Filling and fulfilling feasts Page 10
HRISTIAN EADER That’s a wrap Page 17
Ready, set, launch Page 22
November / December 2019
The magazine of U.S. Mennonite Brethren USMB National Pastors’ Conference and National Convention July 21 - 25, 2020 Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center Independence, Missouri (northeast Kansas City) www.usmb.org
2 christian leader | november / december 2019 in this issue
November / December 2019
FEATURES: HOSPITALITY
10 Filling and fulfilling feasts 14 Home for the holidays DENNIS FAST DARA HALYDIER
God wants us to celebrate around What defines your home during the dinner table the holidays? 16 Connection BEN AND CAITLIN FRIESEN 12 Roadside Assistance When distance is difficult MELANIE A. HOWARD FIND MORE ONLINE: Lessons in hospitality from weirdos Hoping for more stories? Find these and more on the highway online at www.christianleadermag.org • Blue Christmas LISA KEITH • God’s Christmas graffiti TIM NEUFELD
DEPARTMENTS COLUMNS 5 The news 4 Editorial CONNIE FABER 7 5 minutes with... 8 Frontlines 17 Body Life J.L. MARTIN ■ That’s a wrap 9 Testimony ■ Church provides school supplies LUDWIG HOHM for city’s elementary school ■ International student ministry 26 Mission & Ministry builds friendships ■ Ready, set, launch 27 Vantage point TERRY HUNT 28 Church news 31 From the national director DON MORRIS
christianleadermag.com | christian leader 3 editorial HRISTIAN EADER
Vol. 82, No. 6 The gift of conversation November / December 2019 Hospitality and dinner table conversations
he upcoming holidays are a time to celebrate God- Connie Faber Twith-us by giving special attention to hospitality, to EDITOR making our homes welcoming places for others so that peo- ple—those who know our Savior and those who don’t— Janae Rempel will experience Jesus in our midst. ASSISTANT EDITOR My mom regularly practiced hospitality. She frequently invited people—extended family, friends and guests or Shelley Plett newcomers at church—over for meals, especially Sunday dinner. She would serve delicious, plentiful meals, often GRAPHIC DESIGNER preparing some of the dishes on Saturday while also super- vising my sister and me as we thoroughly cleaned the house The Christian Leader (ISSN 0009-5149) is a and set the dining room table with her best dishes. I en- gathering place for the people, passions and joyed the meals, but I wasn’t sure the house needed to be mission of U.S Mennonite Brethren. The Chris- quite as spotless as my mom insisted upon. Looking back, tian Leader is published bimonthly by the U.S. Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches. I realize that having a house that was both clean and free of Connie Faber However, the opinions expressed here are not the clutter of books and toys was part of her effort to make has served as necessarily those of the church as a whole. our home a welcoming place. COPYRIGHT: The articles printed in the editor of Christian Christian Leader are owned by the CL or by Mom also hosted her family well. Her children and Leader since 2004. the author and may not be reprinted grandchildren were treated to tables decked with table- without permission. Unless noted, cloths and seasonal centerpieces and abundant meals She and her husband, Scripture quotations are from the David, are members of New International Version. served on her best dishes. Soon after Mom was diagnosed READER PARTICIPATION: Letters to with Parkinson’s disease, the days of preparing elaborate Ebenfeld MB Church, the editor are published online holiday meals were over and my sister and I began to help Hillsboro, Kan. (www.christianleadermag.com) and should be 500 words or less and on with the meals. Eventually, we prepared the meal and she one subject. Letters must be signed and set the table, something she could do over several days. include the writer’s city and state. Letters will be edited for clarity, My mom died in March 2019, having lived the last two appropriateness and length. years of her life in nursing care and doing what she could to SUBSCRIPTIONS: $10 for six issues and $20 “host” us in her small room. After her death, one of her grand- for 12 issues ($15, $30 in Canada; all other children noted her gift as a conversationalist, something I had- countries $25 for six issues); $1.50 per copy n’t fully appreciated while she was living. It wasn’t just a tidy CORRESPONDENCE: All correspondence, house and good food that people enjoyed when they came to including subscription questions and address updates, should be addressed to her home for a meal. It was also my mom’s ability to give Christian Leader guests her full attention, her questions that kept the conversa- Box 155, 107 N. Main tion from lagging and placing a higher value on what others Hillsboro, KS 67063-0155 Phone: 620.947.5543 had to say than in her own anecdotes or ideas. Email: [email protected] While Parkinson’s eventually made much of daily life a chal- MEMBERSHIP: The Christian Leader is a lenge, it didn’t stop my mom from being a conversationalist. member of the Evangelical Press Association and Meetinghouse, an association of Mennonite She couldn’t always find the right word or remember names and Brethren in Christ editors. and sometimes reality got mixed up with her “dreams,” but my POSTMASTER: Send address changes to visits with her always involved visiting. She asked questions Christian Leader, Box 155, Hillsboro, KS 67063. and listened to my replies. I miss our conversations. Periodicals postage paid at Hillsboro, Kansas. Several of the writers in this issue mention the importance of conversation in nurturing hospitable homes for the holidays. I want to be a better conversationalist at Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings this year, and I wish for all of us the opportunity to affirm and practice the gifts of hospitality Christian Leader is published by and conversation as we celebrate with family, friends and even strangers.◗
U.S. Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches
4 christian leader | november / december 2019 the news
USMB Gathering 2020 Celebrate 2019 They challenged attendees to “get off the shelf” and “open your curtains.” slated for July explores living Celebrate is held every two years USMB Gathering 2020, the new purposefully with this being the third such gather- name for the USMB National Pastors ing. Celebrate 2021 will be in Califor- Conference and National Convention, Over 220 boomers, builders and nia with the exact location to be will be held in Independence, Mo., empty nesters from 13 states met in announced. —Dara Halydier July 21-25, 2020. Omaha, Neb., Sept. 27-29, to discover The name “USMB Gathering” was chosen by the convention planning team to be easily recognizable and consistent when referring to the Na- tional Pastors Conference and Na- tional Convention. It will be used for these biennial national events moving forward. USMB Gathering 2020 will be held at Stoney Creek Hotel and Confer- ence Center, 18011 Bass Pro Drive in Independence, Mo., a suburb of Kansas City providing easy access to John and Helen Quiring, Hampton, Neb., share with Phil and Judy Glanzer, Sioux Falls, SD, all the city has to offer. A lake, water- during the final session as people gathered in small groups to share what had impacted them fall, park and 2-mile walking trail pro- during the weekend and pray for one another. Photo by MB Foundation vide a beautiful backdrop for the hotel, which with its large wood beams, out- how to live purposefully in the last USMB ends church door themes and modern rustic décor third of life. Sponsored by MB Foun- has a lodge-type feel. The conference dation, the conference was held at Em- planting partnership center, located at one end of the hotel, bassy Suites by Hilton Old Market. is on one level. The special room rate Attendees heard from Ray Pritchard, with Multiply of $112 for one to four people includes president of Keep Believing Min- The USMB Leadership Board has a complimentary breakfast buffet, cof- istries, and Amy Hanson, author of announced its decision by unanimous fee, wireless Internet and parking. Baby Boomers and Beyond. They also enjoyed times of worship, the magic of vote to end its formal partnership with David Gerard and the musical gifts of Multiply for church planting in the the Foto Sisters. U.S., effective immediately. The an- The theme of Living with Purpose nouncement, made Sept. 11, indicates was carried throughout the event. the decision was made following Mul- Three couples shared personal testi- tiply’s decision to release its North monies of ministry after retirement. American church planting element for- Gordon and Karen Wiebe, Reedley, merly known as C2C. A USMB Calif., shared about serving through Church Planting Task Force has been mission trips and camps. Larry and created to help determine next steps, Elaine Nikkel, Wichita, Kan., volun- structures and support for USMB church planting. The task force has Save the date and make plans to at- teer at Tabor College and have col- met twice. tend USMB Gathering 2020, where lected and distributed computers and In an email announcing the deci- you will experience community, sup- textbooks to a college in Tanzania. sion, Don Morris, USMB national di- port our national MB family and be They spoke about the opportunity to rector, and David Hardt, USMB encouraged, challenged and re- build relationships while they serve as travel tour guides or work out at the Leadership Board chair, say, “With sourced. For more information about YMCA. Bob and Lynette Ewert, significant changes anticipated, please the location, visit www.stoney- Mountain Lake, Minn., minister by be assured that we (USMB national, creekhotels.com or call 816-908- opening their home to men and along with district and MB agency 9600.—USMB women to detox and young mothers leaders) view church planting just as that have experienced spousal abuse. crucially important as ever before. Al-
christianleadermag.com | christian leader 5 the news
though final determinations about how to move forward have not yet been completed, it’s likely that districts, local MB churches, USMB national and other MB agencies will all have a vital role in this collective vision and in the work of birthing new MB churches.” Regarding Multiply, Morris and Hardt say, “As Multiply shifts to re- focus on MB global mission, which in- cludes North America, USMB stands committed to supporting and champi- oning that mission and our interna- tional missionaries. In the U.S., it is our understanding that Multiply will now focus on assisting in cross-cul- tural ministry with immigrant dias- poric churches, as well as continuing Fresno Pacific University is celebrating 75 years of God’s faithfulness to the university, the short-term mission training programs Central Valley and beyond during the 2019-2020 school year. Four anniversary events through invested local MB churches. were held this fall, beginning with Gather 2019 on Sept. 5. Gather 2019 began with a USMB leaders support this functional worship service in the Special Events Center on the main campus. Then around 850 and practical application of Multiply’s family and friends swarmed the University Green for food trucks, music and magic cross-cultural expertise.” —CL (photo above). The second step was seven weeks of prayer for select professions in which alumni have made an impact in their communities and special honored alumni in each. The professions were health care, education, nonprofit/youth, business, ministry/human MWC observes services, international relations and public service. The universit hosted a birthday party the afternoon of Sept. 18, the actual birthday, and an anniversary gala will be held Anabaptist World Nov. 2 at the Special Events Center on the FPU Main Campus.—FPU Fellowship Sunday Mennonite World Conference In the five years USMB has been (MWC) has invited Anabaptist-related Support USMB on part of Giving Tuesday, donors have churches around the world to observe Giving Tuesday contributed more than $148,000, in- Anabaptist World Fellowship Sunday cluding $15,851 last year. (AWFS) on Jan. 19, 2020, a day to ob- Individuals and churches will have “I want to express my great appreci- serve a common theme in a worship opportunity to support USMB on ation for those who have donated for service as an act of solidarity. AWFS is Giving Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2019. Giving past Giving Tuesday campaigns,” typically observed on the Sunday clos- Tuesday is a global day dedicated to Morris says. “The funds have been est to Jan. 21, the date in 1525 when generosity that falls on the first Tues- crucial for us as we seek to serve our Christians in Zurich, Switzerland, held day after Thanksgiving, Black Friday MB pastors and churches. Without a baptismal service that launched the and Cyber Monday. these funds, USMB would not be able renewal movement known today as All donated funds will be used to to provide these services. So, I’m un- Anabaptism. support USMB mission and ministry abashedly asking for past and new The theme for AWFS 2020 is “Jesus and may be designated to fund three donors to help us raise significant Christ: Our Hope.” Each year, differ- specific ministry options: church mul- funds for mission and ministry for this ent churches which are part of the tiplication and evangelism, leadership next season. Please give generously— global MWC community prepare development or ethnic integrated min- all funds will go to ministry, not to guiding material that can be used for istries such as gatherings, training and overhead costs.” AWFS. This year, material has been translation projects. For more information about prepared by churches in the U.S. “We’re still in the game for church USMB’s Giving Tuesday campaign, and Canada and contains biblical planting,” says USMB national direc- visit www.usmb.org/GivingTuesday. texts, prayers, song suggestions, ser- tor Don Morris, adding that LEAD USMB invites donors to use the mon ideas and stories. Resources may initiatives are ongoing and more gath- hashtag #increasingkingdomimpact. be found at www.mwc-cmm.org/awfs. erings for USMB’s growing ethnic —USMB —MWC congregations are anticipated.
6 christian leader | november / december 2019 minutes with...
Jason Salazar Jason Salazar is chief of police in the USMB hosts summits city of Visalia, a community of 138,000 The USMB National Strategy Team in California’s Central Valley. He and recently hosted two summits to further his wife, Christy, and their two daugh- connections between the national con- ters have been part of Neighborhood ference and congregations comprised Church in Visalia for 18 years. Though primarily of African immigrants. his days are full with managing a staff of 251 and listening to the concerns of people in his community, Jason took a few minutes to talk about his role.
You came to your role from within needs of the community in a particu- the ranks of the Visalia Police lar area. We talked about the impor- Department. tance of impacting the lives of our Yes, I’ve been serving with the youth, and the church ran with it. Ethiopian pastors pray for USMB leaders. Photo by USMB department for 26 years. I like They adopted a local elementary to learn and grow and have taken school, and because of their work and The first summit, held Aug. 16-17 in promotions along the way. In Febru- other community partners, we’ve Cincinnati, Ohio, brought together 13 ary it will be 5 years that I’ve been seen drastic reductions in gang vio- USMB leaders and 52 leaders from 20 serving as chief. I feel fortunate to be lence there. churches comprised of immigrants from able to stay here and serve here in my Democratic Republic of Congo, some home community. What role does your faith play in with roots in the Congolese Mennonite Brethren church. Two of the Congolese your work? churches present are members of Many communities in the U.S. are This can be a difficult job, both in USMB and many of the other 18 are experiencing great conflict with my current role and also for officers considering membership. The summit, their police departments. What has at the line level. You see the difficult funded by USMB, Central District been your experience in Visalia? realities of life and society. My faith Conference, MB Foundation and Mul- We are blessed with a community keeps me rooted in the fact that tiply, was intended to help the congrega- that supports us. Our focus is to be there’s a God out there working for tions in the discerning process. community-oriented, working with the good. That reality corrects my The second summit was the first time other partners to ensure public safety. course to focus on what we are for, the 14 USMB Ethiopian congregations We have a role to enforce laws and not what we’re fighting against and gathered as a group for fellowship and fight crime, but our role is much big- always helps to keep perspective. orientation. A representative of a 15th ger than that. We work closely with congregation that is considering joining USMB was also present. This second other community partners like What can Christians learn from summit, funded by MB Foundation, schools and hospitals on long-term people working in law enforce- was held Sept. 12 in Atlanta, Ga., and in- solutions rather than just enforce- ment? cluded 17 Ethiopian leaders and six ment, focus on quality staff and de- You’ve got to get out of the pews to USMB leaders. veloping strong community make a difference. For example, “Our immigrant churches need our relationships. churches might hand out meals to attention,” says Don Morris, USMB the homeless, but officers who deal national director. “We haven’t done How does Neighborhood Church with homelessness day in and day out a very good job of engaging our immi- connect with your work? know that it’s about relationships and grant churches.... Several ideas evolved At least 10 officers in my department building a community of support from these (summits) as to how to attend Neighborhood. The church’s that truly makes the difference. enhance this.” vision is to be FOR Visalia. About Morris anticipates that Congolese and To hear the testimony of a Christian Ethiopian leadership events will be held 10 years ago, the city was experienc- officer on Chief Salazar’s homeless- again, but no specific follow-up gather- ing a great deal of gang violence. ness team, go to Facebook https:// ings are currently on the calendar. —CL Some of the Neighborhood staff ap- www.facebook.com/visaliapd/videos/ proached me and asked about the 661078677701861/ Interview by Kathy Heinrichs Wiest
christianleadermag.com | christian leader 7 frontlines
God's gentle whisper The Holy Spirit empowers, equips us to share
oes God still speak today? Peo- the door, and I heard in my heart, Dple throughout church history “Matthew 6. Share this with her.” have answered this question differ- I don’t have Matthew 6 memorized, ently. As I think about how I would so I opened my Bible. While I am answer, I am reminded of one of my looking for Matthew 6, all of these favorite Bible stories about Elijah thoughts come to mind: “She is going from 1 Kings 19:11-12 which speaks of to think I’m weird. God, are you sure the Lord’s “gentle whisper.” I need to share this? I am afraid. God, This whisper has become more real am I hearing you correctly? What do J.L. Martin to me over the last few weeks. I I tell her from Matthew 6?” is pastor of children and should begin by saying that as I pray With my Bible open, I was drawn family at Hesston MB in groups, God often brings words or to these words that are repeated three Church in Hesston, Scriptures to mind, and I then share times in Matthew 6: “Your Father Kan. He is also the these. Until a few weeks ago, I had who sees what is done in secret, will USMB social media never considered that these words or reward you.” I knew this was what I coordinator. Scriptures might be for specific peo- was to tell her. ple. As I was sharing this with Brad When she came to pick up her cof- Burkholder, lead pastor at Hesston fee, I said, “You don’t know me, but I MB Church, he encouraged me to am a pastor at Hesston MB.” let the Holy Spirit lead me as I use “Are you Brad?” she asked. this gift. “No,” I replied. I then shared This brought about a series of my name, and she knew my wife events over three days that I’ll sum- from work. marize by saying God spoke words “As you came in, God spoke and Scriptures to me for six different Matthew 6 to my heart and he wants individuals or families which I then me to share these words with you passed on to them. After each time, today,” I said. I thanked God for the gift and for the After I finished, with tears in her opportunity to encourage, edify, eyes, she said, “Thank you, I needed comfort and strengthen his people, that today,” and then she left. the church. I share this to encourage my fellow As I was reflecting on these three introverts, because if you know me, days, I asked myself—and probably you know this whole situation was God—this question: “What happens out of my comfort zone. But because if God speaks in this way with some- the Holy Spirit empowered and one I do not personally know?” All of equipped, I was able to speak these the situations above involved people words so that God gets all the glory. I that attend my church or that I know. encourage each of us to pray these God answered my question within a words, “Speak, for your servant is lis- few hours. tening” (1 Samuel 3:10). And then be I was sitting and reading at the local ready because God loves to answer coffee shop when my attention was this prayer.◗ drawn to the door. A woman opened
8 christian leader | november / december 2019 testimony
Hope in uncertain times Weather brings hardship to farming communities
hen I think about how the rainy chased last winter were not being used. Wweather has affected the farming Uncertainty reigned. community, a lot of items “flood” my The weather has not been the only stress mind. Flooding has been in the news from culprit. Prices for the commodities have Kansas to South Dakota since springtime. been equally stressful. Tweets about tariffs Yet in the midst of excessive moisture and have sometimes caused market prices to hardship, I have found hope in Jesus. fluctuate more in an hour than they did in Our weather story in east central South a year. Dakota started last year (2018). The crops One early Saturday morning, a hailstorm suffered all summer because of drought, and high winds caused damage to our Ludwig Hohm and grass in the pastures was short. crops. We had hail on every field except is from the Huron, We had a nice fall, but in January 2019, one, and the wind blew so hard that corn S.D., area and attends the weather turned for the worse. Church stalks snapped off below the ear of corn. Bethel MB Church in was cancelled a number of times because As I drove around after the storm, I felt a rural Yale, S.D. He of snow and cold. Never have I welcomed little dejected and sorry for myself. I told graduated from James springtime as much as I did this year. It God, “I know the crop is yours, but I am Valley Christian seemed like it would never warm up. But happy to do the harvesting.” Then I drove School in 1972 and re- when the snow did begin to melt, it started past the farm of a family who was driving ceived his bachelor’s to rain. The ground was still frozen, and two and a half hours daily for radiation degree in agronomy culverts were not yet open, so water treatment. That helped put my troubles from South Dakota flooded the roads. into the right perspective. State University, The snow returned in late April—24 Farmers are not the only people who where he met his wife, inches in one storm. It came during calv- have stress in their lives. Everyone is prob- Julie, during a Bible ing, stressing humans and livestock to the ably dealing with items in their daily walk study. Hohm farms max. The blizzard conditions meant many that are almost unbearable. So, where is corn, soybeans, wheat newborn calves did not live long— the hope that we so desperately long for? It and alfalfa, has a cow- whether from exposure to snow and wind definitely isn’t in crops or livestock or sales calf operation and does or from being trampled by the herd. When or teaching or doctoring or trucking or custom farming and the snow melted, we found calves that we homemaking or cooking or well… the list hay grinding. He is did not know had been born. goes on. blessed with great em- The weather also affected our crops. Hope just happens to be my favorite ployees that allow him With the late spring and continuing rain, word. Not the hope that “I sure hope to be on various we could not put crops in the ground in a my car starts” or “I hope that I pass my boards, including the timely manner. All across the cornbelt, test,” but rather the hope that comes from Huron Chamber, farmers were a month or more behind in the words of a hymn: “My hope is built Bethel MB Church planting. The rain totals kept climbing— on nothing less than Jesus Christ, my elder board, Central we are now at 300 percent of normal—and righteousness.” If somehow we can have District Conference stress levels rose as we waited to do what this type of hope, then hardships can be- church plant commit- we love: plant the seed. come bearable. tee and USMB Lead- South Dakota had the highest amount of God gave us his son, Jesus Christ, to be ership Board. preventive planting in the country. Many our hope. When circumstances flood my farmers only seeded 25-50 percent of their life, hymns like this one remind me of the crops. The adverse weather also left the in- hope I’ve placed in Jesus: “What a day that frastructure, like roads and bridges, need- will be, when my Jesus I shall see. When I ing serious repair. look upon his face, the one who saved me The weather has not only affected by his grace. When he takes me by the farmers but also businesses providing hand and leads me to the Promised Land, seed, fertilizer and herbicides. A high what a day, glorious day that will be.” percentage of seed was returned to dealers. That is exactly what hope is to me.◗ Fertilizer, chemicals and equipment pur-
christianleadermag.com | christian leader 9 God wants us to celebrate around the dinner table
ere we go again—all those Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner gatherings! While there are the unfortunate few who long to be part of just one holiday feast, I’m guessing many of us have a difficult time fitting all the dinners into our schedule. There is the church dinner, the immediate family dinner, the grandparents’ dinner on both sides and then Hthose on your spouse’s side of the family. Oh, and don’t forget the company dinner party and the time for just “us friends.” It can spill over past the official holiday sea- son. And what’s with this change of “capacity” as I grow older? The disparity be- tween youth and age doesn’t seem fair. I recall with some gastronomical pain the days of my youth when I had the ability to “eat until I was sick” but not get sick. Oh, the wonders of those growing years! Now, in my 70s, I take much greater care in planning my portions. I’m no longer at the head of the line as I calculate marshmallow covered yams, gravy-drenched mashed potatoes, soft butter rolls and mounds of turkey, ham and sausage before I reach the over-loaded dessert table. I know I’ll pay for it later if I fail to exercise a good deal of restraint, but then I weigh that momentary regret against the pleasure of a deep-sleep coma fueled by tryptophan. Oh, the joy of feasting! Here’s the beautiful thing: Feasting and gathering around tables can be a great opportunity for engagement in spiritual things—eating can be a significant act of worship! I’ve been reading Timothy Keller’s Prodigal God in which he looks at the Luke 15 parable of the two sons from some fascinating new angles. In that discussion Keller also observes that eating/feasting is a powerful spiritual metaphor. In fact, it is more than a metaphor; it is a biblical reality. Jesus ate with many people and did some of his best teaching over meals. We shouldn’t miss the fact that the story of the prodigal son ends with a feast, just as the story of human history in Revelation ends with a feast—the marriage supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19). How significant that Jesus left us the Lord’s Supper (Eucharist) as the sign of his saving grace for all who will believe. I have at times told our congregation that something is not quite right when we offer those little communion cups as symbols
10 christian leader | november / december 2019 By Dennis Fast
of God’s saving grace. His grace is abundant and over- And one way we have found to bridge these age gaps is to flowing! His blood was poured out for us and then we plan a simple activity around the holiday theme. only take a small sip of his grace at the communion At times we have prepared place cards with a Scripture “feast.” What if we had large beakers of juice/wine and verse to be read. At other times there has been a question lots of bread to truly symbolize the abundant blessing we to answer in a sentence or two, while at other settings we have received? have invited those who can (or want to) to share a blessing At a recent Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary campus from the past year. gathering, Professor Lynn Jost pointed out that one of the There are many more ideas and each family typically key words in Deuteronomy is “celebrate” which, he has someone that enjoys creating an activity that can bring added, can be linked to the word feast. God, in calling to- everyone together in spirit and help make memories for gether a people to reflect his glory and character, invited the future. them to celebrate with numerous feasts. Invite Jesus. Jesus performed his first recorded miracle Psalm 23 declares that our Shepherd will “prepare a at a wedding feast (John 2:1-11). A bridegroom’s future table (feast) before us (even) in the presence of our ene- was in jeopardy after the wine ran out in the middle of the mies.” And let us not forget that Jesus, not long after feed- party. The part of the story I like, among other things, is ing the 5,000, stood and declared himself to be the “Bread that John records in verse 2, “Jesus . . . had also been in- of Life” (John 6:35). Something about eating together not vited to the wedding.” Jesus’ presence made the difference only brings people together, it also points us to the nature and turned a near tragedy into a triumph as the groom was of God and becomes a sign of his presence with us. later commended for “saving the best for last.” Could that happen for you and your families during this Similarly, Jesus’ presence at our family gatherings can season of feasting? Here are a few simple suggestions for turn an average meal into a spiritual feast. We invite Jesus enriching your feasts. to our feasts when we take time to pray and read Scrip- Make sure you are present. I need to admit that I ture, to acknowledge the food being part of his provision often fret about the details. My default in most situations and welcoming him as the “unseen” guest at each table. is to ensure that everyone is comfortable and cared for. When conversation is directed to thanksgiving and spiri- While not a bad quality in itself, when taken to the ex- tual blessings our Lord is welcomed and honored. treme I can spend more time on things than on people. Someone has to take the initiative on this or the conver- When I do, I miss great opportunities to connect with sation will stay at the level of weather, sports, the kids’ lat- those I love. est achievements or Aunt Franny’s recent medical For feasting to be fulfilling I need to remember that peo- procedure. Feasting is fulfilling when Jesus is welcomed ple are more important than the food or the seating and celebrated. arrangement. I need to be there with my eyes and ears Savor the food. Of course, there is no feast without open to others. Being present is more than a physical ap- food—lots of food. Here in the West we are blessed with pearance—it is a choice to really “be there.” not only an abundance of food but with an almost limitless Include a guest. One thing that has given greater variety. In our community we live alongside a number of meaning to a number of our holiday gatherings over the ethnic groups, each one having a taste for unique dishes. years has been to include individuals or families that Learning to enjoy this variety adds to the joy of our meals. might be feeling alone for one reason or another. Some While we do well to remember those who have less families don’t live near their relatives and find it difficult to than they need, we need not hold back in celebrating the get “home” for the holidays. Having experienced broken abundance we enjoy as God’s good gift to us. In this life relationships often brings renewed sadness that is intensi- our appetites will only be satisfied temporarily, but we can fied around family times. make our feasting fulfilling by adding thought and mean- Offering hospitality and including others in our gather- ing to these gatherings, remembering that they are only a ings has been meaningful, an example to our own chil- foretaste of that great feast still to come: “On this moun- dren and grandchildren and fulfilling. I can recall a few of tain the Lord Almighty will prepare a feast of rich food for these that included a bit of difficulty such as guest chil- all peoples, a banquet of aged wine—the best of meats dren “running wild,” but looking back I believe we would and finest of wines” (Isaiah 25:6). do it again as the rewards outweighed the demands. We Dennis Fast is associate pastor of Hope Kingsburg, Kings- trust that we were a blessing as we were being blessed. burg, Calif., and the MB Foundation church relations direc- Create a memory. Something that has added meaning tor. He is a graduate of Tabor College and Fresno Pacific to our gatherings has been simple activities around the Biblical Seminary. In addition to serving the local church in table, often just before we stop to give thanks and as we a variety of pastoral roles, he has served on the Multiply find our seats. At our feasts it has been common to have board and as the USMB conference chair. He and his wife, wide age ranges represented, from infants to the elderly. Connie, have three adult children and 12 grandchildren.
christianleadermag.com | christian leader 11 Lessons in hospitality from weirdos on the highway
By Melanie A. Howard
story depicts a brand of hospitality that contains wisdom for us today. Although the passage begins with attention to Philip and his call to the wilderness road, the text shares far more details about the Ethiopian than it does about Philip. The Ethiopian is traveling from Jerusalem where he had gone to worship; he is the official treasurer of Queen Candace, and he is a eunuch. All of the details that the text provides to de- love the 2006 comedy film RV starring Robin scribe this person combine to paint the picture of someone Williams. The film tells the story of Bob Munro who is radically different than the insider, Philip. In almost (played by Williams) taking his family on a cross- every way, the Ethiopian could have seemed strange country roadtrip in a giant recreational vehicle. While to Philip. onI the road, the Munros become the recipients of unlikely Intended for a Christian audience, this story’s readers hospitality from an odd yet close-knit family, the Gornickes. (both ancient and modern) might be inclined to identify Although the Gornickes seem quite strange compared to the with Philip. Christian audiences of the story might resonate supposedly “normal” Munro family, they practice a brand of closely with him as the Christian who promulgates the traveling hospitality that is simultaneously humorous and gospel and thus seems most familiar. Where the details of heartwarming. Even as they demonstrate the nuances of the Ethiopian eunuch serve to paint him as an “outsider,” handling sewage, it is ultimately these weirdos on the way Philip appears as the obvious “insider.” Furthermore, as a who emerge as exemplars of hospitality. portion of the book entitled “Acts of the Apostles,” one might anticipate that the hero of the story would be the Hospitality in Acts 8:26-40 apostle Philip. The roadside assistance in RV might seem like a strange Given modern assumptions about how stories work, we way to begin thinking about hospitality in the Bible and in might also expect this story to be about how “our” guy our own practices. However, the hospitality depicted in the Philip offered kind hospitality to this stranger who is really film is not so different than the hospitality that appears in different from “us.” In fact, we might even pat ourselves on Acts 8:26-40 where a “weirdo” on the road offers hospitality the back a little because of what this suggests about how to an “insider.” great “our” people are. But that’s not the story that we This text describes an encounter between the apostle have here. Philip and a traveler on the road from Jerusalem. Prompted By the time we reach this episode’s conclusion, it becomes to go along a deserted way, Philip meets another journeyer, clear that Philip himself does very little. It’s the Ethiopian an Ethiopian eunuch in a chariot who is reading from a eunuch who actually drives the story’s action. There is only scroll. After Philip asks the traveler if he understands what one invitation made, and it is an invitation from the he is reading, this unlikely “host” invites Philip to join him Ethiopian eunuch to Philip, inviting Philip to join him in the in the chariot to explain the text (8:30-31). Following Philip’s chariot instead of running alongside of it (8:31). The proclamation of the gospel, the traveler points out a body of Ethiopian eunuch is the host. Philip is the recipient of water, and Philip baptizes him before being snatched off by hospitality. The Ethiopian asks questions to extend the the Spirit to another location (8:36-39). Though brief, this conversation (8:34) and suggests something to do, namely,
12 christian leader | november / december 2019 get baptized (8:37). Philip largely takes his lead from the Ethiopian. In short, the hospitality that the Ethiopian eunuch offers may at first look all wrong. It’s hospitality that is coming from a weirdo. It’s hospitality that is happening away from home, and it’s hospitality that doesn’t let us pride ourselves on doing something “nice.” Like the Gornickes’ hospitality in RV, the Ethiopian eu- nuch’s roadside assistance may not be quite the model that we have in mind when we imagine exemplary hosts.
A weirdo’s lessons in hospitality In these last months of the year, we are approaching the holidays and their seasonal emphasis on being the “perfect host.” Magazines explode with tips for hosting parties, and websites offer an array of recipes for the perfect appetizers. We might read this advice and imagine that we have all of the answers for practicing holiday hospitality. However, if we allow ourselves to enter into the story of Acts 8, we might dis- cover that the Ethiopian eunuch offers two very different les- sons in hospitality.
Lesson 1: Practice hospitality on the way. When I imagine practicing hospitality, it’s almost always in the confines of my own space. I think about inviting people to my home, cleaning up my guest room and cooking in my The Ethiopian’s status as a eunuch would have fit him kitchen. However, as the Ethiopian eunuch demonstrates, squarely within that category. So, if Philip were to have prior- hospitality can take the form of roadside assistance along the itized cultic purity over relationship with this traveler, he way. The Ethiopian eunuch is not at home when he issues an would have missed out on an important opportunity to share invitation to Philip. Both are in the process of traveling to the gospel. Instead, though, Philip took a risk and allowed other lands. himself to be welcomed by one he may have initially deemed Likewise, the holiday season often finds folks in grocery a threat. stores, boutiques, airports, train stations and roadside rest Philip’s acceptance of hospitality from a stranger can serve stops. None of these places are home, and all of them have an as an inspiration for us to be willing to accept hospitality from air of impermanence as they discourage lingering for too long. those that we might deem “weirdos.” Who are the folks that What does hospitality look like when it is practiced in these have invited us to share life in a way that looks different from transient spaces? Yielding our spot in line? Paying it forward our own? What are the new activities that we might need to at the drive thru? Giving up a ticket when seats sell out? try in order to relate to someone else? What off-putting food The Ethiopian eunuch doesn’t give precise advice for might we need to taste in order to build a relationship with bringing his principles of hospitality into the 21st century, but a stranger? his practice of welcoming another, even in transitory spaces, Accepting the hospitality of weirdos can take us far beyond offers a new take on hospitality that allows all to be able to our comfort zones. However, if the Ethiopian eunuch in the practice it. book of Acts or the Gornicke family in the film RV have any- thing to say about it, then sometimes receiving hospitality Lesson 2: Accept hospitality from weirdos. from weirdos on the way can produce transformative and life- It’s only natural to see ourselves as the heroes of our own changing results. As we approach the holiday season, may we stories. So, we might be readily inclined to act as hosts, even too be on the lookout for weirdos and the hospitality that they hosts in transit. However, the Ethiopian eunuch’s lessons in might have to offer. hospitality are not just for hosts; they are also for prospective Melanie A. Howard is assistant professor and program direc- guests. This story, as well as the story in the film RV, suggests tor of biblical and theological studies at Fresno Pacific Univer- that the warmest welcome may come from the wackiest sity. She is a graduate of Messiah College, the University of weirdos. Notre Dame and Princeton Theological Seminary. Along with Not only was the Ethiopian a stranger to Philip, but he may her husband, Jeremiah, Howard is an active member of Willow have even posed a threat to Philip on the grounds of cultic Avenue Mennonite Church, Fresno, Calif., where she serves as purity. Deuteronomy 23:1 includes precise instructions about the chair of the Worship Commission and a member of the the exclusion of men with certain physical characteristics. church council, among other roles.
christianleadermag.com | christian leader 13 What defines your home during the holidays?
By Dara Halydier
14 christian leader | november / december 2019 was so looking forward to our first Christmas as a married kids and their families to assemble and decorate. I made two couple. Decorating our apartment, shopping for gifts, baking kinds of cookies, and everyone added their own favorites from Imy favorite Christmas goodies and learning to bake his and home. I planned the main meal for Christmas Day, but the grown celebrating Jesus’ birthday for the first time in a Christian home. kids and their families supplied and cooked the rest. We all re- The day surpassed my expectations as we were welcomed into laxed and had a grand time. my husband’s family home for the holiday. Granny, his parents, If you are expected to go to a parent’s house there are a his little sister and we all gathered by the tree in anticipation. An- few things to remember. You can always leave. Even though ticipation of gifts, yes, but more than that, anticipation of what they are your parents, you are no longer a child. You are an my father-in-law wanted to share with us from the Bible. adult. Respect, trust and truth should reign. You are still in That first Christmas lesson was on the presence of God being charge of your own children. You might be able to relax a little the place of joy. I have never forgotten those new ideas that were but keep vigilant to the entertainment and relationships among presented to me that morning 34 years ago. I have found that joy the children. in serving my own growing family through the years. Now we Remember “My house; my rules. Their house; their settle down to Christmas at our house with the joy of laughter, rules.” If Dad wants to smoke at your house, you have the right shared friendships and lots of food and fun. to ask him to do it outside. If Dad wants to smoke in his house, Growing up, joy was not part of Christmases. Christmas usu- you have the right to leave the room. There are some nonnego- ally started with my dad yelling at my sister. We were ushered tiables such as television programming, movies, games and down to the tree where gifts awaited us. It was all about the pro- conversation from which you have the right to excuse yourself duction and whether we appreciated the love that went into the and your children. You can always suggest an alternative or giving. More recently, after a hectic Christmas with new babies, a take the kids to another room and get them involved in a whole- new house, new jobs and exhaustion, my parents told my daugh- some project. ter-in-law that she would not be receiving any more presents If things didn’t work out last year, try something differ- from them because she had not sent a timely thank you note. Al- ent this year. Instead of someone ruling because the celebration ways a string attached. is at their home, try a destination Christmas. This tends to put What defines your home for the holidays? Even if you are everyone on equal footing. If a week together is too long, try pop- fortunate to have Christian parents and in-laws, there can still ping in just for the day or a couple of days. If you would rather be personality battles, control issues, disrespect, expectations have Christmas morning at home with just your marriage family, and disappointments that leave you wondering where the joy of then arrange to meet with parents, siblings and in-laws at another Jesus is. time. We have had Christmas the day after because that was And yet, it seems, our hearts do draw us home for the holidays. when everyone could get together. Our unfulfilled hearts seek family blessings that we will never get. Do what you enjoy. If you love to decorate, then decorate. If We go back year after year hoping that it will be different this you love to bake, bake. If you love to sing, go caroling. It’s your time. Maybe Dad won’t drink his Christmas cheer quite so holiday, too. It’s important to include traditions and activities that much. Maybe Mom won’t groan and gripe over the work of have meaning to each person that is attending if at all possible. I preparing the big feast. Maybe sister or brother will be grateful for always ask my daughters-in-law and sons what they want us to your present rather than resentful. include each holiday season. This makes them want to keep com- Commercials, movies and songs romanticize being home for ing back for more. the holidays. Idealistic dreams become our expectations, whether If going home or having family in is not an option, then find real or imagined. The unfulfilled need for a blessing from our others to share your holiday cheer with. Don’t sit home alone parents makes us ripe for disappointment and frustration. There and mope. The holiday season is the time of the year when is a solution. Get your needs filled up by your heavenly Father more people commit suicide than any other. Don’t give into de- before the holidays. Go to him for the blessing, your joy, your pression and loneliness. Do something about it. Ask your pastor contentment, your peace. Then when the holy night is not so if there are any others in your church who are alone during the peaceful, you can smile inwardly remembering the Father’s great holidays and invite them over or to meet out for a meal or activity. love for you. Decorate your space. Make your prayer time and Bible reading Here are some helpful ideas for keeping your expectations in a priority. check and enjoying your home or another’s for the holidays. Serve during the holidays. This keeps your mind off of Make Jesus the center of your celebration. Ideas include a yourself and encourages others. You can serve within your own birthday cake for Jesus, reading the nativity story, hiding baby family by making your gifts, making a meal or dessert or leading Jesus for the kids to find or a short devotional around the tree. If out in a play or singing. You might make cards for those who are that is not accepted in your birth family’s home, then have your in nursing homes, visit a shut-in or shop for someone who has own celebration at a different time including what is important to run upon financially difficult times. Serving is the best way to lift you and your marriage family or friends. your mood. Remember that memories are never 100 percent accu- No matter where you celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas or rate. We all tend to exaggerate the good, the bad and the ugly of New Year’s, find family, church family or others to serve, and our memories based upon our immaturity and feelings at the time make your heart home for others during the holidays. the memory was made. If it’s healthy to talk with your birth fam- Dara Halydier is married to Tracy Halydier and lives in Hills- ily about your memories, do so with an open mind, realizing that boro, Kan. They have enjoyed raising five boys and are loving get- you all may remember the same event very differently. ting to spoil eight grandchildren. Halydier is the executive director Decide what is important, what is necessary and what of Abiding Truth Ministry, Inc. (www.abidingtruthministry.com). you can let go. Last December, I had a spinal fusion one week She is the author of eight books including the Practical Proverbs before Christmas after moving from Texas to Kansas December 1. series for children, teens and women. I had the presents bought and wrapped, but I left the tree for the
christianleadermag.com | christian leader 15 By Ben and Caitlin Friesen
When distance is difficult
“We wish you a merry Christmas, If you are far from home, it is OK to miss family we wish you a merry Christmas.” and friends and talk about those who are not pres- Our television sang out the ending ent. It is wonderful to want to continue holiday traditions to another Hallmark holiday movie. I and be close to people you love. Don’t let your longing for was too busy addressing our Christmas what is familiar make you miss what’s going on now. Ex- cards to know how the film ended, al- plore new opportunities, connect with people, be present though I suspect it wrapped up with in your experiences and be patient with yourself and oth- an elaborate marriage proposal. I ers as you adjust. looked over at Ben, hunched over For those of us who are deeply rooted in our com- his laptop preparing his next munity, take some time this season to reach out sermon of the Advent sea- and encourage those who aren’t. Even small acts son, and sighed. Another like sharing baked goods or telling newcomers some Friday night on the couch of your favorite things to do around town can help trying to navigate our connect someone struggling to find their place. long Christmas to-do list Your engagement can make a difference to those and missing our out-of- stuck sitting on their couch on a Friday night. town family. I searched for our next holiday distraction on the In the wet winter sea- TV and heard a noise in our apartment complex son, we are a five-hour parking lot: singing. Ben put down his computer, and drive from the Friesens in we both went to open the door. Our friends were stand- Oklahoma and a long day in ing in the cold evening fog along with a dozen adults and and out of airports to get to the children bundled in their winter coats. They handed us a tin Bairds in Fresno, Calif. We knew when God called us of homemade cookies and continued to sing carols at the to Topeka, Kan., that we would be further away from top of their lungs. Our neighbors opened their doors and we our family and have come to realize how difficult that all sang along. distance is. We miss our family and our growing-up “We wish you a merry Christmas, we wish you a merry traditions, especially at Christmastime. Christmas.” Holidays can be an isolating time for people like us, far away from home and trying to learn new local customs. Ben and Caitlin Friesen are part of the family at Corner- We are blessed to be part of a community who recognizes stone Community Church in Topeka, Kan. Ben’s favorite our struggles and helps us navigate this season with fun holiday tradition is eating cherry pie for Friesen Thanksgiv- and connection. Others may not be as fortunate to find ing, and Caitlin enjoys walking Christmas Tree Lane in people that reach out to include them. Fresno. They both love spending time with family—espe- God consistently calls us to connect—connect with cially their nieces and nephew—any time of the year. The God and with others. Paul reminds us in 1 Thessalonians Friesens are creating new holiday customs in Topeka and 5:14 to “encourage the disheartened, help the weak, [and look forward to this year’s Christmas banquet at church and to] be patient with everyone.” We can apply his teachings driving with friends through TARC’s Winter Wonderland this holiday season: light display.
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For the past 10 years, the church needs of local children and families. That’s a wrap has alternated between supporting “We both saw the intense need for local and international projects. The support in this area of our community,” Christmas packing party first, in 2009, involved sending water Burkholder says. “From foster children, concludes yearlong project filters—and a team—to the Dominican foster parents, foster care workers, to Republic. biological families, we wanted to bless benefitting foster care “Each year’s project is approved this entire population.” ow many wrapping supplies does by the church elders and then the plan- While numbers fluctuate monthly, Hit take to prepare Christmas gifts ning is taken care of by a team,” Burk- Burkholder says there are about 100 for 375 children? Volunteers from holder says. children in foster care in Ellis County, North Oak Community Church NOCC collects a special offering and about 25 foster families. during the Advent season from which (NOCC) in Hays, Kan., are about to “We have seen the ratio of children to to fund the current project. foster homes become worse as fewer find out. families are becoming foster parents This Christmas season, NOCC and more children are being removed will help Saint Francis Ministries Supporting foster care In 2018, NOCC decided to serve the from their homes,” she says. (SFM), a foster care agency serving local foster care community. By choosing to serve the foster care children in several states, wrap Christ- The idea began to take shape in sum- community for its 2018 Advent Con- mas gifts for children in SFM’s western mer 2018 when Burkholder met with spiracy project, NOCC embarked on Kansas district. Jess Albin, a licensed social worker and a yearlong journey involving multiple “We desire the child welfare workers NOCC’s CarePortal point person, to projects. to have the time and energy to focus on brainstorm ways to bless the foster care For example, NOCC made 50 “bed the joy of giving without the added community. CarePortal is a technology packages” for foster children through stress and business of carrying this load platform that connects churches with CarePortal. Each bed package included on their own,” says Stephanie Burk- holder, a member of NOCC’s 2018 Advent Conspiracy planning team. “It is truly more blessed to give than it is to receive.” Specifically, NOCC will donate wrapping supplies and money for party refreshments and provide volunteers to help with wrapping. It’s the final act of NOCC’s yearlong 2018 Advent Con- spiracy project intended to bless the foster care community in Ellis County.
More presence, less presents Begun at NOCC in 2009 by then pastor Ken Ediger, Advent Conspiracy is a ministry project the church adopts each year. “The whole premise is to give more ‘presence’ and less ‘presents,’” Burk- holder says. “Our goal is to take the busyness and commercialism out of In July, 30 foster families listen to the keynote address during NOCC’s “Fostering Growth in Foster Families” training event. Attendees earned continuing education Christmas and replace it with meaning- credit for foster care licenses at the event, which included speakers, an expert panel, ful interaction and worship.” chair massages, gift bags and two meals. Photo by NOCC
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a headboard, mattress, mattress pad, Advent Conspiracy project: to make This attendee’s response was printed sheets, pillow and an age-appropriate Jesus known.” in NOCC’s September newsletter: Bible packaged in a duffel bag. “Tonight we are tired but happy, Albin describes delivering a bed pack- Church hosts multiple events weary but encouraged, typically over- age to a single mother of two who was In July, NOCC hosted 30 foster fami- whelmed but hopeful. Thank you for an trying to make ends meet. When the lies and more than 80 children for a excellent, positive experience. The woman’s sons discovered the children’s “Fostering Growth in Foster Families” speakers were good, the panel discus- Bible and asked what it was, the mother training event, which included speakers, sion was excellent, the food was deli- fumbled to answer, Albin says. an expert panel, chair massages, gift cious, and the childcare was brilliant.... “I was surprised there were children bags and a continental breakfast and It was obvious that a lot of people had in Hays, Kansas—in the Bible Belt of catered lunch. Attendees earned contin- put a lot of time and energy into making America—who really had never heard uing education credit for foster care li- this a great day for all of us.” of the Bible,” she says. “This was such censes, and childcare was provided, For another project, Albin facilitated a an impactful moment for me. It drew with older children traveling by bus to support group for Saint Francis Min- my attention back to one of our main the local recreation center to play games istries employees, and the church pro- purposes of CarePortal and the and eat pizza. vided coffee and breakfast, as well as a small gift and card, for participants. “The purpose of this group was to rec- ognize the impact of secondary trau- matic stress (STS) on those working in the child welfare system and to build re- silience to mitigate the risk factors for STS,” Burkholder says. The church also hosted an October WAYS TO GIVE lunch for the child welfare agency’s of- fices in Hays. In addition, NOCC re- mains actively involved in CarePortal. This Christmas, as we celebrate God’s gift of Jesus, honor family Community wrapping parties and friends with gifts that change The Christmas wrapping party, a lives around the world. project headed by Michele Eiland, will be the culmination of Advent Conspir- acy 2018. Last December, Eiland helped Saint Francis Ministries wrap gifts for chil- dren, an event she described as “last- minute” and “pretty chaotic.” “When I heard NOCC was working with foster care services in our commu- nity, I instantly knew one way we could help, but it would take some planning and community effort to pull it off,” Eiland says. “Starting in August 2019, we have been working with Saint Fran- cis Ministries to streamline their Christ- BrBrowseowse gifts online at mmcc.org/25-giftscc.org/25-gifts or call toll mas project.” frfreeee 888.563.46888.563.467676 to give or rrequestequest a booklet. As part of the new system, SFM re- Relief, development and peace in the name of Christ quests gifts be unwrapped when do- nated so child welfare workers can oversee the gifts.
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“We are planning on picking up pre- tagged gifts and having wrapping parties in the community,” Eiland says. “This will give volunteers of all ages—adults and kids alike—an opportunity to love on these kids, pray over their gifts and bring the foster care needs out in the public.”
A generous response The NOCC congregation has been helpful and supportive of the Advent Conspiracy project, Burkholder says. “Everyone has been very generous, not only with the Advent Conspiracy project, but with CarePortal in general,” Delores Hiebert, Linda Dyck, Tami Driggers, Rachel Winter, Debbie Allen and Dorothy Broce she says. “There have been some fami- (not pictured) spearheaded Parkview MB Church’s efforts to provide all elementary lies from our church who are interested students in USD 410 with school supplies. Photo by Michael Klaassen in becoming foster parents. One of the most important impacts is that it has Handwritten notes for teachers provided “She was extremely helpful and really brought the needs of the foster care com- a personal touch. gave us encouragement and confidence munity to light.” Using funds provided by legacy gifts to try to get this going in our church,” The 2019 Advent Conspiracy project, and contributions from the congrega- Driggers says. while still being chosen, will be an inter- tion, PMBC purchased school supplies Next, Driggers and Dyck presented national project this year, Burkholder for every HES child in kindergarten the idea to church elders, who agreed to says. It will be NOCC’s 10th year to through fifth grade for the 2019-20 adopt the project. participate in Advent Conspiracy. — school year. “I think the driving force behind our Janae Rempel decision was simply a desire to serve the Facebook sparks project community,” says senior pastor Tom By- The project was the brainchild of Tami ford. “Since I started at Parkview a year Church provides school Driggers and Linda Dyck, who say a ago, multiple people were saying, ‘We Facebook post sparked the idea. When a want to do more for our local commu- supplies for city’s mutual friend and former PMBC at- nity.’ So, this idea was a great way to ac- elementary school tendee posted a thank-you to the Empo- complish that.” ria (Kan.) United Methodist Church for Driggers and Dyck gathered a com- providing school supplies for her boys mittee, including teachers Rachel Win- MBF legacy gifts provide last year, Driggers says her thoughts ter and Debbie Allen and bargain needed funds for project went to her own community. hunters Dorothy Broce and Deloris “The thought of someone taking that Hiebert. Equipped with lists from each or one evening in mid-August, burden off parents in Hillsboro really teacher, the committee purchased Fschool supplies instead of meals resonated with me,” she says. “I also school supplies for 310 students, filled cafeteria tables at Hillsboro (Kan.) loved the idea that all the kids in school which included enough for five extra Elementary School (HES). would have the same supplies. A student students per grade. Around the tables, members of the with a $0.97 pencil box wouldn’t have to “Our committee split up the list of Parkview MB Church (PMBC) congre- compare himself to one with a $10 box.” items, so each of us was in charge of gation sorted supplies into boxes by Driggers received advice from Dana finding a good bulk deal on six or seven classroom. Tubs brimmed with scissors Roemer at Emporia UMC, who over- items,” Driggers says. “We were able to next to stacks of folders and composition sees the purchase of school supplies for purchase supplies locally in Hillsboro, in books. Pencils were piled high alongside Emporia students in kindergarten surrounding area stores and online.” highlighters, crayons and boxes of glue. through 12th grades.
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Packing, delivery and prayer Legacy gifts keep giving charity or ministry—at MB Foundation, Once the committee collected the In all, PMBC spent more than $7,000 these donors provided a gift that keeps school supplies, more than 60 people on the project, or $22.72 per student. on giving. gathered at the HES cafeteria Aug. 15 In addition to gifts from the congrega- MB Foundation invests and to package and deliver them to each tion, Parkview received funds from en- manages the endowments and sends classroom. The evening ended with a dowments managed by MB Foundation payouts to PMBC, which used undes- prayer walk, led by Byford, through and provided for by legacy gifts. ignated funds to help pay for the school hallways. A legacy gift is a charitable gift made school supplies. “The way the congregation rallied after an individual or couple passes “When Tami presented the idea to the around (the project) and wanted to away—a last act of stewardship, says elders this spring, we knew we didn’t know how they could help and get in- MB Foundation planned giving advisor have a lot of time to get the work done,” volved felt like the essence of commu- Andy Shewey. The gift may be used to Byford says. “The greatest benefit of the nity,” Driggers says. “The contributions bless one or more charities or ministries. undesignated endowments was that we from members that have left a legacy Several individuals or couples in- knew we had enough money on hand through the MB Foundation added a cluded legacy gifts in their estate plans and coming in soon that we could ap- neat element of how giving can go on to benefit PMBC, Shewey says. By es- prove the project.” beyond our years here on earth.” tablishing endowments—invested funds In addition to contributions from the that provide an ongoing payout to a congregation and legacy gift funds, the church received more than $800 from offerings collected when PMBC and Ebenfeld MB Church partnered for a Thinking about leaving a legacy? joint vacation Bible school. “When Tami presented the idea to the elders this spring, we knew we didn't have a lot of time to get the work done,” Byford says. “The greatest benefit of the undesignated endowments was that we knew we had enough money on hand Invest in making disciples and coming in soon that we could ap- prove the project.” and planting churches. In addition to contributions from the congregation and legacy gift funds, the church received more than $800 from offerings collected when PMBC and Ebenfeld MB partnered for a joint vaca- tion Bible school.
Project made a difference Responses to the project have been positive, both for the givers and the re- cipients of the gift. “Personally, it has been a fun time, a Call us today to discuss estate planning blessing and joy,” Dyck says. “I have and legacy giving. 1.888.866.6267 heard from many people that (this is) a great thing.” This service is provided in partnership with the MB Foundation. Byford, too, has received words of formerly MB Mission thanks. “I've been overwhelmed by the grati- tude of so many parents,” he says. “We didn't do this to hear people say, ‘Thank
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you.’ But, the extreme amount of appre- ciation tells me that we made a differ- ence in their lives.” HES principal Evan Yoder wrote a thank-you, printed in PMBC’s bulletin: "Now that school has started and the supplies have all been distributed, it is time to deliver a huge thanks for all you've done.... Your entire congregation proved that it was possible for a small group to do great things! Whether they said so or not, I know many families were able to breathe a sigh of relief when school start-up bills were paid due to your tremendous efforts. Again, we (students, teachers, staff and parents) thank you from the bottom of our hearts!" Ultimately, the project is about serv- ing the Hillsboro community and is something Driggers says the church International students attending college in Bakersfield enjoy a weekend excursion to the plans to continue. beach as part of a ministry program coordinated by Jerilyn Stewart through International “The best outcome of this project Students Incorporated. Photo by Jerilyn Stewart would be for the community to know that the church cares about their needs,” field. Stewart, who attends Laurelglen student ministry arm of Campus Cru- Driggers says. “And not just Parkview Bible Church, has been involved in sade for Christ. church. There are many churches in this ministering to international students for ISI is a national organization, present community that have such a heart and more than 20 years. on more than 670 campuses across the passion for God’s work to be done, and Her desire to minister arose after she U.S., that has been training Americans the more we make ourselves a resource took a class through the U.S. Center for to meet international students’ needs for Hillsboro and the surrounding com- World Mission that focused on the since the mid-1950s, according to their munities, the more others will see the history of missions and effective ways website. They equip volunteers, called face of God.” —Janae Rempel to minister. Friendship Partners, to help these stu- “[The class] showed you God dents adjust to American culture while throughout the Bible and his heart for introducing them to the gospel. the nations,” Stewart says. These Friendship Partners work to International student Stewart talked with her husband develop relationships with students about getting involved in international while meeting practical needs such as ministry builds missions, but with children at home and rides to and from the airport, shopping their own business, she decided to look trips for dorm supplies and opportuni- friendships for ways to be involved in her home ties for English language learning. community. Many volunteers also invite students Volunteers support interna- Stewart began by hosting interna- into their homes for meals or take them tional students in Bakersfield tional students, but after a couple of out for coffee. years she wanted to get more involved. The ministry relies on the generosity or a group of volunteers in Bakers- About 18 years ago, she began volun- of its volunteers, but Stewart says it’s “a Ffield, Calif., engaging in cross-cul- teering part-time with International very cost-effective way to do cross-cul- tural ministry doesn’t involve crossing Students Incorporated (ISI). The tural evangelism.” oceans. organization trained her and helped For the last 12 years, Stewart has been Jerilyn Stewart is the coordinator of a her launch the ministry in Bakersfield. volunteering full-time as a Ministry ministry serving international college She was also joined by others from Representative. She now coordinates students on two campuses in Bakers- Bridges International, the international the pairing of students with Friendship
christianleadermag.com | christian leader 21 body life
Partners and plans group excursions, when she attended Laurelglen with stead build a friendship and offer the op- which have included trips to the moun- Stewart, but at the time wasn’t sure portunity to discuss faith if the students tains, the beach and to visit California’s about getting involved. are interested or have questions. giant sequoia trees. Then Smaby lived for three years in The two Korean students who stayed Stewart is typically on the campus of Los Angeles, where she was exposed to with Smaby and her husband for a few California State University, Bakersfield a multicultural work environment. days were interested and attended four days a week. She also works with When she moved back to Bakersfield, church with them. Smaby shared with students at Bakersfield College. she realized she missed the diversity she them what she believes and simply gave On Tuesdays, Stewart hosts Tuesday experienced in LA and decided to get them the opportunity to think on it. Talk Time, an opportunity for the stu- involved with the international student “Our priority is to tell about the Lord, dents to gather and learn about each ministry. In the last year, she has devel- and God’s part is to bring it about and other, American customs and other cul- oped relationships with students from convict them,” says Smaby. “We don’t tures while practicing their English lan- Japan, China and Korea. have to convince them, just share what guage skills. She and her husband have hosted stu- we believe and who God is.” Stewart says a particularly special ac- dents in their home for a few days at a Stewart says, “This type of ministry is tivity for many students is when they time; other times they’ve simply taken a great way to evangelize students from work together with their Friendship students out for coffee to learn more closed countries where it is impossible Partner to prepare a meal from their about them. to do traditional missionary work.” home country. This fall, Smaby has been paired with Smaby has found it fairly easy to “It’s the most labor-intensive thing we a student in her mid-20s from Germany build relationships with the international do, but it’s also one of the best things,” who works for an international account- students. Stewart says. ing firm. Smaby is an accountant herself; “People are people in any culture,” Currently, Stewart estimates there are she says that Stewart does a good job of she says. “You can always find a connec- around 50 volunteers or volunteer fami- pairing students with volunteers with tion.” —Jessica Vix Allen lies involved. They reach around 200 whom they share an interest or other students, although the involvement lev- way to connect. Smaby says many of the els of those students differ. Some come students are adventurous, and the min- Ready, set, launch regularly to events and meet one-on-one istry helps provide them with a safe with Friendship Partners, while others place to experience their new culture Commitment, connection may only attend an event once or twice and develop friendships. key when starting new church during the year. “They’re very brave and courageous to She says some students can be suspi- come,” Smaby says. “They have a need ackyard barbecues in Utah. Base- cious or wary at first, so they start by at- for connection and a place to be and Bment Bible studies in Minnesota. tending a group activity or meeting with know that they’re safe.” S’mores in South Dakota. Not all their Friendship Partner on campus. She Stewart provides training for Friend- church plants start the same, grow the organizes a welcome party at the begin- ship Partners at the beginning of the same or look the same. While each ning of each year for students to get to school year that focuses in part on location provides a unique set of circum- know each other and the volunteers. awareness of cultural differences and stances, challenges, strategies and techniques for building friendships rates of growth, in each case success is Providing a safe place and sharing faith effectively. She is measured not in numbers, but in life Stewart promotes the ministry by also available throughout the year to an- transformation. word of mouth and is always looking for swer questions and provide help with What does it take to launch a church? new people who may be interested in specific situations. According to USMB’s three most recent befriending a student. She regularly has church planters, Christian Kohs, Phil volunteers from several churches Volunteers share; God convicts Wiebe and Jon Fiester, that list includes throughout Bakersfield, including five to Stewart emphasizes the relationship- the commitment of a core group of be- 10 from Laurelglen Bible Church. building aspect of the ministry. While lievers, personal invitations and a sense Julie Smaby, who attends The Bridge the heart of the ministry is to share of connection for everyone who attends. Bible Church, is one of the Friendship God’s love with the students, she says it Partners recruited by Stewart. She first is important for volunteers not to force The beginnings heard about the ministry years ago conversations about their faith, but to in- Christian Kohs launched Redemption
22 christian leader | november / december 2019 body life
Church in Owatonna, Minn., on Sept. 9, 2018, having spent three years learn- ing the culture and meeting people. Owatonna, a city of about 30,000 peo- ple, has Lutheran and Catholic influ- ences, he says. “In a day and age where there are so many choices, a new church is just an- other choice,” Kohs says. “Oftentimes people say, ‘Why another church?’ But not everyone in our city goes to church, so why not?” What started as a Bible study in Kohs’ basement grew to Sunday morning gatherings in April 2018 as Kohs and his wife, Erica, gathered a core team. It took about five months to launch Redemption, says Kohs, who spent that time raising money and connecting with people. Phil Wiebe and his wife, Melissa, Worship leader Kali Schae sings with the congregation during Redemption Church’s first launched Lakeview Church in Stans- birthday celebration Sept. 8, 2019. Photo by Redemption Church. bury Park, Utah, on Easter Sunday, April 21, 2019. Wiebe spent the 10 or have little interest in it. though that looks different in all months leading up to the launch “Our city has many gospel-teaching three locations. hosting Bible studies, barbecues, vision- churches meeting the needs of tradi- Renewal MB meets in the Dahl Arts casting meetings, pilot services and tional churchgoers,” Fiester says. “We Center, Lakeview gathers in a space at a practice services. have a desire to bring a church that is local strip mall, and Redemption rents a Lakeview is the only Christian church presenting the gospel in a neutral loca- building from another church. in Stansbury Park, a city of 19,000 tion in our city that is comfortable for Kohs says it takes effort to make Re- where about 85 percent of people are people who are skeptical of faith.” demption’s space feel like home, and if members of the Church of Jesus Christ given the chance to do it again, he’d of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Pre-launch ingredients have secured his own building at the “For us to go there was just a matter of Any church launch requires certain el- start in order to have space for during- like, Jesus wants to take ground, let’s ements to be in place. Gathering a core the-week gatherings. One thing Kohs grow where the battle is ripe,” Wiebe group of believers is key, a sentiment was glad to have in place prior to launch says. “It’s dry, and we’re watching Jesus shared by the three planters. was a church staff. take ground quickly.” “The most important resource we Most recently, Jon Fiester and his have is a group of people committed to Spreading the word wife, Michele, launched Renewal MB the mission God has given us,” Fiester Knowing just two families when he Church in Rapid City, S.D., on Sept. 8, says. “Without an awesome team moved to Stansbury Park, Wiebe con- 2019. Starting with a core group of eight, around me, this would not be possi- nected over lunch meetings with friends the Fiesters held their first official meet- ble. One person alone cannot handle of friends. He started three home Bible ing as a church in July 2018. In the 13 the stressors of starting something studies in the four months following an months after, the church grew to capac- brand new.” informational barbecue in June 2018. ity in its meeting space and secured a In order to gain traction and spread When it came time to advertise Lake- larger space in the Dahl Arts Center for the word, Kohs, Wiebe and Fiester view’s launch, Wiebe sent out a county- its launch. agree that having a website and social wide mailer to 27,000 residents. Going The Fiesters are attempting to reach media presence are vital. Having space door-to-door was not an attractive op- those who have been hurt by the church is also an important component, al- tion.
christianleadermag.com | christian leader 23 body life
he says, adding that Redemption has since more than doubled in size. In Stansbury Park, Wiebe credits a smooth launch with 223 people in at- tendance to the pilot services held at a golf course clubhouse once a month from October 2018 to February 2019, as well as weekly practice services in March. But if he had to do it over again, Wiebe says he would recon- sider the timing. “Launching into summer isn’t the best idea,” he says. “Things are wind- ing down. People are in and out of town. Our core was going different ways for vacations.” Wiebe says Lakeview continued to “We launched (Lakeview) with a core team of 45 adults,” says Phil Wiebe. “We had a grow over the summer, and the church fully staffed kids ministry, a full band, ushers, greeters, a staffed guest booth, had summer interns courtesy of coffee and cookies. The best part was, it felt like we had done it all before USMB, the Pacific District Confer- thanks to the practice services.” Photo by Lakeview Church ence and MB Foundation funds for fu- ture leadership. Going door-to-door was not ideal for people to give up the time and re- Kohs either, who, after his initial Bible sources simply to make someone else’s Next Steps study grew to Sunday morning gather- day better.” With the launches behind them, ings, advertised Redemption’s launch Kohs, Wiebe and Fiester are looking in the local newspaper. All hands on deck to encourage sustainability. “Church planting is most effective Whether in Utah, Minnesota or Wiebe says he is focusing on foster- today via word of mouth,” Kohs says. South Dakota, preparing for launch re- ing connection, whether through a “Personal invitation is still the most ef- quires a commitment from the core weekly church barbecue at his house fective way to get someone to church. group. or encouraging people to join That, and Facebook.” “The church is the people, and our small groups. Fiester, too, relied on social media people owned their church,” Wiebe “You have to make a place for people to advertise Renewal’s launch and says. “They all jumped in with setting to get connected—fast,” he says. continues to engage people on up chairs (and) prepping kid’s min- “They need a place to belong even be- those channels. istry, to hanging mirrors and paper fore they believe.” He’s found it takes less talking and towel dispensers in the bathrooms.” For Kohs, too, follow-up, connect- more doing, though, so every third The church launches themselves un- ing on social media and saying thank Sunday, Renewal serves its commu- folded differently with highs and lows you continue to be important. nity—meeting needs, praying for peo- in each location. “I write thank you cards to guests ple downtown, offering In Rapid City, 80 people attended and the people that serve at the church complimentary s’mores and water— Renewal MB’s launch, Fiester says. every single Monday,” he says, adding and follows these “Give Sunday” proj- Kohs admits launch day at Redemp- that he prints invite cards for people to ects with a communion meal. tion was disappointing in terms of hand out during the week. Redemp- “We always have the opportunity to turnout—20 people attended—but the tion is adding staff and elders this fall. engage people and bring them a event was significant in solidifying his For Fiester, personally acknowledg- glimpse of the joy Jesus puts in our team’s commitment. ing people who attend has encouraged lives,” Fiester says. “People are seeing “The core group of people who had them to return. something different and they are curi- put so much time into the day felt a “People in our culture want to feel ous about what would lead a group of sense of purpose and energy from it,” noticed and remembered,” he says.
24 christian leader | november / december 2019 “We have found that to be true of anyone attending Renewal.”
All about Jesus After having 80 in attendance on launch day, Renewal MB saw 75 the following Sunday, Fiester says. “We measure success by how many unchurched people God con- nects us to that continue to come back,” Fiester says. “The most re- warding part of Renewal has been seeing God work in people’s lives, bringing them to a place of surrender and submission to his power.” In the year since its launch, Re- demption Church has grown to an average of more than 50 people each Renewal MB Church launched services in September. “Our desire is to intentionally meet Sunday. The church has baptized 23 people where they live and show them the love and kindness Jesus brings to our lives as a people in 2019. church body,” says Jon Fiester, church planter. Photo by Renewal MB Church “We measure success in a few ways, one of which is how many people are reading their Bibles, how many baptisms (and) how many peo- ple are serving,” Kohs says, adding that sometimes the slow growth can be challenging. CHARITABLE Since its Easter 2019 launch, Lake- view Church baptized three adults Aug. 4 and a week later began hold- GIFT ANNUITY ing two services. The church aver- ages 170 people including children. INCOME FOR LIFE “I measure success by life-change toward Christ,” Wiebe says. “Indi- TAX BENEFITS vidual stories. A crowd is good, but a GIFT TO CHARITY personal life story that Jesus has grabbed ahold of, that is the biggest win I get to be a part of.” So what’s next? The mission for Learn more at mbfoundation.com/cga all three remains to tell people about Jesus, a conviction expressed this way by Fiester: “I have learned throughout this process that people are the most important part of any church. God’s purpose for any of us is to seek his lost people. He loves people and we cannot lose 620.947.3151 that focus of giving them hope.” 800.551.1547 Toll Free —Janae Rempel [email protected] wwwwww.mbfoundation.com.mbfoundation.com
christianleadermag.com | christian leader 25 mission & ministry
For instance, in the past churches in the Task force considers Central and Southern districts have re- future of church sourced plants in the Pacific district. The task force desires to see more of planting this as a national vision to enhance the overall mission of planting MB USMB leaders discuss churches in the U.S. The concept of churches planting funding, strategy churches will be an integral part of U.S. church planting going forward. n ad hoc task force was assembled The task force acknowledges the need Ato process a path forward for for local churches to become even USMB church planting following the more invested in planting daughter release in September of Multiply as a churches and making this a priority, U.S. church planting resource. The not only with their resources but task force first met Aug. 9 in Fresno, through relationships and tangible Calif., and an expanded group met Oct. hands-on assistance. 2 in Phoenix, Ariz. The ways in which we support and The group processed at length the champion church planting among His- needs expressed by district church panic and other ethnic groups was dis- cussed. Although style of planting may Jeremy Jordan, chair of the Southern Dis- planting boards. These needs included trict Conference church planting board, assistance with church planter assess- be a little different, the attention given and Josh Shaw, pastor of Lighthouse ments, training, coaching, project man- to these plants must be intentional Church in Denver, were part of the USMB agement and developing more and consistent. church planting task force that met Oct. 2. leaders/planters. A subtask force was created to pro- Photo by USMB Funding for future projects was also vide a written path forward for consid- discussed. Without a funding thread eration by the USMB Leadership from Multiply, there is a continuing Board. That plan is expected to be Jeremy Jordan, SDC; Jon Wiebe, CEO need for local USMB churches and in- completed by year-end. and president of MB Foundation; pas- dividual donors to help fund church “Why do we plant churches?” says tors with church planting experience planting going forward. Districts will Don Morris, USMB national director. including Fred Leonard, Mountain continue to be significantly involved in “Luke 19:10 says, The Son of Man View Community Church in Fresno, investing in local plants. USMB com- came to seek and to save what was lost. Calif., Paul Robie, South Mountain mitted to helping and partnering with People need Jesus. Millions of people Community Church in Draper, Utah, church planter gatherings, training and in the U.S. are headed for an eternity Brad Klassen, Copper Hills Church in support services, likely provided by separated from God. That should break Peoria, Ariz., and Josh Shaw, Light- flagship churches that continue to have our hearts. That should cause an unre- house Church in Denver, Colo.; cur- a passion for developing and resourcing lenting burden and passion for telling rent church planters Christian Kohs, planters as well as funding church them about Jesus. Church plants are the Redemption Church in Owatonna, plants themselves. most effective way to reach new areas Minn., and Phil Wiebe, Lakeview Districts will be heavily involved in with the gospel. We must plant new Church in Stansbury Park, Utah; cur- the process of planting new MB churches and at the same time do those rent MB pastor Tim Thiessen, Birch churches and will most likely initiate things which will renew and enhance Bay Bible Community Church, in plants within their districts, assisting the ministries and evangelism of our ex- Birch Bay, Wash.; David Hardt, with funding and providing support isting churches.” USMB Leadership Board chair; Xavier and connection. Cross-district “pollina- The USMB Church Planting Task Piña, chair of the PDC Hispanic tion”—church plants receiving assis- Force consists of district ministers Tim Council; Cristobal Aleman, PDC His- tance from churches outside of the Sullivan, SDC, Rick Eshbaugh, CDC, panic Council; and Don Morris, plant’s geographical district—was a and Terry Hunt, NCDC; district USMB national director. USMB staff topic that garnered significant attention. church planting board chairs Brian member Lori Taylor took extensive Wiebe, PDC, Dan Strutz, CDC, and notes. —USMB
26 christian leader | november / december 2019 vantage point
Past leaders inspire our future Celebrating Emily C. Prudden’s work in NC
omeone once said that the seven last including her birth place, that she opened Swords of a dying church are: “We’ve her first school in Gaston County in 1884 never done it that way before.” For leaders and two schools in Elk Park, one white who are dreamers and visionaries, these and one black. Another school in Hud- words can be a dream-killer and can son, NC, only a few miles from Lenoir, dampen vision. was her most successful school. It relo- I have been on a spiritual journey re- cated to Misenheimer, NC, and became tracing the roots of the North Carolina Pfeiffer College. District Conference, which once included This was truly intriguing, but what en- 13 churches in North Carolina and Ten- couraged me the most, especially after all nessee. What intrigues me most about of our conversations around women in Terry Hunt this journey is how this work all came the ministry, is the fact that the one per- has served as the about thanks to a wonderful, spirit-filled son used by God to start the MB work in North Carolina Dis- lady by the name of Emily C. Prudden. I North Carolina was a missionary and ed- trict Conference min- thought I knew all about Miss Prudden ucator named Emily Prudden. A woman ister since 2005 and from hearing stories from the Hortons, sent by God with a dream and a vision pastor of The Life Hattons and Lipfords and from reading that was unstoppable, even when people Center since 1985. the 1984 book written by Katherine told her, “We’ve never done it that way He is member of the Siemens Richert, Go Tell It on the Moun- before.” These words no doubt motivated USMB Leadership tain, which is no longer in print. her to keep going and not to give up. Board, National A few weeks ago, pastor Larry Smith of After reviewing a policy that was af- Strategy Team and West End MB Church and I decided to firmed in 1999 that stated that women be U.S. Board of Faith drive up to Elk Park, NC, to see if we encouraged to minster in the church in and Life. He is mar- could find the two schools built by Miss every function other than the lead pas- ried to Kathy and Prudden, which were the birth place of torate, The Life Center Church was com- they have four the Krimmer Mennonite Brethren mis- pelled by the Holy Spirit to do something daughters and six sion work here. After we found the loca- that has never been done here before: or- grandchildren. tion and the remains of the foundation, dain the first woman as associate pastor we headed back to Lenoir. About half and the first husband and wife team as way back, we ran across a historical road youth pastors. As with Emily Prudden, marker in Blowing Rock, NC, that read: The Life Center Church and NCDC de- “Emily Prudden 1832-1917 Missionary. cided just because something had never Founded 15 western N.C. schools includ- been done here doesn’t mean that it can’t ing Pfeiffer College forerunner. Her Sky- be done. land Institute stood here.” Thank you, Emily C. Prudden, for It seemed to both of us that this was the being obedient to the Spirit of God and first time we had ever seen this historical using your giftedness to become a pioneer road marker—until Peggy Goertzen re- missionary and educator in North Car- minded me a few days ago that I was with olina. We belong to this great family of her when she took a picture of this marker Christ followers because of men and in 2006. women who refused to give up or give in Well, my wheels began to turn. Where to adversity in spite of the cost. That is were the other 13 schools? Just who was why I refuse to allow the work of the this Emily Prudden? How could I find Mennonite Brethren to lose its momen- out more about her? So, I googled “Emily tum in North Carolina. God is on the Prudden Elk Park” and found several move here today as he was in 1898.◗ websites with a wealth of information,
christianleadermag.com | christian leader 27 church news
Holly Gwynn, Jennifer Stewart and Chris- boro, Jan. 10, 1955—Sept. 3, 2019. Parents: MILESTONES tine Morehead were baptized at Lakeview William F. and Marilyn Lea Madsen David- Church, Stansbury Park, Utah, Aug. 4. son. Spouse: Janice Unruh. Children: Christopher, Camilea Davidson, Cameron, BAPTISM/MEMBERSHIP Jamie, Jeremy, Joshua. Kelly Dugger was received as a member at WORKERS Ediger, Esther S., Hampton, Neb., member Parkview MB Church, Hillsboro, Kan., Dylan Nelson began serving as high school of Henderson (Neb.) MB Church, Oct. 1, Sept. 29. pastor at Neighborhood Church, Visalia, 1922—Aug. 17, 2019. Parents: Abraham Jim Rodriguez, Yamilette Rodriguez, Calif. and Agnes (Kliewer) Goossen. Spouse: Ed- ward Ediger, deceased. Children: Ivan, Pleashett Davis, Bounkhong Channita and Brian Ross began serving as interim teach- Donna Dreblow, Ruth Peters, Dewayne; 13 Bounmy Channita were received as mem- ing pastor at North Fresno (Calif.) Church. bers at Butler Church, Fresno, Calif., Sept. grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren. Mike Shields began serving as interim pas- 29. Pleashett Davis was baptized. Ewell, Rubena, Reedley, Calif., member of tor at Hillsboro (Kan.) MB Church, July 22. Reedley MB Church, Aug. 9, 1924—July 28, Stacy DuPont was baptized and received as Reuven Isaac began serving as interim di- 2019. Parents: John and Helena (Johnson) a member at Grace Community Church, rector of worship and technology Sept. 1. Sanger, Calif., Sept. 15. Cindy Cairns was Gunther. Spouse: Charles Ewell, deceased. Luke LeViere was installed as lead pastor also received as a member. Faul, Evelyn (Good), Harvey, N.D., Corner- at Good News Fellowship Church, Fern- stone Community Church, Harvey, N.D., Tyler Reich, Lindsey Marx, Daniel Reich dale, Wash., Sept. 1. and Stephanie Greensdale were baptized at July 28, 1939—Feb. 18, 2016. Parents: Kevin and Jennie Strope began serving as Redemption Church, Owatonna, Minn., Jesse W. and Alice (Putney) Good. Spouse: interim pastoral couple at Salem MB Sept. 8. LeRoy Faul, deceased. Church, Freeman, S.D., Aug. 26. Feil, Jona Lee Ryan Lee and Amanda Lee were received , Bakersfield, Calif., member An installation service for associate pastor as members at Parkview MB Church, of Rosedale Bible Church, Bakersfield, Andrew Wuerffel was held Aug. 25 at Zoar Hillsboro, Kan., Sept. 1. Brielle Loewen March 20, 1933—Aug. 15, 2019. Parents: MB Church, Inman, Kan., with pastors Tim was received as a member Aug. 18. Samuel and Bertha Feil. Spouse: Mary Lou Sullivan and Russ Claassen officiating. A (Penner) Feil. Children: Wanda Bishop, Evan Betz, Dakota Maier and Judah Rigler celebration meal followed the service. Darrell, Karen Heinrichs; 10 grandchildren, were baptized at North Oak Community David Brown began serving as worship and one great-grandchild. Church, Hays, Kan., Aug. 25. youth pastor at Lakeview Church, Stans- Franz, Joan Elizabeth, Corn, Okla., mem- Luke Letorneau, Doug Cook and Scott bury Park, Utah, Aug. 16. ber of Corn MB Church, May 24, 1935— Wright were baptized at South Mountain John Dube began serving as associate pas- Sept. 26, 2019. Parents: John and Pauline Community Church, Lehi (Utah) Campus, tor at Rosedale Bible Church, Bakersfield, (Stobbe) Gossen. Spouse: Archie Franz (de- Aug. 25. Calif., Aug. 13. ceased), Roland Schmidt (deceased). Chil- Raquel Nelson, Ethan Nelson, Faith Nel- dren: Tim Franz, Richard Schmidt, Philip DJ Toelle is serving as youth pastor at Ko- son, Emily Wedel, Courtney Shumaker and Schmidt, Russell Schmidt, Rita Williams, erner Heights Church, Newton, Kan. Josalyn Wipf were baptized at Bethesda Lori Kliewer; 21 grandchildren, 32 great- Church, Huron, S.D., Aug. 18. Ben Cardona grandchildren. was baptized Aug. 4. Schmidt, Irvin, Arapaho, Okla., member of Marri Tillema and Courtney Thompson DEATHS First Mennonite Church, Clinton, Okla., were baptized at Laurelglen Bible Church, Altona, Mary, Custer, Wash., member of Sept. 11, 1933–Aug. 9, 2019. Parents: A.P. Bakersfield, Calif. Paige Rogers and Shan- Good News Fellowship Church, Ferndale, and Hilda Schmidt. Spouse: Pauline dreka Shelton were baptized Aug. 4. Wash., March 27, 1934—May 9, 2019. Par- (Muno) Schmidt, deceased. Children: Paula Hayen (deceased), Melody Johnson, Irving Sarin Rhodes, John Gossett and David ents: Eldon and Bessie Hunt. Spouse: Ted Altona, deceased. Children: Sharon Karber, Schmidt, Leslie Schmidt, Katherine Ford Wiebe were baptized at Bethany Church, and Holly Stratton; 12 grandchildren, 25 Fresno, Calif., Aug. 11. Randy, Dale, Dan, Anthony; 10 grandchil- dren, 16 great-grandchildren. great-grandchildren. Tristen Hunt, Dorothy Oswald, Ashley Steinhorst, Ruby Seibel Faul, Denton, Saxey, Gina Monibi, Leane van Biezen, Boley, Darold Dewayne, Newton, Kan., member of Koerner Heights Church, New- Texas, member of Cornerstone Community Jason van Biezen, Daniel Herrera, Cooper Church, Harvey, N.D., Dec. 9, 1925—Aug. 2, Beers, Alexis Southard, Monica Knight, Ja- ton, June 14, 1940—Sept. 29, 2019. Par- ents: Russell Lee and Doris Louise 2019. Parents: Ben and Ella (Faul) Seibel. colin Herrera, Jory Rives and Lisa Zvin- Spouse: Linden Steinhorst, deceased; gowanisey were baptized at South (Richardson) Boley. Spouse: Alice Louise Mills, deceased. Children: Tayna McCloud, Wilbert Faul, deceased. Children: June Mountain Community Church, Draper Halbrock, Cheryl Sartain, Bruce; five (Utah) campus, Aug. 11. Darold II, Jon; seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren. grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren. Asher Griffin and Brooke Griffin were re- Davidson, James “Craig”, Hillsboro, Kan., Stout, Kelly, Bakersfield, Calif., member of ceived as members at Enid (Okla.) MB Rosedale Bible Church, Bakersfield, Nov. 8, Church, Aug. 4. member of Parkview MB Church, Hills-
28 christian leader | november / december 2019 church news
1964—Sept. 13, 2019. Parents: Cory and Pat Neighborhood Church, Visalia, Calif., hosted Sumner. Spouse: Tom Stout. Children: CELEBRATIONS a Business Breakfast Tour Oct. 11. Guest Denny, James, Romy. Ebenfeld MB Church, Hillsboro, Kan., dedi- speaker Jeff Henderson discussed two ques- Thiessen, Arlene, Inman, Kan., member of cated its newly-remodeled schoolhouse for tions to leverage to create professional and Zoar MB Church, Inman, April 27, 1931— youth ministry Sept. 22. personal growth. Aug. 25, 2019. Parents: Leora and Ruth (Hen- Lighthouse Church, Denver, Colo., cele- Zoar MB Church, Inman, Kan., hosted a BBQ derson) Algrim. Spouse: Harold C. Thiessen. brated a grand opening at its new location and drive-in movie Sept. 28. Children: Beth Jones, Ellen Dick, Carol Sept. 15 with tacos and inflatables after each Youth from Henderson (Neb.) MB Church Thiessen; six grandchildren, one great- service. cleaned community areas during a “Love grandchild. Henderson” event Sept. 18. Wiebe, Raymond Francis, Hillsboro, Kan., Enid (Okla.) MB Church hosted 40 bikers for member of Hillsboro MB Church, Nov. 29, REACHING OUT its Sept. 15 service and a meal. The event 1926—June 17, 2019. Parents: David Vincent raised more than $1,600 for Mennonite Dis- and Martha (Frantz) Wiebe. LOCALLY Cornerstone Community Church, Topeka, aster Service. Oklahoma director Jay Blough Kan., hosted a fall festival Oct. 12 with a attended to highlight the work of MDS. bounce house, obstacle course, fall games Mountain View Church, Fresno, Calif., held REACHING IN and a food truck. its fall kick-off Sept. 8 with a tri-tip meal after each service. DISCIPLESHIP Lighthouse Church, Denver, Colo., hosted a panel of Christian professionals in the fields of psychology and philoso- phy to speak about mental health Sept. 1. FELLOWSHIP Rosedale Bible Church, Bakersfield, Calif., started two new ministries: LEAD For Life, a men’s ministry encouraging men to be committed to leading their families, the church and the community into the fullness of Christ; and Sharing With Another Person, a women’s min- istry focusing on prayer. The Bridge Bible Church, Bakersfield, Calif., hosted its annual family camping trip at Carpinteria State Beach Oct. 25- 27. At Zoar MB Church, Inman, Kan., the men’s fellowship hosted a Sept. 15 trap shoot and the Sisters ladies’ ministry held a kick-off event Sept. 22. Valleyview Bible Church, Cimarron, Kan., hosted a “Bouncy House Bonanza” with a pulled pork dinner and a bounce house to kick-off its Awana program Sept. 4.
WORSHIP Cross Timbers Church, Edmond, Okla., held a hymns and ice cream night Sept. 29. Laurelglen Bible Church, Bakersfield, Calif., hosted a worship night Sept. 29.
christianleadermag.com | christian leader 29 church news
Stony Brook Church, Omaha, Neb., held a Dinuba (Calif.) MB Church packed school sup- community SHRED-Fest and outdoor concert GLOBALLY ply kits for children around the world. celebration Aug. 23, providing document Bethesda Church, Huron, S.D., assembled 49 Willow Avenue Mennonite Church, Clovis, shredding, a bounce house for children, food school kits, 15 sewing kits and one hygiene kit Calif., celebrated Peace Sunday Sept. 22, with and live music. for MCC. part of its corporate worship filling 300 school Lighthouse Church, Denver, Colo., filled back- Salem MB Church, Freeman, S.D., collected kits for MCC. packs with school supplies Aug. 15 for stu- 250 school kits for MCC. dents attending Summit High School across Women at Bethel MB Church, Yale, S.D., as- the street. sembled 97 school kits for MCC. With help from surrounding communities, Students attending vacation Bible school at Adams (Okla.) MB Church held vacation Bible North Oak Community Church, Hays, Kan., school for 32 children in July. Students raised raised $3,518.52 to purchase school uniforms $254 for the Children’s Hunger Fund, providing and picnic tables for children at Abundant Life 1,061 meals. Home in Thailand.
CLEARINGHOUSE
Local Church Openings Children’s Ministry Director: Reedley (Calif.) Celebration Pastor of Worship/Family Ministries: Shafter MB Church, a Christ-centered church in the Save the date! Sunday, March 29, 2020, MB Church is currently in the search process heart of California’s Central Valley, seeks a Fairview MB Church, Fairview, Okla., will be for a full-time pastor of worship and family children’s ministry director. This team mem- celebrating in worship and praises 125 years ministries. The community of approximately ber gives vision and leadership to all children’s as a congregation. Everyone is invited to at- 20,000 is located in the southern San Joaquin ministries through volunteer management tend this event. Valley of California, 10 miles northwest of Bak- and oversight, training and resourcing volun- ersfield. Responsibilities include overseeing teers and parents. Responsibilities include all and implementing blended worship services children’s ministries (birth-6th grade). For a as well as family ministry programs. A full job full job description and to apply, please go to description and additional information is avail- http://www.reedleymbc.org/employment able at www.shaftermb.org/pastoralposition
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30 christian leader | november / december 2019 from the national director
Americans really think—what? Statistics reveal surprising views on Bible, theology
any Americans have a distorted over the years, at least percentage wise as Mview of things we Mennonite 45 percent say they attend church on a Brethren consider irrefutable. I’ve come to weekly basis. Protestant church atten- this conclusion thanks in part to an inter- dance has been consistent since the 1950s. esting article in the Jan. 7, 2019, issue of In 2017, 45 percent attended weekly. In Facts & Trends called “19 vital stats for 1955, it was 42 percent. Even among ministry in 2019,” that shares statistics Protestant 20-somethings, a higher per- about Americans’ beliefs. It is an interest- centage attend today than did in the 1960s ing read, but more so troubling in a lot of and 70s. ways. But there are fewer American Protes- Don Morris For instance, the 2018 State of Theology tants than in previous generations. In began serving as Study from Ligonier Ministries and Life- 1955, 71 percent of Americans were the USMB national Way Research reveals that seven in 10 Protestant. That number has fallen to 47 director Aug. 1, 2016. Americans believe there is one God in percent. Protestants are as faithful to Prior to accepting this three persons, but 57 percent say God cre- church as they ever were, but there are new position, Morris ated Jesus, and 59 percent say the Holy fewer around to be faithful. served as the USMB Spirit is a force not a personal being. I According to the article, LifeWay Re- interim executive wonder—kiddingly—if perhaps Star search found that 49 percent of Americans director for two years Wars has something to do with this belief with evangelical beliefs say they read at and as the director of about the Holy Spirit? least a little bit of Scripture every day and Mission USA since Those of us who identify with the Great 63 percent of evangelicals say they read 2004. He and his Commission and strive to live according to the Bible at least once a week. That’s good wife, Janna, live in these words said by Jesus just before his news. The Bible is still the most read piece Edmond, Okla., ascension as recorded in Matthew 28 of literature in human history (Guinness where they attend might find it hard to believe that over half Book of Records, 1995). Cross Timbers of all churchgoers say they’ve never even So, what does this all mean? These are Church. heard of the Great Commission. Another just statistics, right? Do these numbers quarter say they’ve heard of it but can’t re- have any relevance? Well, to me it pro- member the meaning. Only 17 percent say vides a glimpse into the minds of believers they’ve heard of it and know what it (and otherwise) in America. I would say means. Whoa! we need to do a better job of educating Equally troubling is the statistic indicat- those in our pews if half think other reli- ing that two-thirds of Christians and half gions offer a place with God for eternity. of all evangelicals in the U.S. believe that It means that many people are swayed many religions are a pathway to eternal by common thought rather than by the life. Really? Didn’t Jesus say, “I am the truth in God’s Word. I’d prefer that 100 way and the truth and the life. No one percent of evangelicals knew the Great comes to the Father except through Commission and were living accordingly. me”(John 14:6)? It is unfathomable to I know that’s not realistic. But this article me that half of all evangelicals would say was written to reveal trends, some of that a religion like Buddhism or Hinduism which I feel are quite disturbing. Can we can lead to eternal life. We have work to help to improve these trends? Might this do, folks. cause us to shake off the cobwebs and col- One thing in the article surprised me a lectively say, “Wait a minute! We need to little: Among Protestant churchgoers, set the record straight and investigate what church attendance has remained steady God says is true!”◗
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