Our mission: To inform, An international inspire and unite newspaper Vol. 71, No. 10 | October 2014 for Churches of Christ Saving the souls of Latinos REACHING HISPANICS REQUIRES understanding diverse cultures and sharing the Gospel in English as well as Spanish, ministers suggest at national meeting.

BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE At the same time, some people www.samaritanspurse.org lump together all Latin American Dr. Kent Brantly at work at a hospital in BENTON, Ark. cultures, said Carlos Inglés, who Liberia — before contracting the Ebola virus. s Omar Corpus sees it, reaching was born in El Salvador and serves the United States’ fast-growing the Impact Church of Hispanic population with Christ in Houston. ‘God provides,’ the Gospel takes a different “When they think approach than in his native Mexico. about ‘Hispanic,’ “When a Mexican preacher or a some people think says Christian South American preacher comes to ‘Mexican,’” Inglés work in the U.S., they try to work said. “But if you doctor with Ebola like in Latin America,” said Corpus, call a person from a church planter in Arlington, Texas. Corpus Nicaragua a Mexican, BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE “But here it is a different context.” they may be offended. In Mexico, knocking doors, shar- Or you may say, ‘Oh, you eat tacos.’ Krista Brantly couldn’t be prouder of ing Bible pamphlets and preaching Well, in Peru, they don’t eat tacos.” her youngest brother. via a loud microphone in a public Corpus and Ingles were among 120 Second in a series “But I’ve always been proud of him,” park might lead to conversions. ministers and church leaders who she told The Christian Chronicle in But in his Texas ministry, he said attended the 12th annual Reunión INSIDE: The Elgin Church of Christ, a a telephone interview from Atlanta, friendship evangelism — such as invit- Nacional de Predicadores — which Spanish-speaking congregation near where she had just visited her brother, ing neighbors and relatives to worship means National Meeting of Preachers. Chicago, experiences growth and Dr. Kent Brantly, in a special unit at — makes a bigger impact. See HISPANIC, Page 12 contemplates a bilingual future. Page 13 Emory University Hospital. “He hasn’t become a different person” since contracting the deadly Ebola virus — and becoming the focus of interna- tional media attention, his sister said. Rather, “he is who he is because he tries to live according to God’s will.” Kent Brantly, the youngest of six siblings, grew up in the pews of the Southeastern Church of Christ in Indianapolis, where his sister attends and his father and two uncles have served as elders. A graduate of Abilene Christian University in Texas, he and his wife, Amber, worshiped with the Southside Church of Christ in Fort Worth before committing to work as full-time medical missionaries. The couple and their two children moved to the West African nation of Liberia, where Kent Brantly was serving in a two-year, post-residency program sponsored by Samaritan’s Purse, an international Christian relief organi- zation. Two months after the family arrived, the Ebola outbreak began in PHOTOS BY BOBBY ROSS JR. See EBOLA, Page 10 Preachers, leaders and spouses pray during the national meeting, hosted by the Northside Church of Christ in Benton, Ark. 2 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OCTOBER 2014

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EEM October 2014 Ad.indd 1 8/14/14 11:03 AM OCTOBER 2014 the christian chronicle 3 A soldier’s plea In Kentucky, for prayer was the best kind a religious of wake-up call liberty dispute

y alarm itself is not all RATHER THAN ADHERE to proselytization that bad. rules, a Christian children’s home M It’s the time of gives up its seven-figure state funding. day when it goes off that’s unforgiving. BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE For a morning anchor, “morning” MELBER, Ky. — Surrounded by pasture- Inside Story comes in land and soybean, corn and tobacco the middle fields, a rural children’s home associ- of the night. ated with Churches of Christ cared for I wake up abused and neglected boys and girls at 1:30 a.m., for 24 years. just so I can In the last fiscal year, New Pathways help wake up for Children viewers from received $1.3 4:30 to 7. million in state Wendell Edwards But it’s how funding to I start my provide around- day that helps me do my job. the-clock care The stillness of the early and therapeutic morning, the quiet darkness, treatment for the empty streets — it is all up to 27 boys so serene and the perfect and 12 girls at time for my quiet time. It’s TED PARKS a time, state the way I start my day. It Attendees gather in the lobby of the Blue Ridge Center to sing following the evening records show. centers me and guides me. assembly and “Afterglow,” a later version of the encampment’s traditional “Fireside Chat.” But in recent My prayers are so repeti- weeks, the west- BOBBY ROSS JR. tive, but really, you can’t say ern Kentucky A sign along a rural “thank you, God,” too much. home gave up road points to New I remember one particular its government Pathways for Children. Tuesday when my prayer Blue Ridge farewell contract and was short, sweet and returned all the children in its care — personal. It was the morning SINCE 1951, the Blue Ridge Family Encampment has provided a spiritual many with severe needs such as drug after the May 20 tornado in feast. But rising costs and time demands have brought the camp to an end. dependencies and mental health issues Moore, Okla., last year. The — to the state, executive director Ricky EF5 storm killed 24 people BY TED PARKS | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE Though thousands of Christians have Burse told The Christian Chronicle. — including seven children taken part in the encampment, the The action came after the state at an elementary school. BLACK MOUNTAIN, N.C. event itself could not be asked the Christian child-care And that prayer served or 64 summers, the Blue Ridge saved from rising costs, organization to accept new contract me through the rest of the Mountains echoed with the disruptions in schedul- language that the home believed day. I anchored out in the sounds of children singing, ing and increasing infringed on its religious liberty. field, hearing the stories families praying and gospel demands on families in In an interview on New Pathways’ of survival — a couple that preaching. church and society. 25-acre boys’ campus — 260 miles jumped in a ditch, a family FThe annual Blue Ridge Family Directors decided that southwest of the state capital of trapped in a storm shelter, Encampment was born of twin desires this year’s encampment Frankfort — Burse said he consulted first responders trying to to minister to families and strengthen Shipman would be the last. with the home’s attorneys about the make sense of all the chaos. Churches of Christ in North Carolina. Lotte Shipman of new language. But it was a National Guard “It was all about saving the Christian Dothan, Ala., first attended the encamp- “They’re not going to give you any lieutenant who realized just family,” said Mark Smith, one of three ment in 1983 as an 11-year-old. Her room to take kids to church,” he said how vital faith is after a storm. co-directors of this year’s gathering, at three girls — 11, 13 and 15 — have the attorneys told him. “You can’t pray See WAKE UP, Page 4 the YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly. See BLUE RIDGE, Page 24 See NEW PATHWAYS, Page 23 4 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE INSIDE STORY OCTOBER 2014 WAKE UP: A prayer for recovery, resilience FROM PAGE 3 He prayed for recovery, resilience I interviewed him about his job — and strength for the people hurt, for making sure residents didn’t enter those who lost loved ones. places they weren’t supposed to — It was simple, concise and to the and how his fellow soldiers blocked point — just like my quiet-time COULD IT BE YOU who shares truth in a off roads and directed traffic. I asked prayer earlier that same day. world where everything is relative? Could it him, “What was the toughest part?” Just because you’re on the job, it be you who gives purpose in a flurry of “Seeing the folks and the looks doesn’t mean that your light can’t distractions? Could it be you who injects joy of shock on their faces,” he said. shine for others to see. The soldier into lives drowning in despair? Dig deep. “It makes me want to just pray with reminded me of that. Could it be you who has the courage to them immediately.” It’s the best kind of alarm that be a minister of the gospel? “Really?” I said, shocked. “Me too.” really wakes you up — spirit and all. At Heritage Christian UniversitUniversity, we Then he shocked me even more. believe it could be. We will equip you to “Would you pray with me right WENDELL EDWARDS co-anchors KOCO 5 News in minister to the world around you in ways now?” he asked. And so we did. the Morning for the ABC affiliate in Oklahoma City. you never thought possible. We will For the next few minutes, we just He is a graduate of Abilene Christian University in encourage you in the pursuit of your stood a few feet apart, with heads Texas and a deacon of the Memorial Road Church of dreams. And our Legacy Scholarship can bowed and hearts lifted. Christ in Oklahoma City. help you do it tuition free. Call today to learn more. Liberia: A land of tears and hope What if Dr. Kent Brantly hadn’t We found him playing with friends HCU Office of Admissions contracted Ebola? What if he were outside the V.P. Road Church of www.hcu.edu * 256.766.6610 still in Liberia treating victims of the Christ on a Saturday afternoon. PO Box HCU, Florence, AL 35630 deadly virus? Would the news “Do you go to church media here still care? Notebook here?” I asked. He nodded. Would we? I was skeptical. This exact I want to think so. A big scenario had happened the part of my job at The Christian year before in Nigeria, as Chronicle is putting human some youths walking by a faces on global issues. church building told me, I don’t always succeed, but I “Yeah, that’s where we wor- try. And it’s always a blessing. ship. Now give us some I traveled to Liberia with a money.” So I asked Matthew small group of Christians in Erik Tryggestad what he learned in Bible 2005, just before the country’s class on Sunday. first democratic election since its “Memory verse,” he said, quietly. second civil war. I hoped to find Crud. Maybe he’s for real. “Do stories of faith in the ashes of a bar- you remember it?” I asked. baric conflict that claimed hundreds He did, without hesitation. “Jesus of thousands of lives. said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth I remember seeing banks of white and the life. No one comes to the United Nations helicopters as the father but through me.’ John 14:6.” plane touched down in Monrovia. Book, chapter and verse. Wow. I The city smelled of gasoline from tried to take notes, but it’s hard when cars and generators. Power lines your eyes are filling up with tears. dangled lifelessly from poles riddled Today, I weep again for Liberia, for with bullet holes. a people who already have endured I remember watching Jack Evans more than they should, now facing a preach to a room full of Liberians. horrible plague. The president of Southwestern But I rejoice that brothers such as Christian College put his arm around Kent Brantly are willing to put their another longtime minister, Marvin lives on the line to show love and Phillips, and said that, even though compassion to the hurting. their skin isn’t the same color and And I rejoice that children such as they don’t always agree, they’re still Matthew, in the midst of suffering, are brothers in Christ. Powerful. learning that there is truth and life in Most of all, I remember an 11-year- the One who overcomes the world. old boy named Matthew who had known little but war since his birth. Contact: [email protected] OCTOBER 2014 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 5 ALABAMA spotlight HUNTSVILLE — For more than three decades, pulpit minister Gary Bradley has been the face of the Prayers for Ferguson Mayfair Church of Christ. FERGUSON, Mo. — After the Aug. 9 Bradley said he has seen the 2,000- shooting of Michael Brown, chaos member congregation go through and protests erupted in this St. building programs, leadership Louis suburb. But all the news out of changes and economic turmoil but Ferguson isn’t negative. continue to On a Sunday night eight days thrive as one after the shooting, the Ferguson loving family. Heights Church of Christ conducted After a community prayer vigil. 35 years, “We had nearly 300 people in atten- Bradley is dance,” minister Conley Gibbs Jr. stepping said. “The event included African- aside, and American and Caucasian members Jason Bybee, of the Church of Christ as well as a former leaders and members of various Mayfair denominational groups. We joined youth together in prayer and song and minister with agreed to work together to better our a heart for community and race relations.” preaching, See In the Word, Page 30 will take the reins. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TIM HALL Bradley Gary Bradley has served the and Bybee PHOTO PROVIDED BY BRITTANY MOORE Mayfair church for 35 years. said they have a A creative focus on ‘God’s Masterpiece’ unique bond — “a mentor relation- The summer art camp organized by the National Park Church of Christ in Hot Springs, Ark., ship that you seldom find within many has a new name. Children like the ones pictured seem to enjoy it just the same, organizers churches,” the younger minister said. said. With the theme “God’s Masterpiece,” the fifth annual Camp Create — formerly known For years, Bradley has been preparing as Christian Creation’s Art Camp — opened the door for more than just classical art forms Bybee for this new role. Bradley plans such as painting and sculpturing. “It’s great to see kids experiencing personal and spiritual PHOTO PROVIDED to stay active, working with Mayfair growth in fun, creative and exciting ways,” family life minister Patrick Luse said. A sign at the Ferguson Heights church. and helping other churches.

ARIZONA ARKANSAS NEW YORK ration, church member Dale Schraw FLUTED ROCK — Twelve miles from NORTH LITTLE ROCK — At the Levy ROCHESTER — The Lawson Road reported. the nearest paved road and far from Church of Christ, every school-age Church of Christ got a chance to The Gospel Sharing Ministry and running water or electricity, Navajo child gets a “backpack buddy.” connect with residents of a nearby Sojourners helped prepare members Nation church members gathered Church leaders partner students apartment complex. for the effort, Schraw said. for the 22nd annual Fluted Rock with adults who pray for them and “All it took was a grill, hot dogs, Bible Camp. encourage them throughout the chips and a smile,” minister Peter TENNESSEE No permanent structure stands school year, minister Danny Dodd Horne said. COLUMBIA — A community day orga- where families gather for five days of said. The congregation launched The cookout reflected the nized by eight Churches of Christ Bible classes, worship, sports, games, this year’s program with a recent church’s desire to reach out to in Middle Tennessee featured food, crafts, meals and fellowship, said Jeff “Blessings of the Backpack” Sunday. neighbors and “make the world a fun and fellowship. Foster, minster for the Gallup Church better place,” Horne said. Grade-level-specific bags full of Christ in New Mexico. NEBRASKA Members hope to build on the of school supplies were given to “Churches of Christ are organized PILGER — New appliances, box relationships formed. hundreds of children, said Deltric and meeting at 10 places in the vast springs and mattresses were deliv- McCullough, minister for the Navajo Nation,” Foster said. “These ered to nearly 50 tornado-stricken OHIO Macedonia Church of Christ. churches are small but vibrant with families in northeast Nebraska, the HILLSBORO — A door-knocking initia- “Over 500 families’ needs were a desire to learn more about God’s Norfolk Daily News reported. tive by the 22-member Sunnyside met on this day,” McCullough said. Word and to fellowship together. The The donations came as part of an Church of Christ increased the size Other participating congrega- Fluted Rock Bible Camp is a highlight ongoing relief effort by the nearby of the congregation by more than 50 tions included Pleasant Union, Fort of the year for all involved.” Norfolk Church of Christ, working percent, organizers said. Cooper, Dry Fort, Burn Springs, For more information, see www. with Nashville, Tenn.-based Churches The campaign resulted in 25 Bible New Town, Carmack Boulevard and gallupchurchofchrist.com. of Christ Disaster Relief Effort. studies, 14 baptisms and one resto- Columbia Avenue. 6 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE ACROSS THE NATION OCTOBER 2014

BOBBY ROSS JR. Illinois church’s VBS tells story of David, Saul Art and Design Teens perform in “David’s King-Sized Adventure,” the Vacation Bible School drama at the Naperville Church of Christ in Illinois, where Adams Mearse serves as youth Communication minister. “In this scene, they’re singing a song about how Saul has killed thousands but David has killed tens of thousands,” said Brady Ross, a youth ministry intern. English

Foreign Language and International Studies Calvin H. Bowers, longtime Los Angeles History and Social Science minister, author and scholar dies at 82

Music BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE the eighth of nine children. While attending Pepperdine University, Theatre Calvin H. Bowers, author, scholar, then in Los Angeles, Calvin Bowers church historian and longtime was hired by the Figueroa church as minister for the Figueroa Church of minister of education and later was Christ in Los Angeles, died Aug. 8 named associate minister. From 1994 Well-rounded education at Keck Hospital of USC after a long to 2010, he served as the successor illness. He was 82. to pulpit minister R.N. Hogan. While pursuing an education in Harding’s He served the He earned two master’s degrees College of Arts and Humanities, students find church for 57 years. from Pepperdine before completing a themselves inspired and challenged, seeking to In March, at a retire- doctorate in 1981 at the University of ment celebration, he Southern California. He served in a better understand the human experience. Seven told church members variety of roles at Pepperdine, includ- departments within the college explore media and that he would con- ing dean of ethnic and urban studies, oral communication, history, languages, and visual tinue to preach. director of equal opportunity, profes- “Figueroa is paying sor of communication and religion expression — all taught within the Christian mission Bowers my bills ... but I’m and special assistant to the president. of Harding. Students are prepared to continue their employed by God,” he said. He is the author of books includ- studies in graduate schools or enter into any one of Bowers influenced multiple gener- ing “Realizing the California Dream: the hundreds of professions in today’s workforce. ations of ministers among Churches A History of African-American of Christ, including Fate Hagood, Churches in Los Angeles from 1902 Within the liberal arts, anything is possible. minister for the Metropolitan to 2000.” In a 2013 Dialogue with The Church of Christ in Carson, Calif. Christian Chronicle, he talked about He was “the first minister who the need for meaningful connections challenged me to write a sermon,” among predominantly white and pre- Hagood said. “He had the sharp mind dominantly black Churches of Christ. Faith, Learning and Living of a theological scholar and the quick “The motive for all such action wit of a rhetorician and apologist. must be love for God and fellow “He was indeed special. His impact man,” he said. “Shallow, occasional Harding.edu | 800-477-4407 on our brotherhood is incalculable and gestures do little good in the long Searcy, Arkansas cannot be minimized. I will miss him.” run. Such efforts should be pursued Born in Selmer, Tenn., he was with mutual respect.” OCTOBER 2014 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 7 BULGARIA spotlight SOFIA — A team from the West-Ark Church of Christ in Fort Smith, Ark., traveled to this European capital for Roll the Gospel a gospel campaign and “friendship evangelism,” said Hristo Arnaudov, mini-chariots along minister for the Renaissance Church of Christ in Sofia. KPALIME, Togo — Christians recently The young team members from dedicated a “mini-chariot” to help Arkansas “visit Sofia every year and spread the Gospel throughout the have already established quite a villages and towns of this small West few friendships and acquaintances African nation, missionary Willie with young people in Bulgaria,” Gley said. Arnaudov said. As a result, several The bright-red van is one of five young Bulgarians attended this sponsored by South Africa-based year’s seminar — on the topic Gospel Chariot Missions, under “Outlive Your Life.” Speakers the direction of included Brian Robins, Rick Odell, George Funk. Jeff Shepherd and Arnaudov. Other “mini-char- iots” are at work ESTONIA — or are planned TALLINN — About 180 children and — for Liberia, adults from this northern European Zimbabwe, nation — plus the U.S., Canada, Malawi and Russia, Israel and India — were Benin. “Standin’ in the Need of Prayer” Funk and his gospelchariot.blogspot.com at the 20th Baltic Christian Youth SAM SHEWMAKER wife, Ria, both George and Ria Funk Camp, also known as “Balchyoca.” South Africans, Konstantin Zhigulin, a church African Christians train for their mission launched the ministry in 1994. Using member and composer in Russia, Bibles open, a group of African Christians listens as Tombo Pacifique makes a point Gospel Chariots — trucks that hold led the song and other favorites, during a workshop at the Winyo Mission Center in Rongo, Kenya. Sam Shewmaker, tents and speakers for gospel meet- including “Heaven is in my Heart,” longtime missionary in Africa and director for African missions for Missions Resource ings and materials for the World during the camp. Network, spent two weeks working with facilitators to train 97 “missionaries-to-be and Bible School correspondence “We learned new songs, refreshed disciple-makers” from five East African countries. “May God motivate and empower ministry — workers have traveled to the old ones and tried to cultivate them as they join him in the Great Commission,” Shewmaker said. 11 African nations and baptized more children’s love of singing to God,” than 7,000 souls, George Funk said. Zhigulin said. The “mini-chariots” are smaller for Biblical Training, near Cap Hatien. Messianic Jews near Haifa. The than the Gospel Chariots, “but are FIJI “Many of the students, their fami- church is a sister congregation of just as effective,” he said. Church SUVA — Mike Austin taught the lies at home and their churches Netivyah, a Jerusalem-based ministry members will use them to help Gospel of John to five congregations have suffered,” school officials said of Jewish disciples of the Messiah equip congregations to do follow-up in this island nation of the South in a recent report. Though rarely led by Shulam, who is supported by with World Bible School students. Pacific during a recent trip. Austin, fatal, symptoms of the virus — members of Churches of Christ. Christians also will use the vehi- who works with South Pacific Bible which is transmitted by mosquitos cles in prison ministry. College in Tauranga, — include a high fever, a full- ITALY “We are hoping to have 20 of these New Zealand, also body rash and joint pain. After the ANCONA — Titus Robison and his in years to come,” George Funk said. traveled to American students recovered, “they struggled family recently completed a mission Gley said, “The churches in Togo Samoa, where he to catch up in their classes and not trip to Italy, working with Churches are grateful for this great tool for taught conflict to be consumed with worry for the of Christ throughout the country. evangelism.” management for folks back home,” the report said. In the Marches region, they three days during the assisted with the church-run ninth annual South ISRAEL “Momenti sul Monte” (“Moments on Pacific Lectureship. Haifa — The recent fighting in the Mount”) Bible camp, attended Austin Gaza claimed the life of at least by 50 children, ages 6 to 17, and HAITI one Jewish disciple of Christ, said the “Il Discepolato” (“Discipleship”) Galman du Plaa — Though not as minister Joseph Shulam. weekend retreat for ages 18-30, dangerous as the Ebola virus, the Shai Kushnir, 20, a first sergeant which had 27 attendees. Chikungunya virus has caused in Israel’s military, died during oper- “Several children and young adults widespread suffering across this ations near the Gaza border. went back home telling us how gospelchariot.blogspot.com Caribbean nation — and has Kushnir was a member of the much the time together meant to Two “mini-chariots” under construction disrupted students’ lives at the Center youth group of a congregation of them,” Robison said. in South Africa. 8 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OCTOBER 2014

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Christian Village of Abilene Independent Retirement Living 633 E.N. 19th Street, ABILENE, TX 79601 [email protected] www.acu.edu/cva (325) 673-1917 OctoBER 2014 AROUND THE WORLD THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 9 Explosion kills church member 8th Annual in troubled eastern Ukraine BRANSON RETREAT Abundant RADISSON HOTEL Branson, Mo. DESPITE BOMBINGS, KIDNAPPINGS, Ukrainian Christians ‘keep the faith Lhelping Christian seniors thrive OCTOBER 7-10, 2014 and spread the Word,’ ministry training program reports. iving “Making the Most of the Rest of your Life” BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE have fled westward, finding shelter “What’s Left for Me to Do?” – Howard Norton with friends, fellow church members “You’re in the Lord’s Army” – Jay Lockhart In the eastern Ukrainian city of and at a Christian camp. “Light, Salt and Leaven” – WOMEN/Beverly Watkins • MEN/John W. Smith Donetsk, an explosion near the In Donetsk, the Ukrainian Bible “A Passion for Home” – Bruce McLarty meeting place of the Petrovsky Institute has closed until further “Christ, Who is Your Life” – Noel Whitlock Church of Christ killed a long- notice, said workers with Sunset “Till Death Do Us Part” – WOMEN/Suzanne Casey • MEN/Howard Norton time church member and seriously International Bible Institute. The “Bloom Where You Are Planted” – Joe Bright wounded her son-in-law, church elder school, which has trained ministers “Giving All You Have to Give” – Dan Williams Leonid Kryzhanovsky said. throughout eastern Ukraine, is a “His Grace Reaches Me” – Bill Watkins Galina Chugaevskaya “was the first satellite campus of Lubbock, Texas- Daily Story Time with John W. Smith Christian in our based Sunset. congregation,” Two ministers, both graduates of Daily Singing/Devotionals with Leon Sanderson Kryzhanovsky the institute, have been abducted said in a by separatists, workers with Sunset message to said in a recent report. One has been supporters. She returned to his family. was baptized Administrators plan to reopen the June 22, 1994, Ukrainian school — either after the a little less than violence subsides in Donetsk, or in For more info or to REGISTER, call 501-279-4055/501-278-7033 or go to www.abundantlivingseniors.com three years a new location. after the former “Satan certainly reared his ugly Mobilizing Christian Seniors eternalto make an Every Day of Your Life Soviet republic pHOTO PROVIDED head in trying to stop the spread became an inde- Galina Chugaevskaya, of the Gospel in an area of Ukraine difference pendent nation. one of the first where so much good has been The blast baptized believers in done,” the report reads. “Of course, that took her eastern Ukraine, died our brothers and sisters there life struck a in the midst of the continue to keep the faith and school building country’s conflict. spread the Word in spite of what is ® — the church’s happening.” first home before it moved to its The Petrovsky congregation — current facility, the elder said. one of the largest Churches of Christ Stan Bryan, a church member in eastern Ukraine — typically had in eastern Oklahoma, first visited from 85 to 100 people in attendance Donetsk in 1993, following up with on Sundays, Kryzhanovsky said. contacts from a gospel campaign That number is now 20 to 35, as conducted by missionary Eddie Cloer many Christians have left the region. that resulted in about 100 baptisms. “We are grateful to the congrega- “I have many good memories tions in Mariupol, Dobropole and of Galina,” he told The Christian Ivano-Frankivsk,” he said. “They Chronicle. “She was one of the more have rooms for families with small mature and solid members of the children and pregnant sisters (from church there — a very sweet smile the) Petrovsky congregation.” and a kindly disposition. ... Over The Petrovsky church continues the years she has remained a solid to meet and take the Lord’s Supper, member of the church there, through Kryzhanovsky said. good times and more difficult times.” One day after Chugaevskaya’s Twenty years after Chugaevskaya’s death — during Sunday worship — baptism, eastern Ukraine is in the a 20-year-old woman committed her midst of bloody conflict as separatists life to Christ and was baptized. Eleven volumes with over 1350 songs in PowerPoint® format fight government troops. “Please inform all our Christian Project easy-to-read lyrics and music / CCLI license not required Militants have seized two Church friends that the Petrovsky congre- Download free songs and order at: www.PaperlessHymnal.com of Christ buildings in the city of gation lives,” the elder said. Despite For PowerPoint® slides in Spanish: www.himnosenpantalla.com Gorlovka. Refugees — including the bombs, “we praise God and church members and orphans — serve him.” 10 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE from the front OCTOBER 2014

Online Registration Closes Sept. 20 EBOLA: ‘He was being so careful,’ sister says FROM PAGE 1 scathing critique of the physician, neighboring Guinea. The virus, accusing him of abandoning America named after a river in the Democratic “to do much-praised work in Third Republic of Congo where the first World countries.” THE MISSION OF outbreak was recorded in 1976, has “I haven’t read it,” Krista Brantly no cure and a high mortality rate. said when asked about the column. At press time, Ebola had claimed Her brother answered many of 1,145 lives in West Africa, the World his current critics before he left for Health Organization reported. Liberia — in a July 2013 sermon he Kent Brantly treated patients delivered to the Southeastern church, at a hospital in Liberia’s capital, where he was baptized. Monrovia. He and fellow healthcare “I learned to read shape notes workers outfitted in Kay Johnson’s themselves in Wednesday night protective suits as singing class,” he they treated victims told the congre- of Ebola, which gation. He loved is spread only hearing stories and through contact seeing pictures from with bodily fluids. visiting missionaries In late July, the — especially his physician began PHOTO PROVIDED uncles and aunts, running a fever and Krista Brantly with her brother, Kent. Dr. Frank and Lou felt sick. He quaran- Ann Black and Bob tined himself and took a test for Ebola. and Joan Dixon, who served in Africa. “He was being so careful,” Krista Frank Black is the former director Brantly said, so when the family of the International Health Care learned of his illness, “we were Foundation, a church-supported hoping it was malaria or Dengue nonprofit in Searcy, Ark. Black fever.” Both of those ailments also organized annual medical mission occur in Africa. Though brutal, conferences in Dallas. At the 2003 OCTOBER 16-18, 2014 they’re treatable — and survivable. conference, one of Kent Brantly’s For 72 hours, the Brantly family brothers — Chad, a dentist in San prayed as they waited for the results of Angelo, Texas — performed a song, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE the test. When she got the news that jokingly titled “Please Don’t Send it was positive, “it knocked the breath me to Africa.” (Chad Brantly and out of me,” Krista Brantly said. “We much of his family have participated had told a few people to be praying, so in mission trips to Africa.) Go to www.globalmissionsconference.org to see the we let them know, pray harder!” Kent Brantly, meanwhile, studied speakers, the breakout sessions, and the opportunities to Though it’s only been a few weeks Bible at Abilene Christian. For discuss together on important mission topics. since that revelation, “it seems like a summer ministry internship, years,” she added. he spent 10 weeks working with Register Now! Be sure to notice and register for children’s “We’re confident that he didn’t three mission teams in Kenya and classes, meals and Fellowship opportunities. do something careless,” she said. Tanzania. Though they don’t know how he During a devotional near the end contracted Ebola, “at this point, it of that internship, a visiting Bible Call 800.311.2006 for more information. doesn’t really matter.” teacher spoke about being a slave A comprehensive missions gathering of churches of Christ to “Before the diagnosis, he told us to Christ. That meant, “wherever advance domestic and global outreach. Planning is led by a that he wanted God to be glorified he wanted to send me, wherever he Steering Committee of missions leaders across the nation — whether he lived or died,” she called me, I would go,” Kent Brantly said. “That’s what he was praying, recalled. “Then the realization hit Conference features include: fervently.” me. What if he called me to be a missionary in Tanzania?” It wasn’t an •International Presenters ‘WHEREVER HE CALLED ME, I WOULD GO’ appealing idea at the time. • Practical Missions Sessions Why did Kent Brantly go to Liberia? “My saving grace, though, was the Political pundits have asked the second part of that lesson,” he said. • Missions Exhibits and Networking question, citing the high cost and “God provides everything we need Check out our • College Students – World Missions Workshop Facebook page: risk of transporting him and his to be faithful to him.” Global Missions • Plan this into your 2014 Vacation coworker, Nancy Writebol, also After graduation, he decided to Conference infected with Ebola, to Atlanta. pursue medicine, returning to ACU Columnist Ann Coulter issued a CONTINUED OCTOBER 2014 FROM THE FRONT the christian chronicle 11 ‘A clash of fear and faith’ STORIES OF DESPAIR AND HOPE abound among Churches of Christ in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone — the focal points of West Africa’s Ebola outbreak.

BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE loss of a loved one “and assure them of our prayers,” he said. Other faith Christians in West Africa are groups offer bleach and cleaning fighting the Ebola virus with prayer, supplies to victims’ families. radio waves and bleach. Christians have an “opportunity to In Guinea, one member of a build our own faith” by proclaiming ERIK TRYGGESTAD Church of Christ died in the town of “that God is the only protection,” he Minister Maxwell J. Whea, right, Liberian children and visitors from the U.S. and South Gueckedou, an early epicenter of the told The Christian Chronicle. Africa pray for a peaceful, democratic election in the West African nation in 2005. outbreak, said Nestor Tonguino, a “Prayers for this epidemic are minister in the capital of Conakry. At made every Sunday Louisiana-based World Radio Gospel Daye said. But “our faith won” and least one church member lost a child — and every Broadcasts, to teach Liberians about the graduation continued, he added. to the virus. Another minister, Saa weekday in homes,” prevention and the Gospel, minister No church members are known to Tolno Philippe, has lost 12 relatives. he said. Isaac Daye said. Christians are have died from Ebola in Liberia or “Directly or indirectly, we have In neighboring using “the sword of the Spirit as our neighboring Sierra Leone. all been victimized,” Tonguino said. Liberia, “with our civil weapon to complement government Jacob Sesay, a minister for a “This evil has greatly affected the war behind us ... we efforts in defeating the enemy of Church of Christ in Sierra Leone’s church — in numbers and spiritually.” had once more begun our new war,” Daye said. capital, Freetown, said that church Many church members refuse to laugh” before Recently, Daye presided over the members there are encouraged by Sesay to shake hands when they attend the outbreak, said graduation service for 35 students in the support they’ve received from worship services, he said. Maxwell J. Whea, minister for the the World Bible School program at Christians around the world. Some don’t attend at all. Smythe Road Church of Christ in the the St. Paul Bridge Church of Christ. “Your prayers are so important The outbreak stresses the need capital, Monrovia. The conflict, which A few hours into the ceremony, to us,” he told the Chronicle, “and for Christians to share the Gospel lasted 20 years, claimed at least the crowd received news that four we appeal that you continue to while they can, said Francis Musa, 200,000 lives. recent deaths in the community were remember us in your prayers. ... We another minister in Guinea. Church Church members are using their due to Ebola. People began to panic, now look to God Almighty to save members call families grieving the radio programs, supported by creating “a clash of fear and faith,” us from this killer disease.” Doctor’s response sparks ‘a fresh interest in what it means to truly commit to faith’

CONTINUED vital role in his decision to become a He’s able to talk to his family — Daye said the physician “will go for a fifth year to take science classes. medical missionary. through a window, using an inter- down in history in the fight against He also went on a medical mission “You encouraged me to memorize com. His father, Jim Brantly, told the this killer disease as a faithful soldier trip to El Salvador and Honduras. Bible verses, supported me to go on Chronicle that he and his wife, Jan, of Christ — who risked his life on the There, “I began to feel the impact my first mission trip,” he said. Many “are praying daily that God will con- battlefield, saving lives and souls.” that a medical missionary could sacrificed their days off to teach at tinue to use this difficult situation to Chris Kirby, the Southeastern have on the lives she or he touched,” Vacation Bible School and a church- his glory and for his purposes.” church’s youth minister, said that he said. “Incidentally, I met a young run camp. “I allowed your words and That seems to be the ordeal “has brought a level of pre-nursing student who taught your actions to help guide me as I happening, Krista awareness to our church that may me to measure blood pressure that moved forward in my walk with God. Brantly said. The fam- have been lacking. It seems that week. Now she’s my wife.” “Time and time again, God has ily has received mes- we have a fresh interest in what it He studied at the Indiana University used my life circumstances to sages of support from means to truly commit to faith.” School of Medicine and did a rotation remind me that he is sovereign, that 30 countries — from Witnessing the faith of Kent of his residency program alongside he is in control.” people of Christian, Brantly and Nancy Writebol as Frank Black at the Chimala Mission Muslim and Jewish they battle Ebola “has touched so Hospital in Tanzania. ‘I AM MORE GRATEFUL EVERY DAY’ faiths. Daye many people and strengthened their “I can sincerely say that Kent is not In Atlanta, “I am recovering in A group of travelers prayer lives,” Krista Brantly said. only a well-trained, excellent doctor,” every way,” Kent Brantly, who is not told the family that they heard Kent It also has “prompted them to his uncle said, “but he combines his yet speaking to media, said in a state- Brantly mentioned, by name, from acts of service, opened the door to Christianity with his medicine in ment released by Samaritan’s Purse. the pulpit of an Anglican church — so many conversations about the a more effective manner than any “I thank God for the healthcare team in Ethiopia. Gospel and faith in God,” she said. doctor I’ve worked with. He’s an here ... giving me compassionate, Christians in West Africa, includ- “We hear story after story. ... We example to all us healthcare workers.” world-class care. I am more grateful ing Church of Christ minister Isaac will never know every story, but we In his sermon, Kent Brantly told every day to the Lord for sparing my Daye, praised Kent Brantly for his know, without a doubt, that God is at his church family that they played a life and continuing to heal my body.” service. In a message from Liberia, work in powerful ways.” 12 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE FROM THE FRONT OCTOBER 2014

PHOTO PROVIDED BOBBY ROSS JR. BOBBY ROSS JR. Fernando Toledo, with wife Griselda, Preachers and ministry leaders play Alejo Solis, a Northside church deacon, helps prepare breakfast during the National serves the Northside Church of Christ. soccer in the Northside fellowship hall. Meeting for Preachers. The menu included eggs, tortillas and refried beans. HISPANIC: Ministers offer tips for converting Latinos in the U.S.

FROM PAGE 1 right person who is passionate about The Northside Church of Christ the souls of the Hispanics,” said in suburban Little Rock hosted the Martinez, minister and elder for the Soccer, tortillas and unity: National recent gathering, where The Christian Rogers Church of Christ in Arkansas. Chronicle asked attendees to share That Spanish-speaking body has Hispanic meeting builds up preachers insight on winning Latino souls. grown from zero to 160 since 1995. The number of U.S. residents who Third, church leaders must cast a BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE organized the first national meeting identify as Hispanic has risen to 53 clear vision for the outreach, he said. in the early 2000s. million, up from 22 mil- “When elders send a BENTON, Ark. — Soccer games While the annual gathering lion in 1990, according to missionary to Colombia pitting preachers vs. preachers. always features plenty of Bible census data. or Mexico or somewhere, Refried beans and tortillas study, singing, prayer and fellow- But Spanish won’t nec- they expect that man to featured on the breakfast menu. ship, this year’s fútbol tourna- essarily be the language go over there, preach A distinct Latino flavor charac- ment marked a first. As ministers to reach second- and the Gospel and start terized the 12th National Meeting changed from ties and dress third-generation Hispanic the church,” Martinez of Preachers hosted shoes into T-shirts and sneakers, Americans, ministers told Arkansas said. “They expect that by the Northside Fernando Toledo predicted the the Chronicle. Population: 2,959,373 the church will grow Church of Christ, games would make memories. Gerardo Vazquez, Racial/ethnic groups: 75 and mature and become 25 miles southwest “Seeing the preachers playing a recent graduate of percent white, 15 percent self-supporting.” of Little Rock. together — this is going to be Harding University’s black, 6 percent Hispanic, The same should be The Reunión awesome,” said Toledo, Hispanic Center for Advanced 1 percent Asian and less than true in the U.S., he said. Nacional de minister for the Northside church. Ministry Training in 1 percent American Indian. Here in Benton, the Predicadores — as The camaraderie-building Searcy, Ark., said he English- and Spanish- the participants competition — marked by a few Source: U.S. Census Bureau Felix Martinez often mixes Spanish with speaking assemblies both know it — brought friendly taunts after goals sailed English when teaching have grown steadily. together 120 ministers and into the nets — reflected the Latino teens. With 600 members, the Anglo church leaders focused on event’s longtime focus on unity, “We need to remember that the group eclipses the 75 or so Hispanics. reaching America’s fast-growing coordinators said. main objective is not our language However, Northside preaching min- Hispanic population. From the beginning, the national but that they gain the knowledge of ister Jim Gardner stresses the neces- “We try to encourage one another meeting has concentrated on Jesus,” Vazquez said. sity of treating everyone equally. and love one another,” said Felix uplifting and refreshing ministers — In Victorino Martinez’s view, suc- “It is very important to try and Martinez, minister for the Southeast with a strict prohibition on doctrinal cess in Hispanic ministry hinges on break down the idea that the English Church of Christ in Oklahoma City. disputes, Felix Martinez said. identifying the right location, the group is the mother hen and the Martinez and two other ministers “One of the speakers came right person and the right vision. Hispanics are the little underlings,” — David Esparza of the Westbury from Mexico, and he said, ‘I can’t “Where do they want to start a Gardner said. “The English-speaking Church of Christ in Houston and believe it: This is a lot of ministers Hispanic outreach?” is the first ques- people can’t see themselves as over Victorino Martinez of the Rogers right here, and nobody’s fighting,’” tion churches should ask, he said. the Hispanic group. These are your Church of Christ in Arkansas — Martinez said with a laugh. Second, congregations need “the brothers and sisters.” OCTOBER 2014 Churches That Work the christian chronicle 13

BOBBY ROSS JR. Church members Paulino and Brenda Gomez, on the front row, sing during the first assembly of the Elgin Church of Christ, 35 miles northwest of Chicago, at its new building. Cristo can move mountains IN A CHICAGO SUBURB, a Spanish-speaking church experiences growth and contemplates a multicultural future

Cristo puede mover montes into English below — held special Gonzalez touched his hands to his “With a lot of my Hispanic friends, Sólo Dios puede salvar meaning: heart as he tried — in broken English the parents don’t teach them Spanish Mi Dios puede salvar Savior, he can move the mountains — to put his glee into words. … so the little bit of Spanish that they — Spanish version of “Mighty to Save” My God is mighty to save “We made it,” he know is very minimal He is mighty to save said. “I feel very and not very gram- BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE The voices that rang out testified happy with God matically correct,” to this fast-growing congregation’s because God give said Omar Gonzalez, ELGIN, Ill. emotional, 25-year journey — from us this building.” 15, who has attended ears of joy flowed as the Elgin an Anglo church’s basement to a The Elgin the Elgin church Church of Christ, a Spanish- cramped rented facility to this first church is a mix of all his life but is not speaking congregation north- assembly in an 11,000-square-foot older Christians who speak mainly related to Hector Gonzalez. west of Chicago, stood and building all its own. Spanish and younger members fluent Even with Omar, his mother, sang the invitation song. “I can’t believe it,” said Hector in Spanish and English. At the same Miriam Gonzalez, said he seems TFor the 305 men, women and chil- Gonzalez, 71, one of the handful of time, some of the congregation’s to grasp English better, though his dren who filled the Iglesia de Cristo’s original members. “We work for a teens struggle with their parents’ family speaks Spanish and watches auditorium on this recent Sunday, long time and try and try and try. native language, communicating Spanish television at home. the hymn’s words — translated Finally, God hear you.” better in English than Spanish. CONTINUED 14 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE CHURCHES THAT WORK OCTOBER 2014 OCTOBER 2014 CHURCHES THAT WORK the christian chronicle 15 Elgin Church of Christ Location: Elgin, Ill., 35 miles northwest of ABOUT THE SERIES Chicago. The Christian Chronicle launched Churches That WEBSITE: www.iglesiadecristoenelgin.com Work in 2005 to inspire Churches of Christ to take PROGRAMS: Pan Alegre (“cheerful bread”) an active role in their communities. Churches involves members inviting people That Work should be: into their homes for dinner, followed • Evangelistic, reaching the by a devotional. Other efforts include unchurched at home or abroad. the church’s children feeding hungry • Biblical, making Bible instruction counterparts and serving in nursing central to their mission. homes. The church’s women help with • United, possessing a spirit of a crisis center, and members regularly internal vitality. visit jails where undocumented aliens • Visible, known and appreciated facing deportation are held. for service in their community. INTERNATIONAL: The church The Chronicle does not seek to supports orphanages in Mexico, endorse or promote any one congre- including the City of Children in PHOTO PROVIDED gation and its practices but presents Ensenada and the Ciudad de Angeles this series in an effort to highlight (“City of Angels”) in Cozumel. The congregation innovative approaches to ministry and outreach. also helps and visits ministers and churches in Read more stories from this series online at Those present for the first assembly of the Elgin Church of Christ at its new building pose for a photo. A dwindling Christian Science church sold the building for $475,000. Cuba, Mexico City and Nazareth, Israel. www.christianchronicle.org. Barrera, who immigrated legally said. “When I look at what God has jailed aliens facing deportation. to the U.S. when he was 16, came to done for us, it’s just amazing.” In contemplating how to reach the Lord after his future wife, Taly, Hispanics with the Gospel, one must introduced him to the congregation A FUTURE IN SPANISH AND ENGLISH recognize cultural differences in the in the early 1990s. With room to grow, the Elgin U.S. and elsewhere, Barrera said. After outgrowing the basement, church envisions becoming a model of In recent weeks, Barrera the church rented an old, two-story Latino ministry — including possibly addressed 600 Latino teens at the school starting in 1998. But before starting an English-speaking assembly National Hispanic Youth Conference long, the 35 members swelled to in its spacious fellowship hall. in Rogers, Ark. Then he spoke to a more than 150. In the main assembly, Barrera crowd of 1,300 at a national youth “We maxed out the building,” said expects to initiate a “dual-language rally in Monclova, Mexico. Barrera, who trained at the now- program” that will infuse more “It’s two completely different defunct Alpha and Omega Bible English but remain cultures even though Institute in Hope, Ark. primarily Spanish. they are both Hispanic,” To deal with the crowding, the “Many of our kids speak he said. church bought a video camera and English and deal with In Barrera’s view, a broadcast the service only English-speaking Hispanic minister who downstairs. Members friends,” he said. “So to does not speak English were assigned on bring them to church or understand American a rotating basis to when it is an all-Spanish Illinois culture will be at a worship via the video church, it’s kind of hard. Population: 12,882,135 disadvantage. feed. They’re like, ‘I go, but I Racial/ethnic groups: 64 He attributes the Elgin BOBBY ROSS JR. RICARDO BARRERA By the mid- don’t get edified.’” percent white, 16 percent church’s growth and Minister Ricardo Barrera greets Esperanza Martinez at the Elgin Church of Christ. The Weeks before the first assembly, members young and old walk more than four miles 2000s, the church PHOTOS BY BOBBY ROSS JR. Barrera has a gift for Hispanic, 15 percent black, vitality to a number of purchased two relating to people in factors, including its inde- sign above the entryway references “Shema.” “It is a Hebrew word that means not only from their old, rented facility to their new building. “People were crying,” minister M. Gonzalez Antonio Barrera, brother of minister 4.6 percent Asian and 0.3 to hear but to obey,” Barrera said. The Scripture cited is James 1:22. Ricardo Barrera said. “They just couldn’t believe we finally got something for the church.” acres to construct a Ricardo Barrera, helps distribute the Spanish and English, said percent American Indian. pendence (the church is new building. However, finalizing Lord’s Supper and collect the offering. Bobby Lawson, minister fully self-supported) and Source: U.S. Census Bureau CONTINUED 2010 U.S. census, Latinos comprise 44 many worshipers were born in the not. It’s not a question Barrera feels construction drawings and gaining for the Park Forest stability (Barrera has “There have been times that we percent of Elgin’s 110,000 residents. United States, roughly one-third compelled to ask. city approval for the plans took time. grew up Catholic in Los Angeles. Church of Christ in served the congregation have gone to services with the Anglo Speaking to the crowd gathered raised their hands. “I just baptized somebody … and I Then the recession hit. “But we prayed a lot, and everybody Matteson, Ill., south of Chicago. full time since 2005). The church brothers when we have been out and for the inaugural assembly, minister But when he asked how many don’t know his status,” the minister “A lot of our members are would say, ‘one day, one day, one Lawson cites Barrera’s “passionate does not have elders but is working about, and I could see how he reacts Ricardo Barrera interspersed were born in Latin America, the said. “That’s not my concern. … We construction people,” Barrera said. day, one day,’” Corral said. “The day love for God.” in that direction, Barrera said. to the knowledge,” she said of her occasional English with the Spanish remainder of arms shot up. just welcome them to church.” “I saw that they were struggling.” comes, and you don’t even believe it.” “He has made many sacrifices to Even in the new location, church son. “His comprehension is better.” lesson. “There’s more of us,” he said Eventually, the idea of buying an Years of prayer were answered serve the Lord and to serve people, members expect to face obstacles. The language differences point to “If my accent is a bother to you, with a smile, winking at fellow PRAYERS ANSWERED, FINALLY existing building — a cheaper option when a dwindling Christian Scientist from giving up a lucrative opportu- But that’s OK, they said, because the challenges — and opportunities I’m sorry,” Barrera joked to the immigrants from countries such as The Elgin Iglesia de Cristo began — took hold. church agreed to sell its brick, tree- nity to run a McDonald’s franchise the congregation serves an almighty — faced by church leaders in this crowd, 75 percent of whom he esti- Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, with a few families meeting in the In many cases, Hispanic churches shaded building for $475,000. to making himself available when- Savior. Chicago suburb, where the Hispanic mates understand English as well as Honduras and Peru. basement of the English-speaking can’t afford a building unless Anglo “There are no words to describe ever he is needed in ministry,” said “There is no way we could have this population has more than doubled Spanish. “I’m Mexican.” Most of the immigrant members Westside Church of Christ in Elgin brothers and sisters foot the bill, it because we have been waiting for Lawson, who frequently accompa- place,” Barrera said in his sermon, in the last 20 years. According to the When the preacher asked how are legal U.S. residents. Some are in the late 1980s. said Elgin member Rigo Corral, who this for so long,” Miriam Gonzalez nies Barrera on visits to minister to “unless Jesus moved the mountain.” 16 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OCTOBER 2014

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Updated 01/07/10

OCTOBER 2014 Currents the christian chronicle 17 ‘They truly have unbreakable spirits’ THE PARENTS OF ‘KID PRESIDENT’ Robby Novak and his sister, Lexi, share their journey of faith and foster adoption

BY RACHEL PATE and Erik Tryggestad hold the little girl, Lexi, whom every child Tennessee Children’s didn’t talk. She could sit but not THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE she and her husband, David, had Home West asked them to take. walk, largely due to the curvature agreed to care for as foster parents. The parents of two grown daugh- of her legs, a common condition HENDERSON, Tenn. A grimace quickly replaced the ters and a 14-year-old son, they had for children with Osteogenesis he little girl in the car seat had smile as Lexi braced for the pain decided, as a family, “to provide a Imperfecta, or O.I., erroneously a big smile on her face — and she would inevitably feel at being place for children to feel safe and known as “brittle bone disease.” Ta gauze bandage wrapped handled, even gently. loved,” David Novak said, “and to On New Year’s Eve, Lexi’s around her leg. The case manager It was four days before provide a home where they can be 2-month-old brother, Robby, also didn’t know why the bandage was Christmas 2003, and the Novaks, a kid — and enjoy life as a kid — entered the Novak home. Robby, there and hadn’t yet found the members of the Estes Church and not have any worries.” who shares his sister’s condition, nerve to pick her up. of Christ, had served as foster But Lexi was different. At 17 weighed six pounds. Laurie Novak reached down to parents for four years, caring for months old, she hardly cried and CONTINUED

KRISTI MONTAGUE “Kid President” Robby Novak and his sister, Lexi, share a laugh with their mom, Laurie, at their home in Henderson, Tenn. Robby “never stops moving,” says one of his big sisters. 18 OCTOBER 2014 CURRENTS THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 19 Imperfections and all, ‘we were made to be awesome,’ Kid President says

CONTINUED Gundry, had launched a media pack and ship 150,000 meals for The first trip to the hospital was company, SoulPancake, to discuss the needy, in partnership with Feed soon after Robby arrived. He was topics including spirituality, creativity My Starving Children and Freed- screaming in the middle of the night and philosophy. Now SoulPancake Hardeman’s annual GO! Camp. and broke his tibia. Then the weight promotes “Kid President” videos, Also last year, “Kid President” met of the splint used to secure the bone written by Robby and Brad Montague. President Barack Obama, who invited broke the baby’s femur. In one, titled “A Pep Talk from Kid him to try out his chair in the Oval In March, on a family vacation to the President to You,” Robby paraphrases Office. beach, Lexi also broke her femur — a poem by Robert Frost. “Let’s make sure not to cause an just from pulling up to stand — and “Two roads diverged in the woods,” international incident,” the U.S. presi- ended up in a body cast after having he says, “and I took the road less dent said, as Robby played with the surgery to set the bone. traveled. And it hurt, man, really phone on the desk. The Novaks prayed “and decided bad! Rocks! Thorns! Glass! My pants The media exposure “Kid President” that we just couldn’t do this anymore,” broke! Wahh! Not cool, Robert Frost!” receives shows that “O.I. doesn’t define Laurie Novak said. “Both kids were Despite the obstacles, he urges his Robby,” his mother said. “It’s just part always in so much pain, and between audience to “keep going, keep going, of him, and he is so much more.” the two of them, one always had some- keep going,” looking past each other’s thing broken. We honestly felt like this differences and working to make each ‘IF WE CAN DO IT, ANYONE CAN’ was more than we could handle.” other’s lives better. After 37 years of marriage, Laurie Reluctantly, she called the case When facing life’s struggles, “we and David Novak are spending their manager to find other options for can cry about it, or we retirement traveling the siblings. She learned that, when can dance about it,” he — back and forth to they had taken in Lexi, they were her concludes. “We were Nashville for appoint- second foster home in a week. Lexi and VIDEO STILL VIA soulpancake.com made to be awesome.” ments and occasion- Robby were running out of options. “Kid President” Robby Novak asks U.S. President Barack Obama, “How can kids and grown-ups work together to change the world?” The video has 33 ally to the emergency Laurie Novak put down the phone The president’s response: “The most important thing we can all do is to treat each other with kindess and respect.” million views — and room. and went online, learning everything counting. There also are plenty she could about the siblings’ condition such as bumping into a water fountain “She said to me, ‘Let your kids be Just ask one of his big sisters, Kristi Recently, the Hub of trips to dance class. and how to treat it. at church — can result in broken kids! Don’t shelter them. Let them Montague, who faced the challenge Network launched a Lexi, though not as Two-and-a-half years later, in May bones, Laurie Novak said. To date, experience life!’” of getting him to sit still for a recent “Kid President” TV well-known as her 2006, the Novaks completed the adop- Lexi has had more than 80 docu- The Novaks prayerfully endeavor photo shoot. show. Robby has inter- brother, is extremely tion process. mented breaks, and her brother more to live by those words. In fact, many “Seriously, he never stops moving,” viewed actors, including active, participating in On adoption day, Lexi took her first than 70. who meet the she said of Robby, whom Laurie Novak Wilson and Lake Bell, her seventh year of tap, steps by herself. She was 4 years old. Trips to the local siblings do not describes as “Evel Knievel in Humpty and musicians from jazz and ballet. medical clinic are realize the severity Dumpty’s body” — always up for Gene Simmons to It’s a life the couple ‘LET YOUR KIDS BE KIDS!’ a routine part of of their condition, anything that’s “scary.” Weird Al Yankovic. “Kid would never trade, “We didn’t go into foster care looking their life. Often, a Laurie Novak said. Montague’s husband, Brad, quickly President” also spoke Laurie Novak said — a to adopt,” Laurie Novak said. “We were doctor from their Not only do both became best friends with his young at the 50th anniversary life God planned for older and had raised our family and church meets them children walk — brother-in-law — a relationship that celebration of Martin them. were doing it to care for children who at the clinic to take something doctors resulted in the YouTube sensation Luther King Jr.’s “I Have “If we can do it, needed love until they could return X-rays and check for doubted they would “Kid President.” a Dream” speech. anyone can,” she home — or to a new, adopted home.” possible breaks. do — but they run Brad Montague, who worked in “Kid President” is a said. “God’s dreams Nonetheless, the Novaks found them- The temptation to and ride bikes, marketing for Freed-Hardeman family project, Brad are bigger than our selves parenting two young children — shelter the children though always with University in Henderson, developed Montague said. PHOTO PROVIDED dreams. both with special medical needs. is great, Laurie VIDEO STILL VIA www.hubnetwork.com the possibility of the idea as a silly way to promote “We have been working Lexi Novak is participating in “We never could have After much research and consulta- Novak said. “Did you always know that being weird breaking a bone. a fundraiser at the 1,900-student to make sure that the her seventh year of dance class. imagined how much tions with multiple physicians, the However, “the best would pay the bills?” Robby Novak asks “To look at them, university associated with Churches content we create points adoption would change couple met Dr. Jill Simmons, a pedi- advice we got was Weird Al Yankovic in a “Kid President” you would never of Christ. The featured speaker people toward things that matter,” he our lives and how much we would be atric endocrinologist at Vanderbilt from a mom who video — before challenging the comic know they have was former U.S. Secretary of State said. “It isn’t about the celebrities or blessed by it.” Children’s Hospital in Nashville, Tenn. had O.I. and had musician to a staring contest. endured so much,” Condoleezza Rice. the view counts.” She recommended bisphosphonate three children who Laurie Novak said. Dressed in a suit, Robby spoke Last year, “Kid President” inspired This story was adapted, with permission, from a infusions to boost the children’s bone all had O.I. She said that, growing up, “They truly have unbreakable spirits.” in a series of short, “presidential” more than 1 million people to help feature in Christian Woman magazine, a publication density. Though there is no cure for she had over 100 broken bones and videos. They caught the attention the homeless through a project of Gospel Advocate in Nashville, Tenn. Learn more O.I., “the infusions do a great job of doesn’t remember all her breaks. ‘KID PRESIDENT’ TAKES OFFICE of Rainn Wilson, better known as called “Socktober,” and “we have at www.gospeladvocate.com/cw. For more on “Kid KRISTI MONTAGUE reducing fractures and bone pain,” “But she remembers all the times The siblings, now 11 and 10, are an Dwight Schrute from the NBC even bigger dreams for this year,” President,” see kidpresident.com or soulpancake.com. In their kitchen, Lexi and Robby Novak work on their homework as their mom, Laurie, Simmons said. that her parents were overprotective inexhaustible source of wiggles and sitcom “The Office.” The actor, along Brad Montague said. Through social supervises. The Novaks homeschool the children, ages 11 and 10. Even so, the smallest accidents — and wouldn’t let her do things. giggles — especially Robby. with Joshua Homnick and Devon media, the brothers-in-law helped MORE ON ADOPTION: See Views, Page 31. 20 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OCTOBER 2014

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PRESIDENT

Lincoln Christian University’s mission is to nurture and equip Christians with a Biblical worldview to serve and lead in the church and the world. On the retirement of President Keith Ray following sixteen years of capable leadership, the Trustees of Lincoln Christian University invite applications for their next president from experienced visionary leaders in Christian higher education with a mature and vibrant Christian faith and a heart for servant leadership, service, and ministry. LCU is an evangelical Christian university committed to the Restoration Movement with close sustaining relationships with and support from a broad range of local Christian church/Church of Christ congregations. The University seeks a new president who will be the spiritual leader of the campus modeling servant leadership with a style that embraces humility and engenders trust, lead faculty and staff in all aspects of the institution’s programs and activities ensuring the integration of faith and learning, as well as excellence in teaching and Seven verses on scholarship resulting in a transformative education for students preparing them for careers and lives of service. each card (one Candidates should have appropriate academic credentials and experience along with a significant record of accomplishment in the many areas of leadership required, including academic curricular and faculty affairs, enrollment for each day)... growth, financial matters, fundraising and financial development, student development and success, church relations, and general institutional promotion and relations. Detailed information about the position and desired attributes of 52 cards (one for candidates, including information on the nomination and application process, is available online at AGB Search: http://agbsearch.com/searches/president-lincoln-christian-university Week 1 of 52 shown above. Review of applications will begin around August 15 and will continue on each week of the year). a rolling basis. For full consideration, applications should be received no Get a FREE SAMPLE of any 15 cards or bookmarks. later than noon, September 25. All nominations and applications will be Use coupon code FREE15 at www.shop.ethought.com agbsearch.com received in full confidence. Call 1-800-706-1269 for more info. OCTOBER 2014 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 21 MOUNTAIN CLIMBER Valari Wedel recalls the unexpected twist that interrupted her Mount Everest quest ‘I found in climbing the freedom that God gives’

BY Lynn Mcmillon | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE scribable blue sky, heavy misty fog and yellow-, blue- and green-roofed his was supposed to be an interview houses clumped together in a small about climbing Mount Everest. village. I remember the warmth from It’s not. the wood stoves each night at the tea Instead, it’s about faith and family houses on the way to base camp and T— and even bigger mountains that we all being so grateful for them. must climb. I remember the sense of accom- At age 12, Valari Wedel’s father gave her plishment and joy as I made the first a book, “Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible acclimatization climb at more than Voyage.” She was hooked. Now a member 20,000 feet. (I was suffering from of the Memorial Road Church of Christ asthma and pneumonia and was sure in Oklahoma City, she has scaled Denali that I was losing my chance for an in Alaska — at 20,322 feet, the highest Everest summit.) I remember watching the sunrise, mountain in North America — Argentina’s drinking warm coffee in temperatures 22,841-foot Aconcagua, Tibet’s 26,906-foot so cold that there is no sound, and Cho Oyu and many more. praising God for his glory and beauty. As a young wife and mother, she strug- gled with her faith until her training brought What was it like to receive word in her face-to-face with the reality of God. Justin Merle Nepal of your daughter’s illness? “I was on Mount Orizaba in Mexico,” she Valari and Greg Wedel stand at a camp in Nepal, in front of Mount Everest. I cannot put those thoughts and feel- said, “when I began to open my heart to ings into words or yet talk about them. how God was using training and climbing to as my children grew I found time that God gives in Jesus. shape my relationship with him.” to start climbing. At first I did not I have learned through climbing In April, an avalanche on Everest In April 2013, she and her husband, Greg, consider it — too much money, too that I needed the discipline of study killed 16 Sherpa guides and landed among the mountains in Nepal. They much time, too much risk, but there and boundaries to find the freedom raised concerns about tourists hiked 12 days to the Everest Base Camp, eleva- was always this place in my heart and to live in him and choose him. It has climbing the mountain. Your tion 17,598 feet. From there, Valari Wedel mind that said, “Why not?” been a long and slow journey, but the thoughts? made several preparatory climbs — antici- The time was right for me to test Lord has patiently taught me. My first thoughts were of grief. I pating the fulfillment of her dream to reach myself and to fulfill a dream. knew that every Sherpa had family the highest point on the planet, 29,029 feet. What fears do you have to that also worked on the mountain. During the climb, the couple received How do you see God working in overcome? They are a close community and so your life for this undertaking? So many! Just for starters, failure, many lives were devastated. word that one of their daughters had an It’s really fascinating for me to look lack of preparation, disappointing As a climber I began to feel guilt, unexpected recurrence of cancer. The next back over the past 10 years or so and my family and myself, weakness, knowing that those men had not morning, they headed for home — with no see how God has used climbing to giving up, succumbing to the pain, chosen to put their lives at risk. regrets, she said. set my current faith journey. getting sick. For me, being afraid is They were not following a dream. Along with her outdoor activities, Valari I had a fairly typical spiritual really not the issue because life is They were there to make a living for Wedel teaches Bible school and travels journey as a child and through full of fears that paralyze and debili- their families. They were required to to Central America on medical missions young adulthood. I attended church tate. It is my ability to move through move through the deadliest part of with ministries including Health Talents every week and learned the great the fear that will define who I am. the mountain nearly 20 times so that International. She and her husband, stories of the Bible. As I matured, I climbers could move through the married for 30 years, have three daughters: began to question God’s command- Describe the experience up to the same areas only a few times. Colby, 26, Jessie Riley, 25, and Abby, 22. ments. I felt he was defining my life point when you came home. by rules and restrictions, listing the I remember the laughter of Do you plan to try again? Why did you want to climb things that I could and could not do. children from houses as we moved I recently completed nursing school, Mount Everest? I continued to live in obedience, through the villages. I remember and now I am working with the I have long wondered about the but I was lacking a personal relation- lying at night in my tent at base intent of using my nursing skills in the commitment, courage and strength ship with him. There was a discon- camp and hearing the ice beneath mission field in the near future. that is necessary to climb to the top nect, and I lacked spiritual passion. me cracking and groaning. I will always dream of Everest. It of the world and survive. I want to be Then, in God’s wondrous way, I I remember turning the corner of is a part of me that I cannot let go, that person. My life was devoted to was able to connect the freedom I the mountain trail and looking down but for now I have my heart open to my husband and young family, but found in climbing to the freedom into a valley lush with trees, an inde- God’s will and his plans for my future. 22 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OCTOBER 2014

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admissions.ovu.edu 1 Campus View Drive | Vienna, WV 26105-8000 | 877.446.8668 OCTOBER 2014 FROM THE SECOND FRONT the christian chronicle 23 KENTUCKY: Christian children’s home refuses to abide by new rules FROM PAGE 3 impedes that person’s religious on campus anymore. You can’t give faith,” Sheller said. them a Bible unless they specifically ask for a Bible or some type of reli- A NEW PATH FOR NEW PATHWAYS gious material. At New Pathways, staff members “Those things were troubling,” encouraged — but did not force — Burse added, “but the most troubling children to wake up and go to worship was, they said you can’t proselytize each Sunday morning, Burse said. any child in any religious belief. Well, “For the most part, the kids were that essentially ended any opportu- fine,” he said. “They experienced a nity for us to share the story of Jesus lot of love and encouragement in the with them and encourage them that congregations where they attended. this is a place where you can find … We would see a number of kids hope for your life.” come to faith in Christ.” Jill Midkiff, spokeswoman for Burse said confidentiality rules the Kentucky Cabinet for Health prevented him from making former and Family Services, said the residents available for interviews. requested contract “more specifically Several area congregations describes” requirements that always conducted monthly devotionals have been the state’s at the home, said Josh Ketchum, practice and policy. who preaches for the Seven Oaks “Upon the child’s BOBBY ROSS JR. Church of Christ in Mayfield, Ky. request, children are Ricky Burse of New Pathways for Children stands by a whiteboard in the nonprofit’s Ketchum said he visited the boys’ provided religious conference room. The sign emphasizes the motto “Kids hurt! We heal! You help!” home on the second Tuesday night texts, symbols or of each month for 10 years. The materials for their pri- employment discrimination claims, director for Americans United for boys loved to sing and listened vate rooms,” Midkiff but in 2009, the 6th U.S. Circuit Separation of Church and State, said attentively to the lessons, he said. told the Chronicle. Court of Appeals permitted the por- in a statement that the settlement “Many boys and girls have been Midkiff “However, agreement tion of the suit alleging that state- “will protect taxpayers from being converted to Christ through the language does clarify the expecta- funded activities advanced religion forced to subsidize religious indoc- years,” Ketchum wrote in a blog post. tion that the private residential to continue, RNS reported. trination, and it will protect vulnera- The unanimous decision by New agency or foster home shall refrain Sunrise Children’s Services ble children from religious coercion, Pathways’ board to reject the new from automatically providing reli- was not a party to the settlement discrimination and proselytization.” state contract resulted in the dismissal gious texts or materials. between the state and plaintiffs rep- In a separate statement, the of 30 of the organization’s 42 full- and “Foster care, by its nature, is resented by Americans United for ACLU’s Daniel Mach praised the part-time staff members, Burse said. culturally diverse,” her written Separation of Church of State and settlement and said, “Taxpayer However, he said the home statement added. “Agencies and the American Civil Liberties Union. funds should never be used for reli- remains committed to its motto: foster homes have the opportunity Sunrise — which runs eight gious indoctrination.” “Kids hurt! We heal! You help!” to welcome the child into their envi- residential centers for abused and However, Sheller noted that the The loss of government funding ronment and to demonstrate con- neglected children state covers only and referrals will challenge New sideration for and sensitivity to the in Kentucky — is about two-thirds of Pathways, Burse acknowledged. racial, cultural, ethnic and religious appealing the settle- the operating costs But the nonprofit intends to keep background of a child in its care.” ment to 6th Circuit for faith-based orga- serving children, he said. judges in Cincinnati. nizations. Removing It’ll focus on those who are not A LAWSUIT’S RIPPLE EFFECTS “There is sort of a such nonprofits from in state custody but are “basically The new language stems from a gentleman’s agree- the child welfare sys- homeless.” settlement in a 14-year federal court ment, if you will, that tem actually would Just recently, four children came battle over government funding of we will maintain the cost taxpayers more to live at New Pathways — the first Sheller Ketchum Southern Baptist homes for children status quo until the money, he said. served under the new arrangement. in Kentucky. lawsuit is resolved,” said John O. At the same time, the Louisville- All from the same family, they are According to Religion News Sheller, attorney for Sunrise, formerly based attorney argues that employ- brothers and sisters. Their ages: 2, Service, the lawsuit started in 2000 known as Kentucky Baptist Homes ees of agencies such as Sunrise and 3, 4 and 7. when Sunrise Children’s Services was for Children. “We had the luxury of New Pathways have a constitutional When the Chronicle arrived to accused of religious discrimination doing that because we were involved right to the free exercise of religion. interview Burse, one of the children by a fired lesbian staff member, Alicia in the lawsuit, and we’re objecting to “When the government says a child- had fallen asleep on his lap. Pedreira. Pedreira and other taxpay- the settlement and appealing it. care worker can’t pray with a child, “I have been telling our supporters ers also claimed that state money was “New Pathways didn’t really have can’t share their faith with a child, that none of this caught God by sur- used for services “infused with the that choice,” he added. “They either can’t provide religious literature to prise,” Burse said. “He was ahead of teachings of the Baptist faith.” had to comply or get out.” a child and essentially has to create us and knew it was coming. I think The courts dismissed Pedreira’s Alex J. Luchenitser, associate legal a secular environment, I think that it’s going to be a blessing to us.” 24 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE FROM THE SECOND FRONT OCTOBER 2014 OCTOBER 2014 FROM THE SECOND FRONT the christian chronicle 25 VOICES BLUE RIDGE: Mixed emotions as camp ends christians who gathered for the final Blue Ridge Encampment share their memories. consider including The first year I came to Blue Ridge, I was single. The second The Christian Chronicle year I came, in 1982, I was still in your will or estate plan single. The third year, I had met my future wife before coming. I knew that she was the woman God had for me, but I wanted to come here, spend time with the Lord, and meditate and pray before I made the decision to ask her to marry me. Before I left Blue Ridge, I had got my affirmation from the Lord. In crucial parts of my life, Blue Ridge has been a key part. Alfred Donald | Atlanta

One of the nice things about Blue Ridge is that it was always Participants in the adult chorus practice in the YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly’s Participants in the youth program brave a Attendees enjoy lunch in the dining room of the Blue Ridge Center. Over the years, positive. We didn’t try to solve all Washburn Auditorium for their performance near the end of the encampment. ropes course among the Carolina treetops. meals afforded attendees the opportunity to interact personally with speakers. the brotherhood issues. We just came to worship and praise God FROM PAGE 3 Organizers scheduled worship, Waters remembers Ira North, long- group shots the final event’s leaders whether traditional or progressive. on the mountain and hear good come to Blue Ridge since birth. classes and workshops in the morn- time minister of the Madison Church collected over the years. “We’re middle of the road. We’re Bible teaching. The final gathering was particularly ing, then worship at night, leaving of Christ in Tennessee and an early By the close of the following just who we are,” said co-director People many times were com- emotional for Shipman. A cancer most afternoons for family time. director of Blue Ridge. The charis- decade, numbers had grown. The Larry Cline. “I think for anything ing from small, struggling church- diagnosis shortly before the encamp- Despite the fun, Blue Ridge took matic North appears in encampment Gospel Advocate of July 31, 1969, to really flourish right now, it has to es, and even if they were in larger ment jeopardized her participation. preaching and teaching seriously. photos sporting a plaid short-sleeve reported an attendance of 475 have an identity ... or it has to meet an churches, sometimes there were “We’re going to have to hold off Capping the evening sermon was a shirt, collar open, even as other men people. Blue Ridge incredible felt need.” problems back home. They came until after Blue Ridge,” Shipman late-night “Fireside Chat” in the white- around him had donned suits and ties. treasurer Wallace Roberts expressed and got a vision of what it meant planned to tell her doctors if treat- columned Robert “I thought he Johnson said atten- the contrasting emo- to be a follower of Jesus Christ ment interfered. “I would not have E. Lee Hall. was a rock star — I dance peaked at tions generated by and be part of a brotherhood missed it. ... The place, to me, is “Nearly all of thought he was a Paul slightly over 900 in the final gathering. bound together with cords of love. almost sacred.” the great preach- McCartney or a Mick the early 1990s. “I have really mixed Jerry Hill | Riverhead, N.Y. ers in the broth- Jagger,” Waters said. In Numbers then feelings,” he said. “I The Heritage Circle is composed TOOTH-PULLING PREACHING erhood, at one a small square snapshot began to fall, Smith really do. I’m incred- I was thinking about all the his- A 1961 brochure credits ministers time or another, she kept from her first said. That meant ibly sad that the next of those who bless the Chronicle tory of Blue Ridge, what’s been A.R. Holton and J.W. Brents with have been a guest time at Blue Ridge, shrinking revenue generation won’t have through their will or estate plan. passed on to my kids from so launching the encampment. at Blue Ridge,” Waters stands by a and cutbacks in PHOTO PROVIDED the same experiences many people and A hallmark has been its multi- said former towering North, who the number of In an early photo, attendees head that my family has how we have, year generational focus, featuring board member PHOTOS BY TED PARKS grasps her hand. speakers. Roberts downhill from Robert E. Lee Hall. had here, and the after year after year, separate, simultaneous programs Jerry Hill. His During chapel, a Blue Ridge camper “Will you pull my put the final year’s Participants recalled the camp’s families before me. tried to get people for parents and children, minister list includes B.C. adds notes to a well-used Bible. tooth?” the starstruck attendance at 225. wake-up music — “Nothing could “At the same time, Help secure the future to come to the Jimmy Mankin wrote in a 1970 Goodpasture, Gus 7-year-old asked the Smith attributed be finer than to be in Carolina.” I’m incredibly happy mountain. I pray, Gospel Advocate report on the 20th Nichols, Guy N. Woods, and Batsell preacher just before the picture was the decline to sev- that our kids are of The Christian Chronicle. as we celebrate our anniversary. Mankin later directed Barrett Baxter. snapped. eral factors, including YMCA price doing more in the area of missions last time together, Blue Ridge, from 1983 to 1998. Beth Horn Waters, who began North obliged. increases. In 1999, organizers were … and being engaged in other min- that we won’t stop The program included activities attending Blue Ridge in 1959 at age How did he do it? no longer able to book the camp dur- istry areas. Call Stephen Eck of the Chronicle Planned trying to get people to come to the to build relationships and simply to 7, remembered hearing well-known “Gently,” she said. ing the third week of June. Moving “For such a time as this, we’ve had mountain, but that we’ll just shift have fun. preacher Marshall Keeble at the the date interfered with school Blue Ridge. Praise God.” Giving Office for assistance at (405) 425-5080. our focus from North Carolina to Shipman remembered a boister- encampment. TOO ‘MIDDLE-OF-THE-ROAD’ TO SURVIVE? schedules and holiday activities. Calvary, that we’ll get back to tak- ous hog-calling contest, and old “I think he preached — and no About 80 people — adults except Leaders also pointed to what they PHOTOS NEEDED: Directors of the Blue Ridge ing people to the only mountain brochures list a golf tournament, air-conditioning — for an hour,” for one girl — stand shoulder-to- see as church members’ increasing Encampment plan to archive historic photos and that really matters. skits, a watermelon feast, horseback Waters said. “And everybody was shoulder in the encampment picture tendency to attend events tied to a documents from the event. Please contact Joe Roberts Larry Cline | Knoxville, Tenn. riding, swimming and sightseeing. just mesmerized.” from 1953, the earliest among the specific theological perspective — at [email protected]. 26 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OCTOBER 2014 campus ministry sports UNA CHRISTIAN STUDENT CENTER FLORENCE, Ala. — Danny Petus, Don Meyer: The Movie director of a church-sponsored ministry to the campus of the NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Jerry Meyer is University of North Alabama, and trying to come to grips with Judge assistant director Josh Webster chal- Reinhold playing his dad, legendary lenged area youth groups to donate Lipscomb University basketball coach jars of peanut butter to Haiti. Don Meyer, in an upcoming film. “Peanut butter is used as a protein “It’s hard to picture my dad in ‘Fast supplement since the daily meal Times at Ridgemont of rice does not have much,” said High,’” Jerry Meyer Harry Hames, director of Haiti told The Tennessean. operations for Healing Hands The life of Don International. A large jar costs more Meyer, one of the than $15 in Haiti, he added. winningest basket- The youths donated 1,500 jars last ball coaches of all year, and Hames hoped for 2,000 time, is the subject of this year. “But I was blown away “My Many Sons,” the when the final total was more than film’s working title. Don Meyer 3,300 jars,” he said. The story “is not about wins or records but rather about k-12 schools Coach’s relation- ships with players OKLAHOMA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY and their families,” EDMOND, Okla. — It was a back-to-school said Casey Bond pep rally — gospel style — as Buddy of Higher Purpose Bell motivated football players, Entertainment, which Reinhold students and parents alike to live out PHOTO PROVIDED BY Janine Esler is producing the film. their faith during the academic year. The company shot scenes on the “Jesus Does” was the theme. Tacky sweaters and reindeer games campus of Lipscomb, a university Bell, minister for the Landmark Cylah Coney, Emily Olsen, Breanna Kelley and Jayda Lewis show off their tacky associated with Churches of Christ. Church of Christ in Montgomery, Christmas sweaters at Central Florida Bible Camp in Eustis, Fla. The theme of this year’s Meyer coached men’s basketball Ala., spoke during a three-day camp was “Every good and perfect gift comes from God,” so campers enjoyed mashed at Lipscomb from 1975 to 1999 and gospel meeting at the school, which potato snowball fights and reindeer games, said Janine Esler, a counselor at the camp died May 18, 2014, after a six-year included food trucks and evening and member of the North Jackson Avenue Church of Christ in Bartow, Fla. battle with cancer. performances by Acappella. About 400 people attended the meeting’s final night. consecutive Labor Camp. Usenime Akpanudo, professor of the business office to athletics. For The campers — alumni and education at Obong University. more information, see www.rc.edu/ friends of the college — provided The agreement promotes “the support-rc/campus-volunteers. landscape and interior renovations interchange of ideas, students and for the business building and did teachers by each university,” said touch-ups across the campus. Ben Jones, chairman of Obong’s MEDICAL MISSIONs Alumni Craig Bean, minister for board of trustees. The universities the Spring Street Church of Christ also agreed to “participate in selected PREDISAN in Racine, Wis., and Paul Greiving, a seminars offered on either campus,” DULCE NOMBRE DE CULMI, Honduras — This Sandy Blalock professor and chair of the college’s and “to assist in the modifying and town, situated in a region with the Football players pray at Oklahoma business department, led the camp. upgrading of relative courses.” largest surviving virgin rain forest Christian Academy’s gospel meeting. in Honduras, is home to an indig- OBONG UNIVERSITY enous population suffering from OBONG NTAK, Nigeria — This 450-student ROCHESTER COLLEGE intense poverty, said Martha Rivera, HIGHER EDUCATION Christian university in West Africa ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich. — This Christian associate director for this church- has a spiritual “sister” across the college recently launched a campus supported medical mission. FLORIDA COLLEGE Atlantic Ocean. volunteers program to encourage Predisan recently launched health Temple Terrace, Fla. — A record- In Searcy, Ark., officials with involvement among its alumni and and maternity services for people of breaking 96 adult campers contrib- Harding University signed a memo- friends. The college offers a broad the region and recruited 54 people uted 1,951 hours of volunteer randum of understanding with range of volunteer opportunities in to assist in the effort. For more labor during Florida College’s 10th Obong University, witnessed by most campus departments — from information, see www.predisan.org. OCTOBER 2014 PARTNERS THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 27

BEN HOBBES At the ninth Global Reunion, parents and children participate in a “balloon ceremony,” which helps campers deal with the grief that can accompany a cross-cultural lifestyle. Camping between the cracks

OKLAHOMA CITY — A record-breaking 150-plus campers — representing 43 countries — attended the ninth Global Reunion on the campus of Oklahoma Christian University. “We try to give third-culture kids and their families tools for cross-cultural living” and “a safe place to talk about identity,” said Nancy Hartman, a former missionary to Australia and one of the camp’s directors. “Third-culture kids,” or TCKs, include children of missionaries or military families who grow up in a culture different from their parents’. When the families return home, these children often find adjustment difficult. When they get together, TCKs “feel a sense of community in the fact that they don’t feel a sense of community with anyone else,” said Cody Hart, who grew up on the mission field in South Africa. JOHN REESE In addition to gaining coping skills, The camp serves families who live or campers find camaraderie with “people have lived overseas for mission work, that also fall between the cracks.” military service or business. www.worldbibleschool.net

It’s simple with the new WBS. Students are waiting now. Share Jesus. Share

BEN HOBBES For more information on Global Reunion, see www.intermissionministry.org. 28 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE CALENDAR OCTOBER 2014

Aug. 28 -31 Acappella Worship Leaders & Choral Music Conference. “I am Worship.” Rose Showcasing the moments of your life and the lives of loved ones. Milestones City Community Church of Christ, North Little Rock, Ark. Contact Anniversaries Richard and Mabel are grateful to He was a veteran and served in the (501) 945-2277 or [email protected]. the Lord for their three sons and their U.S. Navy as a pilot from 1955 to Aug. 30-Sept. 1 Quest 2014. families: Richard Jr. and Janis of 1959. He then served in the US Naval Wisconsin Christian Youth Camp. Richard and Mabel Taylor Henderson, Tenn., Perry and Karen of Reserves for 25 years and retired with Black River Falls, Wis. Contact Florence, Ala., and Bruce and Debby the rank of Captain. W.L. was an insur- (312) 420-0859. of Atlanta, Ga., seven grandchildren, ance agent and broker in the San Diego Sept. 18-21 50th Bear Valley and two great-grandchildren. area for many years. Lectures. Bear Valley Church of He created Minister’s Fellowship, an Christ, Denver. (303) 986-5800, A.F. and Doretha Fitzhugh, 73rd organization through which ministers, www.wetrainpreachers.com. Houston, Texas Christian school teachers and other Sept. 18-21 M2Y (Ministering 2 Charles and Ann Shumate, 66th Christian professionals could obtain Youth) Conference. Orlando, Fla. Springdale, Arkansas affordable insur- www.m2yconference.com. Bernie and Janice Crum, 60th ance coverage. Sept. 20 L2L (Lads 2 Leaders) Park Hills, Missouri After retire- Academy. “2014 Leader Ledger.” Ted and Evelyn Kell, 60th ment, he Searcy, Ark. (334) 215-0251. Brownwood, Texas enjoyed working Sept. 21-24 ACU Summit. Mark and Linda Franklin, 40th in real estate “Earthed: Discovering Our Origin Greenville, Texas development, in God.” Abilene Christian and his efforts University, Abilene, Texas. Contact Richard Neale and Mabel (Perry) provided a www.acu.edu/summit. Taylor of Florence, Ala., celebrated Birthdays home for several Sept. 23-26 2014 National their 66th anniversary on Sept. 1, 2014. community Christian Camping Workshop After serving in the Navy in WW II, Doretha Fitzhugh, 91st organiza- Fort Hill Christian Youth Camp, Richard, who was from near Lubbock, Houston, Texas tions. W.L.’s legacy includes creating Hillsboro, Ohio. Contact Texas, attended Harding College on the Richard N. Taylor, Sr., 88th numerous Christian organizations that www.naccamps.org. GI Bill, and there he met Mabel Perry Florence, Alabama are still operating today. Sept. 27 Predisan Celebration from Ontario, Canada, in 1946. They Joyce Woodard, 87th He served as an elder for 40 years and Reunion. Contact married in 1948, and both finished at The Woodlands, Texas for Churches of Christ in the San [email protected]. Harding in 1949. Diego area. W.L. also served on the Sept. 27-28 75th Anniversary Upon graduating, Richard and Mabel Board of Regents for Pepperdine Celebration, Northside Church of moved to Florence, Ala., where Richard Memorials University in Malibu, Calif. for 20 Christ. Wichita, Kan. Contact taught for 32 years at Mars Hill Bible years and on the boards of several (316) 838-5200. School and Mabel was the librarian there other Christian organizations, including Sept. 28 EEM Million Dollar for 20 years. During that time, they took W.L. Fletcher III The Christian Chonicle. Sunday. Contact (800) 486-1818. a leave of absence for six years and He is survived by his wife of 55 Sept. 28-Oct. 2 25th Annual helped strengthen the congregation in W.L. Fletcher III, 80, of North years, Marilyn (nee Higginbottom); Roundhouse. Family encampment Williamsburg, Ridgeville, Ohio, and San Diego, two daughters, Cynthia Alston (Roy) of for homeschooling families. Flat Va., in the early Calif., went home to be with the Lord Framingham, Mass., and Julia Lando Rock, N.C. www.roundhouse.us. 1960s. They at his residence in North Ridgeville on (Robert) of Avon, Ohio; two grand- Sept. 28-Oct. 1 Harding both received July 16, 2014, following his battle with daughters, Rebekah and Rachel Lando; University Bible Lectureship. their masters’ Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), one sister, Marylin Swaim (R.C.) of Searcy, Ark. Contact (501) 279-5123 degrees from also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Abilene, Texas; and by one brother, or www.harding.edu/lectureship. the University He was born August 9, 1933, in Harold Fletcher (Mary Helen, Harold’s Sept. 30 CAMT Alumni Event. of North Hamlin, Texas. W.L. had resided in deceased wife) of Edmond, Okla. He Harding University, Searcy, Ark. Alabama in North Ridgeville part time for the past was preceded in death by his parents, Contact [email protected]. Florence in 14 years and had been a resident of William Lumpkin Fletcher Jr. and Oct. 4 The Cambridge Call 2014 1979. Richard San Diego for more than 50 years. Maude Fletcher (nee Birdwell), and by Annual Leadership Seminar. has preached since 1949 in various He was a 1955 graduate of Abilene one brother, Milton Fletcher. Ross Street Community Center, congregations, and they have worked Christian University in Abilene, Ross Street, Cambridge, Mass. with Bible Correspondence Courses, Texas, where he received a bachelor’s Leslie C. Williams, 100 Oct. 5-7 OC Lectureship Christian camps, children’s homes, and degree in business. He also received Mobile, Ala. 2014. “Fully Engaged.” Oklahoma fundraising for missions in Thailand -- an honorary doctorate from Oklahoma Lynn M. Hixon, 90 Christian University, Oklahoma Richard has made 14 mission trips there. Christian University in 2007. Willow Springs, Mo. City. Contact (405) 425-5141 or www.oc.edu/lectureship. Oct. 7-10 Abundant Living Entries should be submitted to [email protected] or call (405) 425-5070. Branson Retreat. “Making the Rates and guidelines are available upon request (credit card preferred). Most of the Rest of your Life.” FULL CALENDAR, www.christianchronicle.org OCTOBER 2014 PEOPLE the christian chronicle 29 Newsmakers

AWARDED: Bobby Coker, retired dean of the Cannon-Clary College continued. of Education at Harding University, Milestones Searcy, Ark., with the Christian Educators Pioneer Award. Dickie Clark Lafayette Beckloff who later transferred dren. He is also survived by Hill, professor in the Department Hicks it to Oklahoma Christian his brother, Mark T.Hicks, Sr., of Kinesiology and Nutrition at University in 1981. and his sisters, Lavella Hicks Abilene Christian University in Clark Lafayette Hicks, 71, son Clark was an industrial engi- McMillan and Jan Hicks Smith. Texas, with the Distinguished of Olan L. Hicks and Opal L. neer for over He was preceded in death Services Award at the national con- Hicks Roberts, the founders of 40 years. by his parents and a daughter, ference for the Christian Society The Christian Chronicle, died He is Susan Evan Hicks. for Kinesiology and June 15, 2014, in Red Bay, Ala. survived by Leisure Studies. Clark was publisher and editor his wife, of The Christian Chronicle in Nancy Memorial Gift NEW MINISTERS: the early 70’s. Strickland Mark Adams, He wanted to preserve the Hicks, and The Chronicle appreciates and pulpit minister publication and continue his four sons, acknowledges generous gifts for the King’s father’s mission of supporting Trevor, donated in memory of W.L. Crossing Church and reporting the missionary Shannon, Fletcher of North Ridgeville, Packer of Christ in Corpus work of the church. He passed Corey, and Boyd, along with Ohio, and Dr. Benny J. Hill of Christi, Texas. the paper on to John and Dottie their spouses and 13 grandchil- Santa Fe, N.M. Collin Packer, Preaching and Lead Minister for the Greenville Oaks Church of Christ in Allen, Texas. Entries should be submitted to [email protected] or call (405) 425-5070. Rates and guidelines are available upon request (credit card preferred). NAMED: Annie Dimond, resource navigator for Dry Bones Denver. Doug Edwards, director of philan- thropy for the Church of Christ Care Center in Clinton Township, Mich., which serves nearly 600 elderly resi- dents. Nina Morel, associate dean of the College of Professional Studies for Lipscomb University, Morel Nashville, Tenn. Chris Riley, vice president of student life for Abilene Christian University. Josh Roberts, dean of student development for Lipscomb University. Jeff Walling, founding director of the Youth Leadership Initiative at Pepperdine University in Malibu, Calif. The pro- gram is designed to encourage stu- dents to develop leadership skills and strengthen their faith.

PHOTO PROVIDED Doug Edwards at the Church of Christ Care Center in Clinton Township, Mich. 30 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OCTOBER 2014 editorial

od chose the weak things of this world to shame the strong. That’s what the apostle Paul tells us in his PHOTO VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS Gfirst letter to the church in Corinth. Protesters march in Ferguson, Mo., after the shooting death of Michael Brown. It’s difficult to see the truth in those words as we watch news reports of the weak — thousands of people in Iraq, many of whom profess Christ — fleeing from the strong. Ferguson, the world must unite in prayer A brutal, jihadist militia, called the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, or ISIS, has forced religious minorities to It is written, “My house shall be called the house of prayer.” Those words remain true today. wander the wilderness, without food or shelter. — Matthew 21:13 How should the church respond? What We lament the lives already lost in Iraq —­ Iraqis, FERGUSON, Mo. can believers across this nation do in these Americans, allies. When we consider the situation, we’re ust a few weeks ago, our little suburb of difficult times? reminded of Jesus’ words from Matthew 12 about a demon, St. Louis — with only six square miles Christ highlighted the answer by saying, driven from a house, who returns with seven others spirits and fewer than 25,000 residents — was “My house shall be called the house of “more wicked than itself” to take up residence there. not widely known. prayer.” He did not say this in reference to The above symbol reportedly was spray-painted on the JNow our community is the subject the name on the sign of a worship homes and businesses of followers of Christ in Mosul, of endless coverage by national In the Word facility. Instead, he described the Iraq, after ISIS seized the city. It’s the Arabic letter nun and international media — after nature and activities of adherents to (“noon”), the first letter of Nasrani, or Nazarene, used to a Caucasian police officer fatally the cause of God. refer to Christians. ISIS told them to convert, pay a tax, wounded an unarmed African- Believers must not see prayer as a leave the city or face the sword. American male. Emotional reactions passive approach to addressing the The militants also threatened the Shiite Muslim and horrific outcomes followed. world’s wretched condition. To the minority in Mosul, whom they consider to be heretics. Now history will record these contrary, prayer unites the people of Christians and Muslims have expressed outrage. On tragic events — events that have God in calling on divine power for social media, the Arabic letter has taken flight, appearing polarized one community in a nation human problems. on Facebook pages and in Twitter feeds (#WeAreN). already polarized by political, social, Conley Gibbs Jr. While sociologists, psycholo- A symbol born of hate is now a symbol of solidarity. racial and moral differences. gists and other noted experts We balk a bit at “hashtag activism” such as this — often Christians struggle to grapple with these theorize about philosophical perspectives, more trendy than helpful. But we can’t help but note how realities. Our hearts long to do something. the church must see prayer as the most this little Arabic letter mirrors another symbol — one Yet, our ability to effectively resolve such powerful tool available to mankind. created by the Romans to inspire obedience to the state monumental problems proves insufficient. Through prayer, we yield to God’s sover- through fear of brutal punishment. That symbol now These problems cannot always be compre- eign ability to work on the hearts of sinful means life, healing and hope for people worldwide. hended by mere human understanding. Yet man and to subdue the power of Satan. We turn to this symbol, the cross, as we pray for our spirits ache continually for resolution. If prayer does not bring us together, man’s opportunities to help the hurting — in Iraq and in our Thomas Paine, one of our country’s problems will continue to tear us apart. communities. May God protect all victims of oppression. founding fathers, penned these words in May all have the opportunity to learn the life-giving “The American Crisis” in the 18th century: Conley Gibbs Jr. is minister for the Ferguson Heights message of Christ. May the weak shame the strong. “These are the times that try men’s souls.” Church of Christ in Ferguson, Mo.

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Box 11000, Oklahoma City, OK 73136-1100 [email protected] bility for policy and governance. Delivery: 2501 E. Memorial Road, Edmond, OK 73013 Editor Emeritus: Bailey McBride The Christian Chronicle® is not a teaching or doctrinal All trustees, editors and staff are facebook.com/ChristianChronicle [email protected] publication but a newspaper with news and opinion active members of Churches of Christ. twitter.com/InformInspireCC content in sections clearly labeled. Signed columns TO SUBSCRIBE: and reviews reflect the opinions of the authors. Trustees: Deon Fair, chairman President and CEO: Lynn A McMillon See www.christianchronicle.org or Abel Alvarez • Ed Biggers • Sylvia Branch [email protected] email [email protected] Advertising contains commercial messages from Dwain Chaffin • John deSteiguer • Loventrice Farrow Editor: Erik Tryggestad or call (405) 425-5070. those who purchase the advertising space. News Emily Lemley • James Moore • Robert Oglesby Sr. [email protected] coverage, opinion columns, reviews, letters to the Mike O’Neal • Barry Packer • Kevin Ramsey Chief Correspondent: Bobby Ross Jr. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: editor and advertising do not necessarily represent Harold Redd • Harry Risinger [email protected] [email protected] the views of or constitute endorsement by the Milton Sewell • Gary Tabor OCTOBER 2014 opinion the christian chronicle 31 LETTERS God winks, we adopt Bilingual ministry needed It is so good to hear conversation on A FAMILY CROSSES AN OCEAN — again and again and again — to bring their children home bilingual ministry and outreach (Page 1, September). I personally have been doing o you ever have a “God wink” moment — a I got home and began to doubt myself. We already this kind of ministry for more than 25 years moment when you just know God is telling you had six children at home. Could we handle another and four years ago planted the Lubbock Dthat you are on the correct path? A moment — especially a child who would need a transplant? I Bilingual Church of Christ. God is good! when you know you just need to trust him and be waited for the door to shut. It never did. Marcelino Banda | Lubbock, Texas patient? I was told I was out of my mind, but I Welcome to my life since December 2010. Views didn’t listen. Our insurance pays 100 percent A fellowship’s small world At that point, we had four children. Wendi Rogers of transplants, we live near the best liver Adoption had always been in the back of hospital on the East Coast, and the biggest I, too, have traveled around the coun- our minds. Then we made our first mission trip to obstacle — the South Korean government — try and found multiple connections. (See the City of Children, a refuge in Baja, Mexico, that approved us. It was unbelievable. No one with more “Notebook,” Page 4, September.) strives to bring love and happiness back into the than five children had been approved under a new However, I was in Greece about three lives of hurting children. After spending time with law there. years ago with a Harding Graduate School these kids, we felt called to adopt. How many times must our heavenly Father think tour, and our bus pulled up to a restau- We searched desperately for a route to adopt he is out of his mind to keep wanting me as his rant/convenience store beside the high- a child domestically and kept getting shut down child? I sin over and over. But guess what? My God way. In the parking lot was a minivan with everywhere we turned. The laws in Pennsylvania wants me. And I wanted my son. Tennessee license plates. In Greece? Yep, meant that the adoption of older children wasn’t Fast forward 18 months to March 2014. Everything members of the church, naturally! And at an option for us. fell into place. We Corinth, some of our tour members ran We knew we could now have at home into members of their home congregation. never afford inter- the sweetest, very I love the fact that, in Christ, we’re family. national adoption — healthy little boy, Chris Stinnett | Seminole, Okla. or so we thought. Cade. He will need We found www. a transplant, but for It is wonderful to be able to know some- rainbowkids.org, an now he is stable. He one no matter where you are, but does online resource for is doing incredibly this perspective strike anyone else as families seeking to well. promoting association with Churches of adopt from abroad. We should never Christ and not with the one with whom all That’s where we give up on some- Christians have in common? first saw the face of thing when we know In my lifetime, I’ve witnessed the our daughter, Mia. God is showing us Churches of Christ moving more and She happened to be the way. How many more toward an exclusionary doctrine in South Korea. We blessings have we rationalized by heritage, habit and tradi- prayed and decided missed in our lives? tion. The belief in Jesus should be the to adopt her — and God has worked main factor and starting point of a relation- possibly another miracles in my life ship with others rather than a common little girl — and by simply turning heritage of religious practice. be done. God had me from my sinful I’m not devaluing relationships rooted in different plans. ways and blessing common acquaintances, but how many rela- While adopting me continuously. tionships have we missed out on because, our second So many times on Sundays, we walk into the doors of build- daughter, Avah, Satan has thrown in ings with different signs on the outside? in May 2012, we doubt. “Don’t bring Of the few things God has placed in our were visiting her PHOTO provided him home. Don’t possession on this earth, relationships are orphanage in South Kenny and Wendi Rogers — and their seven children — in a family photo. spend the money. eternal and, in my opinion, are not appro- Korea. In the same You can’t handle that priate for filtering by anything other than hour of meeting Avah, we met our son, Robert Cade special need. You can’t handle that many kids. What a belief in Jesus as the son of God. HyunSoo. He was hurt, lying on his back just wailing. will people think of you?” Mike Powell | Prattville, Ala. Our Korean social worker showed me his scar from But God is faithful. God kept giving me little a previous surgery and told me he would need a liver glimpses of hope to keep me going — and to My husband of 35 years (and I) travel a transplant due to suffering from Biliary Atresia. encourage all of us to fight the good fight. good bit, and he has become fond of saying I looked at her and said, “I want him.” I knew it. I that, somehow, all members of the church just did. He looked back into my eyes and touched WENDI ROGERS and her husband, Kenny, are the proud parents of seven are related. We have never gone anywhere, my face. The social worker told me he was on our children — Chloe, Blake, Camye, Paul, Avah, Mia and Cade. Four are from Nevada to South Carolina to New U.S. adoption agency’s list. I was in disbelief. I had biological, and three are adopted from South Korea. They are waiting to York, where we didn’t make a connection or never seen him before, but it was true. He was there adopt two more daughters from China. The family attends the Church of find mutual friendships. We just love it. — just waiting. A total and complete God wink. Christ in Washington, Pa. She blogs at www.rogerswonderfullife.com. Suzi Moran | Attalla, Ala. 32 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE REVIEWS OCTOBER 2014 Darkness can give light to our spiritual life he winsome, insightful prose popular belief that we cannot learn in the tomb, it starts in the dark.” of Barbara Brown Taylor has from, grow in, or trust the dark. Overall, Taylor’s book is both a somehow remained one of the She writes: “Darkness is short- personal and spiritual guide through best-kept secrets from modern hand for anything that scares me — the seasons of darkness that come Tlay Christians. either because I am sure that I do to all of us. However, from her landmark book not have the resources to survive it A pastoral caution for those who on preaching used in semi- or because I do not want to love to read and decide to read this naries throughout the world, In Print find out. The problem is this book: If paradox is not your friend, “The Preaching Life,” to a ... I could never have learned Taylor’s work could prove difficult, recent bestseller about her in the light, things that have troubling and disconcerting. journey from church to the saved my life over and over If paradox has become a constant academy, “Leaving Church,” again, so that there is really companion in your spiritual journey Taylor’s writing can speak only one logical conclusion. I — as is the case in my life — Taylor to the hearts of both women need darkness as much as I will prove to be just the oasis you’ve and men seeking to make need light.” been searching for in the journey of sense of their faith in a The payoff for reading hunting for God in the desert. modern world of intense Josh Graves Taylor over the past two Churches of Christ are known for loneliness, religious rage decades is tangible in my our passion for the Bible. In this and instability. own life. Her metaphors, stories and book, Taylor shows us the shadow Taylor has given us a great gift in confessions will continue to speak sides of Scripture — places, themes, her latest book. to you long after the last sentence of HHHHH plots and characters we easily omit “Learning to Walk in the Dark” this book. Barbara Brown Taylor. Learning to or run past, too frightened at the revolves around a metaphor of dark- Her words have a way of stoking Walk in the Dark. San Francisco: darkness to take a second look. ness. Taylor makes the case that, a fiery conversation for months to HarperOne, 2014. 208 pages. $24.99. Taylor gives us a thousand metaphorically speaking, night has come — words that will prompt you reasons to stop fearing the dark. more to teach us than day. to walk into the darkness, knees in Jesus’ life (early morning prayers God does not sleep. God is not The dominant metaphor in trembling, hands shaking, asking and the night vigil in the Garden of sleeping. God is holding the world Western Christianity of under- God, “Come to me like you did to Gethsemane). together in the day and in the night. standing the life of faith is that of Jacob ... as with Mary, the mother Taylor makes the monumental We need not be afraid. light. However, in this book, Taylor of Jesus. Speak to me in the dark. I theological observation from the argues that Scripture, creation and will wait all night to hear from you.” gospels: “By all accounts, a stone JOSH GRAVES is preaching and teaching minister experience teach us that formation That’s something I wrote in the blocked the entrance to the cave for the Otter Creek Church of Christ in Nashville, happens not in the day, but in the margin of a page as I read the book. so that there were no witnesses to Tenn. He is author of “The Feast,” “Heaven on Earth” uncertainty of the night. Day and This book is full of tiny but bril- the resurrection ... new life starts in and “How Not to Kill a Muslim.” Follow him on night depend upon each other, and liant nuggets of gold. Some exam- the dark. Whether it is a seed in the Twitter @joshgraves and read his religion pieces at Taylor offers a corrective to the ples are her treatment of darkness ground, a baby in the womb, or Jesus foxnews.com. NEW AND NOTEWORTHY MONEY fiction GLOBAL ISSUES APOLOGETICS Dave Ramsey and Ted Dekker. Hacker: Greg Darley. Wasted Lee Strobel. The Rachel Cruze. Smart The Outlaw Chronicles. Prayer: Know When Case for Christianity Money, Smart Brentwood, Tenn.: God Wants You to Answer Book. Kids: Raising the Worthy Publishing, Stop Praying and Grand Rapids, Mich.: Next Generation to 2014. 304 pages. $14.99. Start Doing. Nashville, Zondervan, 2014. 224 Win with Money. Tenn.: Nelson Books, pages. $14.99. Brentwood, Tenn.: Dekker’s latest 2014. 208 pages. Lampo Press, 2014. 256 work follows best- $15.99. This small book pages. $24.99. sellers “Water Walker” and “Eyes uses a question-and-answer format Wide Open.” It’s part of a series of Darley, a director for International to help Christians new and sea- Financial guru Ramsey and his science-fantasy books that feature Justice Mission, takes risks for a soned defend their faith. Questions daughter, Cruze, teach a simplified connected characters and settings, living. He shares how Christians in include, “Did God use evolution version of his envelope system. They but not plotlines. any vocation can do the same. when he created the world?” and discuss working, spending, saving and As with all of “The Outlaw He argues that prayer can enable “Why does he allow suffering?” giving before moving into issues such Chronicles,” the book conveys the Christians to procrastinate, isolate This book could be a perfect gift as avoiding debt, paying cash for col- message that life is more than this themselves from other Christians and for young Christians. It also may lege and battling discontentment. The world, that humans are more than develop pride. God answers prayers, serve as a guide for those who need book includes Cruze’s memories of bodies and minds. This book is suit- he writes, but Christians must say yes ready answers for those skeptical growing up in the Ramsey household. able for teens and adults. to his commands and opportunities. about the Christian faith. octoBER 2014 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 33

REMOTE TEACHERS NEEDED Thechurch of Christ in Wheeler, Student and Family Minister Finding “Sonshine” in Texas, is searching for a pulpit minister. a Time of Darkness! Teachers with a heart to serve and Our preference is a married man with evangelize to communities in some experience as a full-time preacher, The Church of Christ in Livonia, Mich., Finding the “Sonshine” in a time of is a medium-size church and is looking for Latin America are needed. with a Biblical degree and a deep Darkness is a series of Bible lessons knowledge of the Scriptures. Our 125- a second minister to work with students written during Armando’s late wife’s We are seeking teachers with some and families. battle with cancer. Armando hopes to member congregation is diverse in back- encourage, answer difficult questions, experience in teaching: ESL, personal ground and age, we have 3 elders and we Salary will be in line with experience and explain how to share your walk with finances, and other trades. have many young families who will be a and benefits will be provided. God through difficult times. major focus of our mutual efforts. Interested teachers will not need to leave their Please send a resume with three references If your congregation could benefit from homes in the U.S. Teaching will be done using an See online classified for more details. and a sermon (audio or video) to: these lessons and would like to host him existing video conferencing network. as a guest speaker, please contact: Please contact: If you are interested, please send a message Stacy McCasland Larry Stephens Armando Gonzalez (806) 886-4000 with your contact information to: [email protected] Home: (918) 650-7006 Cell: (918) 752-7545 [email protected] [email protected] www.livoniachurch.net [email protected]

The Kandiyohi PULPIT MINISTER POSITION Church of Christ Family Life Minister/Christian Counseling Holmes Road Church of Christ in Lansing MI. is a multi-cultural church that seeks a Bible-based pulpit a small, growing congregation in Therapist Wanted minister to anchor and help facilitate a ministry team central Minnesota, is in encouraging spiritual and numerical growth. Holmes Road believes church exists to reach the lost and seeking a full-time minister. The El Campo Church of Christ in El Campo, Texas, is seeking a Family Life save souls. We have established elders and deacons, Partial outside support needed. Minister who is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. We desire a godly family a youth ministry, and an active women’s ministry. man who is a gifted congregational teacher to help us disciple people to have minds Send cover letter, resume, two personal references, renewed in the knowledge of Christ. three professional references, and a recording of two Send resumes to: lessons to: Box 267 Responsibilities include teaching an adult Bible class on Sunday mornings, leading Search Committee our Life Group Ministry Program, and offering short seminars through the church 321 E. Holmes Rd Kandiyohi MN 56251 to serve the needs of the people in our area. Lansing, MI 48910 Compensation is a negotiated base salary commensurate with educational and professional experience. In addition, the fees collected from the therapeutic services will belong to the therapist. The church will provide space, furnishings and utilities Youth & Family Minister Position for the counseling practice. CHURCH OF CHRIST in Jerusalem, Conejo Valley Church of Christ Please send a resume to: Arkansas, is searching for a full-time Thousand Oaks, California El Campo Church of Christ pulpit minister. We are accepting applications from both men and A married man, soundly dedicated to preaching women, either as individuals or as couples, to serve as our full-time Youth and Family Minister(s). Attn: Family Life Minister Search God’s Word and wanting to work with the congregation and the community is desired. Prior experience of and commitment to youth ministry 311 E Calhoun St and an undergraduate degree in a related field are required. El Campo, TX 77437 The parsonage is a 3 bed/2 bath brick house If interested, please submit current resume and a 1-2 with utilities paid except telephone. page document on your Philosophy of Youth Ministry. [email protected] Larry Nicholson (elder) Jacob Michael Please include 3-4 references and contact numbers. Any additional giftedness or expertise the PO Box 5, Jerusalem, AR 72080 [email protected] Family Life Minister candidate has will be taken into consideration in the hiring process: worship [email protected] www.conejochurch.org leading, technology skills, ministry experience, etc. (501)669-2550

Minister Wanted Looking for a Preacher? Minister Wanted Websites for Churches I hope to find a body of God’s people who are looking  for a solid, biblically centered preacher, minister, The Ypsilanti church of Christ, Easy to maintain evangelist, mentor & counselor! I am a youthful, very located in Ypsilanti, Mich.,is seeking to fill  Very attractive to visitors healthy 54 year old with over 30 years experience our vacant minister position; this includes  Email members directly serving in many congregational and community works. pulpit, class and evangelistic duties. We Along with my wife of my youth, I desire to keep using  Post audio sermons my abilities as I continue to move deeper into the heart are a diverse congregation with a current of our Lord & strive to fully develop His mind! average Sunday a.m. attendance of 130.  Maintain member directory Check out these three websites: Are you able to offer full-time employment? I have If you desire to be considered for this the ability and desire in bringing my commitment  bluerivercofc.org position, please submit your resume with to His Body to your location, wherever  odessachurchofchrist.org three sermons (audio and/or video) to: it is, in whatever opportunity you would have  chillicothechurchofchrist.org me partner with you in The Gospel. ypsicofc@ gmail.com Call, text, or email Ron Ledford: For further information contact: 320-252-5675 Bob Bowen (elder) at (734) 482-6213. 682.587.7784 pstechgroup.org [email protected] 34 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OPINION OCTOBER 2014 Beyond her love for Africa, Dottie Beckloff The 38-year-old AMEN Ministry connects Christians in the United States was vital in keeping the Chronicle alive Military with local churches of Christ both overseas and in the U.S. ottie Mae Moreland met John, financial backing they needed. Please send, name, email, and other the love of her life, and followed John and Dottie hosted many contact info to: Dhim as he sought to follow God lunches around Oklahoma to promote and make disciples wherever he went. the Chronicle and enlist subscribers. AMEN Ministry She followed to Bartlesville, Okla., John’s message was simple: “We must [email protected] to Nashville, Tenn., to Dayton, Tenn., keep the Chronicle alive.” 135 Larchmont Drive and eventually to Nigeria where they As John worked on the business spent much of their lives together. side, more and more of the writing Hendersonville, NC 28791 John worked with the school and publication fell 828-891-4480 systems — supported by the British Insight to Dottie. After one government — to teach English and year, the Beckloffs a basic curriculum to Nigerians. He offered the paper to was allowed to teach Bible, too. Oklahoma Christian Dottie raised their children and College. provided their education. During When the trustees her free time, she cared for the sick accepted the offer, in and wounded and taught women the 1981, the Beckloffs Bible — and ways to improve their stepped out of the children’s health. Bailey McBride picture — with no MULTIPLE FACULTY POSITIONS ARE AVAILABLE The Biafran War in 1967 forced demands or condi- These positions are available as early as Fall 2014. them to leave their beloved Nigeria. tions. Howard Norton, chairman of Throughout the 1970s, they the Division of Bible at OC, became MECHANICAL ENGINEERING continued to raise funds for the the editor. And the rest is history. COMPUTER SCIENCE Nigerian programs. They met Clark Dottie and John continued Hicks, who was publishing and working to support small churches ENGINEERING editing The Christian Chronicle. in Oklahoma, but their passion for John and Dottie remembered the Nigeria remained. They returned Academic rank for these open positions will be negotiable based time when the paper was widely there in 1983. John worked with on education and experience according to University policy, which circulated and was filled with stories African Christian Schools, a ministry requires all full-time faculty to be active members of the church about preachers, churches and that includes Nigerian Christian of Christ and all faculty (visiting, adjunct, etc.) to be committed mission work. I remember visiting Bible College in the town of Ukpom. to Christ-infused curriculum, co-curriculum, and community. A with John about stories They returned to the doctoral degree or ABD is preferred for all faculty ranks, with in the Chronicle when we U.S. after John was diag- advanced ranks available for those with demonstrated excellence were students at Central nosed with throat cancer in teaching, publication, or professional leadership. Positions are Christian College in in 1993. But the ailment full-time, ten-month posts. Applications will be accepted until Bartlesville. The news- didn’t keep them away. filled, with review beginning immediately. paper informed us of the The couple made peri- phenomenal growth of odic visits to check on Additional details are available at www.oc.edu/hr. Inquiries the Gospel in Nigeria, the the college. During and applications should be directed to Lisa Jones, Box 11000, great work Clinton Brazle a visit in 2001, John Oklahoma City, OK 73136. was doing in Montana PHOTO PROVIDED misjudged a staircase

Oklahoma Christian University is a Christian higher learning community transforming lives for and the success of Otis John and Dottie Beckloff during the night and Christian faith, scholarship, and service. We are located in a city recently named to many Gatewood in Germany. fell, receiving a severe top-ten lists for vibrant culture, a growing economy, and beautiful amenities. OC is known for legacies of excellence in many fields of study, including accounting, where our CPA pass Hicks was really discouraged and concussion that claimed his life. rate often has been the best in the state; three decades of engineering now in three ABET- about to end the newspaper, which “As much as he’d relied on her, accredited fields with exceptional industry relationships; and 100% medical school placement was hurting for subscribers and she’d relied on him,” their son, Dean, rates for our renowned biology programs. OC faculty offer many fields of distinctive undergraduate and graduate learning environments in the arts, humanities, sciences, biblical funds. Dottie and John recognized told me. “I’m proud of my mom. I’m studies, and much more! The university’s Honors Program has the highest per capita National its value for missionaries around proud of her hard, untiring work on Merit Scholars among sister schools and a leading percentage among CCCU campuses. Recent graduate acceptances include Stanford University, Harvard University (Law), Florida the world, and they decided to buy behalf of the good folks in Africa, on State University, the University of Texas, and the University of California-Los Angeles. Our the Chronicle. Working together, behalf of her children and, of course, suburban setting offers easy access to internships in industry, healthcare, professional sports, and many other fields of endeavor. Our 200-acre campus is surrounded by beautiful they collected news, wrote stories, on behalf of her John.” walking trails and located near world-class corporations, a medical research center, and designed the pages and prepared In the years since, Dottie has unique arts and entertainment. the paper for publication. At the slowed down a bit, but she still same time, they worked to recruit enjoys her children, grandchildren, subscribers and find funding. great grandchildren and makes it to In 1978, they decided to move an annual Beckloff reunion. www.oc.edu/hr the paper from Nashville, Tenn., to She is a truly worthy woman! Oklahoma City, where they knew more people and hoped to find the COntact [email protected]. OCTOBER 2014 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 35

the 2014 solar event so powerful even the blind can see

silvanus undie, before becoming blind because of glaucoma, was an avid student and preacher of God’s word. now, with the solar player, he can again study and preach the word to others. The solar player can help anyone who has been blind to God’s Word. two-thousand solar-powered audio players that contain the entire bible and 400 hours of bible teaching, including all 40 sunset courses, are being delivered during 2014 to Ghana, liberia and Zimbabwe, africa. hundreds of solar players are already in the hands of those who are using the power of the sun to teach about the son. stories of joy, gratitude and thanksgiving are abundant. This is just one of many stories to come. sunset international bible institute • 800.658.9553 • www.sibi.cc ‘Made to be awesome’ INSIDE Despite the challenges of a rare CALENDAR...... 28 NATIONAL...... 5 bone condition, ‘Kid President’ CURRENTS...... 17 OPINION...... 30 Robby and Lexi Novak have DIALOGUE...... 21 PARTNERS...... 26 INSIGHT...... 34 PEOPLE...... 29 ‘unbreakable spirits,’ their INTERNATIONAL...... 7 REVIEWS...... 32 Vol. 71, No. 10 | October 2014 | www.christianchronicle.org adopted mother says. 17 MILESTONES...... 28 VIEWS...... 31

box 11000 OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73136-1100

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A DINNER WITH NIKA MAPLES

OCTOBER 6, 2014 www.oc.edu/shespeaks

OCTOBER 5-7

Mark your calendar for OC’s

annual lectureship, featuring

inspiring lectures, informative

classes, practical sessions and

warm fellowship. Women’s Day

activities, an elders workshop,

textual classes, and youth and

family tracks complement the

keynote lectures.

www.oc.edu/lectureship OC LECTURESHIP 2014 #OCLectureship