based on Ephesians 1:11 in The Message. A Board of Global Ministries. He relationship. packet of materials on the theme is available to use on Junior succeeds the Rev. Dr. Rodney I. High Sunday, Nov. 5, as well as a poster to display the theme. Page, who retired May 31.

• The senior high ministry theme for 2001 is "Be an example," Mark Sloan, working with based on I Timothy 4:12. Resource materials will be sent out the New Sudan Council of early in 2001. Personnel changes Churches through the Allen Hansell, director of min­ General Board. • An application form is available for the 2001 Youth Peace Travel Team, which will be composed of four youth/young adults istry for the Church of the age 16-22. Applications are due Jan. 1. Brethren General Board, has announced his retirement effec­ • Flyers are out for the 2001 National Youth Christian Citizen­ tive Dec. 31. ship Seminar, March 31-April 5 in New York and Washington, He will continue serving in D.C., with the theme "No Fear: Overcoming Violence in Our the position through Dec. 31, Communities, Our Nation, and Our World"; and for the 2001 2001, however, donating most Young Adult Conference, May 26-28 at Brethren Woods in of his salary to specia! General Keezletown, Va., led by Paul Grout. Board projects for ministerial • Additional programs are also being planned as part of the leadership. Hansell said he "God-Centered Life" youth spirituality project. A retreat for wanted to encourage other youth advisors will be held March 9-11 at Shepherd's Spring retirees to stay active in the Outdoor Ministries Center in Sharpsburg, Md., and a week-long church and to find ways to spirituality camp for youth will be July 29-Aug. 4 at Camp Mack continue to serve. in Milford, Ind. Hansell began as director of ministry in October 1997 after •Anew membership curriculum called Heart, Soul, and Mind: three decades as a pastor and Becoming a Member of the Church of the Brethren, usable by district executive minister. He any age group but particularly geared toward youth in grades will continue to maintain an 6-12, is also now available through Brethren Press. office in Elizabethtown, Pa.

- Messenger November 2000 1. Guatemala. The General Board's Global Food Crisis Fund sent $15,000 to the Central American nation in September, earmarked to help fami­ lies build wood-conserving stoves and water-storing cisterns in the Huehuetenango region. It's the third grant for the project in two years.

2. Nigeria. President Bill Clinton visited in late summer to encourage the country's new democratic govern­ ment. John Tubbs, who serves as Global Mission Partnerships' mission co-coordinator in Nigeria, said, tion. The funds were raised through 8. Dominican Republic. A new alloca­ "Everybody in Nigeria, except for a the "If a Tree Falls" campaign and tion of $13,785 from the General few critics perhaps, is very happy with should purchase more than 30 acres. Board's Global Food Crisis Fund will Clinton's visit. They are saying that he aid COTEDO, a Church of the Brethren has made the world aware of Nigeria." 6. Sudan. A recent report from the US partner agency, in a project to obtain Committee for Refugees indicates that birth certificates for children born of 3. Eritrea. The horn of Africa received more than 10 percent of the world's Haitian parentage in the Dominican­ an allocation of $5,000 from the Gen­ estimated 35 million uprooted people necessary to receive public education eral Board's Emergency Disaster are in the African nation, engaged in a and health care. Fund, designated to help the Eritrean lengthy civil war. Development Association ship medi­ 9. Franklin, Va. A special ceremony cines and medical supplies to Eritrea. 7. Bridgewater, Va. Bridgewater in mid-September honored the Many people have been displaced by College dedicated its new Carter many volunteers who helped with an ongoing war with Ethiopia. Center for Worship and Music on Hurricane Floyd cleanup in the area Sept. 24, housed in the former during the past year. A new statue 4. Angelus Oaks, Calif. Brethren Bridgewater Church of the Brethren was unveiled on a corner that had Volunteer Service Unit 241 held ori­ building after renovations. The been under 22 feet of water a year entation at Camp La Verne Sept. 17- building will house the music de­ earlier. Church of the Brethren dis­ 0ct. 7. Twenty people participated in partment and church relations and aster relief had an ongoing project the unit, preparing to head out to a chaplain's offices. in the Franklin area. variety of projects.

5. Belize. The Brethren Witness office of the General Board sent $4,000 to the Eden Conservancy, an initiative to purchase and preserve threatened rainforest in the Central American na-

Brethren Volunteer Service orientation coordinator Sue Grubb and orientation assistant Tracy Stoddart traveled to Hiroshima, Japan, in August to meet with Allan and Vercey Smyth, BVS workers who are serving as co-directors of the World Friendship Center there. Grubb and Stoddart also attended ceremonies for remembering the 55th anniversary of the dropping of the atomic bomb.

Messenger November 2000. A DAY WITH THE ohn Kline riders Paying homage to a horseback preacher, this year's ride visits two churches that hosted seven Annual Meetings

by Emmert F. Bittinger This ride went through historic communicants. An Amish businessman Brethren lands located in the southeast­ now uses it as a pallet factory. ach spring, the Elder John Kline ern part of Somerset County, Pa. The The fame and importance of these Memorial Riders take a few days Pennsylvania towns of Salisbury, Mey­ two congregations is revealed in the Eto retrace one of the famous min - ersdale, and Berlin are at the heart of fact that they hosted a total of seven ister' s historic trips. Between 183 5 and two early Brethren settlements, one on Annual Meetings during the 19th Cen­ 1864 he covered 100,000 miles on the Casselman River and the other on tury-1811, 1821, 1841, 1849, 1859, horseback visiting scattered Brethren the Glades. Both date into the 1 700s. 1873, and 1894. families in several eastern states. He The ride would take us through the Elder John Kline attended the con­ made 66 trips to West Virginia and 1 9 river settlement in the Salisbury and ference in 1849 at the Grove church visits to Pennsylvania, keeping a daily Summit Mills sections. The Brethren near Berlin and one in 1859 at Summit record of miles traveled, families vis­ arrived here by 1 783 and John Keagy Mills. In 1869, Elder Holsinger ited, and services held. was elected minister. This pioneer con - presided over a love feast in Summit This year, our ride began on June 9, gregation was called Elk Lick. Bound Mills with 3,000 people present. 2000. We visited the Maple Grove, Sal­ by a strong tradition of worship in After a hearty breakfast on June 10 isbury, Beachdale, and Brothersvalley Brethren homes, they did not build provided by the friendly people at the churches, as well as the building that their first meetinghouse until 1846 at Salisbury church, our 1 7 riders set out housed the former Summit Mills con­ Summit Mills, three miles west of Mey­ northward along the Casselman River gregation, all in Pennsylvania. Services ersdale. This was the mother church of to Boynton and then Summit Mills. To honoring Kline were held by the riders Elk Lick. It was a marvel of wood con - our left and west of Salisbury lay the each evening and on Sunday morning. struction and could serve 680 lands of Brethren minister Peter Liven-

-~~ss~~ger November 2000 good (1730-1826) and his neighbor, day. At the end of each day he still had short by an assassin's bullet in 1864, minister John Hendrick. On the right energy left to hold services in some one of the tragic consequences lay the Lichty farm. The homes of mountain home where neighbors had of the violent emotions stirred these early ministers served as meeting gathered. He appears universally loved up by the Civil War. m places for the Brethren. and admired. At the top of Tipton Hill on Pleasant In his final years, he served as Emmert Bittinge r of Bridgewater, Va., retired from teach­ View Road, we came to the farm of moderator of Annual Meeting four ing at Bridgewater College, has authored many articles Elder John Keagy (1746-1806), Elk times. His life was prematurely cut on church and family hi story. Lick's first elected minister. Later, the farm was in the possession of Bishop John Buechly/Beechly, an elder of Summit Mills. The Annual Meeting of 1811 was held on this farm, hosted by Elder Buechly. Elder John Kline visited • • this farm on several occasions, spend­ ing nights there during the conference ll1 dtt,-. of 1859 with David Buechly/ Beeghly, mt...__,. then owner. At the northern edge of Summit Mills, we came to the Grace Brethren . . . ON PRAYER church on the left. Looking northward from the parking lot, we could see the Prayer time, prayer discipline, prayer life, prayer rug. Prayer large old Summit Mills church. Ju st beyond were the farm buildings of space, prayers for the journ ey, pray ing the Bible, learning to pray. minister William Miller, now owned by Prayers for worship, prayer at home, prayers f or ch ildren, prayers the Amish Breneman family. These buildings accommodated the Annual f or those who are dy ing. "Pray without ceasing," pray in solitude, pray aloud, pray in Meeting of 1841 . The Annual Meeting silence. Just pray 1A lways pray 1 Pray to day! of 1859 also used these farm buildings along with the meetinghouse. The sermon John Kline preached at this This n ewest congregational resource from the G en eral Board's conference is preserved in his diary. .. .in our midst series, provides ample opportunity for congregations The next day was Sunday, and our riders provided a John Kline service at to explore the world of prayer. The resource provides; lectionary the Brothersvalley church. Before the praye r res ources for the season of Epiphany, prayers for service, the people waited on the church lawn for the arrival of two riders, Elder congregational life, suggestions for individual p rayer practices, John Kline and traveling companion prayers for and about children and youth, a ligh ter-hearted look at Elder Daniel Thomas, impersonated by Emmert Bittinger and Fred Garber. prayer, and a sample study session on prayer. Our riders have developed deep respect for Elder John Kline. After fol­ Other resources in the ... in our midst series include: lowing several of his mountain routes, • Spiritual Growth we agree that he and his faithful horse • Mission Education Nell seem totally impervious to fatigue, weather, and all trials. Exhausted after • Children & Violence only 20 miles in 90-degree heat, we • Lent & Easter Resources found it difficult to imagine his travels • Ministerial Leadership from Virginia into Maryland and Penn - sylvania, covering 30 or 40 miles each To order additional copies

Messenger November 2000 Ill

New efforts to foster spiritual formation

by Wendy McFadden earthly life of Jesus. The J2K emphasis is but one way the Gen­ It feels like a long time ago, but just last year eral Board is working at spiritual formation. In everyone was caught up in the frenzy about the Christmas Offering Emphasis, the board is Y2K. People were focused on survival, the encouraging congregations to lift up and sup­ Ultimately, threat of chaos, fear of technology run amok, port the work in this important but and the end times. sometimes-overlooked area. spiritual In the shadow of the impending disaster, the What is spiritual formation? It's going formation Church of the Brethren General Board decided to beyond the initial decision to follow Jesus. It's reclaim the moment as the birthday of Jesus and discipleship. It's growing in faith. It's about means being to use the occasion to deepen our spiritual roots. depth, not just breadth. It's about being as well shaped by It seemed more faithful to turn toward God as our as doing, and vice versa. never-failing source of strength than to become It has more to do with the inward journey script ure and by obsessed about the limitations of computers. than the outward, says Glenn Timmons, direc­ spiritual As the year 2000 draws to a close, it's clear tor of the General Board's Congregational Life that the Church of the Brethren has embraced Ministries unit. "Hopefully, the inward journey practices, and this counter-cultural way of looking at the calen­ shapes the outward. trying to form dar: Under the banner of "J2K," a number of "We as Brethren know how to address the congregations and districts have adopted "New question of what or how," Timmons adds, "but our lives after Hope, New Day" as their own theme. Many indi­ we don't always know how to address the why. the likeness of viduals are using the daily scriptures and prayer Spiritual formation will help people ground reminders, and congregations are taking special their lives in traditional spiritual practices." Christ. offerings. The year culminates with a conference For Timmons this search for more ground­ on "Speaking ofJesus" (see sidebar p. 16). edness is as close to home as himself, for whom But the observance doesn't end with the year spiritual formation is a "personal corrective," 2000. Congregations have been encouraged to and as far-flung as the world around us. "I create time capsules that will be opened in think the last 50 years of uprootedness of the 2033, after a span of time that represents the culture has increased the need for rooting and

II Messenger November 2000 Conferences and also communicates via a list­ serv (a forum for communicating through electronic mail). The networking provides useful interaction among people with a common calling, highlights for the denomina­ tion "what is often a rather invisible group," and provides a sounding board for staff. "Spiritual A higher-profile endeavor is Worshipful­ formation begins Work, a CLM effort inspired by Chuck Olsen's book Transforming Church Boards into Spiri­ more with God tual Leaders. Worshipful-Work uses the four than with 'my components of storytelling, biblical reflection and study, prayerful discernment, and "vision­ need.' It involves ing the future" to bring more discernment into listening to God decisionmaking. CLM has trained about 65 people across the more than denomination who are on call to help congrega­ speaking to God. tions begin to incorporate these elements into their decisionmaking processes. CLM not only Revitalization funded the training, but has made available begins with additional funds to cover mileage and other grounding. When spirituality makes the cover expenses of trainers. transformation of of major secular magazines, something's going This style of decisionmaking begins with dif­ a people, on in the culture-even if it's not a particularly ferent assumptions, says Timmons. "Do you Christian form of spirituality." begin with the question of what God would assuming that the Ultimately, spiritual formation means being yearn for the church, or what we would like for change is of God shaped by scripture and by spiritual practices, and the church? What is the mind of Christ?" trying to form our lives after the likeness of Christ. Use of this new resource has varied from rather than some "Spiritual formation begins more with God than district to district, but Timmons sees from con­ human effort," with 'my need,"' says Timmons. "It involves listen ­ gregational and district newsletters that a ing to God more than speaking to God." number of groups are adopting elements of says Glenn Spiritual formation is one of the emphases Worshipful-Work. "Some of those are very cre­ Timmons. of Congregational Life Ministries, and is borne ative," says Timmons. He adds that these out in a number of ways. Congregational Life spiritual practices "are best done when they Team members who are working with congre­ don't call attention to themselves." gations on a long-term basis are building into A host of printed materials from Brethren the revitalization process some form of spiritual Press and other offices of the General Board development "almost as a prerequisite," on the also nurture spiritual formation. The first in the basis that revitalization is more than rearrang­ In Our Midst series of congregational resources ing the church or doing a new program. was on spiritual growth; the sixth in the series, "Revitalization begins with transformation of soon to be released, is on prayer. The Lenten a people, assuming that the change is of God bulletins in the 2001 Church of the Brethren rather than some human effort," says Timmons. bulletin series feature seven paintings from Paul Another quiet effort of Congregational Life Grout's "Stations of the Resurrection," provid­ Ministries is development of a spiritual direc­ ing a unique focus for meditation during the tors network, a group of about 35 people who weeks leading up to Easter. A new book titled have either completed or are involved in a certi­ The Love Feast, a treasury of images and words fication program in spiritual direction. The just published in July, provides a way for group has gathered at the past two Annual Brethren to reflect on the way this profound

Messenger Nov ember 2000111111 Underlining the ordinance shapes our identity. The board's leadership in spiritual for­ And a key resource for shaping the next mation is no accident, but rather was General Board's generation of Brethren is Heart, Soul, and, identified three years ago as one of its varied contributions Mind a comprehensive membership curricu­ goals. The board has sought to establish its lum from Brethren Press. While the materials own balance between the inward and the to spiritual formation are designed to convey basic information outward, and invites congregations and within the Church of about the Bible, church history, Brethren individuals to seek that balance as well. belief, and church membership, more impor­ Underlining the General Board's varied the Brethren is its tantly they guide learners through a careful contributions to spiritual formation within own vision statement, and deliberate process that involves wrestling the Church of the Brethren is its own vision with questions about faith, being mentored, statement, "Of God, for God, with God." "Of God, for God, and serving in an apprenticeship program. The words emerged to a small planning with God." "The Brethren commitment to disciple­ group made up of board members and ship is, at its heart, a commitment to staff, who held a spiritual retreat marked by growth with God," says the leader's guide Bible study, prayer, and discernment. for Heart, Soul, and Mind. "Therefore, the Rich in their simplicity, the words serve outward disciplines of mutual aid, service, as a touchstone for all the General Board's relief work, and the peace testimony serve ministries- those that visibly serve the world to balance the inward disciplines of study, around us and those that nurture our worship, and prayer. All the disciplines, own souls so that we are ever more inward and outward, are the outgrowth of faithful followers of Jesus Christ. m a relationship with God and not the worth­ less effort to earn God's grace" (p . 110). Wendy McFadden is director and publisher of Brethren Press. JOYCE RUPP

Cll1P. oiitLife A Guidefor Spiritual Growth Below are listed five excellent books on devotion includes a short essay, a scripture, spiritual growth that help us to nurture suggestions for meditation/ prayer, and ques­ our relationship with God in practical, tions for journaling. everyday ways. The books are available Rupp reminds us that our spiritual life is through Brethren Press by calling not limited to the set time and place of our -Thi, buok'~ me:s""W" i,, •'5"if!('~,,1. ti,m,,ly, ,md o~d, • 800-441 -3712. prayer. Rather, it involves all of our life. C11.\l>IA.RKt:Tr LACE Therefore, the common, ordinary things of AWAKE The Cup of Our Life: A Guide for Spiri­ life, like cups, are good reminders to us tual Growth, by Joyce Rupp, Ave Maria that God is always present in our lives. MY SOUL Press, 1997. $12.95. Through our regular, daily times of prayer This book of devotions contains six weeks and scripture study we are re-alerted to of daily meditations for spiritual growth. The discover God throughout our entire day. author is a Catholic sister, a member of the Servite (Servants of Mary) community. She Awake My Soul: Practical Spirituality for is a popular author and retreat leader who Busy People, by Timothy Jones,Doubleday describes how the ordinary cups that we use Books, 2000. $10.95.

PRACTICAL SPlRlTVALfT\' each day can become symbols of our spiri­ This former Church of the Brethren minis­ l"()R HVSY P.1.-:.0l'LE tual life. For each day she uses different ter, now Episcopalian, has written a number ~ __ _J images like the broken cup, the open cup, the of excellent books on spirituality: The Art of chipped cup, the blessing cup. Each day's Prayer, A Place for God, and now this latest

' Messenger November 2000 offering. Jones does a masterful job of com­ practice, that's what we become good at. So bining spiritual insights with anecdotes from if we practice being angry, that is how we his own daily life and the lives of others. He become. If, on the other hand, we practice rightly understands that there is a deep spiri­ grace, we become good at that. Each chapter tual hunger in America, and he seeks to draw begins with daily cues related to that prac­ from both ancient wisdom and contempo­ tice, then a few paragraphs that discuss the rary experience. His book is filled with practice, some quotes, a section on teachers practical ways to "awake" our souls to God of that practice, a section on videos, books, in the midst of our daily lives. art, and music on that topic, spiritual exer­ He writes, "Somehow waking up must cises, questions for journaling, and group or bring calm and simple graces and occasional community projects. Each of the 3 7 spiritual spaces. I have no interest in an approach to practices is thus dealt with comprehensively. the spiritual life that only tightens my time The Brussats have spent the last 30 bind . ...What I need is fundamentally to years as reviewers of resources on spiritu­ change my relationship to time, to the God ality. They draw on the depth of that of time." So he suggests concrete ways of expertise in recommending the best books turning our thoughts to God that transform to read and other mediums to explore A Diybook <>f W isdom 111d F111li daily pressures of life into moments of spiri­ regarding each practice. tual enrichment (e.g., cultivating a spirit of more gratitude, seeing our work as a call­ Sabbath: Finding Rest, Renewal, and ing-no matter what our job is). Delight in our Busy Lives, by Wayne Muller, Bantam Books, 1999. $14.95. Bread for the Iourney: A Daybook of Muller emphasizes the importance of a Wisdom and Faith , by Henri Nouwen, rhythm in our lives that includes not only HarperCollins Publishers, 199 7. $20. productivity and working, but also sabbath This well-known author wrote these 366 rest. In the same way that plants and ani­ devotional thoughts shortly before his mals follow natural circadian rhythms, death. Each day contains a brief but human beings need the rhythm of work and insightful paragraph of Nouwen's reflec­ rest. Muller reminds us that if we do not tions on God, love, prayer, suffering, the allow for this rhythm of rest in our overly church as God's people, etc. What we find busy lives, illness becomes our Sabbath. here are key thoughts about what it means The commandment to "Remember the Sab­ to seek God and to be faithful to God. bath" is not simply a lifestyle suggestion. It For instance, for Dec. 25 Nouwen writes: is a spiritual precept to restore our souls. "What is our task in this world as children Each of the short chapters (such as "Rest of God and brothers and sisters of Jesus? for the Weary," "The Rhythm of Creation,"

Our task is reconciliation .. .. Because God or "Be Still and Know") ends with a "prac­ "Tft.,;.,.t-,J,.,1,., -~•4'")"""!,(e ,<:.,li.,,,ri,<>l'f,r~••"'l'~ J.,,..,;.,,, forhn hi,:1.. anyr,.,.-.,.h,,1,,.,,.._.,.r.(li-i,.,..l~•P'h, ... 01., ,1,.. sent Jesus to reconcile us with God and to tice," a specific way to implement that J.,ut ufsf,.;,y:m,l prod,t<;h Wlil..-.· ~ beli'<"""'i It<--•"• MD . •'"),,,,~fJ{J1

Messenger November 2000 - Wor1h,f kA - W6(~ The new symbol for the Worshipful-Work orga- ful-Work: "Our symbol is grounded in story, nization in Kansas City was created by Don reflection, vision, and discernment, as well as Parker of the Church of the Brethren. our charism of integrating spirituality and The process began last January at a administration in church governance." Worshipful-Work training event . , 1--1 Parker is a retired physician cur- sponsored _by the ~ene~a~ B~ard's Ai)-=-·- _ri~ rently serving as vice chair o~ the Co_ngreg~tlonal_ Life Mm1stnes General Board. He also chairs the '':;_ ~;:.--!['> •~:---- ;· ~'\_ ~~-1 umt. Durmg this three-day ~-::·:=r 1·' · -,, :-~1 Northern Ohio Brethren Concilia- event at Bethany Theological (r- ·1 F-r-\ tion Service and is active in the Seminary, participants were \fc=~I f::) Association for the Arts in the invited to think ab_out a new r;:;,)l, / '<:::-, Church of the Brethren._ He enjoys symbol for Worshipful-Work. . \\~... ,-}::-.::::J the challenge of develop,~ng sym- One of those asked to put pencil c.. , ';7.·,,~ ..-.·-. ... 7,\\ b,ols and_ logos, but says, Art for to paper was Don Parker. <,'~'/ lI r"<-::V ar! s sake IS not enough for me. I am After several months of back- · :.:5 happiest when my art serves the work of and-forth between Parker and the staff of Christ through the church." Worshipful-Work, he finalized this image depicting "the table of the Board as a table of This article was adapted from Worshipful-Work's newsletter, "Gra- the Lord." Reports Ellen Morseth, of Worship- cious Space," September 2000.

Along with providing an opportunity for place in local, district, and national settings. Brethren to celebrate Jesus' birth and to reflect Offerings toward the "We're Building a House, on the turning of the millennium, "J2K: New the Lord's House" campaign have helped fund Hope, New Day" has purposefully brought wood-conserving stove projects in Central together many elements Brethren would include America and community renewal in one of the under the heading "spirituality." poorest areas of the eastern shore of the US. Brethren have not been content to limit their Capping the year will be a theological confer­ spiritual life to traditional spiritual disciplines ence being jointly sponsored by the General such as prayer and fasting. Many of our her­ Board and Bethany Theological Seminary. This itage see service, peace, and care for the event, to be held in Cincinnati Dec. 29-Jan. 1, creation as also deeply spiritual and to be fully will bring together Brethren from all points on integrated into our life with God. the theological continuum to "Speak of Jesus" During 2000, J2K has provided a spring­ (the conference title) at this important moment board for individuals, congregations, districts, in human history. Plenary sessions, worship ser­ and the denomination to deepen its spiri­ vices, Bible studies, and workshops will offer a tual rootage in this broader sense, offering high degree of participation, while also providing handles for those who see this as an impor­ stimulating input from a wide array of presenters. tant moment to assess our life of faith in A year with this many zeros attached only light of the rapidly comes along, well, about once every thousand changingworld years. The goal of "J2K: New Hope, New Day" has around us. Many been to enable Brethren to seize this moment as an congregations have opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to Christ faithfully printed in the manner we do it best-by employing the full 2KNEW HOPE. each month's range of our life experiences in the service of the NEW DAY. prayer calendar and gospel, our neighbors, and our God.- David Radcliff publicized the daily scripture readings. Tree plant­ David Radcliff is director of the Office of Witness for the Church of ing and *the creation of time capsules has taken the Brethren General Board. mMessenger November 2000 ~7 iJ;~",n /o.J If {\ir-,54-L,~/CL 01/e--

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Paul Grout, of Putney, Vt., is moderator-Blect of the Church of the Brethren. The "Seven Symptoms of Wellness" is from an artistic book of spiritual messages titled The God Centered Life. The book is available for $4 plus mailing cost from Georgia Markey, Southern Pennsylvan ia District Office, 6035 York Road, New Oxford, PA, 17350. Te lephone 717-624-8636 or e-mail [email protected].

Glenn Mitche ll , a photographer and trained spiritual director, is pastor of University Baptist and I Brethren Church, State College, Pa. Messenger November 2000 II -? You ()ft lu-vo1i rt7 /.o IiJ l j /\ 4~1•~5:-- i-r hc.vt.. L,,.,iµ.... w,,t., V -lk, &'7=~trr'l ?~ i>[ -t-k };;Iml'{-

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A new emphasis on giving youth a "tool kit" for their experience with God

by Walt Wiltschek high school, then leave the church ity to God" once youth leave high when they become young adults. school. The familiar channels all dis­ ris Douglas, coordinator of Yaconelli said when he asked youth appeared. Youth/Young Adult Ministries about the times they had felt closest to It led Yaconelli to take another look for the Church of the Brethren God, it was typically at camps, retreats, at how churches can do a better job of General Board, had an epiphany of district and national conferences, preparing youth in personal faith, like sorts a few years ago. "Like the lights workcamps and mission trips, and worship and a private devotional life. came on," she calls it. other major events. He pointed out That, in turn, led him to venerable She was at a workshop led by Mark that they all involved large peer groups Christian practices like prayer, medi­ Yaconelli, who directs the Youth Spiri­ and going away somewhere-opportu­ tation on scripture, and quiet tuality Project at San Francisco nities that became far less frequent reflection. He became convinced that Theological Seminary. Yaconelli talked after the youth years. churches need to provide youth this about the way congregations lament Without realizing it, he said, "tool kit" of ways to experience God. the fact that youth are so active during churches had "taught an inaccessibil- His observations struck a deep

Messenger November 2000 II /JThere's more awareness of a spiritual hunger in our cult ure. I'm amazed at all the places where that shows up. The question becomes, 'How do we in youth ministry help young people connect to God in a deeper kind of way and ~ gain more intimacy with n ~ Jesus Christ?,,, CT 0 3

Washing feet during a worship time at shift of approach for most churches, the Youth Spiritual Life Camp is Ben from a program-based model to one Coming youth Keenev of Leola, Pa . based on relationships- and most specif­ spirituality events ically on one's relationship with God. chord with Douglas, and she hasn't At the same time, it calls churches to • Nov. 18 National Youth Min­ looked at youth ministry the same way infuse youth ministry throughout the istry Workshop, "The since. Somehow, congregations needed life of a congregation. Youth need to be God-Centered Life: What It to help youth find deeper relationships involved in all phases of the church's Means to Be Alive;" led by Paul with Jesus Christ and, through that, ministry and surrounded with caring Grout with the church family. adults who will be encouragers, advo­ • Feb. 16-18, 2001 Young adult "Over the past 40-50 years, the church cates, and role models through avenues spirituality retreat at Shepherd's hasn't fostered that sense of connect­ such as mentoring and sharing signifi­ Spring Outdoor Ministry Center, edness," Douglas says. "We just cant responsibility. Sharpsburg, Md. cannot keep doing youth groups the A key book for Douglas in under­ way we've been doing them." standing this change of paradigms • March 9-11, 2001 "The God­ Many youth programs still work out has been The Godbearing Life, by Centered Life" youth advisor of the traditional model of simply Kenda Creasy Dean and Ron Foster. training session/retreat at Shep­ bringing youth together for "good, Several copies sit on the counter in herd's Spring clean fun," she says, "holding them" in her Elgin, Ill ., office. • May 26-28, 2001 National church until they become adults. The In it lies a key line that pulls the pieces Young Adult Conference; theme: fun and fellowship are still important of this approach together. Dean and "The God-Bearing Life," led by parts of those programs and shouldn't Foster write: "The question, then, is how Paul Grout at Brethren Woods, simply be discarded, but churches need do we invite youth more deeply into the Keezletown, Va. to go beyond that. practices of faith? The answer is -decep­ "I think we're at a time culturally and tively simple: We become more deeply • June 2001 Young adult work­ spiritually where that model isn't involved in the practices of faith ." camp/trip to Taize community, enough anymore," Douglas says. "It's so easy to yearn for kids to be France "There's more awareness of a spiritual more spiritual," says Douglas, who • July 29-Aug. 4, 2001 "The hunger in our culture. I'm amazed at has a 15-year-old daughter in her own God-Centered Life" national all the places where that shows up. The home. "But how are kids ever going to youth spirituality camp at Camp question becomes, 'How do we in youth learn if it's not in my own life to Mack, Milford, Ind. ministry help young people connect to model and teach and pray for them? God in a deeper kind of way and gain Adults must immerse themselves more intimacy with Jesus Christ?"' deeply in their own growth and rela­ She acknowledges that this is a major tionship with God."

Ii Messenger November 200~ Have you ever wondered if you under­ stood certain passages in the Bible cor­ rectly? Have you puzzled over differing Howto applications of the Bible in the church? Understand David Ewert's How to Understand the The renewed emphasis and inten­ Bible can help you avoid serious pitfalls tionality on spirituality for both youth in interpreting and applying the Bible. and advisors has already shown itself From a lifetime of interpreting and Bi&le proclaiming the Word of God, Ewert in a fresh vision in denominational programming. shares guidelines on studying the A new project called "The God-Cen­ Scriptures. He explains literary forms, tered Life," done in partnership idioms, and figures of speech from between the General Board and Shep­ ancient cultures so we can understand herd's Spring Outdoor Ministries their meanings for today. With apt illus­ Center in Sharpsburg, Md., held a trations, Ewert deals with many typical retreat/ training for youth advisors and questions. He encourages all who look a camp for youth this past year, and to the Scriptures for light on their daily similar events are planned for 2001, all path, strength in times of need, and hope drawing on leadership by Annual Con­ for the age to come. ference moderator-elect Paul Grout. Paper, 240 pages, $14.99; Youth advisors are also being invited in Canada $22.29 to a workshop focusing on the topic Herald Press for a second straight year, this one with keynote leadership by Grout Nov. Orders: 1 800 759-4447 18 in Chambersburg, Pa. And young adults are offered a retreat at Shep­ ww.mph.org herd's Spring in February. Beyond that, however, the emphasis also filters its way into other program­ ming, like workcamps, resources, and the upcoming 2002 National Youth Conference. "It needs to be something that per­ vades everything we do in youth " Caregiving is excellent ministry," Douglas says. She says the process of implement­ ' and I hope ABC continues ing and sharing this renewed vision is with the same terrific content fun and energizing, and her enthusi­ asm is evident in the way she describes and design. Thumbs up! '' it. She hopes that others in the denom­ - R. Kurt Borgmann, pastor ination who work with youth and who Oakton Church of the Brethren,Vienna,Va. care about youth will continue to catch that excitement as well. CAREGIVING is a quarterly publication dedicated to "It's time for the church to be more providing practical information and the latest news proactive in saying to kids, 'Your life is about caring ministries for the Church of the about more than your mind and Brethren. Learn about caring ministries including body,"' according to Douglas. '"You deacons, older adults, families, chaplains, retirement have a soul that gets hungry, too, and communities, disabilities and whole health. needs to be attended to. And it's Subscriptions are available for $ IO annually or at a relationship with God that special congregation rates. Call ABC to subscribe. feeds your soul."' m

Walt Wiltschek is manager of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board. He also serves on the denominational Junior High Ministry Task Force and has served in youth ministry in several congregations. Association of 1451 Dundee Ave., Elgin, IL 60120 Brethren Caregivers phone 847-742-5100 fax 847-742-5160 The Godbearing Life can be ordered through Brethren Press. Ca ll 800-441-3712 (order #0225, $14.95) .

Messenger November 2000 II compiled by Beth Sollenberger Morphew illustrations by Jessica Grom mes

ecently on a whim I bought a meditation garden. While some in the family laughed at my spending so much on a tray of sand and stones packaged with a small plastic rake, I noticed they all took a turn at rearranging the sand and stones. My meditation garden is the perfect illustra­ tion for a workshop on styles of prayer, but it looks a little strange sitting on our kitchen counter. However, as one who grew up in a gardening family, there is something quite sat­ isfying about digging in the dirt, moving rocks, and nurturing plants, and sometimes offering a prayer in the midst of it all. Traditionally Brethren have sought God in Many cookies, many prayers

Traditionally Brethren have sought God in the midst of Leaving the people from one congregation behind when moving to a new pastorate is hard. everyday work and events. Hymns can be sung in One of the ways I have stayed connected is to church just as well as while plowing or putting the baby pray for people when I use one of their recipes. I don't know exactly when I started to do this. I to bed. Prayers can be prayed just as effectively over the do know that when I would find a recipe in a phone or at the kitchen table as they can on our knees church cookbook or receive a recipe after a potluck I would type them on a card and include by the bedside or sitting in a church pew. the name of the person sharing the recipe at the top of the card. Then when I pull that recipe out to make it, I pray for the person named. 1t is the midst of everyday work and events. Hymns usually a general prayer because I don't really can be sung in church just as well as while know what is going on in their life right now. plowing or putting the baby to bed. Prayers can But I ask God to protect them and offer them a be prayed just as effectively over the phone or blessing. And I thank God for that person. at the kitchen table as they can on our knees by I have one recipe that I received about 40 the bedside or sitting in a church pew. Brethren years ago. It is probably my most used one­ are attuned to God and our calls to prayer, our chocolate chip cookies with oatmeal and brown reminders of God's presence, often happen in sugar-and the one my family always asks for. the midst of the daily routine. Four people have I got it from Martha Long. The Longs kept our graciously shared a glimpse of how they seek children several times when we went to Annual and know God's blessing: Conference and we returned the favor some-

Iii Messenger November 2000 IV\

times on weekends. I've given thanks for the about two hours away from the lodge where we friendship many times over and we have eaten were staying. Before we left, we had been lots of those cookies.- Pearl Hostetter, Goshen, Ind. warned that we would need to be sure to start the journey back in plenty of time. We had to return well before sunset because our guide could not navigate the river in darkness. God and the Great Blue Reveling in the grand adventure of touring the vast Mayan ruins, I lost all sense of time. The morning was sunlit and already humid. As I drove from home toward the church my mind was whirling with a multitude of concerns. The road ahead curved down toward the little marsh that I Only a few yards from where I stood, it stood, pass every day. As the pond came into view I felt a unmoving and unafraid. We shared the vast silence familiar rush of joy and peace. A Great Blue Heron stood motionless in the shallow water. of that marsh as the sun sent golden-pink streaks For over 15 years the sight of one of these across an azure sky. Somewhere deep within me a beautiful gray-blue birds has been a source of special grace in my life, for the presence of this sense of peace welled up to embrace my sorrow. magnificent bird has become a symbol of God's Presence. Why this is so is a mystery I may never understand. But there have been count­ less times when the Great Blue has brought a deep sense of benediction, affirmation, reassur­ ance, and blessing. One evening at the end of a bittersweet vaca­ tion on Cape Cod, I was feeling deeply depressed as I thought about returning home the next day. Walking along a narrow path by Nauset Marsh I chanced upon a Great Blue. Only a few yards from where I stood, it stood, unmoving and unafraid. We shared the vast silence of that marsh as the sun sent golden-pink streaks across an azure sky. Somewhere deep within me a sense of peace welled up to embrace my sorrow. When the Great Blue finally flew away into the gathering twilight, its flight formed an unspoken benediction. When it had disap­ peared, I turned away, ready to return home. Another time when my family was vacation­ ing in Belize, my daughters and I had gone by boat and jeep to tour some Mayan ruins located

Messenger November 2000 Ill One result of that experience has been the disciplined and intentional comb­ ination of prayer and movement . . . slowing myself down. Each day I exercise for about 50 minutes, and When I finally looked at my watch I those 50 minutes are all realized with a start that it was already about prayer. I pray for my family, mid-afternoon. We hurried back to their health, their wellbeing, their friends, their the landing, explaining that we must leave at concerns, their day. I pray for the congrega­ once. A quick gathering of belongings got us tions of our district, the pastors, the districts, launched with little delay, but I kept looking at the agencies, the denomination. I pray for my Each day ! my watch, making mental calculations. As we mentors, my spiritual guides, my supervisors, glided down the river toward our rendezvous and colleagues. I pray for my friends. I pray for exercise for with the jeep driver who would take us to my enemies. I pray for my critics. I pray for the about 50 another boat, my inner alarm kept sounding. day, the moment, for grace, for mercy, for the Had we tarried too long? presence of God. minutes, and Then, as we rounded a bend in the river I I pray for 50 minutes. I exercise while I those 50 saw a Great Blue Heron. Its presence immedi­ pray. It works for me. I am blessed by and ately calmed my fear. As we passed near it, the through it.-Rich Hanley, McPherson, Kan. minutes are al l heron never moved. I felt a deep inner sense of about prayer. assurance: we would make it on time. Just over two hours later we stepped out of the other I pray for the boat, casting shadows onto the grassy landing Praying down the list day, the in front of our jungle lodge. The sun was just beginning to set. This all started when I was serving as the pastor moment , for Over and over, in times of turmoil, doubt, of a local congregation. I kept a prayer list that grace, for mercy, stress, or exhaustion, a Great Blue Heron has covered the entire congregation over the course of flown across the sky above me, flown beside my a year. I would organize the list around birthdays for the presence car, or appeared in the most unexpected places. and anniversaries and often felt led by the spirit to of God. Always it brings me a sense of God's presence send cards or make and caring. In the midst of some very difficult phone calls. times, this special creature of our Creator When I reminds me that "All shall be well." -Prue became a district Yelinek, Waynesboro, Pa. minister I continued to maintain a prayer list and regularly prayed for 5 or 6 congregations Pumped up with prayer each week. I published .. --◄ .,._,,,_ ..,...... ___ .,._ _ the list in the district Apart from prayer, I would not exer­ newsletter so that others cise. Movement and prayer have could join me if they become habit for me, after years of wished. One of the things I disciplined application. Sometime did in conjunction with in January 1996, at a silent retreat, praying was to send every pastor's child some­ a 36-hour period of silence at Bon Secours, I thing at Christmas. It was often a fold-out found myself running, literally, up a flight of Christmas card or a bookmark -something to stairs. Having been in silence for only 8 hours, let them know someone else was thinking of I had 28 more to ponder why I was hurrying. them. Once it was a bookmark that said "I was ffl Messenger November 2000 caught being good." A crazy Christmas cactus When I retired from the district minister position I We have a "Christmas kept the prayer list. I just Cactus" at our house. I am add names sometimes. sure it has bloomed for Pastors, people from dis­ Christmas at least once in its It has bloomed trict-related leadership existence, just never for me to positions, the denomina­ see. It has bloomed at a few very at a few very tional staff, and leaders of important times. Times when stress important t imes. the other institutions of the or transition or despair were the church. I'm a deacon these overwhelming emotions of my Those times days and that means we have moment. Those times when I most when I most 10 family units that I've added to need a sign, that crazy cactus has come my prayer list. through and provided a bloom of hope, and need a sign, that Sometimes when a person's name comes up a signal of God's abiding care. I am crazy cactus has I just have a little feeling that I need to check grateful!-Beth Sollenberger Morphew in and so I make a phone call. I have often come through. found it to be timely when I learned what was going on in their lives. I was glad I called. Beth Sol lenberger Morphew, of Goshen, Ind, is Congregational Life Team Coordi na tor for Area 2. -Carroll M . Petry, North Manchester, Ind.

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Messenger November 2000 II Still resh & gre~n The fifth National Older Adult Conference celebrates how seniors live and give

by Walt Wiltschek that the theme did not relate to Fruit of the Loom products, or to eating green grapes, or to The theme for this year's National Older green currency. Adult Conference was "Still Bearing Fruit, A jug of maple syrup to illustrate being "full Still Fresh and Green," based on Psalm 92: 14. of sap" also failed to fill the bill. Scott Douglas The phrase, taken from the Phillips translation of the Association of Brethren Caregivers, of the Scriptures, appeared on all conference which sponsored the conference, assured her materials and on a large banner at the event. that the sap referred to being life-giving nour­ Of course, in the New Revised Standard ishment in the church. Myers eventually came to the realization that the theme spoke to continuing vitality and growth in God in the later stages of life, of people "build­ ing a green and growing life. " With that settled, she turned to the audience and said, "We're grateful for you coming to 'be fresh' with us." The joke sparked another round of laughter, but it also served as a fitting introduction for a week in mid-September when Brethren of ages 50 and over demonstrated and shared their freshness in faith. Set among the mountains of western North Carolina at the waters of Lake Junaluska, the fifth edition of the biennial con­ ference was as full of life as the robust vines on the theme materials. Attendance was 1,050, up slightly from the 1,041 of two years ago and near the maximum for the lodging available. Participants came from 30 states, including Hawaii. They came from 21 of the 23 Church of the Brethren dis­ tricts and from 236 congregations- including four who sent more than 25 people each. They came by plane, car, bus, and even motorcycle. Many were attending for the first time, although Swing your partner. Version it reads, "In old age they still produce a group of more than 100 gathered for a photo William Pletcher of fruit; they are always green and full of sap." of people who had been to all five N OAC events. Elkhart, Ind, and Marv That chuckle-producing lead-in opened the "I've been to all of them," said 95-year-old Sheeslev of Oneonta, door for conference personnel to have some Ruby Witter of North Manchester, Ind., the N. Y, enjov square fun explaining it. conference's oldest attendee. "It's exciting. I dance lessons led bv Doreen Myers-who served as NOAC co ­ like the people." Doris Coppock. coordinator along with her husband, The program offered a week full of worship Carl-pulled one item after another out of a and Bible study, rest and recreation, food bag in an opening night skit. She determined (especially ice cream) and fellowship, classes

Iii Messenger November 2000 and crafts. A series of keynote speakers pro­ you don't stay stuck, you don't bear much fruit. A large group came vided challenges, encouragement, and insights ... All of us have the hunger to be the kind of together when during general sessions each day. vines God wants us to be." everyone who had Retired pastor Jimmy Ross said that "leaves Two major evening sessions featured enter­ attended all five and shade are no substitute for fruit," empha­ tainment, with members of the North National Older Adult sizing that retirement isn't an excuse for sitting Manchester, Ind., Shepherd Center presenting Conferences to date back. Former McPherson College president an original drama called "Heavenly Days" one was asked to gather Paul Hoffman urged Brethren to have a distinc­ night and Mennonite comedy duo Ted & Lee for a group picture. tive identity, no longer by their clothes but by performing their "Creation Chronicles" trip the way they give and live. through the Old Testament on another. Former Kirkridge Retreat Center director Robert Raines wove humor through a list of tasks for creative aging, from waking up to one's own mortality to taking on the mysteries of grace and "practicing resurrection." Retired pastor Dean Miller based his message on the story of Jesus changing the water into wine at Cana, saying "God's surprises are like the rabbi's wine. There's more, and the best is yet to be." Author and teacher Marva Dawn spoke twice despite a series of medical woes. She won over the crowd with warmth, depth, and pas­ sion. "We' re branches on a vine," she said. "If

A dynamic folk duo of Don Ped/, on dulcimer, and Bruce Greene, on fiddle, performed Thursday afternoon. Former General Board general secretary and Juniata College president Bob Neff delivered another highlight, sharing a series of three Bible studies from the Psalms. He addressed a differ­ ent aspect of "Psalms for Older Adults" each day, speaking from Psalms 90, 92, and 96. Using his years of study and a variety of books, Neff traced through the journey of faith, includ­ ing anger, prayer, relinquishing, nourishment, living in God's love, and- like the palm tree­ bearing fruit even in the middle of the desert. "We were really thrilled with the guest lead­ ership," Carl Myers said. "People received them so well. I have very positive feelings about the experience." Video segments by David Sollenberger and Larry Glick gave a glimpse, often humorous, of other conference activities such as ice cream socials, tournaments in various sports, hand­ craft sessions, concerts, and night-life activities NOAC's nonagenarians: Six people answered the call for those attending like singing and folk dancing. Other segments NOAC who were 90 or over this year. Pictured from left are Eula Fyock, highlighted Brethren who were exemplifying Pauline Thompson, Emmert Gibble, Annie Heisey, Ralph Heisey, and Ruby "fresh and green" lives, and one spotlighted Witter. Witter, at 95, is the oldest; Annie Heisey just turned 90. Four of the Charles and Barb Simmons of Virginia, who six live in Pennsylvania. were spending their honeymoon at NOAC. More than 60 participants helped to put together school and health kits for Church of Ninety-plus, and doing a lot more than counting the Brethren disaster relief in a week-long ser­ vice project. More than 300 kits were Most of the people attending this year's National Older Adult Confer­ assembled and packed for volunteers to take to ence brought a fair amount of life experience with them. A handful, New Windsor, Md. however, brought a bit more experience than others: at least nine "We tried to think what a lot of people could decades' worth. become involved with on an informal basis," Half a dozen Brethren responded to the call for all nonagenarians said Gerry Graybill, who coordinated the ser­ attending NOAC and assembled for a group picture one morning. Ruby vice project along with her husband, Harry. Witter, 95, from North Manchester, Ind., was NOAC 's oldest partici­ "Harry and I have worked on disaster projects pant. Annie Heisey of Lancaster, Pa .-who attended with her 93-year-old and know how important these things are." The husband, Ralph- just turned 90 the month before the conference. Graybills are from Glen Rock, Pa. , members of All six of them agreed that they were glad they had made the trip to the Black Rock Church of the Brethren. North Carolina. Also at NOAC were executives and board "The religious services are excellent, and the scenery and air here are chairs of the five Annual Conference agencies, fantastic," said 91-year-old Pauline Thompson of St. Petersburg, Fla., Annual Conference officers, and representa­ attending her fourth NOAC. "You find the finest people that ever lived tives of Standing Committee and the Council of here. I intend to come back in two more years if I'm still on this earth." District Executives, holding their InterAgency Common to all of them were full and active lives, with activity contin­ Forum meetings in conjunction with NOAC. uing into their 90s. Emmert Gibble, 93 , said he had farmed and spent Members of the group sat on a "State of the nearly three decades working at Camp Swatara in Pennsylvania. Several Church" panel one evening and fielded ·ques­ had long teaching careers. Ralph Heisey said his travels had included tions from a large audience. trips to China, Israel, and many parts of Europe. Other events included "interest group" ses­ Eula Fyock, 91, of Lancaster, Pa., said she continues to volunteer sions on a host of topics, vesper services, a regularly, sometimes escorting other Brethren Village residents to resource fair with displays and presentations doctor or dentist appointments. And Witter said she frequently attends from a variety of organizations, bookstores, Elderhostel programs at an area university. and boat tours on the lake. "It keeps me in contact with people," Witter said. "I like people." And in between it all were many conversa­ And Annie Heisey proved that once a Brethren, always a Brethren. tions, walks among rose gardens, visiting and While praising many aspects of NOAC and all the Brethren interaction, catching up, sharing ideas, learning new things, she said one of her favorite things there is the food. "Especially the ice and demonstrating the gifts and wisdom that cream," she added.- Walt Wiltschek this segment of the church has to offer.

Ii Messenger November 2000 An afternoon "antiphonal vespers" had three groups singing and reading scripture to each other around the lake. Two groups stood at lake's edge, and one went out on the water in a pontoon boat. Going head-to-head for a round of shuffleboard are Verna Calloway of Queen Anne, Md., and Jean Judy of Greenwood, Del.

A gray-haired woman sitting in the second row of one session summed it up. She looked up at the NOAC banner and turned to a friend beside her: "Still fresh and green," she said, reading m the words of the theme. "I like that." i6i

Walt Wiltschek is manager of news services for the Church of the Brethren General Board and still a couple decades away from qual­ ifying to attend NOAC as a participant.

SUPPLEMENT

Since Hymnal: A Worship Book was published in 1992, many new hymns and songs have been written. This new hymnal supplement series offers congregations a cost effective method to add this new music and older favorites not in the hymnal to your worship.

There are currently nine supplements in development, with three to be released in 2001. Here is a sampling of hymns that are likely to appear in these first three supplements:

Lent/Easter /Pentecost Praising/ Adoring Advent/Christmas/Epiphany Man of sorrows, what a name Shine, Jesus, Shine Light one candle to watch for Messiah He is Lord Si tu puedes, cantalo While we are waiting, come I come to the garden Bring many names In the bleak midwinter Now the green blade rises Great day We three kings of Orient are Spirit, spirit of gentleness Jubilate, everybody He is born

For more infonnation, or to order the supplements, see the November Source packet or call Brethren Press.

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For more information about Brethren colleges, visit our website: www.cobcoa.org or email: [email protected] or call 1-800-323-8039 •• Thank you for reminding us of our task as •LETTERS

Christians in this election-to hold our that each of us has the responsibility to elected officials accountable for the welfare practice verbal evangelism, but the Lord has given the gift of evangelism to some. of those who are oppressed.,, Therefore, it is the responsibility of lead­ ership to make those evangelists available Politics and prayer for Sudan Regarding Gerald Crouse's comments to the churches. We don't need more liter­ at the dinner sponsored by the General ature, we need the existing literature and In the flurry of banalities and trivialities Board's Global Mission Partnerships the church leaders to enthusiastically call surrounding the November election, it office, I agree with his statement, "If we church members to obey Jesus' call to be is refreshing to read "Steady until the don't practice verbal evangelism, we're verbally proclaiming the good news of sun sets" in the September MESSENGER. living in sin." Therefore, I was disap­ Jesus Christ. We also need to identify, Thank you for reminding us of our task pointed in the vote to return the Virlina fund, and make available gifted evange­ as Christians in this election-to hold District query on evangelism. The vigor­ lists to come into our churches to reap a our elected officials accountable for the ous debate and the close vote indicates harvest among those we have personally welfare of those who are oppressed. that many of us delegates thought there ministered to and befriended. You reminded us that the Sudan civil should be a greater emphasis on evange­ Marion "Bud" Sechler war has killed nearly 2 million people, lism at the national level. It is very true Pastor, Ca ndo Church of the Brethren, Cando, N.D . more than were killed in Kosovo. Even though the number of war victims in Sudan is higher than those in Chechnya, "Teacher, which commandment is the greatest?"]esus said Kosovo, Bosnia, Rwanda, and Somalia combined, we hear nothing about it. to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your You reminded us to pray even as Chris­ heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. tians prayed for the seeming impossible This is the greatest and fi"rst commandment." task of ridding South Africa of apartheid. As Christians, we need to turn the Matthew 22:36-38 attention of national election candi­ Giving God your heart, soul, and mind is central to dates to the tragedy in Sudan and to the decision to be baptized as a Christian and pray for its end. become a member of the Church of the Brethren. Jean Lersch H eart, Soul, and Mind is an adaptable membership St. Petersbu rg, Fla. curriculum for congregations to use with youth and adults who are exploring a deeper commitment to Christian discipleship. Evangelism needs leadership Four units of study explore what Brethren should Thank you for the good coverage of know about the Bible, church history, living the Annual Conference in the Septem­ faith, and church membership. The Leader's ber issue. Guide (#9922, $24.95) includes reproducible handouts for students, ideas for a mentor program, Statement of Ownership, and an apprentices hip program. The Membership Management and Circulation Handbook for students (#9923, $9.95) contains This is a periodical publication readings, exercises, and journal starters, and is Publication Title: Messenger valuable as a keepsake and benchmark of faith development. A video (#9924, $19.95) Publication Number: 0026-0355 featuring Brethren youth talking about fa ith is also available to supplement the curriculum. Filing Date: September 27, 2000 Candidates for membership be engaged -heart, soul, and mind- to love God, Owner: Church of t he Brethren will General Board love their neighbor, and join in the community of faith. 1451 Dundee Avenue Elgin, IL 60120-1694 Publisher: Wendy M cFadd en 4ft 1451 Dundee Avenue (~ Elgi n, IL 60120-1694 ~~ Editor: Fletcher Farra r Brethren Press· 1451 Du ndee Avenue El gin , IL 60120-1694 This day. Total Circulation: 16,984 1451 Dundee Avenu e, Elgin, Illinois 60120-1694 Cost: $16.50 phone 800-441-3 7I 2 fa x 800-66 7-8 l 88 e-mail brethrenpress_gb@ brethren .org

Messenger November 2000 - More light on evangelism only two-thirds as many members as in cally reports how the early disciples 1960. A former moderator of Annual Con­ "continued the work of Jesus." Is there It pained me to miss Annual Conference ference has stated, "The denomination .. . any valid reason why we Brethren are this year. In the September MESSENGER has not yet come to grips with the prob­ not doing the same? I gave careful attention to the excellent lem of membership decline that In the September MESSENGER you report you gave of this year's Confer­ continues each year unabated." If our quoted a brief statement of Gerald ence. But I couldn't find any satisfactory method or form or style of evangelism Crouse of our Dominican mission. He answer as to why Standing Committee has not worked in 40 years, it seems time stated: "We are a non-evangelistic and the Conference "returned" the Vir­ for a change. If not the change that was church. Jesus' call is a call to be lina query. I write to invite further light proposed by the Virlina District, why about verbally proclaiming the Good on this question of Brethren evangelism didn't Standing Committee propose for News .... If we don't we're living in and disciple-making. Conference action a revised procedure sin." If he's correct, then most of us After about 250 years of continued that could be effective? Brethren are living in sin! growth, including some decades of sig­ The Gospels clearly report that the Olden D. Mitchell nificant growth when membership more calling/making of disciples was a top North Manchester, Ind . than doubled, the Church of the Brethren priority of Jesus, and his final commis­ now has been in a steady and serious sion to his followers was to "Go make decline for about 40 years. We now have disciples." The book of Acts dramati- Many Brethren homes

This letter is to say how I enjoyed reading the issue of M ESSENGER devoted to Our htltt ~~. . about Brethren homes [August]. Since I live near Peter Becker Community (Harleysville, to " ... Pa.), I visit there now and then. It is a won­ ~ derful home with good care. I had no idea we, the Brethren, had that many nursing homes! Mary E. Hixson Quakertown, Pa.

Put "companion" in the name

(Bret ) Are Brethren viewed as an exclusive sect like some of the fraternal organizations OPEN ON 'THE WOR ~ B .WIBE WEB in our society-the Knights of Columbus, THANKSGIVING 2000 the Masons, etc.? Our denomination's

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Christian Family Practice group is seeking a dents. Located in NE Indiana on the Eel River, North Send cover letter and resume to: Search Com ­ family physician and/or a physician extender Manchester, population 6500, is only 20 minutes mittee, Chambersburg Church of the Brethren, 260 (PA-C or RN-FNPI to join our growing practice. form Wabash County Hospital with OB/GYN and a S. Fourth Street, Chambersburg, PA 17201 . We are located in North Central Indiana, near Goshen. wide range of specialty support available. Tertiary We provide obstetrics with many deliveries done hospital available in nearby Fort Wayne. Our com­ Travel-TWO TOURS. (11 "CRADLE OF CIVI­ at an Amish Birthing Center near Shipshewana. munity has its own symphony, a superb new library LIZATION" Featuring-Crossing the Red Sea, St. Opportunities for short- or long-term missions. Inde­ with children's programs, fine schools and two major Catherine Monstery on Mt Sinai, Petra and the Holy pendently owned (six physicians & one PA) and non-profit retirement homes (one CoB). Tour our Land. March 16-29, 2001. (21 "ROYAL HOLIDAY" committed to remaining sensitive to the needs of town at www.nmanchester.com. For additional infor­ Featuring-The British Isles. Visiting: England, the local community. Option to buy in. Contact Steve mation about our opportunity please contact Lynn Scotland, Wales and Ireland. July 24 - August 8, Wendler, Administrator, at Middlebury Family Physi­ Hatfield, Director of Physician Recruitment at 1-800- 2001. Wendell and Joan Bohrer, 8520 Royal Meadow cians, PO Box 459, Middlebury, IN 46540. Day 727-8439, ext. 22183 or email at [email protected]. Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46217. Tel/fax 317-882-5067. telephone: 219-825-2900 Evening: 219-825-7506. E-mail [email protected] . Position available: The Chambersburg Church North Manchester Indiana Family Practice of the Brethren is seeking a half-time Coordinator Spread the Word! Use Messenger classifieds to Clinic is seeking Board Certified Family Prac­ of Christian Education to administer and expand let people know what's going on. $55 purchases a tice Physicians, You would be joining our group its educational programs for children, youth and single issue insertion of up to 80 words. Frequency of 3 FP's and 1 NP who practice the full continuum adults. Anticipated start date is January 1, 2001. discounts are available. Submit ads via fax (847- of Primary Care including Obstetrics, Inpatient and College degree and word processing skills pre­ 742-1407), e-mail ([email protected]) or Preventative Medicine in a small college town. Our ferred. Training and/or experience required. letter (Messenger Classifieds, 1451 Dundee Ave., clinic is across the street from Manchester College, Consideration of applications will begin Novem­ Elgin IL 60120). Deadline is first of month prior to a liberal arts college with an enrollment of 1100 stu- ber 15th and will continue until position is filled. month of publication. Advertise today!

- Messenger November 2000 11 Considering the importance of the love •LETTERS- feast and foot washing as symbols of what we bread with. We might consider adopting try to live, either II companion II or II servant" this word as part of our name-perhaps II along with the name "Brethren"-to better express who we are than brethren",, reflect both history and inclusivity. Some suggestions are: Brethren/ Companions in descriptor may give that impression to Church of the Brethren because of simi­ Christ, Companions/ Brethren in Christ, some who know us only by name. lar beliefs are repulsed by a name which The Church of Companions/ Brethren in Many who have grown up in the implies that it is a closed, male-domi­ Christ, or The Church of Christ's Compan­ Church of the Brethren cherish the name nated society, interested only in people ions/Brethren. Considering the "Brethren" because of its link to history born or bred as Brethren. A new name importance of the love feast and foot and tradition. Changing the name might which keeps "Brethren" but adds an washing as symbols of what we try to live, seem like dishonoring or doing away inclusive word might be a solution either "companion" or "servant" better with all the things that we hold dear and addressing both concerns. express who we are than "brethren." unique about our heritage. On the other The word "companion" means com Lois T. Dickason hand, many who might be drawn to the (with) pan ion (bread), or those we break South Have n, Mich. TURNING POINTS -

This month's Turning Points Bentley, Linda Bentley, Ken­ Parrish, Dick and Helen, Con­ Mount Jackson, Va ., Aug. 23 Elkton, Va ., Aug. 11 includes all listings received prior to neth Biser, Edith Biser tinental, Ohio, 55 Dick, Carlyle, 87, Clymer, Pa. , Murray, Dorothy Garst, 84, 9/21/00 not previously published. Nampa, Idaho: Leon Gonion, Reid, Gerald and Fredith, Sept. 11 Roanoke, Va ., Aug. 24 Irene G onion, )oAnne Holtz, Newvill e, Pa. , 60 Forms for submitting Turning Points Driver, Donna Lilli an Miller, Myers, Donald, 83, Greens­ Al Brown, Marian Brown, Reid, Markwood and Judy, 75, Dayton, Va. , Aug. 30 information are available by calling burg, Pa., June 3 Gary Sloug hfy, Ju li Anne Newville, Pa. , 50 Eisemann, Quintin, 79, Nesemeier, Berniece, 85, Peggy Reinacher at 800-323-8039. Bowser Sloughfy Ritter, John and Freda, Union­ Ephrata, Pa. , Jul y 25 Mount Morris, Ill ., June 8 town, Pa. , 65 New Hope, Stuart, Va.: Tim Eshelman, Do ri s, 95, Nampa, Ott, Clarence, 77, Holl sopple, Sayre, John and Gaynell, Harvey, Lynette Harvey, Jasen Idaho, Jan. 2 1 Pa. , Feb. I 7 New members Pfuntner, Jackie rfuntner, Fern Bridgewater, Va., 50 Fike, Homer Leland, 99, Eglon, Owens, Liza V, 89, Moatsvill e, Wimmer, Andrew Wimmer, Shively, Ralph and Catherine, W.Va ., Aug. 12 W.Va. , April 23 Arcadia, Ind.: Anna Chase Mark Jones, Laura Jones, Julie Bridgewater, Va., 50 Flory, Dorothy, 96, Nampa, Beaverton, Mi ch.: Karen Crotts, Amanda Seay Smith, Gerald and Eleanor, Idaho, Nov. 25 Pippenger, Harold, 88, Phillips Kalahar New Paris, Ind. : Dorothy Newville, Pa ., 50 Good, Samuel C., 73, Har­ Wakarusa, Ind., July 2 1 Blue Ridge, Va .: M ike Hogan, Wa tkins, Joe Godfrey, Phil Stump, Richard and Martha, risonburg, Va., Aug. 23 Prugh, Virg il , 90, Vandali a, Sandra Hogan, Poll y Creasy Kuhn, Susie Martin Wakarusa, Ind., 50 Goings, Paul, 86, New Ohio, Aug. 28 Cabool, Mo.: All ison Clary, Prairie City, Iowa: Kim Clark, Wolfe, Lavern and Donna, Lebanon, Ohio, Aug. 5 Rembold, Bruce Edwin, 48, Maurice Bosserman, Sandy Christina Nolin, Amy Patter­ Uniontown, Pa., 50 Gray, Thelma, 86, Vinton, Va. , Eglon, W.Va., Aug. 12 Bosserman son, Holly Maggard Young, Alvin and Dorothy, Jan. 22 Reynold, T homas R. , 70, York, Denton, Md.: Alli son Holsinger Shiloh, Moatsville, W.Va.: Hartville, Ohio, 60 Gusttason, Virginia, 89, Des Pa., Aug. 12 East Cocalico, Reamstown, Mackey Laulis, Mary Stuckey Moines, Iowa, May 13 Riddle, Vera, 1 02, Johnstown, Pa.: Jena Hagy, Judy Lewis, Union Center, Nappanee, Ind.: Halterman, Arthur Casper, 70, John Stolsfu s, Dudley Pa., Feb. 5 Mark Person, Heila Martin­ Deaths Baker, W.Va ., Aug. 29 Michael, Priscilla M ichael Ryman, Norman Elwood, 83, Person, Don Housour, Halterman, Wayne Alfred, 71 , Ephrata, Pa.: Patrick Land, Atkins, Nina, 71 , Nampa, Woodstock, Va. , Aug. 4 Phyllis Housour, Ruth Stacey Land, Robert Idaho, Dec. 15 Harrisonburg, Va., Aug. 2 Sanner, Richard, 85, Greens­ Yoder, Bronson Weaver, Wanner, Darla Wanner, Barnthouse, Darwin, 82, Hamilton, Edward, 83, Santa burg, Pa ., July 30 An drea Holdeman Keith Pe tters, Eli zabeth Arlington, Va ., March 20 Clarita, Calif., Aug. 9 Shaw, Pearl , 84, Uniontown, H orning, Lindsey Heck, Jes­ Barnthouse, Paul een, 81 , Hammer, Nel li e lcadora, 87, Pa., ful y 22 sica Snyder, Nathan Kapp, Arlington, Va. , March 20 Franklin, W.Va ., Aug. 5 Smeltzer, Mary, 84, Nappanee, Wedding Hancock, Roland M., 57, Har­ Eric Mi ll er, Kaitlyn Ream, Barrett, Devere, 78, John­ Ind., June 15 wood, Md., Sept. 7 Quintin Eisemann anniversaries stown, Pa., Aug. 15 Smith, Marie, 92, Nappanee, Harman, James Gordon, 89, Geiger, Friedens, Pa.: Ruth Biser, Effie 0 ., 88, Springfi eld, Ind., Feb. 11 Hahn, Levi Hahn, Lindsay Bell, Harold and Ruth, Eaton, Va. , Feb. 21 McGaheysvill e, Va ., Aug. I 7 O hio, 60 Harper, Betty J., 72, Thurmont, Spencer, W illiam Lester, 88, Hahn, Christine Lindsey Blickenstaff, Margaret, 96, Harrisonburg, Va ., Aug. 27 Grossnickle, Myersville, Md.: Bloss, W illiam and Lois, Md., Aug. 20 Boise, Idaho, June 10 Spessert, Cloyd, 92, Saint Cathie Clemson, Thomas Uniontown, Ohio, 50 Bohlander, Lois, 67, Pleasant Harsh, Abbie A., 8 1, Fort George, W.Va., April 1 7 Westwood, James Blank, Chamberlin, Eugene and Mar­ Hill, Ohio, Aug . 27 As hby, W.Va. , Au g. 10 Hansel Pate, Shawn Delauter, garet, San Diego, Calif., 60 Bowman, Mamie Virginia Carrier, Heckman, Lulu, 90, Dayton, Stewart, Martha, 73 , Sidney, Jorda n Grossni ckle, Elwood Chestnut, Walter and Betty, 9 1, Bridgewater, Va., Aug. 18 Ohio, Sept. 9 Ohio, April 15 Stottlemyer, Ryan Wi les, Newvill e, Pa., 55 Boyd, Ralph L., 9 1, Myerstown, Hinkle, Richard Samuel, 76, Stoneberger, Marie H ., 74, Danny Rumpf, Hazel Gross­ Cocklin, Robert a nd Dori s, Pa. , Aug. 14 Riverton, W.Va., Aug. 26 Stanley, Va. , Aug. 10 nickle, Lori Cline Carlisle, Pa., 55 Burket, Freda M., 91 , Martins ­ Holsinger, Paul G ., 101 , Mar­ Stoner, Wa rren, 86, Johnstown, Hanover, Pa.: Kathy Accardi, Fickes, Leroy and Doris, burg, Pa., Jul y 29 tinsburg, Pa. , July 25 Pa. , Jan. 5 John Burkentine, Ted Newvill e, Pa. , 50 Burkholder, Harlan, 89, Hoover, Ruby B. , 99, Tim­ Stouder, Dale, 85, Nappanee, Schmittel, Brock Swartz, Gomis, Paul a nd H elen, Des Nampa, Idaho, June 8 berville, Va. , Aug. 14 Ind ., June 15 Lance Rusin ko Moines, Iowa, 50 Byerly, Robert A. , 85, Lan­ Hoover, Velma Marie, 68, Har­ Strigent, Karen, 45, Johnstown, Lewiston, Main e: Nicholas True Jacoby, Robert and Esther, caster, Pa ., June 19 ri sonburg, Va., Aug. 4 Pa., May 31 Lewiston, Minn.: Tim Newville, Pa ., 55 Chapman, Bobby Dean, 5 7, Howe, Robert, Ephrata, Pa ., Swank, Clarence Dean, 71, Jane, Frank and Ila, Johnstown, Borkowski , Brenda Ki rby, Petersburg, W.Va. , Aug. 16 July 16 Somerset, Pa. , Aug. 16 Pa ., 50 Huber, Helen, 95, Mount Jennifer Pospichal Chavanne, H arriet, 89, Sain t Taylor, Florence, Boise Idaho, Koons, Carroll and Vera, Des Morris, III. , May 3 1 Liberty Mills, Ind.: El izabeth Petersburg, Fla., Aug. 25 June 11 Griffin, S ierra Rose, Harry Moines, Iowa, 50 Cline, Mary Agnes, 99, Bridge­ Jennings, John R., 73, Kansas Thomas, K. Annette, 79, Mount Barrett, Debby Barrett Knox, Glenn and Dori s, Uni o n­ water, Va., Aug. 30 City, Kan ., Aug. 12 Maple Spring, Hollsopple, Pa.: town, Pa., 50 Combs, Elwanda May, 76, Kelly, Mary C. , 86, Johnstown, Morris, Ill., Aug. 31 Kelly Hay, Scott H ay, Lauren Mikel, John and Dora, Moorefield, W.Va ., Aug. 26 Pa ., Jan. 16 Warn, Dean, 82, Nampa, Seganos, Alex Shroyer Wakarusa, Ind., 50 Crider, Clyde Vernon, 75, Har­ Lupton, Maxine, 79, Nam pa, Idaho, Nov. 28 Maple Spring, Eglon, W.Va .: Miller, Ge ne and Eloise, New risonburg, Va ., Aug. 8 Idaho, July I Werstler, Robert E., 75, Hancell Teets, Mildred Teets, Lebanon, Ohio 50 Cunningham, Dorothy B., 9 1, Meller, Vernon R. , 60, Seven Canton, Ohio, May 28 Richard Norwish, John Moore, Maurice and Doris, Uniontown, Pa. , July 2 1 Va ll eys, Pa. , Aug. I 7 Young, Dorothy G. , 80, Allman, Erma Gnegy, Paul Waterloo, Iowa, 50 Curry, Beulah, 78, Oxon Hill, Miller, Miriam R. , 78, Hartvill e, O hio, July 9 Gnegy, Devin H auser, Brian Myers, Donald and Mary, Md., March 18 Hartvill e, Ohio, June 30 Zappone, Roberta, 53, Latrobe, Kight, Craig Rembold , Lonnie Alliance, O hio, 50 Dellinger, Forrest O wen, 78, Moyers, Daisie Anna Fifer, 84, Pa. , Sept. I

Messenger November 2000 Eilll EDITORIAL ■

Treasure hunt in Tijuana

hile others in their college graduating endeavor doesn't mean there were no difficulties classes are looking for the best money or tedious moments, but the Holy Spirit gave the W deal they can get, these young adults are group enough energy to overcome the obstacles. seeking another form of treasure. Their minds still In Tijuana, Mexico, we had assembled bags of busy from SO-page papers and heavy intellectual food for the needy, even though part of our activity, they seem eager to take on the world and group felt after the Skid Row experience that drink in all its culture. But, like generations of rare such handouts were demeaning to both the needy Just because youth before them, they have postponed paying back and us. "Don' t be frustrated that you're only pro­ these were their college loans and a chance to get started up the viding a drop in the bucket," said one of our corporate ladder, and have entered the upside-down group. "At least it's better than no drop in the good people world of Brethren Volunteer Service, where the pay bucket." Some of us weren't so sure. is $50 a month and an opportunity to pass out sand­ When we arrived to deliver the food, we learned in a good that the homeless had already gone home for the wiches on Skid Row in East Los Angeles. That is day. Another part of our group went, without where in early October I met up with the most recent endeavor enough tools or supplies and with no drinking BVS orientation unit, #241. After only four days water, to try to put a roof on a purple building with doesn't with this group of 19 happy explorers, I could see joists so uneven that each plywood sheet had to be why some go from here to a lifetime of service. It's mean there custom-fit. The day included plenty of waiting because some find treasure. Some fall in love. around for something to happen, which was good were no training for volunteer service where you're not "My child," the author of Proverbs addresses always in control. After awhile the crooked purple difficulties or BVSers, "if you accept my words and treasure shack had a fine new roof, finished off with a fascia up my commandments within you, making tedious trim just to make it look nice. When we went back your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining to deliver food the next day, even the reluctant moments, your heart to understanding; if you indeed cry among us were gratified by the warm smiles and but the Holy out for insight, and raise your voice for voices of "muchas gracias" from our recipients. understanding; if you seek it like silver, and Mission work probably always involves a good Spirit gave search for it as for hidden treasures-then bit of holy fumbling around. So does falling in you will understand the fear of the Lord and love. When a man and a woman fall in love they the group find the knowledge of God (Prov. 2: 1-5) ." do not start out with a very complete plan for enough doing so. No, first they fall in love, and then they It is not a simple path from BVS to treasure, yet look back to find reasons why and how they did. energy to enough volunteers must find it to keep others Abbott Andrew Marr writes about this: "Although coming back to look. This orientation unit had falling in love is something that happens to us, overcome already found the treasure of openness and warmth. we are not likely to be overpowered by another the obstacles. I was first impressed by this group's friendliness to person without going on a treasure hunt. It is me as a stranger in their midst, something that possible to stumble over a treasure without look­ doesn't always come naturally from youngsters ing for it, but looking for it greatly increases the toward people the age of their parents. And then I chances we will find it. If we search, we will find; took note of their support for each other. The if we knock, the door will be opened for us. We group had bonded through intentional community­ must, then, cultivate within ourselves aq open­ building exercises and simple time together during ness to finding God's treasure, a willingness to the previous two weeks of orientation at Camp La fall in love. If all we are looking for is the best Verne. One of the three older volunteers, a retired deal, we will find it, but the best deal is not a teacher, said she felt totally accepted by the kids, treasure and it has nothing to do with love." who called her "Grandma." There were no cliques On our last day in Tijuana, we gathered in a and no put-downs, not even in jest. To describe this circle to pray and sing with a woman whose luminous camaraderie, I kept going back to the toddler grandson is responding poorly to cancer hymn we sang that Sunday when we visited the treatment. As I joined hands with these young Imperial Heights Church of the Brethren in Los people, who had crossed borders and cultures to Angeles: "There's a sweet, sweet, spirit in this meet poverty and work with God to relieve it, I place, And I know that it's the Spirit of the Lord." could feel the presence of the Spirit of the Lord. Just because these were good people in a good And it felt like falling in love.-FLETCHER FARRAR

- Messenger November 2000 Jerusalem at peace cannot belong exclusively Jews, Christians and Muslims, the children of Abraham. to one people, one country or one religion All long for Jerusalem to be the City of Peace. Jerusalem should be open to all, For most of its history the fate of Jerusalem was determined shared by all- by war. Now the ancient hope for peace can become two peoples and three religions reality through negotiations.

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I I ' .

Churches for Middle East Peace asks you to join in urging the United States government to call upon negotiators to move beyond exclusivist claims and create a Jerusalem that is a sign of peace and a symbol of reconciliation for all humankind.

The Call for a Shared Jerusalem has been endorsed by the top leaders of the Church of the Brethren and American Friends Service Committee, Catholic Conference of Major Superiors of Men's Institutes, Christian Church (Disciples), Episcopal Church, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Friends Committee on National Legislation, Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers, Mennonite Central Committee, National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA, Presbyterian Church (USA), Reformed Church in America, United Church of Christ and United Methodist Church.

Sign up on line at [email protected] or return this form to : CHURCHES FOR MIDDLE EAST PEACE 110 Maryland Ave. NE• Suite 108 • Washington , DC 20002 www.cmep.org ------~

Please Join the Shared Jerusalem Advocacy Network Postal Network E-mail Network NAME: E-mai I and Postal ADDRESS: Send the "Jerusalem: City of Peace " Educational Packet CITY: My tax deductible donation of STATE: ZIP: $__ ~ __ to CMEP is enclosed. E-MAIL: