June-July 2017 God Provides a Way Forward for Weirton Christian Center Building Project

by Ms. Kim Weaver, director, Weirton Christian Center nity for partnership, with volunteers and involvement with the church and a place for our families to potentially worship. In 2010, Weirton Christian Center's Board of The Christian Fellowship Foundation has provided the Directors got together to set a strategic plan. At that funds to purchase the property. There are going to be additional time, our goal was determined as: Provide the communi- expenses, but our contractor has agreed to cover the cost of the ty with a well-funded, professionally staffed, state-of- structural engineer and core drilling, and is currently working the-art facility that offers a safe place for children to be with a new architect. We will need to add 800 square feet to the afterschool with life-shaping programs and influences bottom floor because we will be losing storage areas at the origi- that direct children to a relationship with the Lord. nal location, and there will be additional costs for bringing utili- We have had tremendous growth in the last ten years. ties to the building. Since the church was in need of a parking We have grown from approximately 45 children in 2006 to 278 in lot, they will provide us with the funds they have raised for the 2015. We have continued to bring the Lord to our children every ten spaces they will retain and we will have another 26 spaces day! We have improved and expanded our programs, provided that all can share. Since the architectural drawings are not yet professional training for our staff and moved toward that state- complete, we do not have a new total project cost, but our con- of-the-art building. tractor will be value engi- God has given us neering and we are still a vision for a new building raising funds, with many for our children and we grants and requests still are finally making this pending. We still have to vision become a reality. cover the entire cost of the After three different build- project to completion with ing plans and possible no debt before we start. sites, we decided to build In 2015, at the on the existing property Executive Board meeting, and the adjacent property, it was agreed we could which was purchased for present the project to our us by the Christian West Virginia Baptist fami- Fellowship Foundation. ly to try to raise a goal of Our plan was to $150,000. To date, we have break ground in May 2017, so as not to lose $125,000 of the funds been able to raise $92,527 from churches and individuals and the raised that needed to be spent within one year. At the beginning West Virginia American Baptist Women’s Ministries’ Special of the year, we were blessed to have a local developer, with 45 Preschool Project has provided us with $14,307. Many thanks to years of commercial construction experience and supporter of the our wonderful, faithful West Virginia Baptist family in all your center, agree to look at our plans. After review, he determined it many efforts to see this building come to fruition! Funding could potentially cost an additional $200,000 to $300,000 to build raised for this project as of April 30, 2017 totals $743,944, and that on Elm Street. This was devastating news and after asking Rev. is just $19,956 away from original goal of $763,900. The matching Dr. Holley Faulkner, pastor of Weirton Heights Memorial Baptist funds have been received and both foundations have agreed to Church (Panhandle), and our newest Weirton Christian Center not withdraw their funding from us, due to the circumstances Board member for prayers, we feel God has led us to the idea of and the project still moving forward. We cannot thank you all building next to Weirton Heights Memorial Baptist Church on enough for bringing us to this place. their vacant property. It was voted on by the church and they will be selling us that property to build on. We should be able to break ground by July 1, 2017. This will be a wonderful opportu-

The mission of the West Virginia Baptist Convention is to empower local churches to be Christ honoring communities of faith and to help them fulfill their mission by enabling them to do together what they cannot do alone. ______Commentary by David L. Carrico, Executive Minister Jesus Called - He Wants His Church Back

It has been widely One of the problems stated that over three-fourths that plague our communities of the established churches in today is drug usage and drug There’s an App for That! North America are either overdose. The media shares the declining or plateauing, which reality of the cost of Narcan to The West Virginia Baptist results in their inability to deal with heroin overdose Convention app is available for effectively make disciples. without ever touching on the Android and Apple There are many reasons for the underlying drug problem. The products. Download yours today! Dr. David situation, including pressure Carrico government, from local to from cultural shifts and national, attempts to address the changing technologies. It is past time to problem, yet the church remains silent. It Vol. LXXXIV, Issue 04 June-July 2017 think of the context of the North is past time that we, the church, started Table of Contents American church and to revisit our looking for answers together - in ecclesiology, Christology and missiology consensus with one another. Commentary: Jesus Called - He Wants to educate ourselves and our leaders to As this issue has become His Church Back 2 reconnect with Jesus and reintroduce prominent in the public discourse there Executive Committee Report/ the church to Jesus. We have growing have been church programs founded to Spitzer called as ABCUSA General ethnic populations calling out for address the drug problem. While these Secretary 3 ministry here and now. There are programs have been a starting point, emerging expressions of church that are One Great Hour of Sharing West Virginia some fail to be effective if they stand challenging fundamental assumptions Flood Relief Report 4 alone. Each church can address this issue marking a break with 2,000 years of while intentionally seeking God’s will for Thinking Missions: An Unexpected church history and tradition. their community. If each community of Journey/Camp Global 2017 5 Complacency grips many of our faith would take action to address this West Virginia Program of Palmer ministries and our ministers as they issue, positive things would happen to Seminary Celebrates Much at Annual search for a spirit of health to heal our bring hope. Consensus - strength in Graduation Banquet 6 land. numbers! It is easy to get lost in theory as Are you asking, “Where do we Transformed by Grace and Love - we explore how to rethink and retool the start?” Transformado por la Gracia y el Amor 7 effectiveness of the church. First, we • Have a church dialogue about your Parchment Valley Conference Center: must find practical and flexible ways to community. Invite other community Ripe for Harvest/Worship Conference 8 meet the needs of our churches and churches to join you. leaders. Most of the time if you ask folks Students Ponder “Who am I in Christ?” what they need, they will tell you. But it • Invite helping agencies to come alongside at Omega Youth Event/Adult becomes a problem when you give them you and build a partnership of hope. Discipleship - Phantom of Devotion 9 what they ask for and they don’t respond. • Establish a plan to target the needs of those Lubeck Community Mission Team Many times as pastors minister at their looking for hope - do something! Travels to Nicaragua 10 church’s request, the people complain that • Seek out and study God-centered, biblically- the message is there, but it is not Southeast and Southwest Area News 11 based programs. Visit other churches with developed the way they wish. While the these programs already in place. Northwest and Northeast Area News 12 emphasis should be on the cargo (the One of the national programs message), people tend to focus more on Obituaries: November 2016-April 2017 13 that is finding success throughout West the vehicle (how the message is Virginia is CELEBRATE RECOVERY, a Obituaries Continued/2017 Cowen delivered). Sometimes the cargo is lost in biblically-based program that helps those Schedule/Annual Meeting Promo 14 the delivery. who are struggling with hurts, hang-ups In the midst of all the drama and Prayer Calendars: June and July 2017 15 and habits by showing them the loving trauma, there is hope. There are power of Jesus Christ through the Coming Events: June-July 2017/ emerging expressions of church that are recovery process. More information American Baptist Women’s Ministries’ not like the past 2,000 years of history. about this program may be found at Conference 16 People still love Jesus - it is with the www.celebraterecovery.com. church they find difficulty. All of us need Pray about what your church to listen more and talk less in order to can do and then do it! Be the church that find common ground to do ministry. I belongs to Jesus. Jesus wants His church find it interesting the early church did not back to love and change people for an vote on many issues, but rather worked abundant life! to build consensus and serve the Lord. Consensus building does take time, but it Blessings seems to be less painful and more productive in service to the kingdom.

2 The West Virginia Baptist/June-July Executive Committee Report

RIPLEY - In its meeting of May new journey as we become your mission- tinue to pursue his passion for mission 5, 2017, the Executive aries to Chiapas, Mexico.” Argon’s min- work to Cuba, hoping to help more Committee of the West istry with the Convention was celebrated churches and individuals participate in Virginia Baptist by the Board with a special lunch to rec- that mission. Convention received ognize his many contributions these past notice from Rev. Juan eight years. The Executive Committee Aragon that his final day received an update from the Executive of employment with the The Executive Committee also Minister Search Committee outlining the Rev. Juan Convention would be received a letter from Rev. projected timeline for the search process. Aragon May 31, 2017. Aragon Dr. Max Hill announcing It is expected the job description will be had previously informed his retirement effective completed soon after the survey closes. It the Committee of his call to serve as a December 31, 2017. Hill is likely the position will be officially post- missionary to Chiapas, Mexico with joined the staff of the ed and the committee ready to receive International Ministries (IM) with his start Convention as an Area resumes by June 15, 2017. President Rev. date with IM to be determined. His notice Minister in 2004. He has Mark Wood, President advised the of his official end date, while expected, served as the Associate Committee the discernment process takes Rev. Dr. Max was received with mixed emotions. Hill Executive Minister of time and asked for patience as we trust Aragon said, “The West Virginia Baptist Missions and Ministry God for guidance and clarity as to whom Convention embraced and adopted us as since 2006. Hill has contributed greatly to is being called to lead the Convention as family. We are deeply grateful for that. the work of the Convention over these its next Executive Minister. We thank you for your partnership in our past 12 years. In retirement, he will con-

Spitzer Called as ABCUSA General Secretary

On Monday, May 8, 2017, the Board of General Judson Press book, Making Friends, Making Disciples (2010), he Ministries met at Springhill Suites in explores the pivotal role friendship plays in support of the Chicago to elect Rev. Dr. Lee B. Spitzer to church’s mission to make disciples and evangelize. Dr. Spitzer’s the position of General Secretary of the newest Judson Press book, Baptists, Jews and the Holocaust: The American Baptist Churches in the U.S.A. Hand of Sincere Friendship, is scheduled for release in October Dr. Spitzer’s name was brought forward 2017. to the Board of General Ministries by the General Secretary Search Committee. His goal as General Secretary is “to lead ABCUSA into a Over the past several months the Search future of spiritual renewal, creative service and church growth, Committee had interviewed numerous in joyful cooperation with all partners of the American Baptist candidates. After much prayer, discern- family.” His efforts as General Secretary will be directed toward Rev. Dr. Lee B. Spitzer ment and deep discussion, the Committee strengthening connections with ABC regions, affirming and Photo provided by American identified Dr. Spitzer as the candidate best enhancing our diversity, reaching out to the next generation of Baptist Churches of New Jersey website: suited to lead American Baptists forward. leaders, growing trust and collaboration, strengthening our https://www.abcnj.net. American Baptist identity and providing administrative leader- Currently, Dr. Spitzer serves as Executive Minister for ship in areas of stewardship, funding and fiduciary concerns. the American Baptist Churches in New Jersey (ABCNJ). He has Dr. Spitzer will be preaching on Sunday morning, July 2, 2017, at served congregations in New Jersey, Nebraska and Rhode Island. the American Baptist Biennial Mission Summit in Portland, Dr. Spitzer brings a wide range of experience and expertise to his Oregon. new role as General Secretary. In ABCNJ, he guided a strategic planning and renewal process, provided pastoral leadership, American Baptist Churches USA President, Judy launched new ministries and collaborative efforts, created net- Fackenthal, wishes to extend her gratitude to the work and min- works and new partnerships, promoted church growth, fostered istry of the General Secretary Search Committee: Wesley Roberts a united community and managed financial growth. He contin- (Committee vice-chair), Robin Crouch, Shirley Fair, Kelly Legg, ues to speak prophetically into current issues and concerns. Charity Matic, Don Ng, Marcia Patten, Charles Revis, Don Dr. Spitzer has authored Endless Possibilities: Exploring the Robinson, Tom Ross and John Williams, along with ABC staff Journeys of Your Life (1997), the companion Endless Possibilities member, Marilyn Tyson. Course Book (2001), A Summer’s Journey (2001), three articles for the Encyclopedia of Religious and Spiritual Development (Sage, Dr. Spitzer will begin his service as General Secretary on 2006) and Jesus Christ from Cover to Cover (2006). In his first June 1, 2017.

The West Virginia Baptist/June-July 3 Baptist Men Disaster Relief team working were displaced. Starting with over 100 in Rainelle, Clendenin and Elkview cases, we now, ten months into this, still areas. have 25 cases open. Because of the faithfulness of our West Virginia Baptist You are here: Rainelle Convention family in giving to flood A warehouse in relief, we have been able to directly Rainelle was setup to collect and assist 12 families, from a young single distribute furniture to those get- mother of three children to an 84 year- ting back into their homes. As old woman. The grant of $20,000 we part of the distribution, a grant received was used to purchase HVAC was given from the One Great Hour of WEST VIRGINIA units for these individuals. On April 28, Sharing West Virginia Flood Relief to buy Flood Relief Report 2017, we were able to celebrate the over 300 mattress sets. The bedding dedication of three new homes.” I was hungry and you gave me sets were given to families as they reset- food. Matthew 25:35 tled into their homes. You are here: Clendenin You are here: Richwood Our church, Clendenin First Baptist Church (Kanawha Richwood First Baptist Valley) was devastated. The Church (Hopewell) used the parsonage, the main part of the flood relief funds granted to pur- You are here church and our activities’ build- chase air conditioners to help ing were all greatly affected by the two families move from emer- “You are here” with survivors flood. The water filled the basement gency shelters and back into their level and rose into the sanctuary and the of the West Virginia floods. homes. Leslie Carpenter, member of first floor living space of the parsonage, Richwood First Baptist Church says, with at least five-six feet of water filling THANK YOU for your generosity “Because of your gift, we were able to the activities’ building. The parsonage and volunteer efforts that are truly mak- help these families. God has helped us is now livable, the sanctuary is being ing a difference in the lives of those be a blessing to them and now they are used every Sunday and the activities’ impacted by the June floods in Southern attending our church as a result of being building was used as a relief center in West Virginia. West Virginia Baptist ministered to since the flood. They have the days following the flood. But there Convention churches responded in a been touched by the outstretched arms is still so much needed by our church, tremendous way to the One Great Hour of Jesus. We pray God will continue to church family and community! of Sharing Offering: West Virginia Flood let us minister alongside Him as we Relief. One hundred seventy thousand share the gospel with people of the In the early days, post flood, dollars was sent from 100 churches and Richwood area.” we had quite a bit of help, however, over $50,000 was sent from individuals. with the flood now being a year old, We will partner with our brothers and You are here: Spencer sisters in Christ to rebuild communities: Rev. Mark Wood, pas- one life - one church - one home at a tor of Spencer First Baptist time until the work is done. Church (Good Hope), tells of the major role his church played in Donations of food, water, clean- the establishment and operation ing supplies, diapers, paper goods and of the Roane County Long Term Recover even pet food have been collected by Team (RCLTRT). “Over a dozen members many churches and taken to central dis- have served and continue to serve in the tribution stations to help people in long term recovery relief efforts. need. Although our town was spared from other things have garnered more atten- Grant requests from 20 church- flooding, our neighbors in the southern tion. As we still struggle with many es have been fulfilled, meeting the part of the county were not so fortu- issues, we are more than thankful and so needs of families in their community. nate. Since the flooding, the RCLTRT appreciative of the many volunteers who The monies disbursed have been used to has purchased homes, renovated homes have come from as far away as purchase dehumidifiers, lime, mold and constructed homes for those who Massachusetts and Alabama to help us removing products, housing, food, wash- rebuild, repaint, pick up and so much ers and dryers, dishes, other appliances, more, so we can continue our ministry as towels, sheets, heaters and heating, a church. Through prayer, God’s help ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and the love and help of volunteers for homes and churches. Teams worked throughout the area, we will persevere in the flooded areas doing cleanup and and be stronger for having survived and reconstruction. Over 25,000 man hours endured the flood of 2016. have been reported from the American

4 The West Virginia Baptist/June-July ______Thinking Missions by John Simmons, Associate Executive Minister Missions and Administration

churches celebrate God’s call of Juan and Denise to missionary An Unexpected Journey service. For you see, Juan and Denise have had their own unexpected journey. Nine years ago, they accepted an invitation In J.R.R. Tolkien's classic tale to come to West Virginia. They packed up everything they The Hobbit: An Unexpected owned into four suitcases and journeyed to a place where the Journey, he describes the only people they knew were the folks they met from West adventures of Bilbo Baggins, a Virginia who were on a recent mission trip to Nicaragua. hobbit that is somehow chosen for a daring mission. The book, published The journey, as most are prone to do, did not go as in 1937, is filled with all sorts of planned. The opportunities for jobs and “the good life in the creatures, danger, intrigue and lots of adventure. This United States” did not materialize. But God’s plan for them was was quite the surprise for Bilbo, who was accustomed to that Juan was to serve as staff for the West Virginia Baptist his ordinary life in the Shire. Gandalf the Grey obviously Convention to help grow its new ministry to Hispanics. Now, saw something in Bilbo that Bilbo himself never knew after eight years of faithful service in West Virginia, Juan and about himself. Denise will soon continue their journey as they go to Chiapas, Mexico as International Ministries’ missionaries. It was twenty years ago Lisa and I left for Thailand to serve as missionaries. We had never before considered It has been a great privilege to work with Juan and missionary service. Yet God called us out of our ordinary lives Denise these past nine years. It has been inspiring to watch and took us on an unexpected journey. That journey has taken them grow in their faith and go with God. I will be forever us around the world many times. That journey has taken us to grateful God allowed us to walk together on both of our hundreds of churches in West Virginia and across the country. unexpected journeys. That journey has let us meet lots of interesting people and join I, like Bilbo, have been forever changed by the journey with them on their journeys. God had for me. And I cannot help but wonder that God is Lisa and I had the privilege to join Rev. Juan and calling others from their ordinary lives - that God is calling you Denise Aragon in San Marcos, Nicaragua - the place of Juan’s to go on an unexpected journey. childhood. We were there to do mission and to help the Committed to Missions

Camp begins Friday, August Schedule 11, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. and Friday concludes Sunday, August 13, 7:00 - 7:30 p.m - Opening, Music 2017 at 1:00 p.m. and Introductions CAMP 7:30 - 8:00 p.m. - Vespers Bible Study Leader: 8:15 - 9:00 p.m. - Store and Ron Stoner, Retired Evening Activities pastor, Emmanuel Saturday GLOBAL Baptist Church 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. - Breakfast (Kanawha Valley) 9:00 a.m. - Hands on Activities 10:30 a.m. - Gathering Music in Missionary Guests: Hylbert Hall, Bible Study, Keith and Debbie Discussion Groups 2017 12:00 p.m. - Lunch Myers, International 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. - Gathering Music, Family Mission Camp Ministries Mission Moments 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. - Elective Options 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. - Conversations We Are - Matthew 5:14 Missionary Guests: about Mission Calling Juan and Denise 5:30 p.m. - Dinner Aragon, 6:30 p.m. - Intergenerational International Games August 11-13, 2017 Ministries 7:15 p.m. - Vespers 8:00 p.m. - Store and Evening Camp Cowen Activities Missionary Guest: Sunday Debbie Mulneix, 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. - Breakfast Cost: $90 per person International 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. - Gathering Ministries $350 maximum per household Music, Adult Bible Study 10:30 - 10:45 a.m. - Break $40 Saturday only Details and registration available 10:45 a.m. - Gathering for online at www.wvbc.org. Worship, Sermon For more information, contact Joan at Programming for children, youth and adults! 304.422.6449 or [email protected]. 12:00 p.m. - Lunch

The West Virginia Baptist/June-July 5 ______Palmer Seminary by Allan Copenhaver, West Virginia Recruiter and Site Coordinator

West Virginia Program of Palmer Seminary Celebrates Much at Annual Graduation Banquet

Palmer Seminary had a lot to celebrate at its annual While serving as pastor of South Parkersburg Baptist Church, graduation banquet held at Parchment Valley Conference Center Rogers directed numerous students to the program. on March 21, 2017. We celebrated the upcoming graduation of Mr. Evan Arkell, pastor of Barboursville Baptist Church Dr. Lloyd Hamblin shared about the program from the (Guyandotte) and Mr. Eric Seckman, associate pastor of City Soul perspective of his former role as executive minister of the West Ministries (Parkersburg). Both are receiving a Master of Divinity Virginia Baptist Convention. It was during his tenure the Degree. The night also marked the Santrock Education Center Building 25th anniversary of the seminary’s was built with one of its primary pur- presence in West Virginia. poses being a home to the seminary. Hamblin currently serves as adminis- The evening began with a wel- trator of the Bowen Trust scholarship, come from the West Virginia Palmer which most of the West Virginia program director, Dr. Allan Palmer students receive. Copenhaver. Dr. David Carrico, execu- tive minister of the West Virginia Dr. Don Brash is the longest Baptist Convention, offered the invoca- tenured professor coming to West tion prior to the meal. After the meal Virginia. He spoke about his love for was finished, Arkell and Seckman had the program. Brash, who also serves as the honor of cutting the cake. the faculty director of the D.Min. pro- gram, encouraged current and future The program commenced graduates to consider pursuing a doc- with greetings from Dr. Bob Duffett, toral degree. president of Eastern University and Left to right: Dr. David Bronkema, interim dean of Palmer Seminary; Rev. Eric Seckman, 2017 M.Div. Palmer Seminary. He complimented graduate; Rev. Evan Arkell, 2017 M.Div. graduate; The final event of the evening the program’s founder, the late Dr. Bob and Dr. Bob Duffett, president of Eastern University was the presentation of the Matherly Matherly, for his vision of seminary Award. This recognition is presented education in West Virginia. The in memory of Dr. Bob Matherly to audience then heard from several someone who has aided in the individuals who have a long his- success of the West Virginia pro- tory with the program. gram. This year’s recipient was Dr. David Carrico. Dr. Allan Ms. Ruth McFarland is a Copenhaver presented him the name synonymous with Palmer award and acknowledged how Seminary. She has held several instrumental Dr. Carrico has been roles with the seminary, including in strengthening the West Virginia her current role as alumni direc- Baptist Convention’s relationship tor. She was the registrar when with the seminary. Carrico served the program was introduced to as Bob Matherly’s pastor at West Virginia; this meant Beckley First Baptist Church McFarland was the one with the Alums of Palmer Seminary's West Virginia Program who were (Greenbrier-Raleigh) before most hands-on interaction with present at the annual banquet. assuming his current role. students. Twenty-five years later she is still closely connected and equally passionate about the Attention now turns toward the fall semester. Potential program. students should contact Allan Copenhaver at 304.763.8564 or [email protected]. Scholarships are available for eligible Rev. Ed Rogers spoke about his experience as a student. students. He was part of the original group of students and due to transfer credit, he was one of the first two graduates from the program.

6 The West Virginia Baptist/June-July ______Hispanic Ministries by Juan Aragon, Strategist Transformed by Grace and Love - Transformado por la Gracia y el Amor

When Denise and I responded to God’s call nine called you to do so. You are a paragon of generosity. You have years ago, we had no idea what that meant or looked shown us what it means to be stewards of God’s resources. Your like. We had been married just a little over two years generosity springs from gratitude and the willingness to bless and had a burning desire to serve God and share His love people in our state and around the world. and grace with others. As Denise says, “We didn’t want to be ‘bench warmers.’” In faith, we followed the sign- Second, you’ve shown us the power of working together posts God gave us. We didn't know what God had as a family to accomplish remarkable things: providing for a planned, but there was a sense of peace in our hearts family that lost everything in a fire, paying for funeral expenses, when we made the decision to come to West Virginia. hosting dinners to raise funds for medical care or donating with We knew He was leading us here. open hands resources for flood victims. You have beautifully embodied the When relatives and friends words of Ruth Padilla Deborst “the only asked us, “Where will you live? Where way to make the good news known is if are you going to work?” All we could we live it out as community… faithful say was: “We don’t know.” Few under- testimony of the good news is a commu- stood. Some thought we were out of our nity affair only fully carried out by a minds by moving to a place where we body of people woven together by didn’t know anyone, didn’t have jobs let Christ's reconciling work.” alone a place to live. Yes! It was certain- ly an adventure of faith and obedience. Lastly, you’ve been a superb At the beginning when challenging times model in what it means to take seriously struck, I fretted, got mad at God and God’s call to make disciples of all thought I had made the greatest mistake nations. You have shown us size doesn’t of my life by coming here. God still had matter to play a role in God’s global mis- work to do in my heart. Fortunately, I sion. We have seen small rural churches was not alone on the journey. Denise, joining forces to sponsor missionaries with great courage and faith, kept and projects to impact with Christ’s love reminding me God would show us His the lives of people in Mexico, Nicaragua, plan. Today I’m glad I listened! Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Japan, Philippines, Russia, Hungary, South The word “ebenezer” - up to Africa and many other nations. We have here the Lord has helped us - describes been blessed and “infected” by your pas- The Aragon family: Juan, Juancito, Hefziba and how we feel about this season. As is Denise prepare to begin their missionary journey sionate commitment to God’s mission often the case of those who join God’s in Chiapas, Mexico. across the world. mission, our lives have been transformed (see Acts 10) by grace and love. God has used this beautiful state We can only pray as we start a new season in our and its amazing people to change and shape our lives. I would lives and serve as your missionaries in Chiapas, Mexico, we may like to highlight some of the ways you have changed our lives. faithfully teach others with our lives what you have taught us with your very own lives. West Virginia Baptist Convention fam- First, your obedience, faithfulness and generosity. We ily: thank you! We love you! have witnessed the steps of faith you've taken in response to what God’s called you to do. In obedience and faithfulness, Blessings you’ve embraced and loved people unlike you because God

Denise and Juan will serve in partnership with the Council of Rural Indigenous Evangelicals of Mexico (Consejo Indígena Campesino Evangélico de México, CICEM) in Chiapas, Mexico. They will both work in training, prevention and education as they learn the community needs and look for ways to emotionally and economically empower leaders in their communities. Juan will focus on theological education and leadership training as he accompanies, coaches and disciples new church leaders. Denise’s ministry will seek to empower women, especially those who are victims of domestic abuse.

The West Virginia Baptist/June-July 7 Parchment______Valley Conference Center Frank Miller, Director

specialty crop farming businesses and/or continued training and Ripe For Harvest support of individuals looking for employment. Most of the $8.35 billion of food consumed in West The Parchment Valley Conference Center, West Virginia Virginia is not purchased from producers and/or processors in the University Small Farms Center, West Virginia state; therefore, the impact of the effort on the Extension, the West Virginia Department of community will be enormous. The impact Agriculture, the West Virginia Department of will include incubating more local farms/farm- Veterans Assistance and Minutemen Farmers’ ers in West Virginia, creating more local jobs Cooperative incubator training farm is part- working for these new businesses, creating the nering to provide a Specialty Crop Growers’ type of training/work that is rehabilitating for Training Program in Ripley. This program many people, creating local wealth by produc- will target veterans located in West Virginia ing more new products, impacting local food and adjacent states as well as others wishing security and creating a healthier food supply. to learn and have support in starting up farm- The Parchment Valley Conference ing operations. The Specialty Crop Growers’ Center is an ideal venue with great infrastruc- Training Program is scheduled to start in 2017 Christy Wilburn, Speciality Crop ture for the incubator training farm. The mis- with a Department of Labor approved appren- Grower’s Apprentice sion of the Minutemen Farmers’ Cooperative ticeship program making veterans eligible for incubator farm and Parchment Valley G.I. (Government Issue) benefits to support their training efforts as Conference Center will both be enhanced by the partnership and well as profits from what they grow while in training. The appren- lives will be blessed by spending time here and experiencing a ticeship program is a two-year full-time training program support- Christian atmosphere of faith. ed by an optional two more years, if needed, for incubating new

West Virginia Baptist Convention Worship Conference Saturday, June 24, 2017 Clarksburg Baptist Church 9:00 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Cost: $15.00 per person Register four from one church and get the 5th person free until June 1, 2017. After June 1, $25.00 per person.

Workshops (Vocal) Band of Brothers (and 2017 Worship Conference Registration Sisters) The Heart of Worship A sharing and caring session A look at worship and ways to for choir directors, including Name: ______be more focused in worship, discussion on strategies and plus a discussion of ways pas- techniques for strengthening Address: ______tors and leaders can facilitate church choir performances more involvement of the con- and fellowship. City, State, Zip: ______gregation. Working with Audio First Impressions An opportunity for those who E-mail: ______An opportunity for pastors and operate audio equipment, leaders to learn how to make whether beginner or seasoned, Church: ______welcome teams an invaluable to learn skills, techniques and part of the worship ministry of other aspects of this important Workshop Choices: the church. You only get one part of worship. chance to make a first impres- Working with Visuals Morning: ______sion! An opportunity for those who Working with Praise Teams prepare and operate video pre- Afternoon: ______Rehearsals are for learning sentations for worship to gain new music, working through new skills and techniques, to intros, transitions and scrip- Please make check payable to: West Virginia Baptist Convention address questions and review and mail to: West Virginia Baptist Convention, Attn: Donna, tures, as we learn to love and the fundamentals of effective work with one another. graphic communication in the P.O. Box 1019, Parkersburg, WV 26102-1019. context of worship. Deadline for $15.00 fee is June 15. $25.00 after June 15.

8 The West Virginia Baptist/June-July ______Student Ministries by Rob Ely, Director

Students Ponder “Who am I in Christ?” at Omega Youth Event

“Who am I in Christ?” This is an ever evolving question answer the question when someone else asks it of them. This for a continually growing relationship. If Christians asked them- closing event of the year was a great time of fellowship, teaching selves this question daily, what would our thoughts and actions and worship as students and leaders met together to close out look like and how would we view ourselves differently? Beyond this year’s theme. During the morning, worship was led by the our view of ourselves, how would the world view us and what Genesis Fellowship would we say about who we are? Praise Band. Students were also rotated The Student Ministries of the West Virginia Baptist between three speakers Convention has unpacked the question of who we are in Christ for their time of teaching through our 2017 before enjoying a grilled yearly events, by out lunch. The afternoon navigating activities included games through the and testimonies shared theme “Dead I, by the Youth Ministry New I, Ask Planning Team (YMPT) Why?” At members. Omega, on April Youth Ministry Planning Team graduat- 22, 2017 at Omega weekend ing seniors pictured with Rob Ely. from left: Joshua Eastman, Abigail Genesis was also a good time to Harman, Glenn Harman and Andrew Fellowship thank and wish well the O'Callaghan Students listen as a YMPT member teaches by example how to share their own testimony. (Kanawha graduating seniors of the Valley), 82 stu- Youth Ministry Planning Team and to welcome in the new lead- dents and leaders from across the state met and studied together ers on the 2017-2018 team. We are excited to begin planning for how they should “Ask Why?” of themselves to enable them to the 2017-2018 year and see how God leads this new group.

______Discipleship Ministries by Lisa Simmons, Director

Adult Discipleship - Phantom of Devotion

Francis de Sales was a priest in Using these definitions as a foundation, we can under- France, and in time became a bishop of stand a Christian phantom of devotion is a person with no real Geneva, Switzerland. Most Baptists would substance to their devotion to God. They are like actors in a play, not be familiar with his work, however he who give a good performance, but the character is someone they was a prolific writer and focused on the spir- portray, not who they really are. Is this the kind of devotion God itual life by using simple, everyday images wants from us? as Jesus did. Interestingly, in several Old Testament passages the In his writing titled Introduction to the Devout Life, de word ‘devotion’ is preceded by the Hebrew word “tamim,” Sales writes about the “phantoms of devotion.” These are people which has been translated wholehearted, resolute or entirely who are not truly devout on the inside, but put on a great show committed. (see Deuteronomy 18:13, II Kings 20:3, I Chronicles on the outside. De Sales says, "... many persons clothe them- 28:9 and Isaiah 28:3) The Greek word “katharos,” translated selves with certain outward actions connected with holy devo- pure or unmixed is used in the New Testament paired with the tion, and the world believes they are truly devout and spiritual word devotion. The meaning should be clear to the Christian whereas they are in fact nothing but copies and phantoms of reader. We are to be wholeheartedly, resolutely, purely and with- devotion.” (From One True Devotion) out divided heart, entirely committed. Are we perfect? No! There will be times when we are not able to reach the goal. What is a phantom? Definitions range from the word However with God’s help, we will not be phantoms, but real and ghost to something that is in appearance only, something that has certain followers. no substance, an object of continual dread and abhorrence, some- thing apparent to the senses with no substantial existence and a figment of the imagination.

The West Virginia Baptist/June-July 9 Lubeck Community Mission Team Travels to Nicaragua

by Dr. Mike Stephens, member, Director of AMOS Health and Hope, the study with women who shared heart- Parkersburg Baptist Temple (Parkersburg) medical ministry at Clinica Samaritano in rending and hope-giving stories of God’s the Managua suburb of Nejapa with clin- faithfulness in a culture where women are The Lubeck Community Baptist ics in rural communities all over too often marginalized, abandoned and Church mission team, led by Pastor Mark Nicaragua. On Thursday afternoon, the separated from spouses and families. Houser, Cecily Thompson and Kenny team did street evangelism a few blocks Johnson traveled to San Marcos, from the church, visiting homes and invit- The team was able to leave funds Nicaragua February 17-25, 2017. The ing children, presenting a gospel message for about ten scholarships for college and group worked alongside Pastor Rodolpho featuring puppets, dancing, skits and seminary as well as to aid the pastor in Amaya and the young dynamic leadership completing his of Iglesia Bautista Jehovah Yireh for a home. The series of community outreach and min- group has seen istry events. The team from Lubeck also steady progress included: Deanna Boggs, Kristin Cingley, over the five John Dixon, Rich Sell, Mike Stephens, years this church Tommy Thompson and Julie Wolfe. The has been in exis- group conducted Vacation Bible School tence, starting Sunday through Tuesday with about 250 from a few peo- youngsters participating. Pastors Mark, ple meeting in Mike and John preached in special servic- homes to nearly es and Pastor Mark and Mike presented 300 meeting, on workshops on The Work and Importance some occasions, of the Holy Spirit (Mike) and The in a nearly com- Importance of Prayer (Mark) to about 40 pleted building. pastors on Monday. This growth Some of the 250 youngsters who participated in Vacation Bible School comes out of The at Iglesia Bautista Jehovah Yireh Sunday through Tuesday. home cell group also went groups, demon- to each class at strating God’s ability to change lives and the 500 student bring hope in desperate situations. Escuela Angel Miguel (public Pastor Rodolpho has a great school) in San vision to revitalize churches all over Marcos, where Nicaragua as well as to challenge church- they shared es to engage in mission and ministry Biblical skits and beyond their walls -- in particular in their refreshments on support of the Baptist Nursing Home, Tuesday morn- where residents are too often dumped and ing. On abandoned by family members. Wednesday morning, the The church and team have been team did min- supported greatly by International istry and paint- Ministries missionaries’ Juan Aragon, ing at the Arms Worship Team at Iglesia Bautista Jehovah Yireh (God Provides Baptist native to San Marcos and Mayra and Church) with banner showing the church theme: Year for Restoration of of Love orphan- the Family and Vacation Bible School theme: Made with a Purpose. Carlos Bonilla-Giovanetti, who have age in Jinotepe. trained pastors there. Though not physi- Thursday morning featured ministry with clowns. About 50 children and their par- cally present this year, Juan and Mayra Hogar Senil Bautista, the Nicaraguan ents attended. Food and snacks were dis- still maintained support and vigilance Baptist nursing home in Managua, started tributed with each event, spiritual seeds from West Virginia and Puerto Rico by Arturo Parajon, then pastor of were planted and some harvested. On respectively. The group is also thankful Manugua First Baptist Church in 1944. Thursday evening, Cecily, Julie, Deanna for the prayer and financial support of Arturo was the grandfather of American and Kristin led a women’s conference, Lubeck Community Baptist Church and Baptist Churches International Ministries’ with about 30 women and girls from the West Virginia Baptist Convention families. missionary David Parajon, Executive community. The event featured Bible

10 The West Virginia Baptist/June-July Southeast Area News Elk Valley Association Hosts Annual Picnic ______Jim Anderson, Southeast Area Minister The Elk Valley Association hosted its annual picnic at Holly Gray Park near Sutton on April 15, 2017, where members Church (Hopewell), Mountain Baptist Church (Hopewell), from Birch River Baptist Church (Elk Valley), Big Union Baptist Lovers Leap Baptist Church (Hopewell) and Open Arms Baptist Church (Elk Valley), Sutton Baptist Church (Elk Valley), Stump Church sang Chapel Baptist Church (Elk Valley), Holly River Baptist Church praise to our (Elk Valley) and Long Run Baptist Church (Elk Valley) enjoyed a Lord. Southeast beautiful day of food, fun and fellowship. Southeast Area Area Minister, Minister, Rev. Jim Anderson, shared a devotion and song after a Rev. Jim wonderful meal and activities for all ages continued all after- Anderson, fin- noon. ished the evening Hopewell Baptist Association Holds with some 10th Annual Choir Festival Resurrection Sunday thoughts and two new On April 9, 2017, Palm Sunday evening, churches of the Pictured above is one of the church choirs par- songs. A recep- Hopewell Baptist Association gathered at Open Arms Baptist ticipating in the Hopewell Association Choir tion was held Church (Hopewell) for the 10th annual Hopewell Association Festival: Millbrook Baptist Church. afterward and Choir Festival. Rev. John Tinnel, pastor of Open Arms Baptist great food and fellowship was enjoyed by all. Church emceed the evening as choirs from Millbrook Baptist

______Southwest Area News Max Hill, Southwest Area Minister

Diamond Baptist Church West Virginia Baptists Visit Cuba Ordains Kenneth Woods From April 21 - May 1, 2017, a group of eight West On March 19, 2017, Diamond Baptist Church (Kanawha Virginia Baptists visited Cuba. They had the opportunity to min- Valley) held a service of deacon ordination for ister with several churches of the Fraternity of Cuban Baptist Kenneth Woods. The afternoon service was Churches. The group was led by Area Ministers, Max Hill well attended, not only by members of (Southwest) and David Hulme (Northeast), and included Valerie Diamond Baptist Church, but of other Hulme, Melinda and Brian Greathouse, Bob Ratliff, Douglas Eitel Kanawha Valley churches as well. Pastor, Rick and Danny Franke. The group stayed at Jordan Baptist Church Pursley delivered the charge and West Virginia in Havana, which served as their home base. There they stayed Baptist Convention Southwest Area Minister, with church members, worshiped, visited church families and Max Hill preached the ordination sermon. The preached. Valerie Hulme and Melinda Greathouse led a Kenneth Woods service was followed by a delicious meal in the Saturday children’s event. They directed the children in games, church’s fellowship hall. songs, a Bible story and helped them make Mother’s Day cards. As part of their itinerary, the group traveled into the Kanawha Valley Association Holds interior to visit two churches in Villa Clara Province. They Annual Traveling Revival stayed in homes of church members in Ranchuelo, where the group assisted with evening worship and David Hulme From April 2-8, 2017, the Kanawha Valley Association preached. This church is the daughter church of the Jordan held its annual traveling revival. The well attended series of Church. At the Faithful Remnant Baptist Church, in Zulueta, the meetings were held in different churches each night. Pastors and group worshiped and Max Hill preached. This is a small church special musicians from each of the participating churches led the in a rural town where soccer was first introduced to Cuba. worship. Those churches that participated were: Judson Baptist On their last weekend in the country, the group visited Church (Kanawha Valley), Marmet First Baptist Church La Finca Molino Verde (Green Windmill Farm), which is the (Kanawha Valley), Chesapeake First Baptist Church (Kanawha Fraternity’s national camp near Havana. This 90-bed camp has Valley), Diamond Baptist Church (Kanawha Valley), Cedar Grove hosted other West Virginia Baptist groups. The last Sunday of Baptist Church (Kanawha Valley), Handley Baptist Church the trip, the group visited and worshiped with Emmanuel (Kanawha Valley) and Standard First Baptist Church (Kanawha Christian Community in San Jose de Las Lajas, the capital of Valley). These meetings are a source of great fellowship and Mayabeque Province. This is another of the churches where the camaraderie for the churches. Standard First Baptist Church West Virginia Baptist Convention has long standing relation- served a fine meal following the final service. ships.

The West Virginia Baptist/June-July 11 ______Northwest Area News Mark McCloy, Northwest Area Minister

Streams of Revival If you are looking for such renewal and would seek to duplicate such an event, learn from some of the principles at Andrew Murray once said, “A true revival means noth- work here. First, there is strength in coming together. We often ing less than a revolution, casting out the spirit of worldliness talk about “Where two or three are gathered.” If a few is good, and selfishness, and making God and His love triumph in the then it stands to reason a few more won’t hurt a thing. In other heart and life.” From my childhood, I can remember many such words, find some other churches and do something together. personal “revolutions.” Whether at Gain energy from one another. The camp, at a conference or class or at a gathering can take different forms (a traditional revival meeting, all of us youth gathering, a bonfire, a communi- can occasionally use a spiritual refresh- ty picnic, a sing, a concert or even a er. As most likely is true with you, I traditional revival). Secondly, under- have often found those times when stand that people are busy. It is not gathered with other like-minded peo- hard to find an excuse to stay home. ple seeking the presence of God. Therefore, give people some good rea- sons to come out. Something like: a The Good Hope Association free meal will be provided, come to conducted such a series of meetings support your pastor or choir or singing last week with their second annual group or youth leader or maybe “It is association revival. Each night, a dif- at our church tonight.” If you want ferent church hosted, a different pastor Members of the Good Hope Association gather kids to be there, then plan on some- spoke and special music was provided together to worship the Lord at their second annual thing for kids to do. If you want by one or two churches (sometimes association revival. young families, plan on providing with a choir, other times with a soloist childcare. Finally, promote it - a lot. or group). The host church of the night provided a simple meal, No one will be there unless they know it is happening. And which made it easier for people coming directly from work. The remember this one special truth, when God’s people come result was an uplifting and refreshing time. Each night saw near together, it’s fun! capacity crowds as the churches came together to support and uplift one another, and also to seek self-renewal.

Northeast Area News Fairmont and Union Associations Hold ______Annual Lenten Services David Hulme, Northeast Area Minister Both the Fairmont and Union Associations continued their traditions of holding joint evening worship services during Beulah Baptist Hosts Lent. Services were held at a different church, with a different “Walk-Through Easter Story” speaker, each week. The host church provided refreshments and a time of fellowship following each service. These annual servic- Beulah Baptist Church (Union) presented a “Walk- es are a meaningful time and very well-attended. Through Easter Story,” Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. Live scenes, depicting the Last Supper through the Resurrection, Morgantown First were presented in a dramatic and creative way. David Bess, pas- Celebrates 175th tor of Beulah Baptist Church, said the community outreach event Anniversary was successful in presenting the Easter message to the communi- ty and surrounding area. Morgantown First Baptist Church (Goshen) cele- brated their 175th Anniversary, during morning worship on May 7, 2017. Dr. David L. Carrico, Executive Minister, West Virginia Baptist Convention, delivered the anniversary sermon. Also par- Dr. David Carrico (left) and for- mer Morgantown First Baptist ticipating in the service were Church pastor and author, Dr. Rev. David Hulme, Northeast Truett Rogers. Area Minister and Rev. Richard Hepler. A dinner followed the service.

12 The West Virginia Baptist/June-July ______Obituaries November 2016 - April 2017

ELMA ELIZABETH ALLEN, 99, of Belle, India. MARILYN A. HUNWICK, 86, of Palo Alto, died March 11, 2017. She was a member California, died February 17, 2017. She of Judson Baptist Church (Kanawha ARTHUR B. DUCKWORTH, 88, of was an American Baptist Foreign Mission Valley), where she was a member of the Liberty Lake, Washington, formerly of Society (ABFMS) alumna. Lydia Sunday School class, American Ravenswood, died March 31, 2017. He Baptist Women’s Ministries, the choir and was a member of Ravenswood First VERA L. KELLEY, 87, of Rainelle, died, also served as a Sunday School teacher. Baptist Church (Good Hope), where he March 17, 2017. She was a member of served as a trustee for many years. Rainelle First Baptist Church (Hopewell), MARY P. BOWE, 81, of Marmet, died where she served as the assistant music April 8, 2017. She was a member of JAMES VICTOR ELLIFRITT, 60, died director. Diamond Baptist Church (Kanawha March 21, 2017. He was a lifelong Valley) since February 1966. member of Clarksburg Baptist Church DEBORAH GAYLE PRICE LEIGH, 59, of (Union), where he served as treasurer for Buckhannon, died April 5, 2017. She was AVIS “MARIE” BOWYER, 79, of many years. a member of Buckhannon First Baptist Harrisville, died March 26, 2017. She was Church (Broad Run), where she was a a member of Harrisville Baptist Church CHARLES “SHARKY” DUNLAP Sunday School teacher, children’s worker, (Harrisville). GIBEAUT, 89, died March 8, 2017. He youth worker for several years, director of was a member of Poca Baptist Church Vacation Bible School, director of the PENNY SUE BOYLES, 75, of Clarksburg (Teays Valley) for 50 plus years, where he clown ministry and director of the puppet died April 19, 2017. She was a member of served as song leader, Sunday School ministry. She worked in the chapel office Clarksburg Baptist Church (Union), where teacher, superintendent, trustee, chairman at West Virginia Wesleyan College for she was involved in the Fellowship class, of the deacon board and janitor. over ten years. Young at Heart and the church choir. ALICE GIFFIN, 101, of Claremont, DONNA LEE LEMLEY, 64, of Harrisville, DOROTHY GULLEY BURNETTE, 89, of California, died February 27, 2017. She died March 14, 2017. She was a member Scott Depot, died April 29, 2017. She was was an American Baptist Foreign Mission of Harrisville Baptist Church (Harrisville). a member of Judson Baptist Church (Teays Society (ABFMS) alumna. Valley), where she served as choir director MILDRED “MILLIE” LORETTA LEWIS, for many years. LOLA BUTCHER GIVEN, 92, of 89, Buckhannon, died April 23, 2017. She Springfield, Missouri, formerly of was a devoted member of Tallmansville ROBERT “BOB” FLEETWOOD BYUS, Frametown, died April 25, 2017. She was Baptist Church (Broad Run). 88, died April 1, 2017. He was a lifelong a longtime member of Hope Baptist member of Madison Baptist Church (Coal Church (Elk Valley) and served for several DONALD A. LOWE, SR., 98, died March River), where he served as a deacon and years on the general board of American 20, 2017. He pastored Baptist churches in on various other committees. Baptist Churches. these communities: Maple Fork, Quinnimont, Prosperity, New Salem, Rock SYBILLA M. CAUDILL, 88, of Madison, OLGA NADINE HEMMINGS, 88, of Camp, Gates, Broad Run, Sweet Springs, died April 1, 2017. She was a lifelong Diamond, died April 30, 2017. She was a Union and Mount Prospect. In the later member of Madison Baptist Church (Coal member of Diamond Baptist Church years of his life, he was a member of River), where she was the organist for 46 (Kanawha Valley) since November 1971. Breckenridge Missionary Baptist Church years and an active member of Baptist (Greenbrier-Raleigh), where he taught the women’s groups at all levels. She assisted JOANNA MONTGOMERY HODGES, 77, Fellowship Class. with youth groups and church choirs and of Jupiter, Florida, died November 7, 2016. volunteered as a preschool teacher. She was an American Baptist Home MILDRED KATHERINE MCGHEE, 92, of Mission Society (ABHMS) and American Kingwood, died March 28, 2017. She was ELIZABETH ALTA DEERING, 82, of Baptist Foreign Mission Society (ABFMS) a longtime member of Kingwood Baptist Belva, died April 7, 2017. She was a alumna. Church (Goshen), where she sang in the member of Swiss Baptist Church choir, served as a deaconess and was (Hopewell), where she served as clerk and MARY MARIE HOLLEY, 88, of active with American Baptist Women’s treasurer. Ravenswood, died March 12, 2017. She Ministries. was a member of Milhoan Ridge Baptist SALLY JEAN DODGSON, 88, of Penfield, Church (Good Hope), where she served WILLIAM E. MEDLEY, JR., 88, of Saint New York, died March 6, 2017. She was many years as a Sunday School teacher Albans, died April 11, 2017. He was a an American Baptist Foreign Mission and was a member of the women’s circle. member of Saint Albans First Baptist Society (ABFMS) alumna who served in Church (Teays Valley). Always active in

Continued on page 14 ... The West Virginia Baptist/June-July 13 ... Continued from page 13 was a member of Sams Creek First Baptist BETTY VALENTINE, 87, of Elizabeth, the life of the church, he participated Church (Parkersburg) and taught Sunday died February 1, 2017. She was a member frequently in voluntary roles and School for many years. of Newark Baptist Church (Parkersburg). responsibilities. He served the church as a teacher and deacon, and enjoyed years ZELDA LORENE (WILSON) RHODES, RODNEY D. VANNOY, 69, of Scott working with the building care team. 93, of Sutton, died April 29, 2017. She was Depot, died March 12, 2017. He was a a member of Stump Chapel (Elk Valley), member of Judson Baptist Church JOHN EDWARD ONEY, 76, of where she served in various church (Kanawha Valley), where he served as Charleston, died April 8, 2017. He served ministries and was a choir member. head trustee. He was also a member of as a deacon at Mount Vernon Baptist the American Baptist Men and served on Church (Teays Valley) in the 1980s and at HARRY MINNIGH ROGERS, JR. (known the Board of Christian Education. Oakwood Baptist Church (Kanawha to many as “Mick”), died April 7, 2017. Valley) since the early 1990s. He was a member of Broad Run Baptist SYLVIA WASHBURN, 81, died March 10, Church (Broad Run) for more than 50 2017. She was an active member of VIRGINIA DALE PEARSON, 91, of years and was a deacon. Jacksonville, Florida First United Eugene, Oregon, died January 5, 2017. Methodist Church, and most recently She was an American Baptist Foreign ELOISE “ELLIE” SMITH, 87, of Dunbar, attended Weston First Baptist Church Mission Society (ABFMS) alumna. died March 7, 2017. She was a faithful (Broad Run). In addition, she participated member of Dunbar First Baptist Church in her church choir, often singing on choir GLADYS MOSLEY NELSON (Kanawha Valley) for over 60 years during tours in Europe. PETERSON, 90, of Austin, Texas, died which time she served as a deaconess, December 28, 2016. She was an American sang in the Chancel Choir, directed the CLYDE JESSE WHITWORTH, JR., 83, Baptist Foreign Mission Society (ABFMS) children’s choir for several years and died April 24, 2017. He was a member of staff alumna. served on many boards. Charleston Baptist Temple (Kanawha Valley) and former member of South JAMES PRESTON, JR., 89, of WILLIAM CARTER (W.C.) TOTTEN, Charleston First Baptist Church (Kanawha Williamson, died April 24, 2017. He was a died March 24, 2017. He was a longtime Valley). He served on the Diaconate longtime member of Williamson First member of Connolly Memorial Baptist Boards at both churches, often as Baptist Church (Logan-Mingo), where he Church (Logan-Mingo), where he served chairman. He also served on the Finance served as a member of the Board of as a song leader, deacon and trustee. Board at Charleston Baptist Temple and Deacons, Board of Christian Education was active in American Baptist Men at and was a former Sunday School PHILIP J. UHLINGER, 93, of Claremont, South Charleston First Baptist Church. superintendent. California, died January 16, 2017. He was an American Baptist Foreign Mission BEULAH A. “BOOTS” RADCLIFF, 88, of Society (ABFMS) alumnus. Mineral Wells, died March 29, 2017. She

2017 CAMP COWEN 152nd Annual Meeting SCHEDULE of the OLDER MIDLER (grades 3-4) ...... June 4-7 West Virginia Baptist Convention YOUNGER MIDLER (grades 2-4) ...... June 9-11 JUNIOR 1 (grades 5-6) ...... June 11-17 October 19-20, 2017 JUNIOR HIGH 1 (grades 7-9) ...... June 18-24 JUNIOR 2 (grades 5-6) ...... June 25-July 1 New Baptist Church, Huntington HIGH SCHOOL 1 (grades 9-high school grads) . .July 2-8 Theme: Bridge of Hope JUNIOR HIGH 2 (grades 7-9) ...... July 9-15 SENIOR DAY (2017 high school grads) ...... July 15 HIGH SCHOOL 2 (grades 9-high school grads) July 16-22 FAMILY CAMP ...... July 28-31 AMERICAN BAPTIST MEN AND BOYS’ CAMP .August 4-6 Jeffrey D. Jones CAMP GLOBAL ...... August 11-13 Keynote Speaker: Jeffrey D. Jones associate pastor of Ministerial Leadership All registration forms are available by calling Jennifer at the and director of Ministry Studies at West Virginia Baptist Convention office at 304.422.6449. Andover Newton Theological School You may download any of the registration forms at www.campcowen.org. Don’t forget to print a health form for each individual attending. Annual Sermon Speaker: The West Virginia Baptist Camp at Cowen camping program is sponsored by the Trent Eastman West Virginia Baptist Convention and is conducted at 276 Baptist Camp Road, Cowen, West Virginia 26206. pastor of New Hope Baptist Church, Huntington

14 The West Virginia Baptist/June-July Prayer Calendars June ______JUNE 1 - Kurt Smalley, American Baptist Foreign Mission July Society (ABFMS) missionary to Hungary JUNE 2 - American Baptist Women’s Ministries’Annual JULY 1 - Sherry Powers, moderator, Broad Run Association Conference this weekend at Parchment Valley Conference JULY 2 - High School I Camp happens this week at Camp Center Cowen JUNE 3 - The ministry of Racine First Baptist Church; Anthony JULY 3 - The ministry of Wayne Baptist Church; Fred Ferguson, Pratt, pastor (Coal River) pastor (Twelve Pole) JUNE 4 - Older Midler Camp begins today at Camp Cowen JULY 4 - Hefziba Aragon, American Baptist Foreign Mission JUNE 5 - Don Phares, moderator, Goshen Association Society (ABFMS) missionary (youth) to Mexico JUNE 6 - The ministry of Bethesda Baptist Church; David JULY 5 - The ministry of Turkey Creek Missionary Baptist Cyphers, pastor (Fairmont) Church; Glenn Hatfield, pastor (Rockcastl) JUNE 7 - The ministry of Beaver First Baptist Church; Steve JULY 6 - Steve Wilson, member, West Virginia Baptist Gibson, interim pastor (Greenbrier-Raleigh) Convention Outreach Commission JUNE 8 - Phil Smith, American Baptist Foreign Mission Society JULY 7 - The ministry of Yawkey Missionary Baptist Church; (ABFMS) missionary to Brazil Chester Bird, interim pastor (Coal River) JUNE 9 - Younger Midler Camp begins today at Camp Cowen JULY 8 - Tim Rice, American Baptist Foreign Mission Society JUNE 10 - The ministry of Mount Urim Baptist Church (ABFMS) missionary to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Hopewell) JULY 9 - Junior High II Camp begins today at Camp Cowen JUNE 11 - Junior I Camp begins today at Camp Cowen JULY 10 - The ministry of Weirton Heights Memorial Baptist JUNE 12 - Sherry Goldsburg, president, American Baptist Church; Holley Faulkner, pastor (Panhandle) Women’s Ministries and member, West Virginia Baptist JULY 11 - Madeline Flores-Lopez, American Baptist Foreign Convention Christian Outreach Commission Mission Society (ABFMS) missionary to the Dominican Republic JUNE 13 - The ministry of Hope Christian Center; Michael JULY 12 - The ministry of Summersville Baptist Church; Dana Lewis, pastor (Guyandotte) Gatewood, pastor (Hopewell) JUNE 14 - Sarah McCurdy, American Baptist Foreign Mission JULY 13 - Colleen Bumgarner, clerk, Parkersburg Association Society (ABFMS) missionary to Costa Rica JULY 14 - The ministry of Maysel Missonary Baptist Church JUNE 15 - Vital Pierre, American Baptist Foreign Mission (Elk Valley) Society (ABFMS) missionary to the Dominican Republic JULY 15 - Elianna McCurdy, American Baptist Foreign Mission JUNE 16 - Shirley Fitzwater, member, West Virginia Baptist Society (ABFMS) missionary (youth) to Costa Rica Convention Christian Stewardship Commission JULY 16 - High School II Camp begins today at Camp Cowen JUNE 17 - The ministry of Union Baptist Church; Jerome Lewis, JULY 17 - Scott Whetzel, member, West Virginia Baptist pastor (Union) Convention Christian Discipleship Commission JUNE 18 - Junior High I Camp begins today at Camp Cowen JULY 18 - The ministry of Concord Baptist Church; Richard JUNE 19 - The ministry of Dorcas Baptist Church; Steve Davis, Tench, pastor (Teays Valley) pastor (Eastern) JULY 19 - Katrina Williams, American Baptist Foreign Mission JUNE 20 - Katherine Niles, American Baptist Foreign Mission Society (ABFMS) missionary to the Democratic Republic of the Society (ABFMS) missionary to the Democratic Republic of the Congo Congo JULY 20 - The ministry of Marmet First Baptist Church JUNE 21 - Bonita Meredith, treasurer, Judson Association (Kanawha Valley) JUNE 22 - Mike Kelly, member, West Virginia Baptist JULY 21 - Gordon Hwang, American Baptist Foreign Mission Convention Christian Leadership Commission Society (ABFMS) missionary to Japan JUNE 23 - The ministry of New England Baptist Church; Roger JULY 22 - Bill Morningstar, member, West Virginia Baptist Johnson, pastor (Parkersburg) Convention Leadership Commission JUNE 24 - The West Virginia Baptist Convention Worship JULY 23 - The ministry of Belington First Baptist Church; Julia Conference today at Clarksburg Baptist Church (Union) Miller, pastor (Union) JUNE 25 - Valma Adams, office manager, West Virginia Baptist JULY 24 - The ministry of Rock Grove Baptist Church; Benjamin Convention Hall, pastor (Broad Run) JUNE 26 - Brothers’ Keeper happens this week at Parchment JULY 25 - Ruth Mooney, American Baptist Foreign Mission Valley Conference Center Society (ABFMS) missionary to Costa Rica JUNE 27 - Junior II Camp happens this week at Camp Cowen JULY 26 - The ministry of Two Ripple Baptist Church; Gary JUNE 28 - Celestyna Hoefle, American Baptist Foreign Mission Richmond, pastor (Parkersburg) Society (ABFMS) missionary (youth) to Thailand JULY 27 - The Rockcastle Association Annual Meeting happens JUNE 29 - The ministry of Ten Mile Baptist Church; Bradley today at Oceana First Baptist Church (Rockcastle) Tenney, pastor (Broad Run) JULY 28 - Family Camp begins today at Camp Cowen JUNE 30 - Scott McClure, member, West Virginia Baptist JULY 29 - The ministry of Rush Run Baptist Church; John Convention Christian Discipleship Commission Vannoy, pastor (Little Kanawha) JULY 30 - Rob Ely, director, Student Ministries, West Virginia West Virginia Baptist Convention staff and Baptist Convention missionaries listed are on the JULY 31 - David Hoge, second vice-president, West Virginia occasion of their birthday. Baptist Convention and member, West Virginia Baptist Convention Christian Stewardship Commission

The West Virginia Baptist/June-July 15 West Virginia Baptist Coming Events Newsletter Submissions

JUNE Send submissions for The West Virginia June 25-30 Baptist to: [email protected] or mail submis- June 2-4 Brothers’ Keeper sions to the West Virginia Baptist Convention, American Baptist Women’s Ministries Parchment Valley Conference Center Annual Conference Attention: Donna, P.O. Box 1019, Parkersburg, Parchment Valley Conference Center West Virginia 26102. If you are submitting text, June 25-July 1 send typed copy only. We no longer accept Junior 2 Camp (grades 5-6) handwritten text. We also accept hard copy and June 4-7 Camp Cowen Older Midler Camp (grades 3-4) digital photos of 300 dpi (dots per inch). Please Camp Cowen include a caption for your photo and your name June 30 - July 2 and address if you want your photo returned. Mission Summit ABC/USA Biennial June 9-11 Portland, Oregon Younger Midler Camp (grades 2-4) Deadline for submission is the 3rd of Camp Cowen JULY odd numbered months. June 11-17 July 2-8 The West Virginia Baptist is a newsletter of the Junior 1 Camp (grades 5-6) High School 1 Camp West Virginia Baptist Convention, associated Camp Cowen (grades 9-graduates) with the American Baptist Churches, USA, Camp Cowen PO Box 1019, Parkersburg WV 26102; June 18-24 304.422.6449. US Postage Paid at Junior High 1 Camp (grades 7-9) July 4 Parkersburg, West Virginia. Camp Cowen Independence Day Holiday West Virginia Baptist Convention Executive Minister: Dr. David L. Carrico June 24 Office CLOSED Editor: Rev. John E. Simmons Assistant Editor: Mrs. Valma Adams Worship Conference Layout: Mrs. Donna Snyder Clarksburg Baptist Church July 9-15 Junior High 2 Camp (grades 7-9) Camp Cowen Parkersburg, WV 26102-1019 P.O. Box 1019 West Virginia Baptist Convention June 24 School of Christian Studies West Virginia Baptist History (E-02) July 15 One-Day Class with Allan Copenhaver Senior Day (high school graduates) Parchment Valley Conference Center Camp Cowen

American Baptist Women’s Ministries of West Virginia WOMEN’S CONFERENCE June 2-4, 2017 Parchment Valley Conference Center Speakers: Jeff and Beth Davenport

Jeff is senior pastor of Hurricane First Baptist Church (Teays Valley). Theme: “Getting to Know You” Parkersburg, WV Permit No. 36 PAID U.S. Postage Organization Non-Profit

I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glori- ous Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. Ephesians 1:17 For more information, visit www.wvbc.org or contact Kim Mack, Conference Coordinator Elect at 304.206.8247 or [email protected].

16 The West Virginia Baptist/June-July