What Is a Church of Christ? Silenced

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An international newspaper Our mission: To inform, for Churches of Christ inspire and unite Vol. 75, No. 3 | March 2018 www.christianchronicle.org

IMAGE VIA PIXABAY, LETTERING BY LYNDA SHEEHAN Sexual abuse victims ‘fed up’ with silence SOCIAL MEDIA advocacy empowers survivors, molester’s son says. GRAPHIC BY CHELLIE ISON VIA wordclouds.com

BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE

or far too long, victims have been What is a Church of Christ? silenced. Finally, they have an outlet to spot- AS NUMBERS DECLINE in the U.S., Christians ponder a fellowship’s identity light their painful ordeals. FThat’s how Jimmy Hinton character- BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE leadership, baptism by immersion single cup and an undivided loaf. izes the social media movements — first and a cappella worship. In recent years, other Churches #MeToo and now #ChurchToo — where t should be love.” But in 2018, a clear definition of Christ have added instrumental sexual abuse survivors are recounting That was Jeff Cash’s of those who strive to be simply worship services, ministered their real-life nightmares. answer to the question, Christian is anything but simple. alongside denominational groups “Quite simply, millions “What would you say Survey respon- and changed their name, though of abuse survivors are ‘Idefines a Church of Christ?” dents noted a they still identify with the fellow- fed up with the church Cash, an American missionary widening variety ship of autonomous congregations. protecting abusers while serving in Fort Portal, Uganda, of practices taking The word “autonomy” itself shaming the victims,” was one of more than 640 respon- place in buildings eludes definition, survey respon- said Hinton, minister for dents to a Christian Chronicle that bear the name dents said. Young believers chal- the Somerset Church of survey titled “A closer look at “Church of Christ.” lenge the claim that Churches of Christ in Pennsylvania, who Churches of Christ in the U.S.” Some divisions Christ are non-denominational — reported his own father to Most of the respondents, when have existed for especially as growing movements Hinton Cash police when he learned the asked to define the fellowship, decades. Non- of community churches make the longtime preacher was a child molester. cited the goal of restoring the institutional Churches of Christ same claim. Hinton is a certification specialist with church described in the New oppose support for para-church So what is a Church of Christ in the advocacy organization GRACE (Godly Testament book of Acts and the organizations and mission min- 2018? Bewildered, several respon- Response to Abuse in the Christian epistles written to first century istries. Some Churches of Christ dents answered, “I don’t even Environment). He cites frequent private churches. Many mentioned strict hold fast to the belief that the Lord’s know anymore.” messages he receives “from survivors adherence to Scripture, male Supper should be shared from a See IDENTITY, Page 14 who were either not believed by their church leaders or, worse, were humili- Above: Christian Chronicle readers respond to the question, “What would you say defines a Church of Christ?” ated, shamed and blamed for the abuse. The most frequently used phrases appear in the word cloud. The larger the word, the more often it appeared See #CHURCHTOO, Page 6 among the 640-plus responses. See word clouds for five individual age groups in Currents, Pages 17 to 20. 2 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE MARCH 2018

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International Bible Institute Sunset International Bible Institute • 800.658.9553 • www.sunset.bible MARCH 2018 the christian chronicle 3 After Kentucky Blessings shooting, teen’s faith amazes in the ashes re you OK?” Sisters in Christ brought together “Tell me you’re safe.” by massive California wildfire. “Pamela, please ‘Atext me back.” BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE At 7:57 a.m. on a recent Tuesday, a gunman opened VENTURA, Calif. — For the last few years, fire at Marshall County DeLoyce “Dee” Hathway and Crystal High School in Benton, Rabe worshiped together each Sunday. Ky., a rural However, the Ventura Church of Inside Story community Christ members never really connected. Ross 130 miles In a weekly assembly filled with northwest 150 souls, Hathway — who jokes that of Nashville, she’ll celebrate the 50th anniversary Tenn. of her 39th birthday in September — By the sat toward the back. time the Before Edward rampage William Hathway, ended, two Dee’s husband of 69 Bobby Ross Jr. students years, died on Feb. 16, were dead, 2017, he battled lung and 14 were riddled with cancer for years. bullets, police said. Seven “So I had to get him other victims — all teens — out, take care of him Hathway were hurt as students ran PHOTO PROVIDED BY SHANNON WILBURN more,” the World War II for their lives. Shannon Wilburn and Walt Erwin greet each other before Wilburn donated a kidney to Erwin. veteran’s widow said of her quick exits As news of the nation’s after the closing prayer. latest mass shooting Rabe, who lost her own husband, spread, text messages Tom, eight years ago, occupied a flooded 18-year-old Pamela When God wants your kidney pew up front, taking advantage of the Ross’ phone. AN OKLAHOMA CHURCH MEMBER found himself in urgent need of a church’s special technology for the But for half an hour, the hearing impaired. messages to Ross, a senior transplant. A minister’s wife answered the call — eventually. That meant Rabe, who placed at Marshall County High membership in 2014, seldom crossed and a lifelong member of the BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE Thirty-five years earlier, Erwin, paths with Hathway, a Ventura church Benton Church of Christ, now 66, had received a kidney from member since Harry Truman was went unanswered. The texts TULSA, Okla. his older brother, Frank. But he president. became more frantic. t’s you, Shannon.” desperately needed a new one. And Standing to sing, the women recog- “I had an MRI at 8, or I Shannon Wilburn heard the he was having trouble finding a donor. nized each other’s faces from across the would have been there,” said voice in her head. Without a suitable match, he faced auditorium. But they had no idea they Ross, who faces possible What she didn’t know was ongoing dialysis. That would mean a lived 10 houses apart in a neighbor- neck surgery as the result of ‘Iwhether the voice was her own or that decreased quality of life and a short- hood known for “its winding streets and a 2016 car wreck. “I had no of the Holy Spirit. ened life expectancy. sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean,” clue about anything until I Wilburn, whose husband, Mitch, But was Walt Erwin’s health really as the Ventura County Star described it. got out and got dressed. preaches for the 1,700-member Park Shannon Wilburn’s concern? Then came the Thomas Fire, the “My mom (Susan) looked Plaza Church of Christ in Oklahoma’s “What is going on?” she thought largest wildfire in California’s modern at me with tears in her eyes second-largest city, was sitting in as she wrestled with the voice in her history. and said, ‘There’s been a worship one Sunday in September 2016. head. “I barely know this guy, and I Fanned by powerful Santa Ana shooting.’ I said, ‘What?’ I That morning, an announcement don’t need to give him my kidney.” winds, the fast-moving blaze — which couldn’t process it. … Then informed the congregation that Walt Wilburn, now 47, had plenty of ignited Dec. 4 — destroyed hundreds she handed me my phone, Erwin, a member of Park Plaza’s reasons to ignore the voice. of homes in this city of 110,000, about and I opened it, and I had like branch campus in suburban Jenks, For one, she is extremely busy. 65 miles west of Los Angeles. See SHOOTING, Page 4 needed a kidney donor. See KIDNEY, Page 26 See ASHES, Page 8 4 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE INSIDE STORY MARCH 2018 SHOOTING: God ‘working’ even amid evil, pain FROM PAGE 3 500 messages and missed calls.” The reality of what had happened sank in, and Ross (no relation to me) broke down. “And it hasn’t been the same since,” she told me. “It won’t be the same for a very, very long time.” In an age of 24/7 news, the Kentucky tragedy faded quickly from the national headlines. In fact, another school shooting — this one claiming at least 17 lives at a high school in Parkland, Fla. — flashed across our television screens just as we were going to press. However, for our fellow Christians such as Ross, the Marshall County PHOTO PROVIDED BY BENTON CHURCH OF CHRIST heartache remains fresh. On the The Benton Church of Christ youth group made signs of support after Mason and Christian Cosner were wounded. morning after the shooting, Ross said it still didn’t seem real: “I talk of Christ in Paducah, Ky., posted on Cosner brothers were wounded in “It’s amazing to see the commu- about it to people like I know that it social media about it. the attack at Marshall County High. nity come together and to see God happened. But when I sit and think “Shaken. Broken. Wishing I Gunshot victim Mason Cosner working even in the midst of such about it, I don’t believe it. Benton had words to pray,” Harrington was flown to Vanderbilt University evil and pain.” was voted the No. 1 place to raise tweeted as she waited to pick up her Medical Center in Nashville in crit- Most amazing to me was the faith your kids in Kentucky, and now we daughter Gracie at the school. ical condition. “He is now home and expressed by Ross: Even while will be remembered for this. Minutes later, Harrington updated recovering nicely,” said Mark Ray, stressing the necessity of seeking “We always learned her status: “After standing in a the Benton church’s preacher. comfort and peace in God, she about Columbine school lobby with other numb The bullets missed Christian voiced concern for Gabe Parker, the High School,” she parents, excellent police officers and Cosner, but he suffered bruised ribs 15-year-old apprehended by police. added, referring to wise, comforting school officials for when he stopped to wrap the leg of “The shooter needs prayers,” Ross the 1999 Colorado what seemed like forever, we have a shooting victim. said. “What he did is absolutely massacre in which our daughter. Pray for those who In the weeks after the shooting, the awful, and you can’t justify it to make 12 students and one don’t and never will.” twins’ church family brought meals it OK at all. But he is still a child of teacher died, “but The previous Sunday, the youth to their house — just one of many God, and he obviously needs God you never think it Ross group from the Benton church ways the congregation showed love very badly in his life. So, we just have could happen to you. — including Ross, her best friend and concern. The community rallied to pray that he will find God. That’s what makes it so unreal to us. Sydney Temple and twins Mason and around each other and embraced the “He will probably never be free We are like Columbine now.” Christian Cosner — had enjoyed a hashtag #MarshallStrong. again, so he just needs to have a heart I first heard about the shooting youth rally hosted by the Glendale “There’s still a long way to go full of God,” she added. “We all do.” when my friend Paula Harrington, Road Church of Christ in Murray, Ky. before we get anywhere close to a member of the Lone Oak Church Two days later, the 16-year-old normal, but God is good,” Ray said. CONTACT: [email protected].

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Deon Fair, chairman News coverage, opinion columns, reviews, letters Ed Biggers • Alfred Branch • Dwain Chaffin President and CEO: Lynn A McMillon TO SUBSCRIBE: See www.christianchronicle.org, to the editor and advertising do not necessarily repre- Monte Cox • Billy Curl • John deSteiguer • Erin Engelke [email protected] email [email protected] sent the views of or constitute endorsement by the James Moore • Robert Oglesby Sr. • Mike O’Neal Editor in Chief: Erik Tryggestad or call (405) 425-5070. editors, the staff, the Board ofT rustees of The Christian Barry Packer • David Seat • Brian Simmons [email protected] LETTERS: [email protected] Chronicle or Oklahoma Christian University. Harold Redd • Milton Sewell • Gary Tabor MARCH 2018 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 5 GEORGIA spotlight LITHONIA — What’s fun on Super Bowl weekend? Try the Souper Bowl. Stonecrest Church of Christ RV show + Gospel members QUARTZSITE, Ariz. — An annual gospel brought meeting coinciding with a huge RV socks and show in this tourist hotspot drew soups that more than 100 attendees on a Sunday. day to donate The Quartzsite Church of Christ to the Hagar’s set up a tent to give away free House emer- bottles of water during the show. gency shelter “The little and other town of charities. Quartzsite To give the has close event a foot- to 1 million ball touch, campers for PHOTO PROVIDED members a couple of Stonecrest Church of wore the weeks,” said Christ members bring jerseys of Gerald R. shoes and soup on their favorite Molzahn, a Souper Sunday. teams, from snowbird and the Atlanta member of Falcons to the Dallas Cowboys. the Worland “The MVPs were each member Church of PHOTO PROVIDED BY GERALD R. MOLZAHN who contributed to the outreach,” Christ in A sign invites RV show minister Richard L. Barclay said. Wyoming. attendees to get free “It is a great water from the church. MISSOURI opportunity to ST. LOUIS — Ed Bialon, minister for PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DAN COOPER reach out with the Gospel.” the Overland Church of Christ, first Eagles’ Super Bowl win thrills N.J. church leaders Speakers on the theme “Is Your connected with Stan Carroll when “How many verses in the Bible about Eagles & Patriots?” the sign at the Pitman Road Heart Right with God?” included the two were stationed at the now- Church of Christ in Sewell, N.J., asked before the Super Bowl. “Eagles - 33. Patriots - 0.” The Gerald Molzahn, Patrick Young, defunct Williams Air Force Base in actual game score turned out to be 41-33 in Philadelphia’s favor. Leaders at the congre- Kevin Burney, Doyle Easley, Andy Arizona in 1974. gation 30 minutes from the Eagles’ home field were thrilled. Minister Derrick Busch, elder Williams and Gary Buckley. Next Recently, the two Mike Broyles and senior minister Dan Cooper preached in their Eagles’ attire that Sunday. year’s meeting is set for Jan. 20-25. reconnected as Bialon found Carroll online and invited his friend TENNESSEE TEXAS TYLER — The Glenwood Church of — always an avid fan ATHENS — Training involvement minis- LA GRANGE — Kyler Buzek, a member Christ is educating parents on how of the St. Louis Blues ters and helping congregations get all of the La Grange Church of Christ, to engage with their children in a hockey team — to their members involved in ministry was one of two students credited digital world and keep them safe, Bialon join him at a game. was the purpose of the second annual with “heroic actions” after a bus KLTV reported. A fellow church Church Involvement Conference. driver’s medical It’s important for parents to member who is a season ticket Christians from seven states emergency. understand what comes with easy holder gave them seats. KSDK-TV attended the conference hosted by Karson Vega access to the internet, youth and in St. Louis did a feature on the Air the Athens Church of Christ. Among jumped on the driv- family minister Steven Smith told Force buddies’ reunion. the sessions was a panel addressing er’s lap and steered the television station. the interests of millennials. the bus to safety, while “We have so many kids on so many NEW MEXICO “The Church Involvement Buzek called 911, the different devices, and internet is CLOVIS — Police were looking for Conference believes that Christians Fayette County Record everywhere, and parents say all the leads after the Clovis Church of are God’s workmanship created reported. time they don’t even know where to Buzek Christ building was tagged with for good works and that every Laura Elliott, start,” Smith said. “So we thought we what Sgt. Jim Monroe described as Christian should be zealous unto whose husband, Scott, preaches for just need to spend some time helping “sacrilegious, anti-religious graffiti.” good works,” said Travis Irwin, the La Grange church, said Buzek parents develop the tools and the “In Clovis, this is extremely rare,” the Athens church’s involvement directed children away from the side resources they need to handle this Monroe said. Church elders painted minister. “They also believe that of the bus headed toward a barrier ‘monster’ that is technology.” over obscene language and images when we are serving, we are most as he talked to a 911 operator. Christina Jontra, director of digital on three church walls, ABC 30 like Christ, and that serving is a “It was a total ‘God thing’ that Kyler learning at Grace Community School, reported. mark of true discipleship.” was even on the bus,” Elliott said. addressed the church’s parents. 6 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE ACROSS the NATION MARCH 2018 #CHURCHTOO: ‘Sexual abuse is an epidemic’ FROM PAGE 1 petrated right in front of us. “These survivors are desperate Second, abusers hack our belief to know that not all church leaders system, and they know exactly what protect abusers,” Hinton told The they can and can’t get away with for Christian Chronicle. “Because they every individual. Christians are the know my story, I think they feel safe easiest targets because we teach to share their stories. Many of them people to believe the best in others. are left confused because of how the Abusers exploit this belief system to church responded to their abuse, and get away with the unthinkable. And some have a distorted view of God. it works. Anyone who has spent #ChurchToo has empowered survi- time with survivors knows that their vors to stand up to the churches that abusers were incredibly brazen, and keep attempting to silence them.” the church folk were naive. A woman confided to Hinton in Finally, abuse victims are either too 2011 that his father, John Hinton — young to describe what happened who spent 27 years as the Somerset to them or they are too ashamed, church’s preacher — had sexually embarrassed or scared to tell any- abused her when she was young. one. Most abuse survivors believe Jimmy Hinton’s report to authori- that they are the only victim of the ties prompted an investigation that abuser and that they bear responsi- resulted in the pedophile preacher, bility for the abuse. A lot of victims now 69, pleading guilty to sexually are either threatened by the abuser assaulting and taking nude photo- or they respect him or her and think graphs of four young girls, ages 4 to 7. if they tell that they will be respon- While his father serves a 30- to sible for ruining their “friend’s” life. 60-year state prison sentence, Jimmy Why do so many Christians Hinton works to create awareness and church leaders hesitate to far beyond his hometown of 6,000, 75 believe victims? miles east of Pittsburgh. Hinton: The short answer is that In an interview with the they don’t want to believe them. Chronicle, Hinton discussed social Abusers are not nameless, faceless media advocacy, the sexual abuse people. They are our best friends, our problem and steps churches can peers, parents, preachers, elders, dea- take to prevent abuse: bobby ross jr. cons, siblings and spiritual mentors. How has social media changed Jimmy Hinton preaches for the Somerset Church of Christ in southwestern Pennsylvania. To believe a victim is to admit that the overall landscape for sur- The minister has helped the congregation heal after his father, John Hinton, the congre- the person to whom we are closest vivor recovery, advocacy and gation’s longtime preacher, was convicted of sexually assaulting young girls. has lied to and deceived us for as activism? long as we’ve known them. That’s a Hinton: Social media can make them to forgive and “move on.” It full-blown pedophile rings in the horrifying truth to accept, and most survivors feel visible and validated saddens me that the church has Churches of Christ where children of us falsely believe that the way we where they are otherwise emotion- turned its back on the very people were being trafficked among church perceive others is who they truly are. ally invisible and silenced. In the Jesus radically defended. leaders. I’m seeing a growing trend, Many Christians report they past two years, I’ve seen Is sexual abuse too, with church leaders who are feel abandoned after making more survivor support ‘Survivors care really a sweeping prob- involved in sexting scandals with claims of abuse. What needs to groups cropping up, lem in churches? Or church members. happen to change this response? which encourages me for and support one are we just more alert If abuse is so common, why is Hinton: The most important thing that they are finding another because because of publicity it so difficult to detect? is to believe the victim and take alternative avenues for such as #ChurchToo? Hinton: First, sexual abusers immediate action to protect them. help. Survivors care for they feel abandoned Hinton: Sexual abuse are highly skilled at deception. I Larry Nassar was reported by and support one another and betrayed by is an epidemic. There are learned, after several years of study- eight different victims dating as far because they feel aban- an estimated 43 million ing pedophiles, that they are using a back as 1997. His abuse continued doned and betrayed by the church.’ survivors of childhood host of techniques to abuse children until his arrest, and more than 260 the church. sexual abuse in the in broad daylight. victims have since come forward. Jimmy Hinton They understand each United States alone. Much of the abuse happens while We can wag our fingers at Michigan other because they all I’m blown away at the we are talking with the abuser. State University, Penn State and oth- know the depth of wickedness that number of survivors who contact They use a combination of very ers, but the reality is that when the was perpetrated on other survivors. me to tell me about people in the similar techniques to those that majority of church leaders are faced In stark contrast, church leaders Churches of Christ who are sexual magicians use. It’s frightening to with an allegation of abuse, they talk tend to minimize their pain and tell abusers. I know of at least two know how much abuse is being per- about how it was “in the past,” that MARCH 2018 ACROSS the NATION THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 7 the victim “needs to move on,” that so that they know if they are being they are praying for the victim, etc. abused. They need to be trained to They literally come up with every report abuse if it happens, whether excuse to not report the abuser. at home, school or at church. Most states have laws that make What trends do you foresee clergy and other church leaders man- for churches in response to the dated reporters. It’s illegal for church #ChurchToo movement? leaders to not report when a victim Hinton: I think the churches who discloses or if they have reasonable don’t want to talk about abuse will be suspicion that a forced to. There child is being are too many abused. survivors who are Most church calling out both leaders have no their abusers and idea that they the churches who are breaking the gave them protec- law when they tion. Survivors fail to report are fed up with abuse because churches who they’ve never blatantly cover up been taught. They abuse, and they also need to be won’t back down. trained for how to You’ve offered navigate a church predator recog- through the after- nition training math of abuse. at about 20 What steps churches. What can we take to video still via cBS news can you tell us prevent abuse about those in the church? Bravery and forgiveness workshops? Hinton: We “I pray you experience the soul-crushing Hinton: They need more train- weight of guilt so you may someday are heavy on ing, but we need experience true repentance and true the prevention proper training. forgiveness from God, which you need far side of abuse. I I talk a lot about more than forgiveness from me — though use a predator the safety record I extend that to you as well,” says Rachael recognition tool, of flying. It’s safe Denhollander as she speaks during the demonstrate spe- to fly because sentencing of her abuser, Larry Nassar. cific techniques the training for Denhollander, a former gymnast, was the child sexual everyone in avia- first woman to publicly accuse Nassar, USA abusers use, tion is top-notch. Gymnastics’ team doctor, of sexual abuse. conduct a facility Training manuals More than 150 women followed. Nassar walk-through are constantly was sentenced to 40 to 175 years in prison. and assessment, being rewritten meet with church and updated. leaders to review Our safety record for children in protection policies and follow up the church is embarrassing. Sexual with online consultation with church predators are not average, ordinary leaders. I also blog regularly at people. They are highly skilled, and JimmyHinton.org. And I offer con- they adapt quickly. To prevent abuse sulting for churches who are navi- in the church, we need to train all gating allegations of abuse. leaders and volunteers how to think What else should our readers like a predator. know about this issue? We need to teach them the specific Hinton: That every single congre- techniques abusers use so they can gation out there has been affected by see it in real time. We need to teach sexual abuse. There is a sea of abuse people how to intervene when bound- survivors already in our churches aries are crossed. We need to develop who are waiting to be asked to help excellent protection policies so that protect others from ever being all the boundaries are in writing as abused. I wish I would have been well as the consequences for violating made aware of this issue years ago. those boundaries. And we need to train our children EXPANDED STORY: www.christianchronicle.org 8 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE ACROSS the NATION MARCH 2018 ASHES: ‘The good thing ... is that now we know each other’ FROM PAGE 3 Since their homes erupted in flames, they’ve relied on relatives, friends and, especially, their church family — including each other. “The Lord works in mysterious ways,” Hathway said with a chuckle. “We know each other now,” added Rabe, with a smile.

BRIGHT ORANGE FLAMES CAME QUICKLY The night of Dec. 4, Hathway’s niece Alysa Cook called about 10 p.m. “Alysa, it’s so good to hear from you,” Hathway told her. “Aunt Dee, I’m not calling with good news,” Cook replied. “There’s a fire headed right toward you. You need to get out.” But when Hathway headed across Dee Hathway, 88, shows a free Reflecting on the Thomas Fire, Ventura church member Crystal Rabe reads handwritten the street to check with neighbor #VenturaStrong necklace, with a diamond, words from Isaiah 61:3: “To bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of Howard Miller, she didn’t see any that she received from Fox Fine Jewelry. joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.” flames on the mountain. Miller assured her the police would come if be here soon,’” she said. “He just an itching leg. She went to the bath- congregation turned its attention an evacuation were needed. wanted to get me out. And we took room and put aloe vera ointment on it. to helping the victims, particularly Within minutes, though, flames lit nothing, except for the insulin.” That’s when she smelled smoke. Hathway and Rabe. up the sky. Actually, her grandson picked up “I went downstairs and opened the “They were the first ones we “About eight or nine minutes one thing on the way out the door: front door,” she said. “It was just a were concerned about,” said Dave had passed, and by then, the entire the case containing his grandfather’s firestorm out there.” Schulze, the congregation’s minister top of the mountain was on fire,” Purple Heart, military dog tags and Her home of 30 years was not on for 29 years. Hathway said. “Actually, it was the U.S. flag. (Edward Hathway entered fire — yet. The Ventura Church of Christ most brilliant, beautiful orange.” the U.S. Navy at age 17 in 1944. When she called 911, she learned joined with the Red Cross, the local At that point, Stationed in the South that authorities had evacuated the school district and 25 area churches her neighbor Pacific on the USS area hours before. But she would not of various denominations to respond urged her to Hoggatt Bay, he was have heard banging on her door. She to victims’ needs that were not cov- hurry and leave injured in an on-deck raced to cram her pet birds’ cages ered by insurance. with his family. explosion in 1945.) into her car before she drove away. “Just keep all of our community However, the Everything else would “They’re small, but I wanted to in prayer,” said deacon Vernon diabetic Hathway be lost. save them,” she said of the society Alstot, a former longtime firefighter. needed to grab “My grandmother’s finches. “You could hardly get the “There will be some people strug- her insulin quilts with tiny little door open or stand out there. The gling with a lot for a long time.” first, she said. stitches, my grand- ashes were falling like pancakes, The Thomas Fire — not fully Her grandson mother’s crystal, and if they hit the ground, they contained until Jan. 12 — burned Matthew dishes that I had burst into flames. So it was danger- 281,893 acres, destroyed 1,063 Hathway showed packed for my grand- ous to be out there.” structures and damaged 280 up and told Miller children, things that I Despite a few harrowing other structures, according to the to go ahead. West had been packing up moments, Rabe arrived safely at a California Department of Forestry said he’d make and putting names on Red Cross emergency shelter. and Fire Protection. sure his grand- them for my grand- “Every single thing is ashes,” she Both Hathway and Rabe were mother got out. PHOTOS BY BOBBY ROSS JR. kids,” Dee Hathway said of what remains of her personal insured, so their financial concerns Previous wild- A sign on a tree beside a major said, recounting per- possessions. were not severe. fires had skipped street in Ventura, Calif., expresses sonal treasures that Rabe and her husband had But emotionally, they needed — Dee Hathway’s appreciation for firefighters. she can’t replace. enjoyed collecting paintings. The they still need — love and support. house — where fire destroyed them all. A fellow church member, Joyce she had lived for 59 years — so she SHE AWOKE TO A FIRESTORM “There’s nothing that was able to Waller, opened her home to Rabe said she wasn’t too worried. Before falling asleep the night of survive the high heat,” she said. until the fire victim could find tem- “I wanted to stop and go pound on Dec. 4, Rabe took out her hearing porary housing. the doors of all my neighbors, but aids and put them beside her bed. BEAUTY RISING FROM THE ASHES The congregation, meanwhile, Matthew said, ‘No, the police should About 3 a.m. Dec. 5, she awoke to In the fire’s aftermath, the Ventura knew how disappointed Hathway MARCH 2018 ACROSS the NATION THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 9

Full-Time Faculty - Chemistry Department York College announces an opening for a full-time faculty member in the Chemistry Department. Preference will be given to candidates with a Ph.D. All applicants should demonstrate strong communication skills and interest in the academic and spiritual development of undergraduate students. A successful candidate will be an active member of the churches of Christ / Stone-Campbell heritage and demonstrate a commitment to Christian education. York College is a private Christian institution of higher learning affiliated with the churches of Christ. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Interested individuals should submit a letter of interest and curriculum vitae to: Dr. Shane Mountjoy at [email protected]. More information at: www.york.edu/employment.

5VQR(GGNKPI)WKNV[&KXQTEGF%JTKUVKCP )QF/C[9CPV;QW4GOCTTKGF Deacon Vernon Alstot, a former longtime firefighter, and his wife, Denette, pray during a Sunday morning assembly of the Ventura Church of Christ in California. ³5HDOO\JUHDWLQIRUPDWLRQIRUWKH was to lose all her cherished photos. all circumstances wherein the Lord WUXWKVHHNLQJKHDUW´ “So members of the church went reveals glimpses of his divine provi- 1DPHZLWKKHOG through all of their photos here and dence. And we in the grace of that made me an album,” Hathway said. moment say ‘Amen’ to all.” “Isn’t that lovely? But you know, ³5HDGLQJWKLVZRUNZDVUHIUHVKLQJDQG,DJDLQ it’s just been a hard time for a lot of SURVIVORS ... AND SISTERS H[SHULHQFHGWKHMR\RIOLEHUDWLRQIURPIDOVHDQG people in Ventura.” Rabe already has begun the pro- ELQGLQJUHVWUDLQWVSXWRQGLYRUFHG&KULVWLDQV´ For Rabe, words from Isaiah 61:3 cess of rebuilding her home. 1DPHZLWKKHOG — shared with her by her sister Hathway, on the other hand, will Natasha Kern — offer comfort: live in a small cottage across from “And provide for those who grieve her grandson’s place. ³7KLVLVWKHEHVWERRNHYHUZULWWHQRQWKHLVVXH in Zion — to bestow on them a “I can’t rebuild,” Hathway said, cit-

College of Arts and Sciences College of Education and Human Services Dr. Gregory Straughn, Dean, ACU Box 29210, Abilene, Texas 79699-9210 Dr. Donnie Snider, Dean, ACU Box 28276, Abilene, Texas 79699-8276 The Department of Communication and Sociology invites applications for a The Department of Occupational Therapy invites applications for two full-time, tenure-track position at assistant professor level beginning August 2018. Applicants tenure-track members to join the Master of Science in occupational therapy faculty must have a Ph.D. in sociology. Areas of specialization are open, but we particularly beginning Aug. 15, 2018. We are a faith-based, innovative program incorporating seek applicants who can teach undergraduate statistics and research methods. spirituality and utilizing a Maker Lab, including 3-D printing, in our occupational Our faculty is engaged in research with undergraduate students on a broad range of therapy curriculum. The ideal candidate will have: three to five years teaching topics. All applicants should demonstrate a record of excellent classroom teaching, experience; an earned doctorate (Ph.D., Ed.D., D.Sc. or Sc.D. preferred but will consider the potential for scholarly endeavors, and collegial service. Applicants must have an OTD); clinical experience and expertise in mental health, pediatrics, and/or physical strong communication skills and interest in the development of students. disabilities; and a strong interest in research and service to the university. Information Information about the department is available at acu.edu/sociology. about the department is available at acu.edu/occupational-therapy. The Department of Communication and Sociology invites applications for an The Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition invites applications instructor-level position beginning August 2018. Duties include serving as director for a clinical education coordinator within our Master of Athletic Training degree of forensics (DOF) for a national-level forensics program and teaching a variety of program, a 12-month, full-time faculty position beginning June 1, 2018. This position communication studies courses. The successful candidate should be a communication is designed to assist the program director in the operation and administration of the generalist and be prepared to teach various courses, including debate and the athletic training major and all levels of athletic training students at ACU. Duties will basic communication course. The teaching load is six courses per academic year include teaching and mentoring within the M.A.T. program, clinical oversight, and within a semester system. The DOF assignment is in addition to the teaching load. record and insurance coordination. The successful candidate must be BOC certified Applicants must have a master’s degree in communication, and teaching and forensics prior to appointment with completion of a doctoral degree preferred. Candidates with experience. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. The deadline significant doctoral course work completed may be considered for appointment If the for filling the position is May 1, 2018. Information about the department is available at candidate does not hold a terminal degree, a terminal degree must be completed by acu.edu/communication. June 2020. Information about the department is available at acu.edu/kinesiology. The Department of Engineering and Physics invites applications for faculty The Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition invites applications for a positions in engineering and physics that likely will begin in Fall 2018. The position(s) full-time instructor with responsibilities as director of the Didactic Program in Dietetics will be contingent on funding and may be at any faculty or contract level. For a (DPD) and as an instructor for nutrition courses. The DPD is accredited through the tenure-track position, scholarship/research is required. A strong interest in Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics. The B.S. in nutrition undergraduate teaching is required, and involving undergraduates in scholarship contains four concentrations: DPD, community, exercise science, and food service. activities is highly encouraged. ACU offers degrees in physics and engineering with The ideal candidate will have a master’s degree in nutrition or closely related field and various concentrations. The B.S.E. degree has recently been accredited by ABET, experience in various areas of nutrition. An average of 40-50 students are enrolled in and the department is housed in the new $50 million science complex that includes the nutrition degree, and the new faculty member will function as a mentor to nutrition the state-of-the-art Halbert-Walling Research Center, the Engineering and Physics students and as a sponsor of the ACU Student Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Laboratories at Bennett Gymnasium, and the Robert R. and Kay Onstead Science The position will begin Aug. 1, 2018. Information about the degree and DPD is available Center. The department has a reputation of producing students who excel not at acu.edu/undergraduate/academics/nutrition. only in academics, but also show strong personal characteristics of honesty and integrity. Information about the department is available at acu.edu/physics and acu.edu/engineering. See acu.edu/academics/provost/positions for complete descriptions of these positions. In a letter to the appropriate dean or chair, applicants should address The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication invites applications their qualifications for the position. They should include in the application a for a full-time, tenure-track faculty member to join six colleagues beginning statement of how faith informs their teaching; a discussion of their spiritual Aug. 1, 2018, in an ACEJMC-accredited program in a state-of-the-art facility. About journey; a curriculum vitae; transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate 150 students are enrolled in advertising/public relations, convergence journalism or work; and names, addresses and phone numbers of five references. Review multimedia majors within the department or in an interdisciplinary graphic design/ of applicants will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. advertising major. Students in the advertising/PR major spend two semesters working Nominations of and applications from qualified women and minorities are at Morris+Mitchell, a student-run agency. The ideal candidate will have academic especially encouraged. ACU is affiliated with the fellowship of the Churches credentials and professional experience for teaching public relations courses in the of Christ. All applicants must be professing Christians and be active, faithful ad/PR major. Though not required, applicants who bring a second area of interest members of a congregation of the Churches of Christ and deeply committed in sports communication, social media or film are particularly encouraged to apply. to service in Christian higher education. The mission of ACU is to educate A terminal degree is strongly preferred, but applicants who are ABD will be considered. students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world. Research and service expectations support the university’s status as a premier ACU does not unlawfully discriminate in employment opportunities. comprehensive university. Information about the department is available at acu.edu/jmc.

170261-0318 12 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE DECEMBER 2017

march 2018 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 11 HAITI PORT-AU-PRINCE — A new congregation, the LaTremblay Church of Christ, drew 517 people from 14 Churches of Christ for its inaugural worship service. The congregation meets on the property of the International School of Theology, an affiliate of Denver-based Bear Valley Bible Institute International. Fifty-seven people attended the second Sunday service, said Larry Waymire, longtime missionary to the Caribbean and director of the theology school. During the third service, two people were baptized. The church has “great men and women, well-versed in the Word of God,” Waymire said. “If the church is not Christ focused, Bible teaching and God-glorifying, it is not the church taught in the Bible.” INDIA photo provided by paul renganathan Chittoor — Baptisms can be dangerous in southern India’s In India, ‘where Jesus is preached, they gather’ Chittoor district, home of the More than 1,000 souls worship God during a recent Gospel meeting in the Choolaimedu district of the southern Indian city of Chennai. massive Venkateswara Temple, a In addition to preaching, members of Churches of Christ in the region distributed 10,000 pounds of rice packets to the poor, said site of pilgrimage for many Hindus. minister Paul Renganathan. “The hungry, sick, hurting and burdened with sin are looking for a way out of their problems,” the minister said. Christians who baptize in the area’s “Where Jesus is preached, they gather in big numbers. It is the precious moment when they find Jesus — the way, the truth and the life.” ponds, wells and canals risk attacks by militant Hindus, said Prabhu Kumar, who works with Churches of SOUTH AFRICA spoTLIGHT Christ across the region. EAST LONDON — While Christians Recently, church members in shovel snow in the Northern Chittoor constructed a baptismal pool Hemisphere, Churches of Christ Serving an island church as it grieves beside their meeting place to reduce south of the equator host summer the risk of attack, Kumar said. camps, including the Little Meadow Cascavelle, Mauritius — More than Christian Youth Camp. 1.2 million people live in this island NEW ZEALAND About 20 youths attended, nation in the Indian Ocean, 700 DUNEDIN — Leah Graefe, a missions including five from a children’s miles east of Madagascar. intern working with a Church of home, said minister Chris du Preez. Among them are several small Christ on New Zealand’s South After lots of games, team-building Churches of Christ. Mauritius native Island, recently activities and Bible lessons, four of Canden Subarayadu and his wife, transitioned to full- the youths were baptized, he added. Stephanie, have worked with one of time mission work the congregations for about 10 years with support from TOGO after training for ministry in France. the Britton Road PAGALA — Planted two years ago, a Another congregation, the Church of Christ in Church of Christ in this West African Cascavelle Church of Christ, recently Oklahoma City. village had experienced little growth, lost its minister, who stopped “The most signifi- said Willie Gley, a missionary from preaching and left the church. As cant work I do, and neighboring Ghana. a result, “the church there was Graefe the majority of my Then the Gospel Chariot rolled hurt, feeling lost, disappointed and PHOTO PROVIDED time here, is in one-on-one and into town. The “Church of Christ confused,” Canden Subarayadu said. Canden and Stephanie Subarayadu small-group activities,” she said. on wheels” ministry, in partner- So he and the congregation he serve with their children in Mauritius. “Two other significant aspects of ship with a congregation in Togo’s serves began making weekly visits what I do in Dunedin are working capital, Lome, conducted a Bible to the Cascavelle church for Bible Lord, he showed us that it is the with women and children. camp and gospel campaign. studies, though the transportation best thing to do,” the minister said. “In all this, building firm relation- “The congregation was edified,” Gley stretched their funds. “There are many youngsters there in ships is crucial.” said, and three souls were baptized. “After praying and waiting on the that church. Please pray for them.” 12 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AROUND THE WORLD MARCH 2018

PHOTO PROVIDED BY SYLVESTER IMOGOH Widows in rural Nigeria receive the gift of goats from Churches of Christ. ‘Church of Christ goats’ for Africa Igarra, Nigeria —“I am a rural-born sources of income. Imogoh received Nigerian and have lived most of more than $3,400 for the project. my life in the villages, struggling The funds, provided by churches to survive,” said minister Sylvester including the 41st Street Church Imogoh. “I am always of Christ in Sioux Falls, S.D., were looking out for any enough to buy 160 goats (and a few means to affect the sheep) for 80 widows in the north lives of our rural of Nigeria’s Edo state. There was brethren — in very enough money left over, Imogoh small, local ways.” added, to establish a fund for the But when Imogoh animals’ medical care. As the goats suggested a “goats for produce offspring, Imogoh hopes to widows” program to expand the project to other villages. Imogoh his U.S. supporters, “More and more people are he was amazed at the response. He talking about the church, in good hoped for a few hundred dollars to ways, relating the care for the needy purchase goats, which produce milk, among us,” Imogoh said. “So many manure and more goats — all of homes now have ‘Church of Christ which can bring much-needed profit goats’ in our rural areas. That alone for rural widows who have no other is evangelism!” Pray for Taiwan: After deadly earthquake, Christians mourn losses, endure aftershocks

hualien, Taiwan — Christians in this Feb. 6 quake. Many were without city on Taiwan’s eastern coast power or water after the quake, asked for prayers after an earth- Brzozowski typed in the midst of quake, 6.4 in magnitude, killed six multiple aftershocks. people and trapped Boaz Wang and Ruth Lu were dozens more in without running water after the toppled buildings. quake, but survived. The couple “So far as we — who gave themselves the Old know, none of the Testament names after their church in Hualien baptisms — serve almost daily are injured,” said in government-run retirement Tracy Brzozowski, centers across Hualien. Boaz Wang who worships with a conducts Bible studies and worship Wang 20-member Church services for the residents. The of Christ in the city of 106,000 souls, ministry has resulted in baptisms. in a social media message to The Christian Chronicle one day after the Related feature: www.christianchronicle.org MARCH 2018 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 13 Preaching is where we began Training Preachers since 1962 Two years of tuition-free training and in-depth Bible study A lifetime of in uence Now is the time to change your world

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Missions Resource helping disciples Network make disciples 14 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE FROM THE FRONT MARCH 2018

Define and count thy many members IDENTITY: Legalism vs. compromise FROM PAGE 1 get numbers,” said Sandra Pruitt, a Green, minister for the Charleston As a data collector, Carl Royster Chronicle readers in all 50 states member of the Forest Park Church of Metropolitan Church of Christ in said he and his colleagues at 21st responded to the survey, along with Christ in Crowley, La. “We need to fol- South Carolina. “Now we’re more Century Christian strive to define missionaries in Canada, China, Peru low all Scripture and not just part of it.” grace-oriented. We’re not quite sure Churches of Christ in a way that and Uganda. The survey coincided who’s in and who’s out.” does not take a theological or with the latest edition of “Churches BEYOND NUMBERS, AN IDENTITY CRISIS? Green, who has preached for 20 doctrinal position. of Christ in the United States,” When asked about their concerns years, grew up in “a very legalistic The directory Royster over- published by Nashville, Tenn.-based for the future of the fellowship, side of the church,” he said. His sees, “Churches of Christ in 21st Century Christian and com- many respondents to the Chronicle’s views have since moderated, added the United States,” carries this piled by Carl Royster. survey said they fear that Churches Green, who studied at Harding description: “a compilation of The directory, updated every three of Christ are losing their distinctive- School of Theology in Memphis, current information relative to years, lists 11,965 congregations ness as a body of believers with Tenn., before earning a Master those congregations aligned with nationwide with thorough knowl- of Divinity degree from Amridge the ‘Restoration combined adherents edge of Scripture. University in Movement’ or (baptized members “The main reason I Montgomery, Ala. ‘Stone-Campbell and their families) of believe the church is The uncertainty he Movement,’ 1,447,271 — a drop declining is because senses in churches which have been of more than 72,000 of an identity issue,” creates “good and historically known since the 2015 edi- said Laura Shields, bad fear,” he said. for their a cappella tion of the directory. a member of the While Churches of worship.” Since 2012, the aver- Oxford Church of Christ tend to be less That movement, age known size of a Christ in Mississippi. legalistic than in days Royster Green which dates back Church of Christ has Many churches past, “we’re so afraid to the Second Great Awakening dropped 3.2 percent in the fellowship of being judgmental that we err on of the 19th century, is associ- to 121 adherents, define themselves the side of caution, concerned about ated with ministers Barton W. Royster said. “by what they are running someone off. We’re not Stone, Thomas Campbell and Instead of love, not” — nondenomi- evangelistically aggressive, and I Campbell’s son, Alexander. Stone “poor hermeneutics First in a series national and non- think we should be.” and the elder Campbell were for- have resulted in instrumental, for But where should church mem- mer Presbyterian ministers who a rigid form of legalism in many example. This leads to legalism and bers focus their evangelism? That’s argued that faith in God should places,” said Cash, echoing the isolation, Shields said. a question many Churches of Christ be based solely on the Bible views of many respondents when As practices and beliefs diversify in seem to be asking, Green said. instead of man-made creeds. asked about possible reasons for the their pews, are Churches of Christ in “Our focus point is now Jesus Two centuries later, three faith decline. Spirituality seems to be lack- the midst of an identity crisis? Christ, which it should have been all groups claim heritage in the ing in some congregations, he added, The Chronicle shared highlights along, so why am I trying to convert movement — the Disciples of which turns away those seeking God. from the survey with ministers, min- my Baptist friend? It’s our mission Christ, the instrumental Christian Others pointed to a nationwide istry trainers and professors at uni- to focus on the unchurched.” Churches/Churches of Christ decline in church attendance, across versities associated with the fellow- Churches of Christ may be divided and the predominantly a cap- religious groups. Still others said ship and asked for their reflections: on whether or not to evangelize pella Churches of Christ, which that Churches of Christ are declin- those in denominational churches, take their name from the apostle ing because many are attempting WE’RE NOT SURE WHO’S IN, WHO’S OUT he said, but when it comes to Paul’s words in Romans 16:16,“the to mimic denominational groups or “Our mission was very simple reaching the growing number of churches of Christ salute you.” community churches. at one time: convert the lost. And Americans who identify as “none” The other two branches of the “Too many (churches) are compro- ‘the lost’ was everybody who’s not when it comes to religion, “we’re Restoration Movement collect mising what is found in Scripture to Church of Christ,” said Bobby unanimous.” their own data, Royster said, as do the International Churches of Christ, a group that was associated with the a cappella fellow- Growth and decline among Churches of Christ, 1906-2018 ship until the mid-1980s. Year Congregations Adherents Average Year Congregations Adherents Average Year Congregations Adherents Average Baptists, Presbyterians and other annual change annual change annual change denominations keep their own data 1906 2,649 207,555 __ 1990 13,174 1,684,872 +0.51 % 2006 12,963 1,639,495 -0.35 % as well, Royster said, and submit 1916 5,598 414,974 +7.17 % 1994 13,013 1,651,103 -0.5 % 2009 12,629 1,578,281 -1.26 % them for a national religious cen- 1926 6,226 563,828 +3.11 % 1997 13,080 1,647,078 -0.08 % 2012 12,447 1,554,231 -0.51 % sus. For that reason, “we strive to 1948 10,089 886,824 +2.08 % 2000 13,032 1,656,717 -0.03 % 2015 12,300 1,519,695 -0.75 % keep our information as accurate 1980 12,762 1,601,661 +1.86 % 2003 13,155 1,639,495 +0.22 % 2018 11,965 1,447,271 -1.61 % and independent of each other (not counting the same congregation in Data from 1980 to 2018 was compiled by Carl Royster and Mac Lynn 21st Century Christian. Earlier data comes from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Religious Census of 1906 multiple bodies) as possible.” to 1926 and M. Norvel Young’s 1948 estimate. This chart appears in the 2018 edition of the directory “Churches of Christ in the United States,” compiled by Royster. MARCH 2018 FROM THE FRONT THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 15

SPEAKING DENOMINATIONALLY “Establishing a corporate identity is a difficult thing. I preach to About the Chronicle’s survey multiple audiences each Sunday — they just happen to be sitting in A total of 645 Christian Chronicle readers took the survey, “A closer look at Churches of Christ in the the same auditorium at the time!” U.S.” Respondents represented all 50 states and four foreign countries and answered questions said Mark Blackwelder, director about what defines a Church of Christ, why they are (or aren’t) a member, what excites them about of the Graduate School of Theology their congregation and what concerns they have about the future of the fellowship. Almost all said at Freed-Hardeman University in they currently worship with a Church of Christ, with a few saying they are former members. The Henderson, Tenn. majority of respondents (225) were over age 60. The 51-60 category had 140 respondents. The other “The diversity of perspectives categories were 41 to 50 (112), 31 to 40 (102) and under 30 (66). See summaries by age group on among the members of almost any Pages 17-20, plus an interview and a devotional taken from the responses on Pages 21 and 29. congregation of any size is difficult to fathom,” he added. “Having said that, it is certainly true that many to focus on Jesus as the center of our what they perceive as arrogance. THE FELLOWSHIP’S TRUE FOUNDER Christians are not sure where they faith rather than on the boundaries “I know there are those among us Regardless of where they stand on are in relation to the rest of the reli- that separated us from other who express that they wish things the issues that divide congregations, gious world.” Christ-followers,” Cox said. “That would get back to normal. My reply the survey respondents and review- Postmodern reorientation can be disorienting. If is, ‘This is the new normal.’ The ers agreed that Churches of Christ thought that rejects ‘we’ were defined by the boundaries younger generations do not care should be defined not by practices labels and catego- in the past but want to be defined by what the name is on the church or stances, but by the divine. ries plays a role in our allegiance to Christ above all else, building. They want to be with a “The Church of Christ is the best the confusion, how do we see the boundaries now? church that is making a difference institution that has ever been estab- Blackwelder said. Which distinctives do we cling to as in their neighborhoods and in the lished — because it was established At the same time, biblical imperatives and which ones world, who will mentor them and by Jesus Christ,” said Luaao Soli Blackwelder “as members of do we attribute to tradition? In some hold them personally accountable.” Jr., a second-generation preacher Churches of Christ quarters, even raising the question from American Samoa, currently have sought to position themselves smacks of unfaithfulness. A DECADES-LONG SEARCH FOR WHO WE ARE training for ministry at the Memphis non-denominationally, we have “But my sense is that address- “While not all Christian bodies School of Preaching in Tennessee. sometimes done exactly the oppo- ing that question is in our spiritual in the United States are declining, “I remember my late father site. By our own definitions, we have DNA; it is part of our heritage as a we are one of many that are,” said preached one of his sermons about argued that we are not a denomina- renewal movement. We should not Doug Foster, professor of church the true church,” Soli said. “He tion (no headquarters, no creeds be afraid to ask it.” history and director of the Center mentioned that, ‘the church is not but the Bible, no humanly devised for Restoration Studies at Abilene the problem; it’s the people in the name, no super-congregational ‘THIS IS THE NEW NORMAL’ Christian University in Texas. “The church.’ leadership organization). However, “There has been a culture shift ones that are growing significantly “People want the church to follow we often speak of ourselves denomi- in our nation, and it tend to be non- their way, have the nationally (‘I’m Church of Christ’) affects the church,” denominational char- ways of the church or define ourselves in terms of what said Dottie Schulz, ismatic groups. fit theirs. Instead of we are or are not (lists of the things missionary care spe- “In my opinion, we following what Christ that ‘we’ do or don’t practice).” cialist for Missions may be experiencing wants for his church, To be truly nondenominational, Resource Network, an identity crisis in we follow man.” “there must be a devotion to pure a ministry based in Churches of Christ, Churches of Christ New Testament Christianity, Bedford, Texas. “This but it has been going share a dedication to unencumbered by an apparatus shift has taken place on for as long as 50 God’s Word, said Bill Schulz Foster Soli that defines us based on our with those who are years and is part of Park, a member of the preferences.” around 40 years old and younger — an identity crisis that much of west- Woodburn Church of Christ in Oregon. the children of those who became ern Christianity is undergoing. “It is the only place were I am ‘WHICH DISTINCTIVES DO WE CLING TO?’ dissatisfied with the direction of “Churches of Christ have been confident that I can open the text “Given the apparent decline in the our movement and who wrote and self-assured, mostly white and and have discussion solely based number of congrega- read articles and books stating their often exclusive. When certainty has upon the revelation of God himself.” tions and in total mem- dissatisfactions. been replaced by humility, when Park said. “We have a predilection bership, I can cer- “I think that an older generation irreversible racial diversity has to unity in our DNA that I have not tainly understand why pointed out problems; their children pressured our majority white con- found elsewhere.” some would character- acted upon them and tried to change stituency to become less culturally Many survey respondents — ize what’s happening the talk. Now their grandchildren, white, and when exclusive attitudes including Cash, the missionary in as an identity crisis,” who are most affected by the culture have begun to dissipate, many Uganda — grew up in the fellowship said Monte Cox, shift, are tired of talk and are dissatis- members of Churches of Christ and said they have chosen to make dean of the College of fied with the fruit produced. They are find themselves uncertain of who it their own. Cox Bible and Ministry at uncomfortable with statements that they are or should be. I think our “I found Jesus through my family Harding University in Searcy, Ark. we alone have the truth and are more task is to be Jesus to the world, to and church,” Cash said, and, despite “I prefer to see it more positively as a comfortable with sharing personal speak and act out the good news of its flaws “I was raised in this culture ‘reorientation’ in which we are learning experiences and feelings. They eschew Jesus to those in need.” and feel loyal to my tribe.” 16 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE MARCH 2018

Emily Lemley beautifully represents ROD BLACKWOOD, PH.D. (’63) Lubbock Christian University, F. W. Mattox Award Excellence and Outstanding Service to the University her Lord, and the kingdom Rod Blackwood’s affiliation with LCU began as a student 1961. After acquiring his Ph.D and serving in in the way she lives her life, the Airforce, he returned to LCU in 1971 as a full-time teacher and livestock manager of the university pours herself into the lives of farms, managing in excess of 600 acres, including a feedlot that was 200 acres. Over the next four decades, others, and endeavors to share Rod made significant contributions to the university, serving in a variety of roles such as resident director, God’s word. As an educator, she department chair, and coach for livestock judging teams that saw great success in sets the standard in academic competitions in the late 1970s. For the last twenty years, Rod has overseen all aspects settings, small groups, of academics as provost and chief academic officer. During this time, he has presided Bible classes, women’s over more than 70 graduations, and his leadership was key in the expansion of the retreats, seminars, and university’s online presence, the addition of new graduate-level programs in nursing conferences. Since and behavioral sciences, the development of new certifications and degrees in the 1982, she has been a school of education, and the launch of a study abroad program in Ávila, Spain. EMILY LEMLEY, ed.d. (’65) highly sought-after speaker at women’s K. C. Moser Award Gary Skidmore started his career in 1976 as vice retreats and seminars Excellence and Outstanding president of marketing for Sweet Publishing and built across Europe and Service to the Kingdom the business while achieving a Master of Business the United States. Administration degree. In 1981, Gary founded Select She served as the teaching director of the Community Bible Marketing, which was the first demand Study (CBS) program in Malibu, CA for thirteen years and generation services company to serve the for the Lubbock chapter since 2015. An accomplished author, tech industry. When Harte-Hanks acquired Emily has written articles for notable Christian magazines the company in 1994, Gary served as and also served as board member for the Christian Chronicle president and chief operations officer for from 1997–2017. Most notably, since 1971, she has faithfully over 6,000 employees in 12 countries. served as the lead editor of Power for Today, a daily devotional In 2013, he began a publication with a circulation of around 40,000. consulting practice GARY SKIDMORE (’76) providing corporate Distinguished Alumnus STEPHEN LEMONS, m.d. (’76) development, of the Year Significant Professional Gary & Pat Estep Award Excellence and product recreation, and Personal Achievement Outstanding Contribution to the Sciences DISTINGUISHED and go-to-market Steve Lemons has had a long and distinguished career in family advice to private equity and venture capital-backed adtech software practice since opening his own medical clinic in Andover, ALUMNI and information services companies. Since 2015, Gary has served as KS in 1985. Through the years, Steve has received numerous chairman of Aberdeen, a company that delivers data and content via awards and accolades for the medical work he performs in his the industry-leading platform, Lead Essentials. Gary currently serves community as well as his humanitarian efforts in Africa. After 2018 on the ACU College of Business Dean’s Advisory Board and James a medical mission trip to Zimbabwe, he saw the Avery Jewelry Company Board of Directors. He shares his business depth of need and led the effort to open the knowledge with university students as Nhowe Mission Brian Lemons Memorial DAN WILLIAMS (’05) an adjunct professor and guest lecturer. Hospital in 2000. Named in honor of Steve Young Alumnus of the Year and Loretta’s son who died in a car accident, Significant Professional Achievement Under the Age of 40 Steve has served as medical director of Dan Williams graduated Summa Cum Laude from LCU with a Bachelor of the 70-bed regional hospital that provides Business Administration degree, and since then, has worked in both residential surgical obstetrics, pediatrics, and general and commercial real estate. Dan has consistently performed as one of Lubbock’s men’s and women’s medical care, as well as top-10 agents, and in 2016 alone, completed over 100 transactions for over specialized AIDS and tuberculosis clinics. $23 million in total sales. In 2017, he opened Williams & Company Real Estate The primary focus of his work is to procure specializing in residential, commercial, and investment brokerage. Dan is a member medications, supplies, equipment, and of the LCU School of Business Advisory Board, Foundation Board, and the raise funds for salaries and operating University Advisory Board. He was on the Lubbock Association of Realtors costs. The hospital currently serves Board of Directors for four years and currently serves as the head of between 3,000 and 4,000 patients the committee for the Downtown Lubbock Gateway Memorial per month and supports four project to honor those who lost their lives and served the outpatient clinics. community after the 1970 tornado.

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GRAPHICS BY CHELLIE ISON VIA wordclouds.com The words we use to define our faith Under 30: Young believers question the fellowship’s nondenominational claim BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE the rest of evangelical Christendom.” outsiders frequently think the ourselves to convert people to our Compared to older survey respon- Church of Christ is ‘the ones who brand of religion, not to Jesus. he New Testament took prece- dents, however, few in the under-30 think only they are going to heaven’ “We can have a bright future, and dence when Christians under group identified Churches of Christ or ‘the a cappella music guys.’” we can do it still maintaining tradi- age 30 — the smallest demo- as nondenomina- Respondents also tions like a cappella music. But we graphic of respondents to The tional. One even expressed frustration need humility to say that maybe we Christian Chronicle’s survey called the fellowship with debates in their haven’t figured it all out.” T— defined Churches of Christ. “a denomination churches about the Although some respondents A Church of Christ “finds its that denies it’s a use of instruments insisted that Churches of Christ have identity purely in the teachings denomination.” in worship or the become a denomination, several and authority of Jesus and his New Several respon- practices of various acknowledged the difficulty of Testament,” said Ben Giselbach, dents said that denominations. defining a core set of characteristics minister for the Edgewood Church Giselbach Churches of Christ The problem, they Johnson in the ever-diversifying fellowship. of Christ in Columbus, Ga. The can seem isolated said, isn’t that these “Churches of Christ differ so very congregation’s love and dedication to and uninviting to their friends. issues are divisive; it’s that young greatly,” Johnson said. While that the Bible are what excite him most, As a result, the call to restore the people don’t care about them. makes them hard to define, “it is he said, and his greatest concerns first century church “isn’t one “We are answering questions few are also a good thing” because it means are “denominationalism, apathy, that outsiders know,” said Alyssa asking,” said Brad Schrum, preaching believers are studying on their own ignorance, divisive attitudes, worldly Johnson, a member of the Cisco minister for the St. Clairsville Church to determine “what exactly it means materialism and a desire to be like Church of Christ in Texas. “Instead, of Christ in Ohio. “We have trained to bear Christ’s name.”

Above: Chronicle readers under 30 years old respond to the question, “What would you say defines a Church of Christ?” See other age groups on Pages 18-20. 18 MARCH 2018 CURRENTS THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 19

Ages 31-40: Millenials stress worship, not labels Ages 41-50: Gen X seeks compassion, not politics Ages 51-60: Boomers see fading sense of family illennials, more define the Church of Christ,” being “right,” over compassion s it a museum, or is it a Many delayed marriage. More than the other age aby boomers used a in Searcy, Ark. “We didn’t have Christ in North Dakota. than the other age said Billy Jeffers, a member of for postmodern thinkers, the hospital?” Amy Whitaker Churches of Christ have groups, Gen X Christians cited broad range of terms to a youth minister. ... The culture Lisa Bowling, a member of the groups, focused the Echo Meadows Church of unchurched and those struggling asked — displaying the struggled to be hospitals for the the intrusion of American politics describe Churches of of the congregation was focused Withamsville Church of Christ in on worship as they Christ in Oregon, Ohio. “But with same-sex attraction, several tongue-in-cheek cyni- hurting — especially Gen Xers, into church culture as a concern. Christ — “Bible,” “God,” on educating the young people Cincinnati, noted that many of the responded to the because we are sinful the church respondents said. Others added cism of Generation X Whitaker said. Few have minis- “A zeal for tradition has trumped “Jesus,” “baptism” and (including me) and eagerly giving fellowship’s stances come from Chronicle’s survey. has become defined more by our that as they become parents, they — as she responded to tries for singles ages 30 and up, their zeal for Christ” in many “New Testament” being them opportunities to serve.” “a deep, sincere belief from the MA Church of Christ has “a desire traditions and policies. People feel a renewed sense of attach- ‘Ithe Chronicle’s question on what for blended families or for those churches, said Travis Flora, a Bthe most prominent. Now, younger Christians forefathers that they were under- to be true to God’s Word and know us for how we put people ment to the fellowship. defines a Church of Christ. recovering from abuse. member of the Southside Church Like Generation X, most “don’t see the church as their standing (the Bible) correctly.” worship him in the way he has off, don’t show love and stand for “I have so many relation- Most of the respondents in the Until recently, many churches of Christ in Lexington, Ky., respondents in this demo- family,” Martin said. “It’s just a Rather than responding to those instructed,” said David Rollert, traditions.” ships within the 41-50 age group cited the Bible have shunned adding that some graphic said that the fellowship group of people who question preacher for the Lakes Region Some refer- church that it as the fellowship’s sole authority. groups including believers have offers the best possible version that meet once or church practices Church of Christ in Tilton, N.H. enced the would be difficult Many mentioned baptism by single mothers become “too much of Bible-based Christianity. twice a week.” with a “thou shall But congregations in 2018 Restoration to leave,” said immersion and a cappella worship. and the divorced, like the world” “I am convinced there is only During the not” or “that’s the worship in different ways, respon- Movement of Kacee Blackwell, A Church of Christ has “strong added Michelle in their stances one church, and I want to be postwar years, way we’ve always dents acknowledged. A few attend the 1800s in the a member of the biblical knowledge, a lack of any Gilbert, a member on issues such a part of the church that most many Churches done it” answer, churches that have added instru- development of Edmond Church other creeds or outside sources of the Creekside as the Second closely follows the teachings of of Christ taught her congrega- mental services while others, Churches of Christ of Christ in besides the Bible,” said Michael Church of Christ Amendment. Scripture,” said Paul Smith, a that they alone tion searches including Jessica Solonka, said Solonka and used the word Blackwell Oklahoma. “I feel Wallace, a member of the West Wallace in Greenville, Whitaker Churches of member of the Golf Road Church Martin were the one Lee the Scriptures, that Churches of Christ should “autonomy” — that my family’s Orange Church of Christ in Texas. Christ aren’t of Christ in Belen, N.M. “While true church, and seeking truth over focus on teaching “why we use largely absent in the under-30 presence in the Church of Winter Garden, Fla. “I’m concerned that old perfect, said the majority of being aware of the weaknesses in growth tended to come from tradition, and reaches out to its our voices and heart to worship. group’s responses — when Christ can help shape its future Whitaker, who worships with thinking and traditions are going responders in this age group. many congregations ... I can find conversions of those in various community, “bringing Jesus out of “We have been worried about describing congregations. for the better.” She and several the North Loop Church of to continue to win out over love But they remain in the fellowship no other group claiming to be Christian denominations, the brick and mortar,” she said. looking like other churches in the The fellowship has “a sense other respondents stressed, Christ in Gladewater, Texas, has and compassion,” Gilbert said. because it is the best option. Christian that stands up as well, several respondents said. All churches face challenges, world,” said Solonka, a member of connection to our roots in however, that their loyalty is roots in the fellowship dating Mike Miller, a member of “I have not found one yet that and certainly not better, than our Now, as many churches have said Antoine Lee, who worships of the North Woodlands Area desiring autonomy from exterior to Jesus — not to a particular back to her great-grandparents. the Fairfax Church of Christ in can show me they are more scrip- fundamental beliefs regarding abandoned or moderated their with the New York City Church Church of Christ in Magnolia, authority,” said Brian Bowers, “brand” of church or label. “They taught my grandma, who Virginia, said that the fellow- tural,” said Lara Jester, a member New Testament Christianity.” stance on exclusivity, members of Christ, a congregation of the Texas. “Young people are wanting minister of community life for “I’m not a member of the was a great example who made ship doesn’t invest enough in of the Green Lawn Church of Many baby boomers noted, don’t know what they stand for International Churches of Christ entertainment instead of learning the Rochester Church of Christ Church of Christ as a denomina- sure my mom knew and brought domestic church planting, “and Christ in Lubbock, Texas. however, that the congregations with regard to denominational fellowship that meets in the Bronx. to give God our worship.” in Rochester Hills, Mich.“Stated tion,” said Jonathan Henry, a me to worship,” Whitaker said. we continue to debate over minu- Gilbert added, “I don’t believe of today bear little resemblance practices or societal trends, the “I love Jesus,” Lee said, “and Respondents in this age group positively, Churches of Christ member of The Hills Church of Her mother, a schoolteacher, tiae while the Western world that we (groups of Christians with to the churches of their youth. respondents said. In some cases, see the church as one of the last tended to divide their definitions want autonomy to evaluate Christ in North Richland Hills, was home most afternoons, but becomes increasingly secular. ‘Church of Christ’ over our doors) “I grew up in an era where our Churches of Christ have adopted bastions of simple Christianity that into two categories: what a Church Scripture for ourselves.” Texas. “I am a member of the many in Whitaker’s generation While we argue over instruments are the only ones going to heaven, family life revolved around the traditions as doctrine and have has not slipped into liberal dogma of Christ is and what it should be. But as they evaluate Scripture, church body that belongs to were “latchkey kids,” children of and women’s roles, the rest of the but I believe that the Church activities of our local congrega- effectively become a denomina- and subtle political influences — “I truly believe the original too many Churches of Christ Christ — that happens to have two-income families or divorce world is arguing over whether of Christ is doing everything tion,” said Tod Martin, a member tion, added Lee Hofsommer, a both Left and Right — that contra- intent was that the Bible would have stressed correct theology, Church of Christ as its heritage.” who came home to empty houses. there is even a God or not.” possible to get people to heaven.” of the Cloverdale Church of Christ member of the Fargo Church of dict the teachings of Jesus.” 20 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE CURRENTS MARCH 2017

Above 60: God defines what a Church of Christ is; we don’t peak where the Bible “I don’t like the wording, ‘a Church one denomination from another, Christ that were forced to close their speaks; be silent where of Christ,’ to begin with,” said Linda rather than referring to the church doors due to dropping attendance. the Bible is silent” Sneed, a member of the Church of Christ built,” said Bob Taylor, who Many cited infighting, legalism and a That mantra, cred- Christ at Borger in Texas. “It is the worships with the Clear Creek desire to be “right” in everything as ited to 19th century Church of Christ ... a body of faithful, Church of Christ in Hixson, Tenn. contributing to the decline. Restoration Movement immersed believers More so than the Now, the question, “What is a ‘Spreacher Thomas Campbell, appeared who not only believe other age groups, Church of Christ?” is nearly impos- most often in responses from Chronicle the teachings of the respondents over 60 sible to answer definitively, said Don readers above age 60 when asked New Testament, saw the decline in the Campbell, a member of the Puryear to define a Church of Christ. It was, as modeled and fellowship’s numbers Church of Christ in Tennessee, perhaps, apropos for a group some- commanded by Jesus as part of a country- “because many are breaking out of times called the Silent Generation, plus Christ our Lord and wide trend in church molds of their past. Some see this as the first half of the baby boomers. Savior, but also live attendance — and as apostasy; some see this as progress.” Most respondents pointed to the it out in their daily Sneed a consequence of a Taylor Today, a Church of Christ “is a Bible as the inerrant Word of God lives. ...When we decades-long decline body of like-minded believers who and stressed the nondenominational say ‘Church’ erroneously, we only in the nation’s morality. recognize one another as children of nature of the fellowship, which promote the world’s belief that there Some expressed concerns about God,” he said, “free to define itself emulates the first century church is more than one church.” Churches of Christ adopting denomi- however it understands the word of “as closely as possible” (a recur- Defining Churches of Christ national practices, but more lamented God to lead it. ring phrase in the responses) and outside the parameters of the a lack of Bible training for children — “If the question were: ‘How does does not “add to or take away from” New Testament is “tantamount in church buildings and at home — the New Testament define the Scripture. A few respondents took to acknowledging that the name compared to years past. Several said church?’ the answer, of course, issue with the question itself. ... is being used to differentiate they’ve been members of Churches of would be different.” march 2018 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 21 america’s christian culture needs work, says graduate student Cana Moore, and Churches of Christ can help. ‘No matter how broken we may be’ BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE without simply bowing to public opinion for the sake of keeping he Christian Chronicle received 640 people in pews. responses to our survey, “A closer look at The Churches of Christ should Churches of Christ in the U.S.” So many consider the complaints as valid of our readers blessed us with heartfelt, without dismissing those who raise the complaints as faithless. That’s Tinspiring stories and insights that we can’t how we can care for those who are possibly share them all. These responses will doubting and leaving. fuel our news and features for months to come. We also want to highlight a few Christians Why are you a member of the whose words we found particularly thought- Church of Christ? provoking. That brings us to Cana Moore, a I believe that the Christian culture 24-year-old Master of Divinity student at Harding in America needs work, and because I was born into this context I am School of Theology in Memphis, Tenn. Born in better suited to help them grow Memphis, she was raised on Long Island in New here than if I were to leave this faith York, where her parents still live and minister community and go to another. with the East End Church of Christ in East I see great commitment to Hampton. Moore earned a bachelor’s in history Scripture, which I value, in Churches from Harding University in Searcy, Ark., and is a of Christ. There’s also a desire to student worker in the L.M. Graves Library and seek out God’s will as completely as can be known. on the admissions team at the theology school. I also know these people, and After graduation, she hopes to earn a doctorate, because of that, I want to continue teach at a university and work in ministry. to be a part of this family, no matter She worships with the Holmes Road how broken we may be. Church of Christ, which meets just off Elvis Presley Boulevard in Memphis. It’s a diverse What excites you about your congregation with a weekly attendance of congregation? My church is very multicultural, 180, she says. The church’s building serves which is rare. We also do a lot for as the headquarters of the Hopeworks Adult our local community and the larger Educational centers, and the congregation global community. We give a lot for partners with organizations including a congregation of our size and socio- Hopeworks, the theology school, AGAPE and economic status. It brings me joy to the Whitehaven YMCA. be a part of a church that puts their money where their mouth is. What would you say defines a Bethany Joy Moore Church of Christ? Harding School of Theology student Cana Moore enjoys a beverage and a book, “The What are your greatest concerns A commitment to Scripture, an Road Back to You” by Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne Stabile, at a Memphis coffee shop. about our fellowship in the emphasis on replicating the New United States? Testament church in our congre- Unfortunately, we sometimes exile those who have been cultural That we would fail to see our gations and an appreciation for the those who have too little in common Christians — but not committed chance to unify Christians and simplicity of Christianity — without with our congregations and fail to to Christ in their own lives — are would instead continue to divide ignoring the complexity of living a appreciate the beauty that comes from becoming more honest about their internally and deceive ourselves into life for Christ. this unique lack of entry requirements. faith in other things and not in God. acting as if we are gatekeepers of Additionally, many are leaving salvation, when God alone is the one What are some of the significant In recent years, Churches of Churches of Christ because of a who judges the souls of man. strengths of Churches of Christ? Christ in the U.S. have declined perceived hypocrisy and a lack of If we cannot leave room for alter- By allowing each congregation numerically. Why do you think grace when it comes to interpreting nate interpretations, we miss so much to have autonomy, the Churches of that is happening? difficult passages or ideas. This is of the richness of the Gospel, which Christ can have great diversity and Churches all over the United States occurring in many denominations, is meant to be applied in an infinite yet still be connected to one another. are losing numbers, in part, because but it should certainly be addressed number of situations and contexts. 22 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE MARCH 2018

The 40-year-old Full-time Minister AMEN Ministry Established Niagara Falls, New York, congregation connects Christians without elders, is seeking a full-time pulpit minister. We are an older congregation of 50+ members in the United States striving to serve the Lord and our community. Military with local churches The congregation prefers a married man with a of Christ both overseas and in the U.S. minimum of eight years’ experience and a four-year Bible degree who will help us focus on reaching Please send name, email, and other contact our community. Please send resume, video/audio CD, or link along with a personal philosophy of info to: AMEN Ministry ministry to: Promoting biblical preaching and teaching, [email protected] LaSalle church of Christ, Promoting biblical preaching and teaching, encouragingPromoting those biblical who give preaching their lives and to thoseteaching, ministries. P.O. Box 353 Minister Search Committee, c/o Dailey encouraging those who give their lives to those ministries. 4704 Stacey Dr. For schedule, registration, Hebron, CT 06248 Lewiston NY 14092 andFor schedule,other information registration visit, (860) 372-7051 Apply no later than June 1, 2018. www.sermonseminar.comand other information visit www.sermonseminar.com

22 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE JUNE 2016

march 2018 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 23

ELI MURRAY DAVID BERGER AMANDA COOPER KIM BRANTLEY A king, joined by his volunteer buddy, Justin Nalley hangs out with disc jockey Katie Mitchell, left, and queen Julie Barton Megan Allen smiles for the camera at the arrives at the Gallatin, Tenn., event. Donny Wise at the Fort Smith, Ark., event. enjoy Night to Shine in Waco, Texas. NorthField Church in Gallatin, Tenn. Special night for those with special needs

BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE

ight to Shine, Tim Tebow likes to say, is all about the kings and queens. Each of the special-needs teens and adults who participate in the “unforgettable Nprom night experience, centered on God’s love” receives a crown or tiara. Greeting honored guests in Oklahoma, the 2007 Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback explained the royal treatment: “It’s because we believe that’s how God looks at you every single day.” On the Friday night before Valentine’s Day, Tebow’s nonprofit foundation sponsored Night to Shine events at 537 churches in all 50 states and 16 countries. In all, about 90,000 people with autism, Down syndrome and other special needs reveled in the fourth annual festivities. Host churches included the West-Ark Church of Christ in Fort Smith, Ark., the Crestview Church of Christ in Waco, Texas, and the NorthField Church in Gallatin, Tenn., which has roots in Churches of Christ. Country star Thomas Rhett made a surprise appearance at the NorthField event. “All of the hard work was blessed beyond measure,” Crestview dAVID BERGER member Donnis Smith said. “All the Terri Grimes busts a move on the dance floor at the Night to Shine event hosted by the West-Ark Church of Christ in Fort Smith, Ark. photos and smiles say it all.” 24 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE partners march 2018

Jeff Montgomery Harding STEM-ulates young minds How much stress can a bolt endure? Kassity Pace, left, a junior at Cabot High School in central Arkansas, finds out during a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Leadership for Girls event hosted by Harding University. The Searcy, Ark., university, associated with Churches of Christ, introduced 200 high schoolers to women working in STEM-related fields to “inspire them by showing what they can achieve,” said Ben Carrigan, elementary science instruction specialist for Harding. “We want to provide students with female role models ... to show them that these are possibilities.”

HIGHER EDUCATION camps in neighboring Uganda. The school recently merged with OKLAHOMA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY Uganda Christian Bible College, OKLAHOMA CITY — Ron Bever, a histo- which has a campus near the camps. rian of the Restoration Movement South Sudanese Christians will and former professor, train on the campus for ministry in recently donated the camps — and someday, prayer- more than 20 rare fully, back in their homeland. books from the “It is our hope that brethren from all movement to the over East Africa will consider sending Christian Connection their preacher students to our well- Movement Collection established school in Uganda,” said at Oklahoma Barry C. Smith, the college’s director Christian’s library. and a deacon of the Madison Church Bever The rare works, by of Christ in Alabama. Smith takes Elias Smith and Abner Jones, cover over the duties of retiring Sudan Restoration history from 1800 to Project director Don Humphrey. 1900 and add to an already extensive The Foote Street Church of Christ in collection of Restoration holdings at Corinth oversees the work. Evangelism and Church Growth the university, administrators said. Workshop MINISTRY TRAINING THE SUDAN PROJECT corinth, Miss. — Conflict in the April 18-21, 2018 world’s newest nation, South Sudan, could have dealt a death blow to The Sudan Project, a ministry of the Mt. Juliet Church of Christ in Tennessee. As rebel militias and govern- (904) 692-0032, www.HomeMission.org ment forces clashed near the village PHOTO PROVIDED BY SANDRA HUMPHERY 4100 McNeil Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76308 of Parajok, students in The Sudan Uganda Christian Bible College director Project’s preacher-training school Barry C. Smith, left, with outgoing Sudan there were forced to flee to refugee Project director Don Humphrey. March 2018 PEOPLE THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 25 Newsmakers Milestones Showcasing the moments of your life and the lives of loved ones.

Birthdays Milton Sewell, who followed youth, teaching Bible classes, Gardner as president, called leading singing, overseeing 100th: Al Stone, Feb. 26, Gardner “an outstanding Christian building maintenance and upkeep, Hazelton, Idaho. gentleman and a visionary. He was and supporting missions of congre- committed to God and His church, gations in the Oklahoma and Texas photo provided by FAULKNER UNIVERSITY Memorials his family, Freed- Panhandles. Head football coach Shayne Wasden. Hardeman and He attended Oklahoma Christian the Henderson College from 1961-1963, until he HIRED: Shayne Wasden, as head E. Claude Gardner community. As was drafted into the Army Medical football coach at Faulkner University 1925-2017 president, he was Corps. in Montgomery, Ala. Wasden, 49, committed to Vernon followed the family tradi- spent 12 seasons at Troy University E. Claude Gardner, 13th president excellence and tion as a farmer and cattle-man in Alabama — 10 of them as of Freed-Hardeman University, died what was best for recognized for outstanding soil associate head coach. He, his wife, Dec. 31, 2017, in Jackson, Tenn. students. He will conservation practices and serving Patrice, and their two daughters, “Dr. Gardner left an indelible be missed by so on agricultural committees. Mary Beth and Anna Shay, are mark on this institution,” said many of us who He served on the local school members of the Vaughn Park current FHU President David loved and appreciated him.” board and boards of numerous other Church of Christ in Montgomery. Shannon. “He led with strong Gardner preached his first sermon community service organizations. authority while embodying compas- at age 15. Throughout his life, he He was preceded in death by his APPOINTED: Prentice Ashford, sion. His wisdom and success were preached for congregations in the wife, Shirley, and is survived by as the first dean of intercultural bathed in godliness and faithful- U.S. and abroad. He conducted their son, John. development at Lipscomb ness. For many of us, his blessings more than 375 gospel meetings. University in were not only institutional, but also Gardner was preceded in death by Nashville, Tenn. personal. He knew our names and his wife Delorese Tatum Gardner, Memorial Gifts Ashford had followed us beyond graduation.” who died in 2001 after more than served as director A mainstay of the university 50 years of marriage, and by his The Christian Chronicle of the Office of and of Henderson and Chester second wife Glenda Jacobs Gardner, appreciates generous gifts Multicultural County for a half-century, Gardner who died in 2016. received in memory of Anthony Affairs at Abilene joined the faculty as chairman of Lee “Tony” Ash, Batsell Barrett Christian University the Department of Education and Vernon Mercer Baxter, Ernest Clevenger, Jr., in Texas since 2014. Psychology and as a Bible teacher. Dwain Crabtree, Bob Harp, Peggy Ashford Mitch Walton, as He served as registrar, dean, vice 1941-2018 Hinton, Paula Mashburn, Bert and director of Harding president, president, chancellor and Vernon was a member of the Sue Monsey, Sarah Helen Oswald University’s North president emeritus, retiring in 1992. Church of Christ from his early and Margaret Tryggestad. Little Rock, Ark., campus, and Meredith Jones, as Submit announcements for births, weddings, honors, retirements, memorials and tributes director of Harding’s to [email protected] or call (405) 425-5071. Submissions start at $25. Northwest Arkansas campus. Jones Both branches of Minister Search - Nebraska FAITH -BASED ADDICTION RECOVERY the Searcy, Ark., Broken Bow Church of Christ is seeking university are a minister who would also teach the Located near Hot Springs Village, Ark., SOZO Recovery Center is achiev- part of Harding’s adult Bible class for our congregation, ing amazing results in curing addiction by having their clients attend the Cannon-Clary which fluctuates between 35-55 people. Village Church of Christ as part of their Bible-based curriculum. “Over 30 College of We have a small home available across Education. from the building. Broken Bow is a thriving men have been baptized and joined the church in the last four years,” small town of about 4,000 people, which says SOZO Director, Bob O’Dowd. Based on merging Christian principles HONORED: Rick also draws from numerous surrounding and church attendance” with the time-tested 12 step model of recovery, Griffin,deacon of communities. Please contact: our success at achieving and sustaining sobriety far exceeds the national Griffin the Canyon View [email protected] average. Church of Christ in [email protected] Bob O’Dowd, (501) 226-9575 San Diego, with the San Diego Press [email protected] Club’s Lifetime Achievement Award www.sozorecoverycenters.com in public relations and journalism. 26 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE PEOPLE MARCH 2018

PHOTO PROVIDED BY SHANNON WILBURN PHOTO PROVIDED BY SHANNON WILBURN PHOTO PROVIDED BY SHANNON WILBURN Loved ones pray with Shannon Wilburn before the transplant. With Wilburn are her son, Shannon Wilburn, with Mitch, celebrates Shannon Wilburn and Walt Erwin, in Jake, and his girlfriend, Kenzie; Shannon’s mother, Pam; and the donor’s husband, Mitch. the successful transplant with a walk. matching outfits, visit after the surgery. KIDNEY: ‘I had been studying about hearing from the Lord’ FROM PAGE 3 Every so often, though, a Walt Erwin’s need for a kidney — husband, whose immediate reaction She is the CEO and co-founder reminder about Erwin’s dire need Wilburn accepted an invitation to a was concern for her and worry of Just Between Friends Franchise for a kidney would catch her atten- brunch with women from church. about possible risks. System Inc., a children’s and mater- tion. And she’d wonder. When Kathy Erwin showed up, He couldn’t shake the memory of nity consignment business with more In March 2017, Mitch and Shannon Wilburn shook her head. The voice his own health scare. He didn’t want than 150 franchises in the United Wilburn bought a patch of land. The just wouldn’t leave her alone. to lose her, he told his wife. Their States and Canada. Her full-time job land happened to be near property At the end of the brunch, Kathy children — son Jake, a graduate of keeps her in the air frequently. She owned by Walt and Kathy Erwin. Erwin asked the group for prayers Oklahoma Christian; and daughter also serves on the board of trustees About three months later — in that her husband would find a donor. Ashton, a student at Abilene Christian of Oklahoma Christian University in June 2017 — Mitch Wilburn came “As soon as the prayer time was University in Texas — needed her. Oklahoma City. home and casually remarked to his over, Shannon started asking me all A year of contemplating the Another argument against paying wife, “Walt is spraying poison ivy these questions,” Kathy Erwin said. possibility of donating her kidney attention to the voice: Her husband killer on our land.” “Not the normal kind of questions had removed any fear on Shannon had battled cancer the previous year. “Of course he is,” Shannon like, ‘How’s Walt doing?’ She asked Wilburn’s part. However, the pros- He had undergone surgery in early Wilburn said she thought to herself. me about being a donor, like, ‘What pect was new to Mitch Wilburn. 2015 and been declared cancer-free “It was like every month,” do you have to do?’ “I need to pray about it,” he said. later that year. She, too, had been she recalled, “there would be a “I was thinking to myself, ‘Is hospitalized after a scalp infection had reminder, ‘Hey Shannon, don’t for- Shannon thinking about being a TOUGH MATCH? NOT FOR GOD caused her to start losing hair. get it’s you.’” donor?’ And I came home, and I told Over the next few weeks, Mitch Lying down on another gurney In July 2017, on a flight with one him, ‘Shannon was there, and she and Shannon Wilburn discussed the wasn’t on her wish list. of her company’s executive team was asking all these questions.’” possibility. After praying, he became “I had been studying about hear- members, the colleague mentioned, Even if Wilburn decided to be more open to it. ing from the Lord,” she said. “Like, “One of my friends just donated her tested, the odds were against her kid- One night, the television news what does it mean to sit and be open kidney to a perfect stranger.” ney being a match for Walt Erwin. featured a woman who donated a to hearing from the Lord and trying “I looked at her and was like, ‘Why “The main challenge is that I have kidney. to decipher your own thoughts from did you just say that?’” Wilburn said. developed antigens from my broth- “I was like, ‘The Lord orchestrated stuff you feel like comes from the “That’s the moment when I felt like er’s kidney, which makes it tougher that,’” Shannon Wilburn said. “So I Lord? I still don’t have that down.” the Lord turned up the heat and just to find a match,” Erwin said. “Then looked at him and said, ‘Babe, what made me think about it every week.” steps in God and Shannon. Problem do you think?’ Because I was like, COINCIDENCE OR PROVIDENCE? solved!” ‘If there’s any time he’s going to say Wilburn decided that the voice ’PROBLEM SOLVED!’ Wilburn decided she no longer yes, it’s going to be right now.’” in her head had to be her own, not In September 2017 — about could ignore the voice. She was right. God’s. She’d simply ignore it. a year after she first learned of But first, she had to tell her In October 2017, she arranged tests MARCH 2018 PEOPLE THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 27

BOBBY ROSS JR. Kathy and Walt Erwin and Shannon Wilburn pose for a photo at Wilburn’s house as the Park Plaza Church of Christ members reflect on Wilburn’s donation of a kidney to Walt. to see if she was a match. hospital staff rolled their beds side At church one Sunday, Walt by side just before the transplant so Erwin hugged Mitch Wilburn and she and Erwin could hold hands and thanked him for his part in Shannon take a picture. Wilburn’s decision. Doctors described the transplant “I said, ‘Mitch, it’s going to be a as a total success. tough one on the match,’” Walt Erwin Shannon Wilburn enjoyed a quick recalled. “And he looked at me and recovery, taking just one pain pill said, ‘Walt, if Shannon has heard from stronger than a Tylenol. the Lord, it’s going to be a match.’ Immediately, Walt Erwin said, “I And I said, ‘Praise the Lord.’” noticed my energy level was probably When the test results confirmed twice what it was … like a shot of that Shannon Wilburn was a match, energy had been given back to me.” Summer she called Kathy Erwin with the All along, Wilburn had one ques- news. tion: Why did God want her to Honor Choir “I was by myself when she called donate a kidney to a man in his 60s? and told me, because he was at Wouldn’t it make more sense to for ninth to 12th-grade students dialysis,” Kathy Erwin said. “But bless a younger person, someone after I talked to her, I jumped up and with more years ahead of him? down first, and I said, ‘Hallelujah!’ But after the surgery, Wilburn July 8-13, 2018 and ‘Praise you, God.’ And then I heard Erwin — a father of three laid on the floor, and I rolled around, adult children, all Oklahoma Enjoy a week of and I cried because I was like, ‘God, Christian graduates, and a grand- advanced work in choral music, music literature, this is just so awesome.’” father of seven — liken himself to Hezekiah. Isaiah 38:5 notes that God sight-reading and group voice instruction. MODERN-DAY HEZEKIAH heard Hezekiah’s prayers and added If you qualify for admission to the University, you will receive, The surgery at St. John Medical 15 years to his life. at no extra charge, one hour of college credit in Music 131 (Chorus). Center was scheduled for December “I want to be around to watch my Dr. Cliff Ganus, director of the Harding University Chorus, 2017, just before Christmas. grandkids come to know and love and other Harding faculty members will be your instructors. Before the procedure, the the Lord,” Erwin said. Wilburns and the Erwins got Suddenly, Wilburn felt like she For more information, call 501-279-4343 together to get to know each other understood God’s reasoning. or apply online at harding.edu/honorchoir. better and pray. For his part, Erwin said he can’t “They are such a Godly, spirit ever thank Wilburn enough. But she filled couple!” Shannon Wilburn insists she doesn’t need thanks. wrote on Facebook. “It wasn’t me who did it anyway,” At Shannon Wilburn’s request, she said. “It was the Lord in me.” 28 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE MARCH 2018 A call for civil disagreement FROM OUR READERS too many members of Churches of Christ devour rather than debate, Helping that helps but far too many avoid confrontation altogether. There’s a better way. hrist-followers who give of their own resources to help the poor may be doing I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech in worship. My head bobbed in agreement more harm than good. you to walk worthy of the calling with which you when speakers discussed our gross exclu- Jonathan Holmes, a former benevolence were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, sion of the majority of Scripture in our lessons Cminister for a Church of Christ in Chicago, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in and the way we tend to overuse topical and explored the topic in our February “In the Word” love, endeavoring to keep the unity of New Testament-based sermons at the devotional (“The dark side of giving,” Page 29). the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is Views expense of other parts of God’s Word. “The problem often is not the heart behind the one body and one Spirit, just as you were I noted the warnings about the giving,” Holmes said, “but rather the unintended called in one hope of your calling; one limits of apologetics and the danger of consequences of the charity in which Christians Lord, one faith, one baptism; misusing poetic Scripture as basis for partake — both inside and outside of the church.” — Ephesians 4:1-5, New King James Version scientific claims. I witnessed the respect Several Christian Chronicle readers requested shown for our fellow travelers in church more information on the topic. Temple Terrace, Fla. history, regardless of church affiliation, “I’d like examples of your premise that we iven our history of biting and and I equally respected the critiques can be exploiting and marginalizing those in devouring one another, we in against Reformation theology. need,” one reader commented. “How, exactly, is many wings of the Churches of Amber Jimerson I scribbled the quote “traditionalism that being done?” The Chronicle Christ tend to avoid controversy. is what gives tradition a bad name.” My reached out to Holmes for a reply. GWe’ve seen our brothers and sisters ascribe mind was overloaded with the lessons of history Here is his response: false character traits to those who hold views we and the importance of knowing our past. “One of the biggest examples perceive as extreme — simply because of their To think that my preconceived ideas could of the dark side of giving is what stances, not because of who they are as people. have starved me of the joy and learning I Brian Fikkert and Steve Corbet, But as many of us have attempted to divorce received from these lectures! authors of the book ‘When ourselves from the divisive spirit of past genera- I’m afraid, however, that it’s more than Helping Hurts: Alleviating tions, we’ve slipped off the other side of the horse. premature judgments that keep us from Poverty Without Hurting the Holmes We’re fearful of voicing any solid convictions that soul-nourishing opportunities. Laziness can Poor ... and Yourself,’ refer to as might lead to uncomfortable discussions. also play a role. “I don’t have the energy to resource paternalism. Resource paternalism is the I recently attended my first lectureship at discuss this” is a phrase I have said regularly. belief that the core solution to problems in low- Florida College. Although I am the wife of Discerning Scripture, embracing convic- income communities is the donation of money or a preacher for a non-institutional Church of tion, speaking with integrity and lovingly material resources, regardless of the impact. Christ, I was nonetheless skeptical of the theme: disagreeing with others is all very exhausting. “For example, donating clothes to help children “Inquiring of Past Generations: Lessons from But let’s say yes to the mental effort it takes to in Haiti can have a detrimental impact on local Church History.” discuss our respective weirdo clothing businesses that struggle because of the To my surprise, each ‘We can be people with beliefs and have fun with it. influx of free clothes from American churches. presenter I heard was humble, Can we stop mocking, using Churches should, instead, build connections with yet educated; sometimes real convictions and a sarcasm, memes on social Haitian congregations and businesses to help controversial, yet consistently willingness to discuss media and strategically pulling them launch sustainable development programs reasonable; thought-provoking, the “I don’t have the energy that will improve lives and help the local yet nuanced. them with civility. And, as for this” card when someone churches reach out to their communities. Hearing these speakers, missionary Bob Buchanon engages? “Giving can reinforce poverty. Many churches shaking their hands and Breaks are needed, yes. participate in toy or food drives, which may serve asking them questions all said, we can still go out But let’s muster the energy as reminders for poor parents of their inability made me realize that we can and grab a Coke together, to discuss issues that require to afford or choose gifts for their own children. be people with real convictions more than a moment of Churches could instead adopt a client-choice and a willingness to discuss whether we agree or not.’ consideration. It’s far easier model that allows those in need to choose the them with civility. And, as to categorize, demonize and items they would like to own as if they were in a missionary Bob Buchanon never face one another than it grocery or thrift store. said, we can still go out and grab a Coke is to hash out ideas as human beings. “I am always encouraged by the great work together, whether we agree or not. And I’d really like us all to be up for that. that Christians do in following Christ through During the week, I heard gratitude expressed their giving and serving of others. Yet it is impor- for various aspects of Reformation thought amber jimerson is a homeschooling mom of three children. tant that in our giving we do not harm those that and unflinching critiques of Restoration Her husband, Thailer Jimerson, preaches at the Brownsburg Jesus has called us to serve.” thought. I was impressed with the leisurely and Church of Christ in central Indiana. Find the church at www. thoughtful lesson against instrumental music bburgchurchofchrist.org. Find Jonathan Holmes on Twitter @jdholmes1990. MARCH 2018 OPINION THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 29 EDITORIAL The faith that moves a Mountie Sexual abuse church elder from Canada shares the quest that led him to Churches of Christ. is evil. Period. But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be warm summer evening, I asked to be baptized. After immy Hinton is a hero. prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you some church members took down a fence, I walked When a victim told him that to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do into a muddy dugout on the Saskatchewan prairie — a Hinton’s father — a respected, this with gentleness and respect, ... hole bulldozed to catch runoff for cows to drink — and longtime preacher — had sexu- — 1 Peter 3:15, New International Version was immersed into Christ. allyJ assaulted her, Hinton listened. During my search, every one of the preachers I talked He believed her. And he immediately don’t think you will like it there because they have to was polite to me — even hospitable. Some invited me reported the allegation to police. As some weird ideas.” into their homes for a meal. But not one single person a result, an investigation ensued that That’s what a preacher told me right after he even came close to opening the Bible. They just talked. uncovered a long history of abuse. recommended I try the Church of Christ. And the more they talked about their church, the less Sadly, too many church leaders ‘II was in my 20s and serving with the Royal I listened. Only one person, Steve, opened the placed in similar situations hide Canadian Mounted Police, stationed in In the Word Bible and let God’s Word give me the answers. abuse, protect perpetrators and Bengough, Saskatchewan, a small town about The sad part of this story was my dad’s shame victims rather than wrap 40 miles from the Montana border. I was response. When I told him of my decision, he them in the loving arms of Jesus. searching for a simple assembly of Christians said, “You mean to tell me that your mother “These survivors are desperate similar to where my parents had taken my and I have taught you wrong all these years?” to know that not all church leaders brothers and me every Sunday back home. About a year after I was baptized, I married protect abusers,” Hinton said in our I was taught to have a respect for the Shirley Thornton from Lubbock. We lived in Page 1 story about the #ChurchToo Scriptures. In my pre-teen years, my brothers Canada for another eight years, and our three social media movement. and I memorized verses in order to go to Bible children were born there. Eventually, we Let us not mince words: True fol- camp. Because my parents could not afford to Peter MacInnes moved to Abilene, Texas, and I went into busi- lowers of Christ do not hide sexual send us, another person said they would pay if ness. Now I serve as a church elder. abuse, no matter what the cost to indi- we memorized 200 Bible verses and could quote them Looking back, I remember when Churches of vidual congregations or reputations. 50 at a time with 90 percent accuracy. I memorized my Christ had the reputation of being people of the Book. “As a therapist, I did not need 200 verses and went to camp. However, even as we are putting more and more #ChurchToo to tell So, in my search for a new church home, I talked to money into our preaching and programs, we are me sexual assault eight or more denominational preachers in the area, moving away from that reputation. But, from what I is rampant in our asking them about God’s Word. One of them, in total can tell, people overall want the clear teaching of God’s churches,” Christine frustration with my questions, suggested the Church of Word as much as they ever have. Parker, a member of Christ, but warned about their “weird ideas.” What he There is some value in consumer-type programs; I the Grand Central meant I could only guess. I had never heard don’t deny that. But, in my opinion, there Church of Christ in of the Church of Christ. ‘Only one person are great tools of evangelism that are often Vienna, W.Va., told This particular Church of Christ building overlooked. World Bible School and the us. “I’ve heard story Parker had no sign, so I had completely missed it in opened the Bible Leadership Training for Christ program for after countless story my search. I warily parked in the shadows on and let God’s children are two I can name right off. as the victims sit on my couch seek- a Wednesday night to see who would come Every year the Great Plains Leadership ing hope for healing. out of the building. One of the first people I Word give me Training for Christ convention in northwest “Often, it’s been years, even recognized was the school principal, who also the answers.’ Arkansas is like a family reunion for us. decades, since the assaults,” Parker was the referee for most of the local hockey We have seen the tremendous benefit this added. “If they told anyone at the games. That’s not so weird, I thought. program has had — and is having — on our time, they often weren’t believed. If The following Sunday I attended their Bible class. children and grandchildren. It gives us hope for today they were believed, they likely were The first thing I remember hearing that upset me was and hope for tomorrow. told to forgive at best. At worst, they when the teacher, Steve Danielson, said that baptism And it’s not just the weekend gathering that’s great. were blamed and shamed.” was for the remission of sins. I had always felt as It’s also the weeks of teaching, coaching and practical Make no mistake: Those who though I was a Christian because my mother told me application leading up to that weekend that benefit our ignore such evil share in that evil. that I gave my heart to the Lord when I was 4 years family and the church as a whole. Dear Lord, please touch our hearts old. I was taught that baptism was a rite of passage. I Teaching Scripture to our children is important — and give us the strength, the cour- raised my hand and told Steve that he was wrong — or even if it leads others to think of us as people who age and the integrity to do all in our I had heard him wrong. “have some weird ideas.” The reason I, my wife, human power to ensure that no pre- What impressed me was the kindness Steve showed. our children and grandchildren are members of the cious child of God is victimized. He did not lecture me. Rather, he pointed me to the Church of Christ is because someone cared enough But we live in a fallen world. Scriptures. He knew them well. He had graduated about the power of God’s Word to teach it to me. When such atrocities do occur, let from Sunset International Bible Institute in Lubbock, us resolve to rally around victims Texas, just a few months before. Peter MacInnes is one of four elders of the Buffalo Gap Church of Christ and bring evildoers to justice, just as However, it was four months of daily studying with in Texas. He and his wife, Shirley, celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary Jimmy Hinton did in his father’s case. Steve before I could set aside my pride and obey. One in May. They have three children and seven grandchildren. Sexual abuse is evil. Period. 30 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE MARCH 2018

TRANSFORMING LIVES, RESTORING HOPE, RECONCILING FAMILIES Live-In Caretaker Position Seeking RESIDENTIAL LIFE SPECIALISTS Join our amazing organization ministering to at-risk young people on Long Island, as we grow in Claremore, Ok. New York, as a Live-In Caretaker. This is a unique position that provides guidance, The RLS are a husband and wife team with a strong marriage who provide support, and love to our transitional age residents (aged 17 – 25 years old). Unlike many other programs, our residents are engaged in structured programming from 6am through a safe, nurturing, therapeutic home environment for trauma-exposed 9pm most days of the week. As part of the role, Caretakers create a family environment in adolescents in our family reconciliation program. Must be passionate about their home, including four shared meals per week with residents. This live-in position has continual learning/growth and active members of the church of Christ. Housing, built-in flexibility, and to supplement living costs, other positions within the organization training, 24/7 support, benefits, and competitive salaries are provided. (dependent on skills and background) can be negotiated. This position is ideal for singles and married couples of any age, with at most two For more information, contact of their own children. [email protected]

For more information about our ministry, visit: www.timothyhill.org To apply, submit a resume and cover letter to: [email protected] www.hopeharborinc.org • 918.343.0003

The New Mexico Christian Children’s Home is currently seeking married couples for House EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Parents in Training. NMCCH is a private, not-for-profit, Christian organization serving children in need since 1954 and is supported by the generous donations of churches and individuals. Shults-Lewis Child and Family Services is seeking to fill an opening as EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Our House Parents work a week on/week off schedule. of the agency. Those wanting to be considered for the position should have the desire to help Requirements: at-risk teens reach their full potential, strong administrative skills, excellent people-to-people • Be at least 21 years of age or older and networking skills and the ability to represent the agency in public and church settings. • High School diploma or equivalent is required Duties will include overseeing the complete agency, which includes in-residence homes for troubled • A valid driver’s license with a good driving record teens; resident counseling services and an on-site accreditedJr/Sr High School. The Executive • Ability and desire to work and live with youth • Ability to pass a thorough background check and reference verification procedure Director will also be the “public face” of the agency and will cultivate support for the agency and • Must be married at least two years its programs. We are also seeking an Assistant to the Director of Single Parent Homes. The Though not a requirement, a license in Clinical Social Work or other Clinical Counseling license Assistant to the Director will work with our current Director to oversee and manage the Single or Masters-level Degrees that can become licensed would be highly prized. Parent Ministry with a view toward eventually becoming the Director of Single Parent Homes. Shults-Lewis Child and Family Services, located in Valparaiso, Indiana, is a dynamic treatment Some benefits of working at the New Mexico Christian Children’s Home include: program for struggling teens and their families. At Shults-Lewis, we believe that families shouldn’t • Housing and utilities have to struggle alone, and our residential environment, staffed by Christian houseparents and • Health, Vision, Dental and Life Insurance counselors, offers counseling, love, acceptance and, most of all, hope to teens and their families. • 401(k) retirement plan, with company match up to 5 percent Remuneration will be commensurate with education, experience, licensure, etc. Contact Allen Mann, Director of Public Relations at: You may read more about Shults-Lewis Child and Family Services on our website at: [email protected] or call (575) 356-5372. www.shultslewis.org Please visit our website at: You may submit your resume or curriculum vitae on-line at: http://nmcch.org for more information and to fill out our online application. [email protected] march 2018 REVIEWS THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 31 Former Muslim shows Islam from the inside any well-written books on Al-Aethawi has answered about his Islam have appeared in the former faith. years since 9/11. So have The book concludes with chap- many not-so-great books, ters on the importance of preaching Mwritten from a fearful, unloving to Muslims and advice on how to perspective. reach them. This informa- Almost all of the volumes In Print tion is especially impor- written by members of tant for people interested in Churches of Christ on the opening up dialogue with subject give us a through- their Muslim neighbors. the-keyhole perspective on His new book, “I the faith, practiced by 1.6 Am an Arab and I billion people, 23 percent of Am a Christian: An the global population and Autobiography,” is hard to growing. put down. Al-Aethawi pulls his Wissam Al-Aethawi’s work David Duncan readers in by describing daily — just like his name — is life in Iraq before and after different from other authors on the the fall of Saddam Hussein. Even his topic. A former Muslim, the Iraqi- writing style, with syntax just slightly born Christian serves on the ministry different from that of an English- Wissam Youssif. Islam in Christ’s Eyes: Wissam Youssif. I Am An Arab staff of Sunset Church of Christ in speaking American, reminds us of A scriptural study on the origins of and I Am a Christian: An Taylor, Mich., and is a missionary his origins and gives authenticity to Islam and the Christian response. Autobiography. Lubbock, Texas: to the heavily Arab community his voice. This is a man who actually Lubbock, Texas: Sunset Institute Press, Sunset Institute Press, 2017. 138 of Dearborn, west of Detroit. He lived in the places he describes. 2017. 162 pages. $19.99. pages. $15.99. explains to Christian audiences what He details his search to find a he experienced growing up in a Bible and then his multi-year quest shares his own struggles with I never felt fear when I read these far-off land as a follower of a religion to find someone to baptize him. In atheism as a young man. two books. Al-Aethawi sincerely loves that is mysterious to many of us. the midst of the spiritual journey He details his baptism in Iraq Muslims and wants fellow Christians In his first book, “Islam in there are stories about bombings, and the fulfillment of his dream to to love them too. Most of all, he wants Christ’s Eyes,” Al-Aethawi, who food shortages, a nuclear plant and come to the United States, a country them to be won to Christ. These also goes by Youssif, guides us encounters with American soldiers. where the only soul he knew was books are excellent resources for through a scriptural study of Islam’s Other details may surprise many his Bible correspondence teacher. those of us who want to share Jesus origins. He talks about the pillars readers. For example, there are Her contacts, however, pointed him with Muslims — those in faraway and nature of Islam and compares churches in Iraq, Al-Aethawi writes. to other believers and, eventually, to lands and those living next door. the Quran to the Bible. Informing He also describes eloquently Sunset International Bible Institute this study are the countless ques- the lackadaisical attitude some in Lubbock, Texas, where he trained DAVID DUNCAN is pulpit minister for the tions from American Christians that Muslims have toward religion and for his current ministry. Memorial Church of Christ in Houston. Who’s afraid of prophecy? Church member pens resource for kids’ classes t wasn’t until I was an able to impart to children book for teachers, Fallis tears artwork to reproduce and adult that I began to in third and fourth grade. down the daunting wall we use. There is no guesswork understand the She showed them see when we consider the or long hours of searching prophesies of the What we're the shadow of Jesus 30 percent of the Bible dedi- for the right illustration. IOld Testament and reading in Old Testament cated to prophecy. She under- We, the church, need to be their importance to prophecy. She effec- stands our trepidation about teaching the full Bible to our our faith. tively taught kids ages teaching this material to kids, children. We cannot leave Then I had the 9 and 10 the signifi- reviewing the objections gaps in their spiritual educa- privilege to assist cance of words like (“children can’t understand tion just because we believe Sarah Fallis in her “fulfill,” “kingdom” or relate to those teachings”) a portion of God’s Word to children’s Bible and “remnant” and and disproving them. be difficult or intimidating. class a few years how they were related As children of God, she Read this book and grow. ago. The retired to the church. writes, we need to know the Then teach. professor of mathe- Sandi Smith Fallis shares that very nature of God. We need Sarah Fallis. The Drama matics and member wisdom in “The a clear picture of punish- SANDI SMITH worships with the Keller of Redemption, Volume of the Bridgewood Church of Drama of Redemption, ment and promise. Fallis Church of Christ in Texas. 2: Walking with Jesus Christ in Fort Worth, Texas, Volume 2: Walking with not only teaches us how What are you reading, watching, Through The Prophets. astounded me with the level Jesus Through The to teach, she also includes listening to? Send submissions to Cleburne, Texas: Hopkins of understanding she was Prophets.” In this resource charts, exercises and [email protected]. Publishing, 2016. 338 pages. 32 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE MARCH 2018

Youth Minister - Fifty Third Avenue Church of Christ, Bradenton, Florida Youth Minister will plan, communicate and execute programs and activities aimed at enriching the spiritual lives of about 20 youth. Minimum of a bachelor’s degree, preferred in Bible, youth ministry or related field. Equivalent experience will be considered. A complete job description is available on our website: 53avecofc.org or by contacting the church office at: [email protected] or (941) 753-4153. Send Job Listings resume and references via email or mail to: 53rd Avenue Church of Christ, 3412 53rd Ave. East, Deadline for next two issues: March 9 and April 13. Bradenton, FL 34203. Closing Date: Open until filled.

Full-Time Pulpit Minister Minister Search THE ABERDEEN CHURCH OF CHRIST in We are searching for a full-time Aberdeen, Md., is seeking a minister who loves pulpit minister who is able to relate the Lord, has a few years of experience and to sinners. Jesus loves sinners. He will come to love God’s family by teaching, should have the mind and heart of preaching, and counseling. Our congregation is 100+ with elders, deacons, and a minister. Christ. Aberdeen has a small-town atmosphere with If you would like to be considered, Office of the Provost excellent schools. We offer a competitive please send your resume to: Dr. Robert Rhodes, Provost, ACU Box 29103, Abilene, Texas 79699-9103 salary relative to experience and education. ACU is accepting applications for dean of its College of Education and Human If interested, please send your resumes and Green Ridge Church of Christ recorded sermons to: Services. The college provides nationally accredited training programs grounded Attn: Elders in current research and informed practice related to the educational and service Aberdeen Church of Christ PO Box 424 needs of individuals across the lifespan. The college comprises five academic units: 90 Mt. Royal Ave., Aberdeen, MD 21001 the School of Social Work, the Department of Teacher Education, the Department [email protected] Greenbrier, TN 37073 of Communication Sciences and Disorders, the Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition, and the Department of Occupational Therapy. Strong candidates will have FULL-TIME a commitment to the mission, values and goals of the university. They will have an PULPIT PREACHER NEEDED!!! appreciation and understanding of the nature and role of Christian higher education Bilingual Minister and the relationship between learning, scholarship and faith. Applicants must have The Church of Christ in Pecos, Texas, an earned doctorate; a record of excellence in teaching and research as a tenured Oro Grande Boulevard is seeking a bilingual minister for our associate or full professor; service as an exemplary teacher, mentor and advisor of , Church of Christ university students; experience in academic administration including evidence of Spanish-speaking congregation. Gradu- is seeking a full-time pulpit preacher. exceptional leadership in progressively responsible positions; experience with the ate from preaching school or Christian university associated with Churches of We are a congregation of 35-40 processes and demands of secondary accreditation; experience as a practitioner in a discipline of the college or a related field; ability to work collaboratively with faculty, Christ preferred. Experience a plus, but members with three elders. Retire- staff and administrators within a department, college and university; knowledge of will consider a recent graduate. Candi- ment or other support needed. and experience with the interdisciplinary nature of the departments of the college date must be fluent in English. Located in beautiful Lake Havasu and the communities they serve; and willingness and ability to work effectively Church of Christ City, Ariz. with university development in fundraising. Information about the college is available at acu.edu/cehs. PO Box 1332 Ron Johnson Pecos, TX 79772 [email protected] See acu.edu/academics/provost/positions.html for a complete description [email protected] of this position. In a letter to the appropriate dean or chair, applicants should address their qualifications for the position. They should include in the application Gospel Preacher a statement of how faith informs their teaching; a discussion of their spiritual Full-Time Minister The SUNSET CHURCH of CHRIST in journey; a curriculum vitae; transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work; McPherson Ave. Church of Christ is seeking a Taylor, Mich., is looking for a gospel preacher and names, addresses and phone numbers of five references. Review of applicants minister with a heart for service, the ability to who loves God and his neighbor. Your life will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Nominations of connect with a variety of ages, and a desire to boldly here will be alongside 200 other Christians, and applications from qualified women and proclaim Jesus in our community. You will serve one fine ministry involved with our youth, minorities are especially encouraged. ACU is alongside four shepherds, a number of deacons, a passionate missionary to the largest affiliated with the fellowship of the Churches and a congregation of 125 with a youth group of 20. of Christ. All applicants must be professing Muslim population in America, four hard- We offer a competitive salary commensurate with Christians and be active, faithful members working servants and three prayerful shep- experience and education, a large two-bedroom of a congregation of the Churches of Christ parsonage, and a church family ready to grow. herds. Send resume, one or two audios or and deeply committed to service in Christian videos of you and a one-page handwritten Church of Christ, Search Committee higher education. The mission of ACU is to description of your purpose in God's 1525 McPherson Ave educate students for Christian service and Kingdom to: Council Bluffs, IA 51503 leadership throughout the world. ACU does Sunset Church of Christ not unlawfully discriminate in employment [email protected] c/o Elders @ Sunset 24800 Ecorse Rd opportunities. www.lifeinthebluffs.org Taylor, Michigan 48180 170261-0318 Send resume and references before March 31, 2018.

Full-Time Minister Full-Time Minister Central Church of Christ in Ada, Okla., is accepting applications for a full-time minister. Salary based on qualifications/experience. Some Insurance and retirement benefits provided. Malden Church of Christ in Missouri seeks a full-time minister. Rural Interested candidates should send cover letter and resume to: congregation, 50-60 faithful members, led by the Lord and two elders. Com- Ronny Johns pensation commensurate with qualifications and experience. Contact: 1424 Sunrise Lane, Ada, OK 74820 [email protected] (email for additional information) Rod Dill at (573) 281-8625 or Jerry Reaves at (573) 276-8071 MARCH 2018 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 33

CALENDAR Experienced Minister Small mission-field church in NE March 2-3 Affirming the Faith Indiana seeks an experienced minister Seminar. North MacArthur to begin work in July 2018. We are in a Church of Christ, Oklahoma City, county with 101 beautiful lakes, Camp Okla. affirmingthefaithok.com. Indogan, and Pokagon State Park. We March 2-4 Tri-Area Youth can provide a salary of $340 per week. Rally. Southside Church of Preachers with partial support, semi- Christ, Valdosta, Ga. southside. retired, or willing to do secular work churchofchrist part time are encouraged to apply at: @yahoo.com. Steuben County Church of Christ March 29 Eastern European Mission’s Dallas Event. Addison PO Box 156 Conference Center, Addison, Angola, Indiana 46703 Texas. eem.org/events. April 2-3 KERYGMA: A Conference for Preachers by Minister Needed Preachers. Memorial Road Church of Christ, Edmond, Okla. [email protected]. April 8-11 Ohio Valley University Lectureship. Vienna, W.Va. [email protected]. April 8-12 74th Annual Carolina Lectureship. Highland Acres Church of Christ, Statesville, N.C. ncstatelectureship.com. April 18-21 Evangelism and Church Growth Workshop. HomeMission. Faith Village Church of Christ, Wichita Falls, Texas. homemission.org. May 21-24 37th Annual Therapists Sermon Seminar. Austin Graduate Childplace, Inc., located in Jeffersonville, Ind., has been serving children and families in the Southern Indiana School of Theology, Austin, Texas. area since 1967. We are currently seeking additional licensed therapists (or those working toward licensure) sermonseminar.com. to work with our Counseling and In-Home programs. Our therapists work with clients from our Residential, July 15-20 Theology Summer Foster Care, and Adoption programs and with clients from the community, providing individual, family, and Academy. Oklahoma Christian group sessions. Our clients are also able to utilize the medical oversight of our full-time psychiatrist. University, Edmond, Okla. oc.edu/ Requirements: admissions/undergraduate/visit/ Master’s degree with a current license issued by the Indiana Behavioral Health and Human Services Board as one of the following: 1) Social Worker, 2) Clinical Social Worker, 3) Marriage and Family Therapist, theology-summer-academy. 4) Mental Health Counselor, 5) Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, or 6) Mental Health Counselor Associate. An individual with a temporary permit working towards licensure in any of the above listed FULL CALENDAR: www.christianchronicle.org. categories may also apply. Following an offer of employment, expectations include: background checks, To include your event, and for pricing, contact basic pre-employment physical with a TB skin test, motor vehicle report, and a signed copy of the agency [email protected]. values statement. Weekly Schedule: This is a full-time opportunity; however, a contracted option could be considered. A full-time schedule would include Monday thru Friday predominately first shift—however, flexible and adaptable to some degree to the clinician’s preference. Some evening hours to accommodate clients’ scheduling needs and acute circumstances are expected. Benefits and Compensation: Salary is $39,000+ annually based on education and experience. Additional benefits include access to a laptop and flexibility to work from home/off-site, as well as the opportunity to utilize agency vehicles for the majority of appointments with community-based clients. Other benefits include supportive work environment, and full-time employees are offered the following: paid time off; medical, dental, and vision insurance options; healthcare flexible spending account; and life insurance. To Apply: Email resume to: [email protected].

Our Mission: Childplace exists to serve children at risk by meeting their needs and equipping them for life in a spirit of Christian love. 34 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OPINION march 2018 Farewell to Insight: In final monthly column, McBride ponders Chronicle’s role in fellowship

hirty-eight years after my first Chronicle: Inform, Unify, Inspire. column appeared in these That has constituted the mission FACULTY POSITIONS AVAILABLE pages, this will be my final since the beginning. monthly “Insight” for The The first issue edited by Norton All candidates must be active members of the church of Christ TChristian Chronicle. was in September 1981. My column and committed to Christian education. I have enjoyed the long run, but it was called “Church Growth,” and I is time to focus on other projects. My had most of the back page. For the COLLEGE OF ARTS AND HUMANITIES. Seeking full-time faculty mem- children and grandchildren want an next four years I wrote about church ber. The successful candidate will hold a Ph.D. in Spanish or experience in autobiography, and plants, thriving congregations and a closely related field along with teaching and/or professional experience in my wife, Linda, and Perspectives mission churches. any of the following: Peninsular and/or Latin American literature, inter- I are talking about a As postal regulations changed, cultural/global studies, translation and/or interpretation, or K-12 foreign devotional book. the column moved inside the paper language education. Candidates with training in ACTFL oral proficiency and I first learned of the and became “Insight.” I would have methodology preferred. Responsibilities will include advising, supervision of newspaper in 1945, preferred “Perspectives,” but that student research, and teaching both general and advanced courses. two years after its name was taken by publisher James Submit letter of interest, curriculum vitae, and unofficial transcripts of all launch by founder and O. Baird for his occasional column. graduate-level courses to Dr. Kristi Bond, chair, at [email protected] or editor Olan Hicks. My When Norton moved out of the Box 12263, Searcy, AR 72149. mother and I were editorship in 1996, the president worshiping with the Bailey McBride of Oklahoma Christian University COLLEGE OF PHARMACY. Seeking full-time director of assessment to San Leandro Church asked me to serve as editor. During manage implementation of a comprehensive program of assessment for the of Christ in California. We met at my first five years in that role, my purpose of programmatic improvements in accordance with accreditation requirements for the college. Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree a men’s lodge but were building a greatest concern was the mounting with emphasis in education, higher education, educational research or place for the church’s worship. One tension between the ultra-conser- related field is highly preferred. At least three years of experience in higher Sunday, the preacher brought copies vative church leaders and the very education support services needed. Previous experience with assessment in of an issue of the Chronicle that had strong progressive leaders. At my higher education desired. Responsibilities include working with assessment news about our congregation. I didn’t first meeting with the trustees of the committee, faculty, staff and administration to implement and review effec- realize at the time the role this news- Chronicle, I asked them to pray that tive strategies for the assessment of student learning at the individual and paper would come to play in my life. church leaders would focus on unity. program levels as well as assessment of college-level mission and goals. In 1947, the Chronicle carried The staff worked very hard to keep Submit letter of interest to Harding University Human Resources at hr@ the story about a preacher named reporting positive and balanced, harding.edu or Box 12257, Searcy, AR 72149. Otis Gatewood who focusing on was traveling to ‘My time with the Chronicle Kingdom growth. Germany to teach The first issue I INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS. Seeking faculty/administrator for Har- has enriched my knowledge ding University in Latin America (HULA). The successful candidate will the Gospel after edited in 1996 had possess teaching experience in humanities and Bible, fluency in the Spanish the devastation of of the church and God. My a two-page spread language, a background in developing missions experiences, and a minimum World War II. I was love for this publication will on the internet drawn to the story and what it might of a master’s degree; a Ph.D. is preferred. Responsibilities include directing not change, and I pray that the study abroad program in Latin America; coordinating site tours, classes, because Gatewood mean for churches. and accommodations; and providing meals for student and faculty groups had converted the it will continue to inform, The next year, the Bendios, parents paper celebrated the of 40 plus. HULA is currently conducted one semester per year. Position unify and inspire this reports directly to the dean of international programs. of my best friend, 100th anniversary Submit an introductory letter, curriculum vitae and contact information to Ricky. community of believers.’ of missionary John Dr. Jeff Hopper, dean, at [email protected] or Box 10838, Searcy, AR 72149. The Chronicle’s Sheriff’s ground- strong emphasis breaking work in Additional openings are available in the following areas: on mission work made me a faithful Africa. As the 20th century closed, PAUL R. CARTER COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION reader — even as the paper changed the paper reported on the differ- CANNON-CLARY COLLEGE OF EDUCATION ownership on a regular basis. ences and similarities of Islam and DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING AND PHYSICS In the late 1970s, John Beckloff, Christianity. We began examining the DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES a missionary to Nigeria and alum changes in Eastern Europe after the DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS of Oklahoma Christian College, fall of the Soviet Union. DEPARTMENT OF PHARMACY PRACTICE offered the Chronicle to the school. My time with the Chronicle has PHYSICAL THERAPY PROGRAM Bible professor Howard Norton enriched my knowledge of the church expressed interest in serving as and God. My love for this publication Please visit harding.edu/hr/jobsfaculty for further information on these editor and asked me to write a will not change, and I pray that it will positions. To learn more about open staff positions, visit harding.edu/hr/jobs. column for the back page. continue to inform, unify, and inspire Harding is committed to hiring a diverse faculty and staff. Women, minorities, A group of faithful church leaders this community of believers. met to talk about the paper and its individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply. mission, agreeing on goals for the CONTACT: [email protected] MARCH 2018 OPINION THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 35

Leah Sikes In his career as a literature professor at Oklahoma Christian University, Bailey McBride was an adopted father and grandfather to hundreds of students, including Leah Sikes, left, seen here with McBride at an outdoor Christian event in Vienna, Austria, in 2016. What Bailey McBride means to me ailey McBride was the first My mother, Karen Tryggestad, person I saw when I stepped had died from cancer 15 months off the plane from Atlanta at earlier. In the midst of his own grief, Will Rogers World Airport Bailey focused on how much I was Bin 2001. He was standing at the still hurting from that loss. gate with a copy of The Christian That is my friend, Bailey McBride. Chronicle in his hand. To our readers That’s the kind of man he is. It was my first time in the And that’s the kind of man I state of Oklahoma, and I was want to be. interviewing for a writing job I’m so appreciative that he with the Chronicle. continued to write the month- Five minutes after I met ly “Insight” column (renamed Bailey, I knew I wanted the job. this month as a tribute to his For the past 17 years, Bailey legacy) even after he stepped has been a second father to down from the editorship of me. He exemplifies what it Erik Tryggestad the Chronicle in 2006. means to be a servant and We’ll miss his wisdom on a man who seeks after God’s own our back pages. I wish him and his heart. He’s a gifted writer and teach- newlywed bride, Linda, all the best as er. He’s patient, kind. they explore the world together. His When my wife and I married in words will always have a home here. Cancer. 2003, there was no question about Now, as we approach the Discover a clinic where medicine, who we wanted to perform the cer- Chronicle’s 75th anniversary, we emony. As we dedicated our lives to invite those of you who have served faith and cutting-edge science live God and each other, Bailey’s words this publication in years past to share of blessing were simple and beauti- your memories with us. Look for in perfect harmony. ful — even the part where he said stories from past editors, writers and I had “almost given up hope” of staffers in our “Insight” column in ever finding a wife. Thanks, Bailey. the coming months. And a patented new treatment I’m glad the whole Thomas Street And please take a moment to no one else has yet. Church of Christ got to hear that. send Bailey a note of thanks for his Five years later, Bailey and his first decades of dedicated service. Please wife, Joyce, visited us in the hospital send me a copy of that message so after the birth of our first daughter. that we can assemble a collage of All of us were devastated when we tributes for an upcoming edition of NeoPlas Innovation lost Joyce McBride unexpectedly in our “From Our Readers” feature. WWW.NEOPLAS.ORG 615-807-1037 2015. I’ll never forget what Bailey Bailey, I’ll never be able to repay said to me when we visited him at the debt I owe you. Thanks for the funeral home. He hugged me picking me up at the airport — and tightly — and apologized. for everything that followed. “I’m so sorry this happened, and so soon after you lost your mom.” Contact: [email protected] An international newspaper for Churches of Christ INSIDE CALENDAR...... 33 NATIONAL...... 5 Incredible SENIORS Magazine CURRENTS...... 17 PARTNERS...... 23 Discover your niche in the Kingdom DIALOGUE...... 21 PEOPLE...... 25 for your retirement years! EDITORIAL...... 29 REVIEWS...... 31 ORDER NOW and receive INSIGHT...... 34 TO OUR READERS....35 “101 Ways Seniors Can Serve” Vol. 75, No. 3 | March 2018 | www.christianchronicle.org INTERNATIONAL.....11 VIEWS...... 28 501-279-4055 • abundantlivingseniors.com

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