Our mission: To inform, An international inspire and unite newspaper Vol. 70, No. 3 | March 2013 for Churches of Christ Great-grandmother Teens envision takes mission trip around the globe a church more

BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE

“You’re going alone?” was a pleasing to God question Betty Choate heard more than once as she packed for a trip to three nations in YOUNG CHRISTIANS tout meatier Bible study, southern Asia. deeper relationships and less judgmentalism. “Well, no,” the great-grand- mother replied. “I’ll be with BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE Christians — family — the whole time, so I won’t be isten up, faithful adults. alone.” Young Christians have ideas for making the Choate, who describes her church more like God meant it to be — and age as a “very young 72-and-a- they’re eager to be heard. half,” returned to Asia for the In a national survey, teenage members of first time in seven years. Churches of Christ offered advice for a fellowship She and her faced with graying congregations and disappearing husband, J.C. millennials — loosely defined as those born in the Choate, served 1980s and 1990s. as missionaries “Students in this in countries study speak of the including church with great Pakistan, Sri love, hope, insight and Lanka and India. wisdom,” researchers They planted Dudley Chancey and Betty Choate congregations Ron Bruner reported and initiated TV and literature in the 2012 Church programs for Churches of and Relationship Christ throughout the region. Study by Oklahoma J.C. Choate, a prolific Christian University’s author and ardent supporter Intergenerational Faith ERIK TRYGGESTAD of ministry training, died Center. “They suggest Young Christians worship at of cancer in 2008. Now ways to cope with a Winterfest in Gatlinburg, Tenn., other Christians continue changing culture that one of three venues where the mission work and the respect the identity and researchers surveyed teens couple’s publishing ministry, mission of the church.” about Churches of Christ. Mississippi-based World Researchers surveyed Evangelism, which produces 482 students at three national meetings: Winterfest The Voice of Truth International in Texas and Tennessee and the Challenge Youth and Global Harvest magazines. Conference in Tennessee. Among the findings: After traveling west and • Teens want more upbeat worship and meatier crossing the international date LAURI ANN ITSON Bible study. line, Betty Choate was met • Teens seek deeper, more meaningful relation- in Myanmar (also known as ships with adult Christians. Burma) by “some friendly and Voices of praise, 10 floors high • Teens desire to “go out and serve” beyond familiar faces” including local Teens from congregations in nine states gather outside their rooms at the 10-story Embassy church walls. church member Winsome Suites Hotel in Huntsville, Ala., and lift praises to God. “The Atrium Singing” has become a • Teens perceive judgmental attitudes as Vertannes. She visited tradition at Exposure Youth Camp, an annual winter program overseen by the Roebuck hampering the spread of the Gospel. See GREAT-GRANDMOTHER, Page 14 Parkway Church of Christ in Birmingham, Ala. RELATED STORY, Page 6 See YOUTH SURVEY, Page 12 2 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE MARCH 2013 Save The Date. 9.29.2013

Once again, God has placed another incredible opportunity in our path, to which we simply have to say “Yes.”

The people of Ukraine are becoming very determined to teach their children the right way to live. With the Bible.

Teachers and librarians, the most influential people in Ukraine Public Schools, are telling us of the importance and influence of this Book of Books.

The region (or state) of Lviv, Ukraine, has asked for Bibles for all of their Public Schools. That means nearly 1,400 Public Schools have said “yes” to the Bible.

To fund this project, EEM is announcing The Million Dollar Sunday, September 29, 2013. So, get some string and save the date.

September 29, 2013

facebook.com/EasternEuropeanMission · twitter.com/@EveryoneGetsIt · 1-800-486-1818 · www.eem.org EEM is overseen by the Prestoncrest church of Christ, Dallas, Texas. MARCH 2013 the christian chronicle 3 After cancer fight, mother ‘safe in Social justice vs. kingdom work the arms of Jesus’ AT A NATIONAL MEETING of youth s we go to press with this issue of The ministers, the key role of the AChristian Chronicle, our local church is emphasized. hearts ache. Our friend and colleague BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE Erik Tryggestad, the Chronicle’s international COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Love Jesus. writer, page design genius, Tolerate the church. photographer extraordinaire At a time when Americans’ confidence and assistant in organized religion has hit a 40-year low, Inside Story managing that mindset seems particularly prevalent editor, lost among younger Christians. his mother At the recent National Conference on Jan. 17. Youth Ministries, Scot McKnight — one of We shed the keynote speakers — challenged what he tears with described as the modern tendency to lift up Erik, his social justice efforts as “kingdom work.” sister, Amy “It’s like a tsunami, beginning to over- Bowman, take the church, and the church is losing and his significance in local communities because Bobby Ross Jr. father, Tom Christians are devoted to changing the Tryggestad. world through the political process,” said Karen Tryggestad, 64, McKnight, a prominent evangelical New was a faithful member of Testament scholar and popular blogger. the Heritage Church of Showing compassion, feeding the Christ in Franklin, Tenn. homeless and working for peace are good Before her retirement, she causes, but kingdom work involves intro- had worked as a school ducing people to Jesus and his church, secretary. She adored her McKnight told 285 youth ministers from church family and taught Churches of Christ in 30 states. Bible classes for infants and That message struck a chord with some children for many years. of the youth ministers who gathered at the “Karen Tryggestad, the Crowne Plaza Colorado Springs — in the best mom we could have shadow of Pikes Peak. asked for, is safe in the BOBBY ROSS JR. “We’ve swung so far from the door-knock- arms of Jesus,” Erik wrote Charlie Sells from the Holland Park Church of Christ in Simpsonville, S.C., and Adam Brewer from ing days that we’ve forgotten to actually on his mom’s CaringBridge the Monrovia Church of Christ in Alabama sing during the National Conference on Youth Ministries. See SOCIAL JUSTICE, Page 16 page the night of her death. On Aug. 28 last year, Karen was diagnosed with stage 4 Finding Jesus in an unlikely place: ‘Duck Dynasty’ fan baptized pancreatic cancer after going to the emergency room BY JAMES BUCE | FOR THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE and fishing. This passion for outdoor with abdominal pain and activities would help guide him to discover weakness. At that stage, the When Brandon Hooks’ mother intro- his own faith and love for Christ. cancer has spread to distant duced him to “Duck Dynasty,” he found the In 2006, Hooks began dating his organs, and the prognosis for A&E reality series funny and entertaining. future wife, Jessica, 29, a member of the survival is grim, according to But he did not expect a television show Memorial Church of Christ in Houston. the American Cancer Society. to change his life. He started attending services with her. As her daughter Amy Hooks, 31, seldom attended church After the couple married in 2007, Hooks noted, that date — 8/28 while growing up. The only time he went kept joining his wife at church. He was — matched one of Karen’s was when his family visited his grand- welcomed with his family and made many favorite Bible verses. LORI EASTERLY mother’s house. Throughout most of his friends at the congregation. However, Romans 8:28 reads: “And Jase Robertson congratulates Brandon Hooks life, he gave faith little thought. something still seemed to be missing. See MOTHER, Page 4 after his baptism at the White’s Ferry Road church. He did, however, grow to love hunting See DUCK DYNASTY, Page 15 4 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE INSIDE STORY MARCH 2013 www.christianchronicle.org

Go online to find news updates, an expanded calendar, classifieds and much more. Use the barcode at right to visit our mobile site. • See a video of longtime Oklahoma Christian University professor and coach Max Dobson being honored at an Oklahoma City Thunder game. • Breaking news: Don’t wait to read all the latest news or check out exclusive online features. MOTHER: Opportunity to say goodbye a blessing FROM PAGE 3 same time, I think about people who have we know that in all things God works lost family members to sudden heart for the good of those who love him, attacks, accidents, etc. Having the time to who have been called according to his say goodbye is a blessing I’m learning to purpose.” appreciate.” “Mom’s spirit is strong,” Amy, Christmas proved extremely bitter- an administrative assistant for the sweet for the family. Brentwood Hills Church of Christ in For the first time, the children — Erik Nashville, assured family and friends and his wife, Jeanie; Amy and her hus- on the day after Karen’s diagnosis. “She band, Lamar — were in charge of the hol- has shared with her many, many visitors iday meal. They somehow put the turkey the peace she feels and the faith she has in the oven upside down, but it turned French Club that ‘It’s going to be all right.’” out fine. Tom helped by making corn- Global Outreach I did not know Karen well, but I bread dressing. Erik’s daughter, Maggie, crossed paths with her a few times and Amy’s son, Luke, amused themselves Health Science Club when she and Tom visited Erik at by playing the Disney Hedbanz game. the Chronicle office in “This has been the Honors College Oklahoma City. I know hardest Christmas, but she was proud of her son, I’ve never felt more love Jazz Band who has dedicated his life for family and friends,” to Christian journalism Amy wrote. “Each act of Petit Jean Yearbook and traveled to 45 nations kindness (yummy meals, on reporting assignments hugs, texts, phone calls, Roosevelt Institute for this newspaper. e-mails) warms our During Karen’s five- hearts.” month cancer battle, “We said several Erik made a number of prayers as a family during Pursue your passion. trips to Tennessee to this trip — all six of the spend time with her. PHOTO PROVIDED BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD adults,” Erik said. “That Whatever their academic pursuits, Harding University students On one such trip in Erik Tryggestad holds Maggie in a was the real highlight.” can cultivate friendships and interests within more than 110 late November, he talked family photo with Tom and Karen. Karen is the second academic and professional organizations and 29 social clubs. about how blessed close family member the Tryggestads were by the massive of a Chronicle staff member to die Ranging from the arts, music, politics, business, diversity, amounts of food provided by the Heritage from cancer in the last year. Rebecca children, missions, service and the environment, organizations church. “I’ve enjoyed easily the best Stafford, 20, daughter of Chronicle on campus offer a variety of interests to explore. chicken noodle soup I’ve ever had and administrative assistant Tonda Stafford absolutely divine potato soup,” Erik said. and her husband, Barry, lost her Erik drove his mom to an three-year battle with Ewing’s sarcoma appointment at the Vanderbilt Pain on March 10, 2012. Management Center and said he was Rebecca often babysat Maggie, now 5, struck by how absolutely tiny she and Erik’s daughter loved her. Maggie, of looked in the facility’s massive wheel- course, does not fully comprehend death, chairs. But rather than cry out to God but she misses her friend. And now she’s Faith, Learning and Living in anger, he counted his blessings. lost her paternal grandmother, too. “This is going to sound weird, but lately “I’m getting tired of all these people all I can think of is how blessed we are to getting sick and going to heaven,” Harding.edu | 800-477-4407 have this time with mom, however long it Maggie told her father. Searcy, Arkansas lasts,” Erik wrote on CaringBridge. “It’s So are we, Maggie. So are we. terrible to watch her suffer, and we pray for relief from the pain and nausea. At the CONTACT [email protected] MARCH 2013 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 5 ALABAMA spotlight ROBERTSDALE — “On This Rock,” a free application for Apple and Android products, aims to share Teddy bears show the Gospel via the growing number of mobile devices. love to Newtown Overseen by the Robertsdale Church of Christ, the app allows JONESBORO, Ark. — Meagan anyone with a smartphone to Cremeens, a member of the listen to a sermon on demand Southwest Church of Christ, or hear a web broadcast, said was a Westside Elementary Scott Huffaker, a Robertsdale School student when a member who leads the massacre at nearby Westside church’s technology ministry. Middle School claimed five For more information, see lives in 1998. www.on-this-rock.org. After the Jonesboro tragedy, Cremeens remembers that COLORADO students and teachers received BOULDER — A group working to cards, letters and gifts of reestablish the Boulder Church support from around the world. of Christ meets each Sunday at In the aftermath of the recent an elementary school, minister shooting rampage at Sandy David Howard said. Hook Elementary School in The Boulder church grew to Newtown, Conn., Cremeens about 800 during the 1980s, in said she felt an urgent need to part because of influence from “do something to give back.” MARK YEAKLEY the Boston Movement, Howard She contacted Southwest said. But the church eventually preacher Jimmy Adcox and disbanded and sold its building Church throws baby shower for missionaries — via Skype told him, “I want to have a to eliminate that influence. Sophie Tyson waves hello to missionaries Robin and Chrissy Vick during a Skype baby shower given to them by their teddy bear drive.” “We are meeting with about sponsoring congregation, the Northside Church of Christ in Wichita, Kan. The Vicks are expecting their first child in Little did she know that a dozen former members February. They and their teammates have planted a church in Falkirk, Scotland. Also pictured are Sophie’s grand- fellow Southwest member Pam and are trying to reconnect parents, Bob and Rhonda Eroh, and her brother, Seth. Skype is an Internet video chatting service. Herring, whose daughter Paige, with other former members,” 12, died in the 1998 shooting, Howard said. For more infor- also had contacted Adcox. mation, see www.boulder anniversary is Feb. 19. in a motorcycle accident. chairman of the board for The two women joined forces churchofchrist.com. Philip served as an elder for “She has been Carolina Bible Camp in and rallied their church family, the Plymouth church for many very faithful and Mocksville, N.C. collecting more than 6,000 teddy FLORIDA years and played a leading strong during all bears to send to Connecticut. PLYMOUTH — Philip and Ruth role in the construction of the this,” preaching TEXAS They dubbed the project Starling said “I do” in 1938. church building in the 1950s. minister Dusty AUSTIN — Texas Gov. Rick Perry “Project Teddy Bear Love.” Seventy-five years later, their Ruth still teaches children’s Rush said of has appointed Jeff Boyd, a “Most (of the teddy bears) marriage is still going strong. classes and World Bible School the mother of member of the Brentwood Oaks were tied with a card or note The Starlings plan to cele- courses. two young chil- Church of Christ, to the state of some sort,” Cremeens said, brate their milestone anniver- dren. “She says Supreme Court. “and every single one had been Fernandez sary with family and friends GEORGIA his encourage- Boyd majored hugged on and loved on and Feb. 17 at the Plymouth NORCROSS — People recently ment to finish strong keeps in Bible at sent ready to bring healing and Church of Christ. Their actual shared stories of Americans her going.” Abilene Christian comfort to those in Newtown.” who have lost serious weight. University and The magazine featured Leah NORTH CAROLINA served as youth Fernandez, director of commu- FUQUAY-VARINA — Christians are and family nications for the Campus mourning the death of Aaron minister for Church of Christ, on its cover. Craig Allgood, who died in Boyd the Brentwood Fernandez is half the woman a Jan. 3 wreck blamed on a Oaks church she used to be — literally — drunk driver. before attending the Pepperdine since losing 126 pounds. Allgood, 24, was a member University School of Law. Her story of triumph over of the Fuquay-Varina Church A former Texas deputy her weight is coupled with of Christ. The victim’s parents, attorney general, he worked PHOTO PROVIDED BY JERRY STARLING devastating loss. Last May, her David and Kathy Allgood, as Perry’s general counsel and PHOTO PROVIDED Ruth and Philip Starling will husband, T.J., ran a 5K race attend the same congregation. later his chief of staff before the Meagan Cremeens shows off one celebrate 75 years of marriage. with her. The next day, he died David Allgood serves as court appointment. of the stuffed animals collected. 6 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE ACROSS THE NATION MARCH 2013

PHOTOS BY Lauri Ann Itson More than 1,700 participants assemble for a group photo during the 15th annual Exposure Youth Camp in Huntsville, Ala. Teens came from more than 100 Churches of Christ in nine states. Exposure Youth Camp boosts teens HUNTSVILLE, Ala. Churches of Christ filled two Huntsville hotels. or Savannah Burns, Exposure Youth Camp They came from Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, means a place “where we go and really get Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, a feel for how awesome heaven will be. South Carolina and Tennessee. “It’s a boost, push, pull and shove toward Participants broke into 36 teams and enjoyed the narrow path that we must all travel,” group activities, devotionals and spiritual chal- said Burns, a member of the Central lenge sessions, said Brendan Chance, youth FChurch of Christ in Augusta, Ga. minister for the Austinville church. Jacob Smith, a member of the Austinville Danielle Brown, a member of the Midway Church of Christ in Decatur, Ala., describes the Church of Christ in Jasper, Ala., said she loved “The four-day winter program as “a time of spiritual Atrium Singing.” That annual tradition involves renewal, growth and encouragement ... a joining campers gathering on the balconies outside their together of Christians from a variety of back- hotel rooms and singing praises to God. grounds and areas at one location.” “It was my first time hearing it like that,” Brown The camp recently celebrated its 15th anni- said, “and it was so powerful and beautiful.” versary of strengthening and instructing young Campers show their excitement over the four-day winter program that people. More than 1,700 teens from 100-plus For more information, see www.ExposureYouthCamp.net. mixes group activities, devotionals and spiritual challenge sessions. MARCH 2013 ACROSS THE NATION THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 7

LIZ MARGERUM, RENO (NEV.) GAZETTE-JOURNAL Newspaper honors Nevada church member yearsyearsyears of of Paula Fleming, a member of the North Virginia Street Church of Christ in Reno, Nev., founded a yearssharing of Blue Star Mothers group in her community. The Reno Gazette-Journal recognized Fleming as its sharingyearssharing of Citizen of the Year for her work with the group for mothers who have a loved one in the military. sharingJesus JesusyearssharingJesus of JesussharingJesus Electrical fire forces 1,600-member 4Jesus 4 1973-2013 1973-2013 church to relocate to Harding campus 4 1973-2013 SEARCY, Ark. — The 1,600-member College Church of Christ won’t be able to meet in its auditorium for up to three months after a fire blamed on an electrical short, pulpit minister Noel Whitlock said.  The short occurred in a baptistery  One way is to fulfill the Great Commission as a WBS Web teacher. It’s easy: heater shortly after 11 p.m. Jan. 19 in the One way is to fulfill the Great Commission as a WBS Web teacher. It’s easy: original part of the 62-year-old building, One way1. isRegister to fulfill atthe worldbibleschool.net/teach Great Commission as a WBS Web teacher. It’s easy: Whitlock said. He noted that the heater 1. Register at worldbibleschool.net/teach 1.2. Register Claim aat fewworldbibleschool.net/teach students. Many are waiting now on our Student Board. had been replaced in recent years. 2. Claim a fewOne students. way isMany to fulfillare waiting the nowGreat on Commissionour Student Board. “We’re either going to have to replace 2.3. Claim Share a fewJesus. students. Many are waiting now on our Student Board. 3. Share Jesus.as a WBS Web teacher. It’s easy: our baptistery or change our doctrine,” 3. Share Jesus. the minister joked. Flames were contained mostly to 1. Register to teach. a small area with a lot of plaster and concrete, Whitlock said. However, the entire building — including classrooms NOEL WHITLOCK 2. Claim a few students. Many are waiting — sustained extensive smoke damage. Firefighters respond to a Jan. 19 fire at the Several hundred gallons of water College Church of Christ, across the street now on our Student Board. spilled out of the baptistery, which from Harding University in Searcy, Ark. probably helped cool the blaze, he said. 3. Share Jesus. Students who noticed smoke coming University campus across the street — from the building notified the fire for up to three months, Whitlock said. department about the same time as the “We’re blessed that we have Harding church’s smoke alarm alerted authorities. University and the big Benson The church may be able to resume Auditorium nearby,” he said. worldbibleschool.net/teach using its classrooms within a few weeks, Damages are insured, but church but the congregation will worship in leaders had no estimate at press time on Benson Auditorium — on the Harding what it would cost to make repairs. 8 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE MARCH 2013 ANGOLA spotlight Kuito — Refugees from this southern African nation, who fled to neighboring Zambia during Angola’s 27-year civil ‘A song in my heart’ war, have returned to their homeland and are planting churches. TUBUNGU, Swaziland — When Joan Danny and Katie Reese, part of a Cheptot came to this tiny country in mission team in the city of Huambo, southern Africa, she already was a visited a new congregation near Kuito, preacher’s wife, mother and educator. in central Angola. Cornelius Ngolane, She had no intention of becoming a an Angolan converted by Zambian student as well. Christians, and other Angolan believers “I was tired of studying,” said Cheptot, planted the church to serve Kunje, a who had just completed college exams community of former refugees. in her native Kenya before following her “A simple message from Scripture husband, Hillary Cheptot, to Swaziland, about following the Bible only is exactly where he enrolled in African Christian what they want to hear,” Danny Reese College, a church-supported school. said. The new congregation “sent us Those close to her — including her off with a beautiful time of singing, a husband and college instructor Janet foot-stomping parade out to the car and Allison — encouraged Joan Cheptot to bananas,” his wife added. For more infor- enroll. Christian women mation, see www.angolateam.org. at the school took care PHOTOs PROVIDED by melissa dodson of her two children, free BOLIVIA of charge, as she took LA PAZ — Three families — Luis and Fellowship, food and ‘futbol’ in Honduras classes. Damira Garcia, Julie and Ricky Arce and Teams from the Mateo Church of Christ celebrate their victo- Though juggling Brad and Katie Brooks — departed for ries during a recent “futbol,” or soccer, tournament in the classes and the demands this South American capital recently to Central American nation of Honduras. of family wasn’t easy, serve as a church-planting team. The the husband and wife Youths from churches across the city participated in the Joan Cheptot team is the first sent to Bolivia by Great tournament, which inaugurated a new “cancha,” or walled persevered and recently Cities Missions, a church-supported soccer field, built by Honduran church members and mission- graduated from ACC. Joan Cheptot said ministry that serves missionary teams aries Bart and Melissa Dodson. the school helped her to discover her in cities of the Portuguese- and Spanish- The men’s and women’s teams from the Mateo church, ministry talents. speaking nations of Latin America. buoyed by their home court advantage, won their respec- Already a gifted song writer, she Ron and Georgia Freitas, former tive tournaments. Melissa Dodson’s brother and sister-in-law composed hymns of praise with help missionaries to Brazil and trainers for provided funds for the tournament. from the school’s faculty. During a Great Cities, accompanied the families campus talent show, she performed and asked for prayers as they settle into an original piece she wrote about the their new home. For more information, GUYANA central Mexico. Arroyo, who helped school. She sang: Oh, how I love to be see bolivia.brooksmissions.com. Lethem — “The Lord’s church in every establish about 10 part of this home, where men and women village and a Bible in every hut” is the Churches of Christ in 30 are dedicated to serve God with their GHANA motto of Amerindian Missions. years of ministry, died in strength and everything that they have. ATEIKU — In the past year, the Rural Jerry O. Davidson intends to fulfill a car accident in the state “I leave with a song in my heart,” she Evangelism Development Project that promise. of Zacatecas. He was 58. said. “I am ready to go and serve God has established seven The missionary recently ordered Arroyo also did in many ways. I am prepared to help new congregations 10,000 Bibles and 500 large-print mission work in India churches grow, counsel people in the and strengthened 24 Bibles for the indigenous people he with missionary Jim community, encourage the training of churches in this West serves in the interior of this South Waldron and was associ- Sunday school teachers, teach women Arroyo African nation, said American nation. Davidson reports 82 ated with the Crieve Hall in the church and community at large Lawrence Oduro, who baptisms and 55 people restored to Church of Christ in Nashville, Tenn. (and) encourage the training of effec- oversees the ministry, an their Christian faith in the past year in tive preachers to be counselors in their outreach of the Ateiku the villages he has visited, including TANZANIA own churches.” Church of Christ. Lethem. The Summerdale Church of Mbeya — More than 180 youths from As they returned to Kenya, the Oduro Recently, workers Christ in Alabama supports the work. across this East African nation attended couple and fellow graduates stopped in with the project met with members See amerindianmissions.com. a seminar hosted by the Chimala Tombolombo, Malawi, Hillary Cheptot’s of the missions committee of the Mission Church of Christ. Missionary hometown, and hosted a multi-day Greenville Avenue Church of Christ in MEXICO Chad Wagner spoke on marriage and workshop and gospel campaign. Richardson, Texas. Queretaro — Christians in Mexico and participated in a question-and-answer Hundreds attended, said Brad Carter, “Our brethren from Greenville ... the U.S. are mourning the death of panel. Six of the youths were baptized. president-elect of ACC. offered very helpful ideas that the project Miguel Arroyo, a minister and director See Wagner’s blog at www.wagnertz. “The attendees said, ‘These people is determined to apply,” Oduro said. of a school of preaching in this city in webs.com. have brought God,’” Carter said. MARCH 2013 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 9

WEEK-LONG TIMES OF REFRESHMENT FOR MISSIONARIES

STRENGTH FOR THE JOURNEY Most missionaries give of themselves until there is nothing much left to give. Perhaps you long for a time of refreshing and renewal. This is the place and the time. Whether you are in the U.S. briefly on “home assignment”, are returning www.mrnet.org somewhat permanently or have been “home” awhile, 1.888.641.2229 come and let us minister to the deep places of your spirit.

SESSIONS INCLUDE: • LAKE TEXOMA, TX – JUNE 17-21, 2013 • Debriefing • NASHVILLE, TN (Lipscomb University) – JUNE TBD, 2013 • Reentry (Exact dates coming soon) • Spiritual Formation • Rest and Recreation For more information or to register, contact: [email protected]

The 30-year-old Full-Time Minister AMEN Ministry connects Christians The Enterprise Boulevard in the United States military with local Church of Christ is searching churches of Christ for a full-time minister. both overseas and in the U.S. Please send name, Send Resumes to: contact information and especially e- 2801 Enterprise Boulevard mail addresses to: AMEN Ministry Lake Charles, LA 70601 http://amenministry.info Fax: 337-430-0093 135 Larchmont Drive Hendersonville, NC 28791 e-mail: Phone: (828) 891-4480 [email protected] 10 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AROUND THE WORLD MARCH 2013 Teens send gifts of education, literacy to Africa

BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE Church members collected funds to help ship the books olan and Brielle Read overseas. live up to their last In Malawi, students eagerly name. flipped through the pages of The brother and the books at the Nankhunda sister sent gifts of Primary School. The school had Nliteracy — 33,000 school very few textbooks before the textbooks and 71 laptop com- shipment, said Wilson Tembo, a puters — to the people of Malawian church member who Malawi, a slender, landlocked works with Namikango Mission nation in southern Africa. and The Malawi Project. The teens and their family, A 13-year-old boy, Robson mother Leah, father Bryson Kamwendo, told Tembo that and brother Lincoln, attend the “the shortage of teaching and Western Hills Church of Christ learning materials is one key in Austin, Texas. setback to a child’s success In 2011, ... to properly skyrocket with Dick and Suzi their education.” Stephens visited “Pupils depend totally on the congrega- teacher’s lessons,” he added, tion and talked and the textbooks allow them about their to study on their own. work with The Nolan Read, 17, a senior at Malawi Project, Austin High, asked friends, a church-sup- Nolan Read neighbors and businesses for ported nonprofit their used laptop computers — that seeks to no more than 10 years old — as PHOTOS PROVIDED BY NOLAN READ AND THE MALAWI PROJECT help Malawians part of his Eagle Scout project. Children at the Nankhunda Primary School in Malawi hold up some of the textbooks collected by Brielle Nolan. escape the He collected 117 machines cycle of poverty and, along with his fellow Boy Dick Stephens, who makes through medi- Scouts, set up a workshop and regular trips to Malawi, said cal, agricultural performed quality control tests. he has seen firsthand “some and educational “Only 71 of them were in of the broken and worn-out projects. actually good enough condition things people send to Africa.” Brielle Read Brielle Read, so that I could donate them,” “It is a breath of fresh air to 14, a freshman at Austin High he said. see a young man so careful School, decided to help the The scouts wiped the lap- to send only the best,” Dick people of Malawi as a project tops’ hard drives and installed Stephens said. “These comput- for her Girl Scout Silver Award, Linux, a simple operating ers will last a long time in the which requires scouts to per- system that performs well on hands of the Malawians.” form a community service. older computers. Many Malawians never have “I was trying to focus my Tembo, who had used his seen pictures of the world project on something to do with previous laptop to the point outside their villages, added education,” she said. She brain- where it detached from its Scott Gordon, president of The stormed ideas with her mother, screen, received the first of the Malawi Project. a teacher, and learned that her refurbished computers. “It is hard for anyone in the school district was preparing to “He was very thankful ... developed world to realize the replace its textbooks. to get on the Internet again,” importance of these computers,” Fellow Boy Scouts helped Nolan Read set up a “quality control” lab to test Brielle contacted school offi- Nolan Read said. Gordon said. “For so many, this the laptop computers he collected to send to Malawi. cials and arranged for the gen- The other laptops will go to is the only library they will ever tly used textbooks — mostly Malawi in the luggage of mis- see. ... Now they have the whole a difference in the world,” she “They have set a faith course language arts and English sion groups traveling to Africa, world open to view.” said. “But I didn’t think I could for all of us to follow,” Bomar — to be delivered to The Dick Stephens said. For Brielle Read, the experi- do anything really big.” said. “Their faith has shown Malawi Project’s headquarters Malawians, including stu- ence of collecting the books and Now she knows otherwise. us all that with God nothing is in Indiana. A member of the dents at a church-supported computers was faith-affirming. The teens have inspired impossible.” Western Hills church who school, will use the computers “I always heard these other members of the Western owns a warehouse provided as they train to become teach- amazing stories about kids who Hills church, minister George For more information, see www. storage for the books in Austin. ers, doctors and ministers. could do these things and make Bomar said. malawiproject.org. MARCH 2013 AROUND THE WORLD THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 11 As churches soar in Indonesia, U.S. Christians ponder future 5-YEAR/60,000-MILE

Gunung sitoli, Indonesia — Dennis Cady of which were planted in the past year, BODY & CHASSIS WARRANTY knows of mission works that, five or 10 Cady said. STANDARD WITH EVERY NEW BUS PURCHASE years after the missionary leaves the Recently, 22 men from 18 of those field, have few remaining converts and churches gathered for a one-week spiri- Carpenter Bus Sales has gone the “little left standing.” tual seminar, organized by Indonesian extra mile again in providing a unique Such a demise “is evangelists to mature potential leaders. 5-­‐year/60,000-­‐mile body & chassis unacceptable in Nias,” Colin McKee, a minister in Alabama, he said. taught during the seminar. warranty* with every new bus they Cady, a member of the Churches also offer vocational sell! Faith Village Church of training for the people of Nias, including An opNew Testament Christianity ...... 11.2% great ideas, random songs and a sermon, each disconnected not judgmental. Ending world hunger ...... 11.1% should listen to the opinions of able with the of Christ in the United States might already be about worship, fellowship and teens. and nobody from the other. In their opinion, the worshiping Ultimately, students believe in domestic and Helping the church stay relevant with culture . 9.4 % others with an open mind and judgments they counted 1,554,231 adherents, a at risk spiritually practice,” Petrillo said. “I know would ever congregation should more often be full of joy. foreign mission work, but particularly in mission Stopping global warming ...... 5.7% describe their own struggles feel surrounding number that includes members were not present A postmodern culture that this isn’t know because Students noted that sermons tended work that requires their personal participation. Other ...... 3.9% • Study: more openly. Consequently, the tenets I was and children. That’s a drop of to participate frowns upon the concept of true of every we are ste- to be routine. Students called for “deeper” They want to take part as equal partners in all * Students ranked nine possible life tasks, and researchers students watch closely for raised with.” Free more than 102,000 adherents, in this study. Avery absolute truth influences teens’ adult, but reotyped as study, not less. Sermons should “apply to the aspects of the work and worship of the church. authenticity in the lives of “I’ve always or 6.2 percent, since 2003. Therefore, the thinking, said Jessica Knapp, the vast used a weighted point system to determine the above list. inexperienced young and the old,” be relevant to the life and • Attitudes: In their opinion, communities those who speak for the thought that the best way In the survey by Chancey real percentages at any par- youth ministry leader for the majority and lacking in the current culture of the church and teach surrounding congregations too often hear the church; life and lesson must be to share the love of Christ and Bruner, 78 percent of ticular congregation might be Mountain Avenue Church of seem lifeless,” said Sutton, maturity,” Whitwell said. Christians “how to face day-to-day problems.” voice of judgment instead of the Good News. consistent.” was to love, not evangelize,” students said they were “very considerably higher.” Christ in Tucson, Ariz. a member of the Naperville Ruth Lalli, 16, a member These students seemed particularly Though largely supportive of the church, their Free said. “With this in mind, likely” to attend a Church of Mike Avery, youth minister Teens want to be inclusive of Church of Christ in Illinois. of the Park Plaza Church of concerned that preachers spend more time most frequently voiced complaint was against CHURCH PEOPLE TOO JUDGMENTAL? churches would, I believe, be Christ as an adult; 18 percent for the Memorial Church of other people and viewpoints, “In my youth group, people Christ in Tulsa, Okla., urged attending to the faith formation of those in judgmental attitudes among Christians. Teens interviewed by The better to focus less on sin and responded “maybe”; and 4 Christ in Houston, said the said Knapp, who described the pour their hearts out in song, adults to ask more, not less, of worship and less time making judgmental Those attitudes take shape in the ways some Christian Chronicle echoed the more on God’s love that is so percent replied that they were survey “represents the stu- researchers’ findings as “very and you can feel the Holy her generation. statements about those outside of it. They also “condemn” students, speak poorly of their peers researchers’ findings. great that it erases sin.” “not likely” to do so. dents who are pursuing God consistent” with her experience. Spirit moving in the room, and “If adults raised their expec- assert that having more than one person speak and demonize members of other faith families. Jasmine Marie Smith, 16, Matthew Stitts, 18, a member “This data ... causes con- actively in their lives, which, in “A student of mine is inter- people confess difficult sins tations, a lot of teens would from the pulpit might help the church. They perceive these negative attitudes to frus- a member of the Newnan of the Piedmont Church of cern for several reasons,” my opinion, is a small minority. ested in being both Wiccan and talk about their struggles,” rise up to meet them,” Lalli These concerns with sermons are consis- trate the spreading of the Gospel and the forma- Church of Christ in Georgia, Christ in Alabama, advocates the researchers said. “First, “Most students that I encoun- and Christian, not realizing she said. “But then during said. “Teenagers are definitely tent with the call to make study in the church tion of deeper relationships within the church. said her friends view church more focus on the Bible — and many of those students who ter are apathetic toward God, there is a reason for mutual church service on Sunday capable of doing huge things, deeper and more mature, consistent with people as “judgmental and less on personal opinions. responded with ‘maybe’ are church and Christianity,” exclusivity,” Knapp said. morning, everybody seems so but they do need some guid- Ephesians 4:11-13. They want more time to FOR MORE INFORMATION, contact [email protected] or hypocritical.” “If adults would let the Bible likely to become what David Avery said. “They see it, at At the same time, young peo- constricted and still.” ance and encouragement.” “dive into the Bible more.” It may surprise [email protected]. 14 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE from the front MARCH 2013 GREAT-GRANDMOTHER: After mission trip, ‘my heart is full’ FROM PAGE 1 trip in New Delhi, where she Vertannes and other Burmese took part in the dedication of Christians, attended Bible the new meeting place of the classes for women and caught CR Park Church of Christ. The up on the work of ministry congregation began in 1968 training programs in the with the conversion of Sunny Southeast Asian David, now a nation. church elder. She then trav- Betty Choate eled to Sri Lanka, worked with the the teardrop- church in its shaped island infancy, and “now south of India, we are working and worked with with third-gener- Churches of ation Christians,” Christ there. she said. “That’s “They seem to victory!” have a burning Back home in desire for more Mississippi, Betty knowledge,” she Choate acknowl- said of the Sri edged that life Lankans, “and can seem a bit the opportu- lonely. nity to discuss “But my heart Scriptures is PHOTOS PROVIDED BY BETTY CHOATE is full,” she said, precious to Betty Choate shows a plaque remembering the them.” of dedication for the new time she spent Flying to meeting place of the CR Park with “people India, she Church of Christ at New Delhi. throughout the taught classes world that I have for women in the cities loved for these many years.” of Bangalore, Kangayam, Batlagundu, Madurai, Chennai For more information on Choate and Kakinada. She ended the publications, see www.worldevangelism.org. Betty Choate studies the Bible with a visitor at a Church of Christ in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka.

Christians in India prepare stacks of World Evangelism literature to send to Indians who respond to a church- Betty Choate attended and spoke at women’s meetings across India, sponsored TV program. including this one in the city of Kangayam. MARCH 2013 FROM THE SECOND FRONT THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 15 DUCK DYNASTY: Fan gives his life to Christ FROM PAGE 3 To her surprise, the Robertsons Hooks still felt unable to make a con- responded, she said. nection to anyone with whom he could “Our family decided we would do our relate spiritually. best to facilitate requests to baptize Last year, Hooks’ mother, Shelia those who ask, and we do it by having Hooks, introduced him to “Duck them come to a Sunday or Wednesday Dynasty,” which is filmed in West service at the White’s Ferry Road Monroe, La., two hours north of his building,” said Al Robertson, a former parents’ home in Pleasant Hill, La. longtime preacher for the congregation. The show — which drew 6.5 million “I will typically talk with them about the viewers to its final episode of 2012 — importance of the Gospel and response to follows the Robertson family as they it as well as the importance of emphasiz- operate a thriving duck call and decoy ing who they are being baptized into and business while staying true to their not who is baptizing them.” family values. Brandon and Jessica Hooks, along Duck Commander Phil Robertson with their 3-year-old daughter, Abby, and his son, Al, both serve as elders traveled to West Monroe, about 350 for the White’s miles northeast of Ferry Road Church Houston, where of Christ in West the Robertsons Monroe. Other fam- welcomed them like ily members also family. are active with the “What you see on congregation. the show is how they Hooks said he are,” Brandon Hooks appreciated the said. “They are all values that the down to earth.” Robertsons profess Kay Robertson, and the family meal Phil’s wife and the — preceded by a family matriarch, prayer — which the hugged everyone, family shares at the telling the Hookses, end of each episode. “We don’t shake Curious about hands around here.” the Robertsons, he In front of his fam- checked into their ily and the White’s background online. Ferry Road congre- He came across a gation, Hooks made 15-minute video of his public profession Willie Robertson, LORI EASTERYLY of faith in Christ and CEO of the family’s Jase Robertson immerses Brandon Hooks was baptized by Jase Duck Commander for the forgiveness of sins at the White’s Robertson. business, speaking Ferry Road church in West Monroe, La. In a small town in at chapel at Harding northeast Louisiana, University in Searcy, Ark. Brandon Hooks’ life changed forever It was then, Hooks said, that he — not because of who baptized him, began thinking about God and faith. he said, but because of his decision to After hearing Willie reflect on his follow Christ. faith, Hooks listened to several clips of “I know some people would say I did Harold Savage, a former police officer Phil Robertson, the family patriarch, this just to meet them or have a famous preaching and telling the story of Jesus. person do it. That was not it,” Hooks and current gospel preacher, offers The Gospel message began to click said. “I wanted them to do it because I 13 powerful Bible lessons uniquely with Hooks. connected with them.” designed to inspire personal growth, “Phil Robertson really brought it full After years of going to church and encourage class interaction and initi- circle,” Hooks said. not feeling connected, Brandon Hooks ate dialogue with first responders. Hooks decided that he wanted to be found faith and began his journey with $11.95 baptized and told his wife of his deci- Christ in the most unlikely of places. sion. Without his knowledge, she con- Order: (866) 928-1240 tacted the Robertsons and told them SEE PREVIOUS COVERAGE of the Robertson family and www.westbowpress.com of the impact they had made on her view the Harding video at www.christianchronicle.org/ husband’s faith journey. blog. Search for “Duck Dynasty.” 16 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE FROM THE SECOND FRONT MARCH 2013 SOCIAL JUSTICE: Reactions mixed to speaker’s message on kingdom work

FROM PAGE 3 across the U.S., he said. These door-knock on the hearts students see it as “a way to of people and give them the serve the kingdom through a message of Christ,” said Lee justice ministry.” Langdon, youth minister “However, life at MITS for the Alameda Church revolves around the life of the of Christ in Norman, Okla. Kamulu Church of Christ as “Reestablishing that into the much as it does the ministry hearts of our teens and into center in the Eastleigh slum,” their own missions is going to McCarty said. be important.” This past summer, teens from However, the Highland Church of Christ McKnight’s in Abilene traveled to Chicago attempt to dis- and worked with the homeless. tinguish social Besides feeding poor people, justice efforts the students “stepped way from kingdom outside of their comfort zones” work did not and struck up conversations Langdon resonate with with those helped, said Sarah everyone. Campbell, the church’s direc- Doug Foster, a church tor of student ministries. history professor at Abilene “A lot of times, our actions Christian University in Texas, BOBBY ROSS JR. carry more weight than said Churches of Christ his- Veteran youth ministers pray for younger ministers during the National Conference on Youth Ministries. our words,” Campbell said. torically have been “culturally “Through our actions and oblivious to the fact that justice reports 44 percent of Americans “He’s totally right. (Mahatma) McCarty III, McKnight’s mes- through our relationships with — God’s kind, not our political have a “great deal” of confidence Gandhi didn’t do anything in sage seemed better suited for people, then Christ can be agendas — was at the heart in organized religion. That’s the kingdom business,” McBroom mainline Protestants than mem- shared. Helping our students of true religion in the Old and lowest figure since the polling said, referring to a point made bers of Churches of Christ. realize they can start relation- New Testaments.” company started tracking the by the speaker. “I hear what he’s saying but ships and then share their faith “I am not so sure Scot is on question in the early 1970s. A Hindu, Gandhi led India think he’s speaking to the wrong from those relationships — target with his analysis, though As a 20-something youth to independence and inspired audience,” said McCarty, a even relationships with people he may have a point about minister, Nathan McBroom movements for non-violence, Pepperdine University graduate that are not like them — is a many young people becoming from the Central Church of civil rights and freedom who previously served as a min- really powerful thing.” frustrated with the lack of con- Christ in Topeka, Kan., said around the world. ister and managed a homeless In Campbell’s view, cern and sensitivity — and even he has become “Sure, Gandhi made some shelter in the Los Angeles area. McKnight’s opposition — to the church’s “wrapped up” good changes in this world, Now a doctoral candidate at keynote address involvement with social justice in the idea of and God was happy to see his Emory University in Atlanta, underscored the issues,” Foster said. social justice. creation find peace in certain McCarty is completing a need to keep He even places,” the Topeka youth dissertation on the ethics of Jesus at the RIGHTING WRONGS taught his minister said. “But the kingdom political reconciliation and tran- center of such Joel and Ann Soumar work students using is all about the lordship of sitional justice. He’s a member undertakings. with 30 teens at the Vero Beach a curriculum Jesus Christ, and I think I really of the Federal Way Church of But she does Church of Christ in Florida. put out by the needed to be reminded of that.” Christ in Washington state. not see social McBroom Campbell “It’s easy for people … to get International Historically, McCarty said, justice and king- excited about social justice and Justice Mission, a human LIFE OF THE CHURCH Churches of Christ have suf- dom work as an “either/or” seeing wrongs righted, and it’s rights organization that res- David Chenault, family life fered from a lack of “deep com- proposition. harder for them to get excited cues victims of violence, sexual minister for the South Main mitments to those aspects of “I would just say it’s some- about things that are going on exploitation and slavery. Church of Christ in Henderson, the faith that go beyond what thing that needs to be a ‘both/ at church,” Joel Soumar said. “We actually learned a lot Tenn., also said he appreciated is done in Sunday worship.” and’ thing, where we’re con- For example, last year’s viral about oppression, God’s hatred McKnight’s perspective. “Even our most social justice- scious of it and know that the YouTube video supporting the of oppression, God’s love for “It did strike me that the oriented ministries tend to pendulum could swing too capture of Ugandan warlord justice and his desire to set only thing we have to offer is remain deeply tied to the life of far,” she said. “Social justice is Joseph Kony deeply moved a the captives free and all that,” Jesus,” Chenault said. “We may the local church or churches,” important, but Christ needs to girl in Soumar’s youth group. McBroom said. be able to build houses and he said, citing as an example be at the center of it.” But the same student showed But the Kansan said provide resources and feed the Made in the Streets, which less interest in being a part of McKnight’s message was like hungry and shelter the home- serves homeless children in READ A FULL TRANSCRIPT of McKnight’s church programs. “a slap upside the face,” telling less, but our primary job is to Nairobi, Kenya. remarks and McCarty’s response at www. The focus on social justice him to wake up and remember introduce the lost to Jesus.” Made in the Streets attracts christianchronicle.org/blog. Search for comes at a time when Gallup the centrality of the church. But to James William college-age volunteers from “social justice.” MARCH 2013 the christian chronicle 17

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PURPLEDOORCOFFEE.COM Supporters of Purple Door Coffee painted “Cups for a Cause” for the Denver-based nonprofit. The painted cups then were donated to Purple Door and sold as a fundraiser. A royal mocha, fit for a King COFFEE SHOP WITH A MISSION: Two young Christians develop Purple Door Coffee as a means to serve the homeless.

BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE Nor will a banner identify the “From as early as I can barista as a homeless person. remember, I always noticed DENVER “If people learn of your mis- kids who were left out,” she urple Door Coffee won’t sion, they may come once added. “When I interned at be an ordinary coffee or twice if your coffee’s just Dry Bones, I met so many shop. OK,” said Smesrud, 25, a 2010 beautiful kids who had been Neither will it be a graduate of York College in left out. And I loved it so much. zoo. Nebraska. “But if you are a These are my people.” PThat’s the vision of Madison great coffee shop and have a After earning a Bible degree Chandler and Mark Smesrud, great mission, that’s actually a at York, Smesrud — who 20-something Christians whose better business model.” grew up in the Minot Church shop will employ teens and But make no mistake: Christ of Christ in North Dakota — young adults transitioning away — not cappuccino — is the served as a youth ministry from life on the streets. real passion for Chandler and resident for the Highland Oaks “We don’t want it to be like, Smesrud. They make no secret Church of Christ in Dallas. ‘Come look at all these home- of their desire to expose employ- But he, too, found himself less people and ees and customers drawn to the homeless teens ask them ques- to Jesus. and young adults in Denver. tions about how Churches of BOBBY ROSS JR. “Even in my youth ministry, hard their lives Christ in the Madison Chandler and Mark Smesrud discuss their work with Purple I realized the kids I connected have been,’” said Denver area have Door Coffee over — what else? — cups of coffee in Denver. with best were the ones that Chandler, 24, a helped raise funds were on the edge of the youth 2010 graduate of to launch the Christ, south of Denver. “If Jesus was a fifth-generation student group,” he said. “I didn’t con- Freed-Hardeman nonprofit Purple were in Denver, it might just be at Freed-Hardeman, where she nect with the kids that were University in Door Coffee — an how he would spend his time.” majored in psychology. right. Well, I could connect Henderson, extension of the Chandler and Smesrud — Her brother — whose name with them, but the ones that Tenn. Dry Bones Denver friends who became ministry is Denver, just like the city to my heart really cried out for “A lot of them homeless ministry. partners — developed the which she believes God led her were the ones on the edges.” have been PHOTO PROVIDED BY PURPLEDOORCOFFEE.COM The shop is vision for Purple Door Coffee — has Asperger’s syndrome. Chandler came up with the through some Purple Door Coffee gave expected to open after interning with Dry Bones Now 22, Denver had a hard name Purple Door Coffee. really terrible away free coffee while soon in Denver’s in the summer of 2009. time making friends, she said. Purple is the color of royalty. stuff, and we scouting potential locations. historic Five Points “Mark and Madison are “I think growing up with “We want to treat every want to create an neighborhood. exceptional in every way, and a brother who was different person that comes through our environment that they’re proud “Mark and Madison are seek- we couldn’t imagine a better pair opened my eyes to this whole door like royalty, no matter of and can learn, grow and be ing a way for their homeless to lead this new life-changing world of people that have a if they are an employee or a respected in,” she added. friends to attain job skills and endeavor,” said Matt Wallace, a hard time finding where they customer,” Smesrud said. “We Customers who walk through raise their standard of living Dry Bones staff member. fit in society,” said Chandler, believe that every person has the shop’s purple door won’t while retaining their dignity,” Chandler grew up in the who worships with the incredible value, and we want notice a sign labeling the busi- said Collin Packer, lead minister Campbell Street Church of Lakewood Church of Christ, to recognize that in our space ness as a Christian ministry. for the Littleton Church of Christ in Jackson, Tenn., and west of Denver. and just how we live.” 18 MARCH 2013 CURRENTS THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 19

‘Fixing our eyes on Jesus’— Hebrews 12:2

PHOTOS BY Greg Smith | FOR THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE

he people of Nias, an island of Indonesia devastated by the 2004 South Asian tsunami, have a clearer vision of their future. Surgeons removed cataracts and improved the vision in 239 Teyes during a recent eye surgery camp at the Gunung Sitoli Hospital. Church- supported organizations Body and Soul Ministries and TEARS (Tsunami Earthquake American Relief Services) partner with the Caris Foundation to provide the free service. Greg Smith, who works with Caris, traveled to Nias to document the two-day surgery camp. “When walking through a crowd of grateful patients who have just been given their sight, it is very humbling, and it fills one’s heart with joy — to be able to stand on the giving side of human need,” said Dr. John Bailey, Body and Soul Ministries president.

For more information, see www.bandsministries. The day after surgery, patients gather to receive follow-up instructions from the physicians. org and www.carisfoundation.org. After long journeys from their villages, followed by eye surgery, patients rest. “Jesus bless you guys for helping us,” one patient told the doctors.

A physician examines a patient before surgery. Two Indonesian physicians, Dr. Pinto and Dr. A patient rests as she awaits the procedure Patients receive eye drops as they prepare for surgery. The physicians monitor the patients and Arman, a 15-year-old musician, at right, was apprehensive about entering the hospital but hopeful that he would be able to see again. After a Jusni, performed 239 procedures during the two-day eye surgery camp on the island of Nias. that will restore her sight. report few post-procedure infections, said Dr. John Bailey of Body and Soul Ministries. severe fever at age 3, he was pronounced blind by age 9. After a doctor operated on one of his eyes, he could see objects up to 10 feet away. 20 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE MARCH 2013

standing on THE GIVING SIDE ofhuman need Body and Soul Ministries provides free medical, dental and optical care to those in foreign countries who typically go untreated. This non-profit organization was started by one man, Dr. John Bailey, who desired to volunteer his medical and dental expertise to people without access to the kind of services that are

House Parents A young Guatemalan’s life was forever changed at the Health Talents International Ezell Clinic. This Guatemalan child had a severe cleft-lip, but now (one year later) has a new outlook on life. considered common in the United States. Because of his dedicated efforts, an Arms of Hope is seeking a married couple who has a passion organization of part-time volunteers and financial donors has evolved which, for today’s youth and a calling to Christian residential care. At through their generosity, continues to make a profound difference in the lives Arms of Hope we have the unique opportunity to serve youth of people around the world. Whether it is eye surgery camps in Indonesia or who come from disadvantaged backgrounds and need adult cleft-lip and cleft-palate surgeries in Guatemala, Body and Soul Ministries leadership to help guide them educationally, emotionally and tirelessly strives to “stand on the giving side of human need.” spiritually. It is our mission to provide these children with a therapeutic environment in which they can develop and prosper. This mission opportunity offers a very competitive salary in addition to housing, food, health insurance, a retirement plan and generous vacation and leave time.

If you would like to help, you can donate online or send a check or money order to: If interested in these positions, please visit BandS Ministries, P.O. Box 1926, Colleyville, TX 76034 www.ArmsofHope.org to obtain an application on the “About Us” page. You can also contact Allen Williams at [email protected]. WWW.BANDSMINISTRIES.ORG

BandS_1/2pg_ChristianChronicle_AD.indd 1 1/21/13 12:19 PM MARCH 2013 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 21

BY LYNN mcmillon | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE preseason because we played two games in China — one in Beijing on hough they always considered them- Oct. 11 and the other in Shanghai on selves a lively “sports family,” Diane Oct. 14. You can be sure I took my daily Bible readings on those long flights. and Norris Cole Sr. never dreamed that Another rewarding aspect to playing in their son — Norris G. Cole II — would the NBA is being a positive role model to Tplay in the National Basketball Association. kids that look up to their favorite athletes. Such aspirations never were part of the The NBA helps me expand my influence in order to reach more kids and be a role couple’s “grand plan.” What was a part of their model for young persons’ lives. plan was their child-rearing strategy, neatly summed up in Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child How do you maintain Christian in the way he should go, and when he is old, he values in view of the pressure you face on the national stage? won’t depart from it.” It can be tough to maintain Christian As a preschooler, young Norris “played church” values with the pressure of a national with his sister and cousins. Since he was the stage, but you just have to be disci- only boy, he did all the song leading, praying plined. I try to shelter myself from and preaching. The girls were his congregation. different situations, read on a consistent basis and try to attend worship service. When he began playing basketball at age I found a church in Miami that I attend 3, his parents explained to coaches that if — Miami Gardens Church of Christ. In there were games or practices on Sunday or my hometown of Dayton, Ohio, I attend Wednesday night, Norris would either need to Webster Street Church of Christ. They give me the strength I need in order to leave early or not be able to participate because overcome any situation. of services at the Webster Street Church of Christ in Dayton, Ohio. There would be no exceptions. What obstacles have you overcome “His coaches respected our choice, and he to be where you are today? never had a problem with his teammates teas- Some things I’ve had to overcome include college, going to class, staying ing him,” his mother said. on top of my school work and grades A National Honor Society student and an — not to mention the physical and athletic star, he was also an active participant mental obstacles. Staying in shape and in all phases of church life, often looking to always being ready to perform can take a toll on your body, so you have to be spiritual examples such as his parents, uncles, A conversation with prepared at all times. church friends and minister Richard Melson. Also, dealing with the fact that I am While distinguishing himself as a basketball now a public figure and everybody standout, he also completed a bachelor’s is watching my every move can be difficult. But it comes with the terri- degree in health sciences from Cleveland State tory. I pride myself on making the right University in 2011. Drafted by the Chicago Norris Cole choices and doing the right things. Bulls in the first round of the 2011 NBA draft, NBA NEWCOMER DISCUSSES fame, faith and daily Bible reading. Those are some of the toughest obsta- he was traded to the Miami Heat in a series cles that I have had to overcome — and of draft-night deals. Norris won his first NBA NBA PHOTOS still have to overcome on a daily basis. Norris Cole brings the Heat in Miami but makes time for church and inspires young believers. championship with the Heat in 2012. Who have been the main spiritual Today he leads a frenzied life, but he attends What does basketball mean to you? supplies and delivering food to the influences in your life? services at the Miami Gardens Church of Christ Basketball has meant a lot in my life. homeless throughout the season. My main spiritual influences have whenever possible. It has put me in a position where I can been my parents. They are the ones support myself and my family. What is most rewarding about that paved the way for me to grow up in Recently, a Miami Gardens elder told his Basketball also has allowed me to be playing in the NBA? the church, attend Bible class and go to parents, “Norris just doesn’t know what an a positive influence in my community The most rewarding thing about service every Sunday and Wednesday. inspiration he is to the young people here. and where I come from. Here at the playing in the NBA is that I get the They taught me to have God in my When they see him on television playing an Heat, we pride ourselves on reaching opportunity to — both nationally and life first, and everything else will fall out-of-town game on Saturday night and then out into the local communities through internationally — display my faith, my into place. I can’t thank them enough basketball camps, Thanksgiving events, talents and represent my family in a for how they raised me, and I strive to here for services the next morning, they pay a Christmas events, hospital visits, positive manner. make them proud every day. lot of attention to that.” reading to kids, handing out school I had another opportunity this past See COLE, Page 22 22 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE DIALOGUE MARCH 2013 COLE: NBA star on Bible Accepting Applications bowls, Christian camps FROM PAGE 21 for the Position of Dean Can you share any important church- related experiences from your life? B. Ward Lane College of Professional Studies I participated in Bible bowls with local congregations growing up in Ohio. I was with Webster Street Church of Christ, and we would compete in fun games with Dean Applicants should submit a letter demonstrating these Northridge Church of Christ — games of the B. Ward Lane College experiences, a curriculum vita with contact information and where each age group from one church four references. At least one reference should be someone would play of Professional Studies against a similar Beginning the 2013-2014 academic year. with knowledge of the applicant’s commitment to his/her age group of faith. References will be contacted only after an initial another church. This college consists of the departments of Business, Each team screening process and notification of the applicant of that was awarded Exercise and Sport Sciences, Natural Sciences, Nursing, intent. In addition, applicants should complete an application points based on for employment. questions about and Math and Physical Sciences. It is the largest Scriptures and academic unit of the university. The successful candidate The application and instructions for submitting the requested materials other facts from and a complete job description are available on the website: LCU.edu. the Bible. will have a Ph.D. or equivalent in one of the disciplines Also, growing Navigate to About LCU, Human Resources, then Employment at LCU. housed within the college, demonstrate excellent up in elemen- Select open postions. tary school, NBA PHOTOS leadership, teaching, and research experiences, and I would go Norris Cole holds the Review of applicants will begin immediately and continue until to Christian 2012 Larry O’Brien NBA have an active commitment to the University’s Christian the position is filled. camps. My Championship Trophy. heritage and mission. Other faculty positions are available and descriptions are also on uncle would the human resources web location. always take my cousins and me. We camped, had activities throughout the day All applicants must be a professing Christian and an Rod Blackwood, Provost and also had a time of day for devotionals. active, faithful member of a congregation of the Lubbock Christian University It was both a physical and spiritual camp. 5601 W. 19th Street • Lubbock, Texas 79407 Churches of Christ. [email protected] • 806.720.7402 Do you have any life advice for the many high school and college-level athletes out there? My advice is to be a well-rounded person. Even though you are an athlete, that doesn’t determine entirely who you are. My best advice is to have some- thing else you can relate to, something that can help complete you as a person. For myself, I was a good student, and I had faith in Christ, which helped to give me balance in my life. It also helped my mind to relax, to know that even if I wasn’t able to play sports, I’m not a failure. I’m still somebody. My best advice is, even though you are an athlete, make sure you are developed in other areas of your life.

Do you have a favorite Scripture? One of my favorite scriptures is Philip- pians 4:13. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” It’s one of my favorites because, like the Scripture We’re Changing Lives. Become part of the story. says, I can accomplish anything as long as Christ is first in my life. MARCH 2013 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 23 EDUCATION TRAINING ADRIATIC CHRISTIAN ACADEMY DURRES, Albania — Fifty-eight students, ages 9 to 16, are learning English, math and Bible principles through the Adriatic Christian Academy. The after-school program is a ministry of the Adriatic Church of Christ. Albanian minister Alfred Zike teaches students at the academy. His wife, Diana, teaches Bible lessons and singing. Alexander Xoxi, a church member and student at a nearby univer- sity, teaches English and math. The academy recently hosted a dedication ceremony for its new classroom facility. The Adams Boulevard Church of Christ in Bartlesville, Okla., sponsors the work. For more information, see www.adriaticchristianacademy.org.

HIGHER EDUCATION FAULKNER UNIVERSITY MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Jean-Noel Thompson is joining Faulkner as its vice president for student services. BRADY ROSS Thompson had served since 2007 as vice president for student life and dean Oklahoma Christian professor honored as community hero by Thunder of students at Abilene Mark Wedel, one of Max Dobson’s first special-needs students, holds up the community hero award that Dobson, next to Wedel, received at a recent Christian University in Oklahoma City Thunder game. Dobson, a longtime Oklahoma Christian University professor, coach and administrator, was honored for his decades Texas. of work with special-needs children. Also pictured are Devon Energy’s Michael Palmer and Thunder representatives Clinton Corley and David Jones. Faulkner President Billy D. Hilyer described Thompson as “a Gary P. Wilson, director of Lipscomb’s MINISTRY TRAINING spoTLIGHT committed Christian, choruses and the festival. “In addition, church leader and family this is one of the relatively rare times SUNSET INTERNATIONAL BIBLE INSTITUTE man who believes in that I as an a cappella choral director ALTOONA, Pa. — Sunset’s newest campus Bible professor dies Thompson Christian higher educa- get to interact with my colleagues and will allow students in the Northeast to tion and will uphold see what new things their ensembles attend the Lubbock, Texas-based Bible SEARCY, Ark. — Harding University is the mission of Faulkner as a Christian are doing.” training school full time via satellite. mourning the sudden death of Bible university.” The new Pennsylvania campus will professor Ken Neller. allow students to study and learn at Neller, 58, also was a LIPSCOMB UNIVERSITY K-12 CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS the Pleasant Valley Church of Christ preacher and elder for NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The biennial Christian building while being virtually in the the Downtown Church of College Choral Festival drew more OKLAHOMA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY classroom in Lubbock. Christ in Searcy. than 300 students to study and perform EDMOND, Okla. — Oklahoma Christian “The students are able to see and He collapsed Jan. 10 sacred a cappella choral works. Academy recently celebrated a $100,000 hear the lectures, their instructors and while playing racquet- Chorus groups from Lipscomb, gift from a donor who asked to remain fellow classmates and interact with ball. Attempts to revive Freed-Hardeman University, Harding anonymous. them even though they are hundreds of him were unsuccessful, Neller University, Ohio Valley University and The unexpected donation will benefit miles away,” staff administrator Terry said Monte Cox, dean Crowley’s Ridge College gathered at the school’s technology initiative. In addi- Clyde said. of Harding’s College of Bible and Lipscomb for combined rehearsals tion to classroom upgrades, each faculty The Pleasant Valley church, served Ministry. culminating in a group performance. member received a laptop computer. by elders Bud Adams, Jerry Stumpf “Ken was a beloved husband, father, “The Christian College Choral “This great gift gave our teachers and Bob Steiner, previously had offered grandfather, Bible teacher, preacher and Festival is an opportunity for students new tools, and our students will be the Sunset courses through recorded videos. elder,” Cox said in a note to colleagues. and devotees to hear and learn from ones who benefit from it,” President For more information on the new Survivors include Neller’s wife, groups from many other colleges,” said Brandon Tatum said. program, see www.PreachNorthEast.org. Barbara, and two sons, Colin and Seth. 24 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE PARTNERS MARCH 2013

Faulkner University continually seeks talented, high energy individuals to help us succeed in these times of growth and we are excited to announce the following open positions.

Multiple Faculty Positions – Available Fall 2013

All candidates must be active members of the church of Christ and committed to Christ-centered Liberal Arts education and Christian service.

College of Arts and Sciences Communication Counseling English Mathematics

College of Business CURTIS CHRISTIAN Accounting Business Information Systems Tragedy strikes Abilene Christian University again Marketing Students at Abilene Christian University in Texas pray at a memorial chapel assembly Jan. 28 after an off-campus wreck claimed the life of one student College of Education – Available Summer 2013 and injured five others. Killed was Lindsey Smith, 20, a junior advertising and Chair public relations major from New Braunfels, Texas. Smith’s family attends the New Field Experience Director Braunfels Church of Christ. The driver of a pickup that ran a stop sign and collided with the vehicle in which the six students were traveling also died, authorities Jones School of Law said. For the ACU community, the tragedy rekindled memories of a 2011 bus Law Faculty

accident that killed student Anabel Reid and left nearly a dozen others injured. Academic rank for faculty positions will be based upon education and experiential qualifications according to University policy. These positions are full-time, 9 or 12-months. The candidates selected must be available to assume the duties of the positions Summer or Fall of 2013. Veteran minister named president Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled. The review of applications will begin immediately. Employment is conditional upon a satisfactory background check and verification of work authorization of Canada’s Great Lakes Bible College through E-Verify. WATERLOO, Ontario — Art Ford, a longtime in Toronto. Additional details regarding these positions, including application Canadian minister and educator, has The presidency is a part-time position. requirements, are available on Faulkner’s website: www.faulkner.edu been named president of Great Lakes Great Lakes Bible College has two full-

Bible College, a small preacher training time staff members: dean and teacher Faulkner University  5345 Atlanta Hwy  Montgomery, AL  36109 school about 70 miles west of Toronto. David Knutson and teacher Jim Holston. Ford, 66, had served as Ford, an alumnus of Harding minister for the Fennell University in Searcy, Ark., taught at Avenue Church of Christ Great Lakes Christian High School in Pulpit Minister Position Opening in Hamilton, Ontario, Beamsville, Ontario, from 1970 to 1976. since 2007. He and his wife, Ruby, then served on “We look forward the mission field in Papua New Guinea The Lehigh Valley Church of Christ is seeking a pulpit minister/ to the Bible college from 1977 to 1987. evangelist. We are an independent, non-instrumental church. We desire increasing its ability When the Fords returned, he served to serve the brother- in administrative roles with the high a college degree or formal preacher training with prior pulpit experience. Ford The position is a full time position and includes health benefits. hood with Art’s leader- school until 1996, when he assumed the ship as president,” said Max Craddock, presidency of the high school and Bible chairman of the Bible college’s board. college. He retired as president in 2006 Please send your resume with salary history and sample sermon(s) to “With the blessing of God, the school — but not permanently, as it turns out. The Lehigh Valley Church of Christ, 3400 Brodhead Road, Bethlehem, can grow and serve the Lord’s church Don Rose is the high school’s chief PA 18020, (610) 691-1116, email: [email protected]. in Canada for many years to come,” administrator. added Craddock, who preaches for the Strathmore Boulevard Church of Christ FOR MORE INFORMATION, see www.glbc.ca. MARCH 2013 PEOPLE the christian chronicle 25 Newsmakers NAMED: Dennis Itson, Hero of Hope by the American Cancer Society. Itson, an eight- year cancer survivor, works for Faulkner University in Montgomery, Ala. Wayne acu.edu Scott, Lads to Leaders/ Leaderettes Board of College of Arts and Sciences The Department of Psychology invites applications Directors. Jim Baird, direc- for a tenure-track position as assistant professor of school tor of the Honors Program Dr. Gregory Straughn, Dean psychology, beginning Fall 2013. Applicants should have a at Oklahoma Christian ACU Box 29210, Abilene, Texas 79699-9210 doctorate in the field (ABD will be considered) and be a The Department of Agricultural and Environmental Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP) or equivalent Itson University in Oklahoma City, Okla. Melisa Roberts, Tim Sciences invites applications for a tenure-track position as credentials. Information about the department is available Leslie and Kenneth Stephenson as members assistant professor of animal science. It is seeking a visionary at acu.edu/psychology. of the Board of Trustees for Lubbock Christian animal scientist with the earned Ph.D., Ph.D./D.V.M. or D.V.M. (from an AVMA-accredited institution with M.S. in animal College of Business Administration University in Lubbock, Texas. sciences or closely related field). Information about the Dr. Don Pope, Chair, Department of department is available at acu.edu/agenv. NEW MINISTERS: Travis Akins, Young Adult Management Sciences The Department of Engineering and Physics invites one ACU Box 29309, Abilene, Texas 79699-9309 Minister, Memorial Road church in Oklahoma or more talented engineers to apply for its new and rapidly The Department of Management Sciences invites City, Okla. expanding engineering program, whose first class of students applications for an assistant or associate professor entered in Fall 2012. Ideal candidates will have a Ph.D. of marketing, management and/or international business, ANNIVERSARIES: 79th: Walter and Eula in engineering or a closely related field and experience effective Aug. 1, 2013. Applicants should have an earned Logan, Haleyville, Ala. 70th: Freddie and in teaching and research. All engineering fields will be graduate degree in marketing, management or a related field. Antoinette Rhodes, Sequin, Texas and James considered. Previous involvement with ABET accreditation A doctoral degree is preferred. (Outstanding ABD candidates and Mickie French, Buffalo, Texas. 68th: Max would also be helpful. Information about the department is will be considered as well.) Information about the college is and Mildred Dunn, Edmond, Okla. 66th: Roy available at acu.edu/engineering. available at acu.edu/coba. and Nina Robinson, Augusta, Ga. The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication invites applicants for a tenure-track position as assistant School of Information Technology BIRTHDAYS: 100th: Jewel Simons, La Mesa, professor of journalism and mass communication. The ideal and Computing Calif. 96th: Walter Logan, Haleyville, Ala. 95th: candidate will have professional experience in online news or commercial environments including social media. Applicants Dr. Brad Crisp, Director Fay McCulley, Alvarado, Texas. who can also teach in public relations will receive particular ACU Box 29353, Abilene, Texas 79699-9353 attention. A terminal degree is strongly preferred, but The School of Information Technology and Computing PASSAGES: Sherman Wayne Arnold, 74, applicants who are ABD will be considered. Information invites applications for a tenure-track position as assistant, Dec. 18, New Orleans, La., served as elder about the department is available at acu.edu/jmc. associate or full professor of computer science, effective for the Carrollton church in New Orleans, The Department of Language and Literature invites Aug. 1, 2013. Applicants should have an earned graduate La. Inez Baucum, 97, Jan. 9, Lubbock, Texas, applicants for a tenure-track position as assistant/associate degree in computer science, software engineering or a first social worker for The Children’s Home professor with specialization in world literature, literary related field. A doctoral degree is preferred. (Outstanding of Lubbock, instrumental in helping estab- theory, or new media. Special consideration will be given ABD candidates will be considered as well.) Information lish the social work program at Lubbock to candidates with experience in the field of publishing, a about the school is available at acu.edu/sitc. Christian University. Kurt Conner, 60, Jan. demonstrated ability to establish and supervise internships, 7, Thompson’s Station, Tenn., faithful mem- and/or experience living abroad. ABD considered, Ph.D. See acu.edu/academics/provost/positions.html for ber of 4th Avenue church in Franklin, Tenn. preferred. Information about the department is available complete descriptions of these positions. In a letter to at acu.edu/english. Opal Ebest, 98, Dec. 14, Mount Juliet, Tenn., the appropriate dean or chair, applicants should address oldest member of the Mount Juliet church. The Department of Music invites applications for a their qualifications for the position. They should include Loyd Frashier, 96, Dec. 26, Malibu, Calif., a tenure-track position of director of choral activities, beginning in the application a statement of how faith informs Fall 2013. Applicants should have an earned doctorate in Pepperdine University Faculty Emeritus mem- their teaching; a discussion of their spiritual journey; Music (ABD will be considered) and be accomplished a curriculum vita; transcripts of all undergraduate ber, elder of the Woodland Hills, Calif., church. conductors and musicians with demonstrated potential and graduate work; and names, addresses and phone Max Harper Jr., 90, Jan. 6, Dallas, served as for success teaching at the collegiate level. Preference will numbers of five references. Review of applicants will teacher, deacon and elder be given to candidates with a proven record of success begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. for almost 40 years at the teaching at the secondary level and overseeing all facets Nominations of and applications from qualified women Skillman church in Dallas. of a university choral program. Information about the and minorities are especially encouraged. Tom Marshall, 85, Dec. 11, department is available at acu.edu/music. ACU is affiliated with the fellowship of the Churches Edmond, Okla., preacher The Department of Political Science invites applications of Christ. All applicants must be professing Christians for more than 60 years. Lou for a tenure-track position as assistant professor of political and be active, faithful members of a congregation of the Phillips, 82, Jan. 6, Edmond, science. Applicants should have a Ph.D. (ABD will be Churches of Christ and deeply committed to service in Christian higher education. The mission of ACU is to Okla., served under five pres- considered). The successful candidate must have a commitment to teaching in an undergraduate environment educate students for Christian service and leadership Rowland idents at Oklahoma Christian throughout the world. University, first as Executive and demonstrated potential for professional development and/or research activities. Information about the department ACU does not unlawfully discriminate in Secretary and later as Special Assistant to is available at acu.edu/politicalscience. employment opportunities. the President. Robert Rowland, 86, Jan. 17, Corona, Calif., former president of Columbia 110324-0213 Christian College in Portland, Ore. 26 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE PEOPLE MARCH 2013

With deepest appreciation to those churches who have provided financial support for our efforts to inform, inspire and unite Churches of Christ worldwide. ALABAMA: Palisades Church of Christ, Birmingham; Lincoln Church of Christ, Huntsville; University Church of Christ, Mobile; University Church of Christ, Montgomery; Betta View Hills Church of Christ, Oxford; Wolfe Springs Church of Christ, Town Creek. ARIZONA: Mesa Church of Christ, Mesa; Sunset Church of Christ, Morenci. ARKANSAS: Church of Christ, Ashdown; Atkins Church of Christ, Atkins; Beedeville Church of Christ, Beedeville; New Liberty Church of Christ, Cleveland; Farmington Church of Christ, Farmington; Center Street Church of Christ, Fayetteville; Church of Christ, Green Forest; Valley View Church of Christ, Greenwood; Hatfield Church of Christ, Hatfield; Havana Church of Christ, Havana; Central Church of Christ, Little Rock; Jackson Street Church of Christ, Magnolia; Northside Church of Christ, Mena; Levy Church of Christ, North Little Rock; River City Church, North Little Rock; Windsong Church of Christ, North Little Rock; Eielson Church of Christ, North Pole; Hillcrest Church of Christ, Paragould; Liberty Church of Christ, Paragould; Steve Church of Christ, Plainview; 5th & Greenwich Church of Christ, Russellville; West Side Church of Christ, Russellville; Saint Joe Church of Christ, Saint Joe; West Point Church of Christ, Searcy. CALIFORNIA: Church of Christ, Eureka; Church of Christ, Hanford; Imperial Beach Church of Christ, Imperial Beach; Lathrop Church of Christ, Lathrop; Los Altos Church of Christ, Long Beach; Santa Monica Korean Church of Christ, Los Angeles; Porterville Church of Christ, Porterville; Shafter Church of Christ, Shafter; Church of Christ, Strathmore; Church of Christ of Torrance, Torrance; Lassen Street Church of Christ, Vallejo; Victor Valley Church of Christ, Victorville. COLORADO: Mountain View Church of Christ, Buena Vista; Lamar Church of Christ, Lamar; Tri-Lakes Church of Christ, Monument; Rye Church of Christ, Rye. FLORIDA: Holly Hill Church of Christ, Holly Hill; Homestead Church of Christ, Homestead; Melbourne Church of Christ, Melbourne. GEORGIA: Eastside Church of Christ, Albany; North Atlanta Church of Christ, Atlanta; Dublin Church of Christ, Dublin; North Avenue Church of Christ, Hapeville; Thomaston Church of Christ, Macon; Quitman Church of Christ, Quitman; Halls Valley Church of Christ, Trion. HAWAII: Church of Christ at Honolulu, Honolulu. IOWA: Osceola Church of Christ, Osceola. IDAHO: Idaho Falls Church of Christ, Idaho Falls. ILLINOIS: Arthur Church of Christ, Arthur; Brookfield Church of Christ, Brookfield; Jacksonville Church of Christ, Jacksonville; Church of Christ, Ottawa. INDIANA: Heritage Church of Christ, Huntington; Fountain Square Church of Christ, Indianapolis; North Central Church of Christ, Indianapolis; Lebanon Church of Christ, Lebanon; Eastside Church of Christ, Terre Haute. KANSAS: Belle Plaine Church of Christ, Belle Plaine; Browning Church of Christ, Browning; Cedar Vale Church of Christ, Cedar Vale; Eureka Church of Christ, Eureka; Eastwood Church of Christ, Hutchinson; McPherson Church of Christ, McPherson; Oberlin Church of Christ, Oberlin; Pratt Church of Christ, Pratt; Russell Church of Christ, Russell. KENTUCKY: Adairville Church of Christ, Adairville; Broadway Church of Christ, Paducah; Mount Vernon Church of Christ, Park City. LOUISIANA: Pineville Church of Christ, Pineville; Southern Hills Church of Christ, Shreveport; Maplewood Church of Christ, Sulphur. MARYLAND: Church of Christ, Aberdeen; Oxon Hill Church of Christ, Temple Hills. MASSACHUSETTS: Greater Springfield Church of Christ, Chicopee; Cape Cod Church of Christ, Marstons Mills. MICHIGAN: Beulah Church of Christ, Beulah; Brighton Church of Christ, Brighton; Redford Church of Christ, Detroit; East Main Church of Christ, Kalamazoo; Lapeer Church of Christ, Lapeer; Mount Morris Church of Christ, Mount Morris; Van Dyke Church of Christ, Warren. MINNESOTA: Church of Christ, Hibbing; Church of Christ, Wadena. MISSISSIPPI: Hanging Moss Road Church of Christ, Jackson; Oxford Church of Christ, Oxford; Sherman Church of Christ, Sherman. MISSOURI: Church of Christ, California; Fairview Road Church of Christ, Columbia; Rocketdyne Church of Christ, Neosho; Nevada Church of Christ, Nevada; Church of Christ, Odessa; O’Fallon Church of Christ, O’Fallon; Flat River Church of Christ, Park Hills; Lemay Church of Christ, Saint Louis; McKnight Road Church of Christ, Saint Louis. MONTANA: Church of Christ, Big Timber. NEBRASKA: Beatrice Church of Christ, Beatrice; Hastings Church of Christ, Hastings; Kearney Church of Christ, Kearney. NEVADA: North Las Vegas Church of Christ, North Las Vegas. NEW JERSEY: Freehold Church of Christ, Freehold; Pitman Church of Christ, Pitman. NEW MEXICO: Montgomery Boulevard Church of Christ, Albuquerque; Dora Church of Christ, Dora; Fort Sumner Church of Christ, Fort Sumner; Mountainair Church of Christ, Mountainair. NEW YORK: Linwood Church of Christ, Buffalo. NORTH CAROLINA: Biltmore Church of Christ, Asheville; Tryon Church of Christ, Tryon. OHIO: Belpre Church of Christ, Belpre; Struthers Church of Christ, Struthers; Mid-County Church of Christ, Troy; West Jefferson Church of Christ, West Jefferson; Woodsfield Church of Christ, Woodsfield. OKLAHOMA: Main Street Church of Christ, Alex; Church of Christ, Allen; Elm & Hudson Church of Christ, Altus; Tamarack Road Church of Christ, Altus; Oak Street Church of Christ, Apache; Adams Boulevard Church of Christ, Bartlesville; Downtown Church of Christ, Bixby; Southern Oaks Church of Christ, Chickasha; Choctaw Church of Christ, Choctaw; Blue Starr Church of Christ, Claremore; Clayton Church of Christ, Clayton; Collinsville Church of Christ, Collinsville; 4th & College Church of Christ, Cordell; Carter Park Church of Christ, Del City; Dill City Church of Christ, Dill City; Fort Cobb Church of Christ, Fort Cobb; Church of Christ, Granite; Hammon Church of Christ, Hammon; Church of Christ, Hobart; Kingfisher Church of Christ, Kingfisher; Church of Christ at Park Lane, Lawton; Church of Christ, Meeker; Morris Church of Christ, Morris; Church of Christ, Mountain View; Chandler Road Church of Christ, Muskogee; Noble Church of Christ, Noble; Central Church of Christ, Nowata; Church of Christ, Okemah; Grand Boulevard Church of Christ, Oklahoma City. MARCH 2013 CALENDAR the christian chronicle 27

Feb. 15-17 Winterfest Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg Convention Center, Gatlinburg, Tenn. Contact Dudley Chancey at dudley. [email protected] or www.winterfest.org. continued Feb. 22-23 Affirming the Faith Seminar. North MacArthur church, OKLAHOMA, cont: Oakcrest Church of Christ, Oklahoma City; Hartford Avenue Church of Christ, Ponca City; Oklahoma City, Okla. Contact (405) Farrell Avenue Church of Christ, Shawnee; 12th & Vinita Church of Christ, Sulphur; Wapanucka Church of Christ, 621-5962 or www.affirmingthefaithok.com. Wapanucka; Wetumka Church of Christ, Wetumka. OREGON: Circle Church of Christ, Corvallis; Church of Feb. 22-24 Challenge Youth Conference. Christ, Lebanon; West Main Church of Christ, Medford; Eastside Church of Christ, Portland; Tillamook Church of Gatlinburg Convention Center, Gatlinburg, Tenn. Contact Larry Davenport, (256) Christ, Tillamook. PENNSYLVANIA: Camp Hill Church of Christ, Camp Hill; Harding Church of Christ, Falls; 710-7671, [email protected] or www. Glen Rock Church of Christ, Glen Rock; King of Prussia Church of Christ, King of Prussia; Somerset Church of cyconline.com. Christ, Somerset. SOUTH CAROLINA: Summerville Church of Christ, Summerville; Grand Strand Church Feb. 24-27 39th Annual Southeast of Christ, Surfside Beach. SOUTH DAKOTA: Yankton Church of Christ, Yankton. TENNESSEE: Antioch Institute of Biblical Studies Lectureship. Knoxville, Tenn. Contact (865) 691-7444 or Church of Christ, Antioch; Bartlett Woods Church of Christ, Arlington; Athens Church of Christ, Athen; Harpeth www.seibs.org. Hills Church of Christ, Brentwood; Camden Church of Christ, Camden; Eva Road Church of Christ, Camden; Feb. 25-26 Nurture Conference. Cisco Church of Christ, Cisco; Graymere Church of Christ, Columbia; West 7th Street Church of Christ, Columbia; Lipscomb University, Nashville, Tenn. Jefferson Avenue Church of Christ, Cookeville; Patty Church of Christ, Delano; Harriman Church of Christ, Contact (615) 966-5352 or www.lipscomb. Harriman; Leoma Church of Christ, Leoma; Maryville Church of Christ, Maryville; Olivet Church of Christ, McEwen; edu/ics/Nurture-Conference. Feb. 28-Mar. 2 National Urban East Haven Church of Christ, Memphis; Southwind Church of Christ, Memphis; Old Hickory Church of Christ, Old Ministry Conference. North City church, Hickory; Fairlane Church of Christ, Shelbyville; Raus Church of Christ, Shelbyville; Coopertown Church of Christ, St. Louis, Mo. Contact Jim Harbin at (901) Springfield; Exchange Street Church of Christ, Union City. TEXAS: Adrian Church of Christ, Adrian; Morningside 385-9858 or jim.harbin@nationalurban- Drive Church of Christ, Alice; Argyle Church of Christ, Argyle; Church of Christ in Hyde Park, Austin; Brownfield ministryassociation.org. March 4-7 69th Annual Faulkner Church of Christ, Brownfield; Southern Hills Church of Christ, Buda; Church of Christ, Canton; Church of Christ, University Lectures. Montgomery, Ala. Clarendon; Clifton Church of Christ, Clifton; Clyde Church of Christ, Clyde; Elm Street Church of Christ, Coleman; Contact www.faulkner.edu. Arlington Heights Church of Christ, Corpus Christi; Crandall Church of Christ, Crandall; Farmers Branch Church of March 4-7 Youth & Family Ministry Christ, Dallas; Walnut Hill Church of Christ, Dallas; Eliasville Church of Christ, Eliasville; Airport Freeway Church Summit. Faulkner University, Montgomery, Ala. Contact [email protected], (334) of Christ, Euless; Southside Church of Christ, Fort Worth; Frankston Church of Christ, Frankston; Gail Church of 386-7660 or www.faulkner.edu. Christ, Gail; Broadway Church of Christ, Galveston; Saturn Road Church of Christ, Garland; George West Church March 20-23 Tulsa Workshop. of Christ, George West; Pecan Grove Church of Christ, Greenville; Haslet Church of Christ, Haslet; Holly Lake Experience Eternal Life Now! Tulsa, Okla., Church of Christ, Hawkins; Hempstead Church of Christ, Hempstead; South Main Church of Christ, Henderson; Fairgrounds. Contact workshop@memori- aldrive.org or (918) 344-3402. Bering Drive Church of Christ, Houston; Hidden Valley Church of Christ, Houston; Palm Center Church of Christ, March 24-28 69th Annual National Houston; Trinity Gardens Church of Christ, Houston; West University Church of Christ, Houston; Westbury Church Lectureship. “Return to the Ancient of Christ, Houston; Church of Christ, Howe; Huntsville Church of Christ, Huntsville; Iraan Church of Christ, Iraan; Order.” Hosted by Houston area Churches College Street Church of Christ, Junction; Ola Church of Christ, Kaufman; Kress Church of Christ, Kress; Church of Christ at the Hyatt Regency in down- of Christ, La Feria; Lake Jackson Church of Christ, Lake Jackson; Garden Ridge Church of Christ, Lewisville; town Houston. Contact Teaster Maloy, Sr. (713) 674-5131 or [email protected]. Lockhart Church of Christ, Lockhart; Alpine Church of Christ, Longview; South Plains Church of Christ, Lubbock; March 29-31 Southern Africa Travis Peak Church of Christ, Marble Falls; Matador Church of Christ, Matador; Maud Church of Christ, Maud; International Lectureship. “Contending Harvey Drive Church of Christ, McAllen; Fairmont Park Church of Christ, Midland; North Ridge Church of Christ, for the Faith.” UNISA, Ormonde Conference Mount Pleasant; Tanglewood Church of Christ, Odessa; Church of Christ, Palacios; Main Street Church of Christ, Centre, Soweto, South Africa. Contact www.2013lectureshipjhb.co.za. Petersburg; Church of Christ in Porter, Porter; North Bay Church of Christ, Portland; Roaring Springs Church April 26-27 40th Anniversary Lariat of Christ, Roaring Springs; Roby Church of Christ, Roby; Sabinal Church of Christ, Sabinal; Church of Christ, Creek Christian Camp. Geary, Okla. Seymour; Parkview Church of Christ, Sherman; Western Heights Church of Christ, Sherman; Church of Christ, Contact [email protected] or Sterling City; Walnut Church of Christ, Texarkana; Texline Church of Christ, Texline; Throckmorton Church of www.lariatcreek.org. May 3-5 New England Lectureship. Christ, Throckmorton; Lake Cities Church of Christ, Van Church of Christ, Van; Trophy Club; Whitney Church “1st Century Christianity in a 21st Century of Christ, Whitney. VERMONT: Chester Road Church of Christ, Springfield. VIRGINIA: Church of Christ, World.” Holiday Inn, Taunton, Mass. Covington; Church of Christ, Falls Church; Hampton Church of Christ, Hampton. WASHINGTON: Twin Cities Contact Maurice Davis (617) 274-2409 or Church of Christ, Centralia; Federal Way Church of Christ, Federal Way; Kennewick Church of Christ, Kennewick; www.newenglandlectureship.org. May 9-11 The Assending Voice Lakeview Church of Christ, Tacoma; Washougal Church of Christ, Washougal; First Church of Christ, Wenatchee; III. Pepperdine University, Malibu, Waupaca Church of Christ, Waupaca; Lakeland Church of Christ, Woodruff. WEST VIRGINIA: Kanawha City Calif. Contact www.pepperdine.edu/ Church of Christ, Charleston; Peytona Church of Christ, Peytona; George Street Church of Christ, St. Marys. ascendingvoice. WYOMING: Lander Church of Christ, Lander; Rawlins Church of Christ, Rawlins; Church of Christ, Thermopolis. Complete CALENDAR at www.christianchronicle.org 28 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE MARCH 2013 editorial Ever-Laughing Life by Jonny Hawkins Keeping millennials in the church e have, it seems, provides insight on young people value hands-on ministry, evolved into a nation Christians and potential strategies such as feeding the hungry, of “Nones” — folks for ministering to millennials: painting houses for the elderly with no religious ties • Teen survey: On the and providing coats for the and little interest in front page, we report on the homeless. But what’s the rela- Worganized faith. findings of the 2012 Church tionship between the labors that One-fifth of Americans — and and Relationship Survey by occur outside the church doors one-third of adults under age Oklahoma Christian University’s and what happens in the church 30 — have no religious affilia- Intergenerational Faith Center. pews on Sundays? tion, the Pew Research Center’s Researchers Dudley Chancey Again, we strive to understand Forum on Religion and Public and Ron Bruner surveyed the heart of Generation Y — Life proclaimed this past fall. 482 high school members of and hope the lessons learned “Spiritual but not religious” Churches of Christ. can benefit church leaders has become the catchphrase of Chancey and Bruner charac- concerned about young people. our times. terized the students’ ideas for • Intergenerational In our own fellowship, many making the church more like ministry: On page 31, Tim Churches of Christ are graying the church God meant it to be as Pyles, minister for the Broken as children grow up and leave “often insightful and surprising.” Arrow Church of Christ in the fold. There are 102,000 fewer Some of the ideas relate to Oklahoma, reviews an impres- Methuselah and his offspring people in the pews nationwide teens’ desire for more upbeat sive book on intergenerational than a decade ago, according worship and less routine Christian formation. to Churches of Christ in the sermons. Other findings may As Pyles notes, many churches TO OUR READERS United States, published by 21st be less expected: Teens hunger have focused so much on age- Century Christian. That figure for more substantive relation- segregated programming — a represents a 6.2 percent decline. ships, particularly with older youth devotional here, a senior We live in a postmodern era in Christians. Teens long for deeper luncheon there — that they have Postage increase takes effect which critics of our Christian faith Bible studies that go beyond fractured God’s spiritual family. e shared with you Service. Both were denied. A would lead you to believe that rote recitation of familiar verses. We must work harder to buck the stunning postage congressional inquiry yielded churches in America are dying. Often they see our fellowship that trend and bring Christians Wincrease we face as the same response. Not so fast. as too judgmental and desire of all ages together for the sake of this issue — a rise of Meanwhile, your words of Yes, the times are challenging. to share their faith in ways that of the kingdom. $198,000 annually. encouragement and prayers Yes, the culture is increasingly won’t alienate outsiders. If you care about the future We give our heartfelt thanks are deeply appreciated. With secular. But we serve an all- • Hands and feet of Jesus: of the Lord’s church, we pray to those who have stepped this issue, you will notice a powerful Savior whose kingdom On page 3, we explore the that this issue of the Chronicle up financial support in view slight change in the paper’s is secure. God calls us to plant concept of social justice vs. will inspire you to find ways to of this development. You may appearance — again, related to seeds. He can handle the harvest. kingdom work. embrace young Christians and be interested to know that we new postal regulations. In this issue of The Christian As we’ve reported previously, help prepare them for lifetimes of have made two higher-level We will keep you informed Chronicle, our in-depth coverage it’s no secret that today’s young faith and service. appeals to the U.S. Postal as further developments arise.

Editor Emeritus: Bailey B. McBride The Christian Chronicle® welcomes and encourages of The Christian Chronicle or Oklahoma [email protected] feedback that promotes thoughtful and respectful Christian University. Reviews Editor: Kimberly Mauck discussion. Letters/comments should be 150 words or less [email protected] and may be edited for length and clarity. Comments to The Christian Chronicle® is published Administrative Assistant: Lynda Sheehan the print or online editions are considered to be letters to monthly and is served by a national www.christianchronicle.org [email protected] the editor and may be published. Please include name, Board of Trustees that is charged with Phone: (405) 425-5070; Fax (405) 425-5076 Administrative Assistant: Tonda Stafford city and state of residence, as well as home congregation. the responsibility for policy and gover- P.O. Box 11000, Oklahoma City, OK 73136-1100 [email protected] nance. All trustees, editors and staff are Delivery: 2801 E. 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Fletcher III • Bob Harrison • Emily Lemley International news, features: [email protected] or call (405) 425-5070. columns, reviews, letters to the editor and advertising James Moore • Robert Oglesby Sr. • Mike O’Neal Advertising Manager: Tonya Patton do not necessarily represent the views of or constitute Barry Packer • Kevin Ramsey • Harold Redd [email protected] LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: [email protected] endorsement by the editors, the staff, the Board of Trustees Harry Risinger • Milton Sewell • Gary Tabor MARCH 2013 opinion the christian chronicle 29 Sycamore tree in the Bible story of Zacchaeus letters Donor urges other becomes a guiding metaphor for youth minister readers to give $12 It’s OK that you used my $12 dona- he story of Zacchaeus was my retreat or class — completely oblivious a curious tax collector. It’s about a tion to help you wind up in the black favorite as a kid. Later in life, I to those in my group whose “songs” seeking Savior. for 2012. I intended it to pay for 12 Tfigured it belonged in Vacation were not much fun to sing because Preaching — at least the way I’ve months in 2013. Bible School — but certainly not on a their faith was so small ... and the done it — won’t win much of this I had hoped that you would use blueprint for ministry. crowd was too tall ... and they had no generation to Christ. But being avail- my name and example for the Eighteen years into youth ministry, sycamore tree to climb. able when a teen wants to climb higher other 250,000 people who get the however, this simple Bible story has • to investigate the outrageous claims of Chronicle to follow suit to raise $3 become the guiding metaphor for my At my first church, we had a kinder- the Son of God, that will. million to pay postage and keep you service. garten. In the nearby courtyard was a In that familiar song we all know, I’m in the black. Early in my ministry, I surren- playground. And on that play- bothered by the way we recreate the Most everybody can afford $12 a dered to the temptation of Views ground was an off-limits tree. A moment when Jesus encounters his year — $1 a month. God bless. defining success as bodies big tree. A tempting tree. new friend. Bill Boyd | Mariposa, Calif. in chairs or names on signup A red line was painted above My Sunday school teacher would sheets. My ministry was to the the second limb from the shake her finger and say, “Zacchaeus, Avoid food waste, help poor “crowd,” with little concern for ground. The children were free you come down from that tree!” with those who didn’t possess the to climb to that line, but every- the vocal inflection my mother used If there is spoiled food in my courage, strength or ability thing above was forbidden terri- when employing my first, middle and refrigerator, I think of James 5:3, to rise above the distractions tory. And “Mrs. Wanda” guarded last names along with phrases like, which says that when our gold and around them. that tree with a watchful eye that “Wait until your father gets home!” our silver become rusty, they are An 8-year-old girl at summer David Skidmore would impress an angel wielding Jesus’ tone is vital. The voice witnesses of our selfishness. (See camp made me rethink a flaming sword. Zacchaeus hears offers peace, protection “Supermarkets and stewardship,” everything. Each morning I passed that tree on the and a promise. His invitation seems to Page 27, February). I was sharing the story of Zacchaeus way to my office. I saw wee little people say, “Zacchaeus, you don’t belong on a So I try to only buy the food that at a morning chapel. I chose the looking up, peering through the branches tree. That’s my job.” The response Jesus I know our family is going to eat. smallest kid to play the leading role in awe. And I was reminded that what receives is immediate and sincere. No more. Besides this, it is good and a reluctant-yet-stout counselor to they seek is a viewpoint so different from If the success of my ministry is to add in our budget a percentage provide the branches on which our their own. But without the tree, their measured only through numbers or pats of our income for the poor (Psalm little Zach could perch. I picked a Jesus. quest was impossible — and their song on the back, the lost are seldom sought 41:1). Blessings! And I assembled a small band of willing was not as much fun to sing. or saved. But as a sycamore tree, I long Jose Elmer Pacheco | Silver Spring, Md. volunteers to serve as the crowd. That’s when it to hear teens say, “I see The drama unfolded. hit me. I had tried ‘I had tried to be the savior him, and I know he sees On weight and workouts There were giggles as “Zacchaeus” to be the savior me.” made his way up the “tree,” hitting a to the teens God to the teens God entrusted Repentance is I appreciate this article because I few ticklish spots on his journey. Jesus entrusted to me. to me. I had tried to heal shouted. Forgiveness have had to leave churches because came to town. Zacchaeus came down. I had tried to heal is offered. Salvation is of comments about my weight, even Before turning over the podium to the them. I had tried to them. I had tried to build a delivered. though I work out daily (“Trimming cabin inspectors, I asked: “What would build a ministry that ministry that would be truth And it’s the sycamore the fat from the faithful,” Page 6, have happened if Zacchaeus hadn’t would be truth and tree that has a front- February). climbed the tree that day?” light for them. and light for them. ... I forgot row seat to witness More programs should be done to I’m not sure what I expected, but I And all those about the sycamore tree.’ the miracle of some- help Christians physically, and more got a dose of first-grade theology. years I noticed one’s song becoming so people should realize that being over- “His song wouldn’t be as much fun to only three characters in much more fun to sing. weight is not always about gluttony sing!” the story stuck on the flannel board of The calling of youth workers is to lift and indolence. It took only a moment to see my my brain since childhood — Jesus the teens above the crowd so they might That is better than those who think question through her eyes. Then I Savior, Zacchaeus the sinner and the see the approaching Savior. they have to go to fellow members began to hear with her ears. (You’ll crowd of distractions. Zacchaeus climbed a tree and hid and tell them they’re fat. have to sing out loud to get the effect.) I forgot about the sycamore tree. to get the attention of Jesus. Jesus From my experience, people like Zacchaeus was a wee little man But the sycamore tree is me. climbed a tree and died to get ours. to tell me I’m fat because they igno- A wee little man was he My job is to lift teens above the crowd Being a tree is easy. rantly think they are helping or like He started to climb in a sycamore tree so they might see the approaching Being a Savior is not. to say “what I think” to cover bad But he didn’t... Savior. Jesus simply pleads with me to self-feelings. I have actually been left That little girl began something new create an environment where teens will DAVID SKIDMORE, his wife, Melissa, and their three off church co-ed basketball teams in me. She helped me realize that my choose to “come and climb” so they’ll daughters live in Murfreesboro, Tenn., where they serve because of my weight, even though I definition of a successful ministry had be found by him. with the North Boulevard Church of Christ. He has been love to play basketball. Programs can missed the mark. • in youth ministry for 18 years. He can be reached at encourage struggling people. I was more interested in the next The story of Zacchaeus is not about [email protected]. Johnny Mullens | El Paso, Ark. 30 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE MARCH 2013 MISSIONS Ramon Gonzalez defines the concept of Heritage Christian University missions. After participat- ing in the HCU campaign program each semester as a part of his curriculum, he knew that he was capable of leading his own mission team. And he knew just where to take them. In 2009, he organized a team of HCU students to join him in his home country of Peru, where they conducted Bible studies and did outreach. Now, as an HCU alumnus and graduate student, he is planning a second trip. From being led to leading... that’s the goal of the Christian Service and campaign programs. Ramon plans to return to Peru after graduation, but he will have left a legacy of leadership... and a dream in the hearts of other students. That’s the type of missions experience you can expect from HCU. It’s our focus.

www.hcu.edu w 256.766.6610 w 800.367.3565 3625 Helton Drive w P.O. Box HCU Florence, AL 35630

Full-Time Preacher The Lake Dallas Church of Christ in Lake Dallas, Texas, is accepting acu.edu applications for the position of full-

Dr. Robert Rhodes, Provost a campus leader in creating a robust research infrastructure and time pulpit minister with a strong ACU Box 29103, Abilene, Texas 79699-9103 fostering a thriving community of scholars that is actively engaged focus on youth and family ministry. in projects supported by external sponsors. Successful applicants Director, Center for International Education must have a master’s degree and certification in Research Abilene Christian University invites applicants for director Administration by the Research Administrators Certification Lake Dallas is a small bedroom of the Center for International Education. Primary responsibilities Council, with a minimum of three years relevant work experience, congregation of about 160 include coordinating, promoting and expanding ACU’s Study preferably in sponsored programs and compliance programs Abroad program through providing a program vision, marketing to administration. For more information, visit acu.edu/hr. members located about 30 miles increase participation, collaborating with offices and programs, and north of downtown Dallas on I-35E. directing comprehensive orientation/training sessions for faculty and students. Additional responsibilities include overseeing In a letter, applicants should address each element or This loving congregation was program management and daily administration of the Center characteristic in the description of responsibilities and established over 100 years ago, qualifications, and should send a curriculum vita, including for International Education and international student support. with an eldership today consisting Successful applicants must have a master’s degree in a relevant the name, address and telephone number of five references subject area (Ph.D. preferred). They must have five or more years (to be contacted only in the event the applicant is a finalist). of 4 elders. of successful leadership experience in international education Qualified applicants must be professing Christians willing to support the mission and purpose of the university. Preference programs, supervisory experience, significant experience living Applications should be sent to: may be given to an active, faithful member of a congregation or studying abroad; excellent networking, negotiation and Lake Dallas Church of Christ communication skills, and experience managing a budget and of the Churches of Christ. ACU is affiliated with the organizing events. For more information, visit acu.edu/hr. fellowship of the Churches of Christ. atten: Elders The mission of the university is to Director, Sponsored Programs educate students for Christian service P.O. Box 340 Abilene Christian University invites applicants for director and leadership throughout the world. Lake Dallas, Tx. 75065 of sponsored programs. The director provides the leadership and ACU does not unlawfully discriminate strategic vision for positioning the Office of Sponsored Programs as in employment opportunities. Phone: 940-497-5510 110324-0313 Email: [email protected] MARCH 2013 REVIEWS THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 31 Blending generations builds a church for the ages

By TIM PYLES | FOR The Christian Chronicle these communities of faith interactively prove to be rather technical and tedious tional” is intentionality, the authors involved the very young, the very old for some readers. write. Churches already are made up of ucking societal trends is a chal- and everyone in between. Among the greatest strengths of the multiple generations. They simply need lenging proposition. The task In response to what can be described book is the authors’ fluid to be brought together, can prove even more daunting as the dismemberment of Christ’s body movement from the theo- “not just occasionally or within the culture of churches, and the fracturing of God’s spiritual retical to the practical. sporadically, but often.” where traditions run deep. family through perpetual age-segregated Concepts are translated into Allen and Ross urge BYet that is precisely what Holly programming, Allen and Ross seek to concrete suggestions to a balanced “both/and” Catterton Allen and Christine Lawton infuse these biblical metaphors with assist churches in achieving approach, preserving Ross courageously and convinc- their fullest and most authentic meaning greater cross-generational some traditional divisions ingly undertake in their book, through intergenerational interaction. interaction through worship, based on “age, stage and “Intergenerational Christian Jesus’ prayerful desire for his followers learning experiences, story interest,” but working Formation: Bringing the Whole was that “all of them may be one” (John sharing, service projects toward the intentional inte- Church Together in Ministry, 17:20). This oneness is not merely and missions. gration of various genera- Community and Worship.” mystical, but experiential and relational, Their most compre- tions in 50 to 80 percent of Allen, professor of Christian ministries extending across generational lines. hensive recommendation congregational activities. at John Brown University, is a member of The authors see the church as a involves the formation of Though many churches the Siloam Church of Christ in Arkansas. uniquely and divinely designed context intergenerational small may have missed out She and Ross, professor of Christian where these generational distinctions groups. The authors include HHHH on the first wave of this education at Concordia University Irvine “are to be transcended rather than rein- helpful appendices detailing Holly Catterton Allen, growing movement, ample in California, present a biblically based forced.” Instead, churches should seek “Forty Intergenerational Christine Lawton Ross. opportunity remains to and thoroughly researched case for to establish “intergenerational faith Ideas” and resources for Intergenerational join the rising tide of greater intergenerational involvement communities (that) bring together the curricula and activities. Christian Formation: restoring God’s intention in the body of Christ. The authors draw young, fresh thinkers with the older, Not all of the particulars Bringing the Whole for intergenerational spiri- deeply from a growing body of scholarly wiser veterans, creating an integrated of their suggestions will find Church Together in tual formation. This is “not literature on the subject and supplement profusion of resources.” a ready reception or easy Ministry, Community something that churches their data with anecdotes and experi- Beyond biblical and theological foun- implementation in Churches and Worship. Downers do — it is something they ences from their own lives of faith. dations, the authors appeal to exten- of Christ. However, adap- Grove, Ill.: IVP Academic, become,” the authors write. Why should one advocate so passion- sive research within a wide range of tations can be made that 2012. 330 pages. $22. “Intergenerational ately for intergenerational Christian life other fields, including learning theory, would still embrace and Christian Formation” and ministry? Because it’s intrinsically gerontology and other social sciences. endorse the authors’ premise that “inter- provides church leaders with a solid biblical, the authors maintain. The cumulative weight of this evidence generational faith experiences uniquely biblical rationale and a reasoned “Scripture presumes that faith forma- affirms that “interage connections nurture spiritual growth and develop- roadmap for cultivating such a culture tion occurs within intergenerational, across all the generations foster devel- ment in both adults and children.” The of intergenerational life, blessings and familial and community settings,” they opment cognitively, morally, psychoso- fact that most congregations of Churches community in Christ. write. Whether describing the congre- cially and spiritually,” they write. While of Christ are relatively small makes gational assemblies of ancient Israel this material provides additional vali- them ideal settings for intergenerational Tim PYLES is preaching minister for the Broken Arrow or first century churches that received dation of the authors’ assertions, these models of ministry. Church of Christ in Oklahoma. He blogs at www.timpyles. apostolic epistles, the Bible is clear that particular sections of the book may The key to becoming “intergenera- com and may be contacted at [email protected]. NEW AND NOTEWORTH Y PRISON MINISTRY SINGLES MINISTRY BIBLE STUDY MEDICAL MISSIONS Kirk Blackard. Love in Gary Thomas. The Sacred Gary Holloway. A Month Ken Gire. Answering the a Cauldron of Misery: Search: What If It’s Not with Jesus: 31 Days with a Call: The Doctor Who Perspectives on Prison About Who You Marry, But Surprising Savior. Abilene, Made Africa His Life. The Ministry. Eugene, Ore.: Why? Colorado Springs, Texas: Leafwood Publishers, Remarkable Story of Albert Wipf and Stock Publishers, Colo.: David C. Cook, 2013. 2012. 224 pages. $14.99. Schweitzer. Nashville, Tenn.: 2012. 234 pages, $26. 256 pages. $14.99. Thomas Nelson, 2013. 208 This book is for people pages. $15.99. Blackard, a member This follow-up to who know their Bible but of the Bering Drive Church of Christ 2002’s “Sacred Marriage” is meant for want to understand the person of Jesus Sacrifice, bravery and hard work are in Houston, provides knowledge to Christian singles. The author argues better. Holloway, a former Bible profes- all defining traits of Schweitzer, whose empower Christians to serve in prisons. that, instead of using feelings as a guide sor at Lipscomb University in Nashville, century-old hospital in Africa thrives The book is divided into an overview of to finding a spouse, people should Tenn., seeks to reveal Jesus through today. This biography is written much the prison system’s history, people and judge potential mates on their spiritual the eyes of his contemporaries, who like a novel with vivid descriptions of culture and a four-part advice guide for compatibility. Each of the 19 chapters were often surprised, confused or even Africa and dialogue of the wide variety volunteers and ministries. ends with study questions. offended by his words. of people in Schweitzer’s life. 32 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE REVIEWS MARCH 2013 Church of Christ minister, wife NOW YOU CAN GET A create ‘Blue, Red and Gold’ Bible

BY KIMBERLY MAUCK | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE released an e-version of the BRG Bible BUSINESS DEGREE through Barnes & Noble and Amazon. Jane Johnson was reading her Bible The project was not easy — and often FROM HARDING UNIVERSITY one evening when she came to God’s made the Johnsons wonder if they blessing after Jesus’ baptism: “This is my were the right people for the job, Jane Son, in whom I am well-pleased.” Johnson said. “We asked God, ‘Why did COMPLETELY She stopped. you give this to us?’” Jane said. “We’re “Why aren’t the words of just these little bitty people God printed in color?” she on a little bitty farm at a asked her husband. little bitty church.” Scott Johnson, the The Johnsons live on a preacher for the East 33-acre farm in Bernice, ONLINE. Faulkner Church of Christ in La., about 30 miles south El Dorado, Ark., didn’t know, of El Dorado. Despite the so he searched online. challenging nature of the He learned that the red- project, Scott and Jane letter edition of the Bible, said they’re convinced the GET YOUR BACHELOR OF ARTS IN which highlights the words coloring of the words will of Christ, was copyrighted help readers see and under- Leadership & Marketing or and published in 1901. But stand the Trinity better. Leadership & Management. he found little mention of The colors “make it easy special treatment for the to spot elements such as words of God in Scripture. messianic prophecies and That night, the minister the spoken words of God, HU said he had an experience akin to Jesus Christ and angels,” said Pete God placing the plan for the temple in Nikolai, director of publishing services David’s mind in 1 Samuel. at Thomas Nelson. In this way, it “helps Classes are offered for non-traditional “I don’t want to call it a vision, but ... busy Bible readers quickly find what students 23 years of age or older in my mind was placed this plan,” he they are looking for.” with 60 or more college credits said, to color God’s words in blue and Sales of the e-Bible will determine the mentions of the Holy Spirit in gold, whether or not Thomas Nelson prints it. in Bibles that people could use to better Scott Johnson’s hours in Bible study understand the Trinity. “You can’t color and in front of the computer for this the words of the project are in Holy Spirit in gold, some ways his or the entire Bible education in would be gold.” divinity: the Scott Johnson East Faulkner got to work. He church is copyrighted his his first paid idea of the BRG preaching work. (Blue, Red and His career was Gold) Bible. mostly spent as He secured a PHOTO PROVIDED BY SCOTT JOHNSON an entrepreneur. Microsoft Word Scott Johnson and his wife, Jane, created the BRG The couple FOR MORE INFORMATION, version of the King Bible. They are pictured on a trip to Israel. operated a bed James Bible — the and break- CALL 501-279-4853, VISIT only version in the public domain. Then fast and a pancake house. Later, they HARDING.EDU/DCP_BUSINESS, he began the study-intensive process marketed a sweet potato pancake mix, OR EMAIL CHRISTOPHER DAVIS AT of adding blue and gold to the red- created by Jane. letter edition. He also added red under- Scott sums up the unexpected trajec- [email protected]. lining to messianic prophecies and blue tory of his career this way: “I like to say underlining to the words of angels. we’ve gone from selling physical bread “All dialogue of a divine creature is in to providing spiritual bread.” some type of color,” Johnson said. It took two years. Recently, WestBow To see samples of the BRG Bible, go to BRGBible.com Press, a division of Thomas Nelson, or contact Scott Johnson at [email protected]. MARCH 2013 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 33

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Pulpit & Youth Minister

Seeking a youthful and energetic individual for full time preaching responsibility.

The successful candidate will serve as full-time minister and pulpit preacher, assisting with all aspects of shepherding a small congregation and evangelizing the local community. Prior teaching and preaching experience are a plus, but not required. The successful candidate must have a zeal for evangelism and youth ministry and be comfortable with preterist views.

The Church of Christ of Hanover is located in South Central PA . We are a small congregation situated in the midst Minister Wanted of a growing suburban residential community. Pay will initially be a TheYpsilanti church of Christ, modest salary, but will grow as the located in Ypsilanti, Mi.,is seeking to fill congregation grows. The use of a our vacant minister position, includes spacious private office is included. pulpit, class an evangelistic duties. We are a diverse congregation with a current Send resume and references to : average Sunday am attendance of 130.

Church of Christ of Hanover If you desire to be considered for this 1560 Wanda Drive position, please submit your resume with Hanover, PA 17331 three sermons (audio and/or video) to: or [email protected] [email protected].

34 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OPINION MARCH 2013 We should echo Jesus’ prayer for unity y prayer is not for them alone as it was for the apostles and those (the apostles). I pray also for brought to belief on Pentecost. ‘Mthose who will believe in me In most communities, dozens of through their message, that all of them groups mark their building with a cross may be one, Father, just as you are in me and profess to be followers of Christ. and I am in you.” — John 17:20-21 Yet these groups have no desire for This prayer comes near the end of unity. Even in local Churches of Christ, John’s account of the last supper, the it is rare for the members to be totally Passover meal Jesus shares with his unified. The history of most congre- disciples before his arrest and cruci- gations is marked by a fixion. Jesus began this important Insight rift and division at some event by washing his disciples’ feet as a point. reminder of their responsibility to serve. In my childhood Jesus has reminded them that one memories those splits will betray him, and Jesus will deny usually occurred over him, but he has also given them Sunday school or the encouragement about a future home he use of one cup. In the will prepare for them. last 60 years divisions He answers Thomas about where he have occurred over is going with the declaration, “I am the elderships, worship, way and the truth and the life. No one Bailey McBride church location, minis- comes to the Father except through tries to underprivileged, me” (John 14:6). Then Jesus tells them preachers, song books, Bible transla- God will send his Holy Spirit, another tions, mission methods and many other Counselor, to teach and remind the trivial differences. And we can be sure disciples of all Jesus taught. God is not happy with the attitudes Jesus also uses the vine and the leading to those divisions. branches of grapes to illustrate how The world has never needed Christ connection with him will allow the more than it does now. The natural production of spiritual fruit throughout disasters, the designs of evil men the world till the end of time. After to destroy others, the loss of civility warnings that the world will hate the toward those we disagree with and the disciples just as the world hated them disposition of a world intent on evil and further teaching about the work make life uncomfortable for all. of the Holy Spirit, the disciples begin How great would the influences be to realize the truth — Jesus is the if all those who believe in Jesus would Messiah, the one who came from God. study Jesus’ prayers and make the At that point Jesus prays, asking goal for unity become the common God to glorify him so that the Son can commitment? glorify the Father. He explains that How powerful is the teaching of Jesus God granted him authority over all the in establishing the basic principles for people so that he could give eternal life bringing glory to God the Father? to his followers. “Now this is eternal How destructive is it when believers life: that they may know you, the only have endless arguments about the true God, and Jesus Christ, whom nature of God and his kingdom? How you have sent.” Jesus prays for the much time do believers have to change disciples, recalling that he has shared the obvious disunity and present a knowledge of the Father with them, unified front in winning unbelievers? and asking God to protect them by the I don’t know the answer to most of power of God’s name. He asks God those questions, but I know how the to protect them from the evil one and disciples turned the world upside down Let’s keep kingdom information sanctify them by the truth. in the first 100 years after the death of flowing around the world. Become a It is at this point Jesus indicates that Jesus as they went everywhere sharing “Keeper” with a sustaining, monthly his prayer is not only for them, but the story of redemption to unbelievers. commitment of $25 or more. for believers in all future time. Jesus I know also that if Jesus prayed for prayed before his apostles for you and our unity that we all should be echoing me. And the central idea of his message that prayer and working to establish a Sign up today! (405)425-5070 is that we all may be one, just as the unity to glorify God, our Father and the [email protected] Father and Jesus are one. Father of Jesus. Jesus’ prayer in the first century is just as important for believers today COntact [email protected]. MARCH 2013 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 35 Academic Positions Available at Lubbock Christian University We’re changing lives. Become part of the story,

For the 2013-2014 academic year, Lubbock Christian University is accepting applications for the following positions

Assistant Professor Assistant Professor Biology Or Biotechnology Biblical Studies This position in the Department of Natural Sciences will support majors in This position supports undergraduate majors in Bible but also should be the sciences and also support courses in other departments such as nursing able to teach graduate courses. A strong background in spiritual formation or exercise science. An expertise in genetics/biotechnology is preferred. and/or theology and/or church history is preferred. The Department of Contact Dr. Kirt Martin, [email protected] Biblical Studies at LCU is seeking ATS accreditation and is looking to increase the number of Bible faculty. Assistant Professor Contact Dr. Charles Stephenson, [email protected] Technical Communication This position in the Department of Humanities will support majors in the areas of technical communication and technical writing. Many of these Successful candidates will have a Ph.D. or be able to demonstrate excellent courses are also considered support courses from many departments across leadership, teaching, and research experiences, and have an active commit- campus. An expertise in grant writing is preferred. ment to the University’s Christian heritage and mission. Any applicant must Contact Dr. Ronna Privett, [email protected] be a professing Christian and an active, faithful member of a congregation of the Churches of Christ. Assistant Professor Nursing Applicants will be asked to provide a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, This position in the Department of Nursing will primarily support courses transcripts, and a list of three references in the application process; one of the in the area of undergraduate nursing. An ability/interest in teaching gradu- references should be from someone who can speak to how the applicant’s ate nursing students is also desirable. LCU is also looking to begin faith commitment relates to LCU’s mission statement. The letter of interest, a nurse practitioner Master’s degree and will also be seeking candidates teaching philosophy, and other relevant materials should be submitted by for this position. February 1, 2012. Contact Dr. LaNell Harrison, [email protected] In addition, applicants should complete an application for employment. Assistant Professor The application, complete job description and instructions for submitting the Education requested materials are available at the following link: The School of Education is seeking a faculty member with a strong back http://www.lcu.edu/about-LCU/human-resources/employment-at- ground in secondary education. The SOE offers Bachelor’s degrees in lcu/apply-for-a-position.html Elementary-Middle School-Secondary Education, as well as Master’s degrees in Teaching-Leadership-Special Education. Review of applicants will begin immediately and continue until the Contact Dr. David Boyer, [email protected] position is filled. box 11000 OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73136-1100 An international newspaper for Churches of Christ Vol. 70, No. 3 | March 2013 change service requested NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID INSIDE OKLAHOMA CITY OK CALENDAR...... 27 PERMIT # 276 CURRENTS...... 17 INSIGHT...... 34 INTERNATIONAL...... 8 LETTERS...... 29 NATIONAL...... 5 OPINION...... 28 PARTNERS...... 23 PEOPLE...... 25 Survey of teens Heavenly hoops Gift of sight REVIEWS...... 31 Young Christians share The Miami Heat’s Norris Ministries serve and VIEWS...... 29 ideas and insight. 1 Cole on his faith. 21 save eyes in Asia. 18 Texas teens send gifts of education, literacy to Malawi, Page 10 | www.christianchronicle.org | (405) 425-5070

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