An international newspaper Our mission: To inform, for Churches of Christ inspire and unite Vol. 75, No. 5 | May 2018 christianchronicle.org When God A blessing in the storm? comes with tornado damages ministries’ offices but may help a gospel publication a loud thud spread its message — literally. BY CHELLIE ISON | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE WHY A DECLINING CHURCH closed to Perhaps, just perhaps, a tornado make way for a new, growing that damaged the offices of three church-supported ministries will congregation to take over its building. help lead a soul or two to Christ, Matt Wallin said. BY bobby ross jr. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE “Maybe a tract has blown somewhere KANSAS CITY, Mo. that it will be picked eff Pendleton met and married his wife, up and read,” Wallin Marcia, at the Red Bridge Church of said after an EF-3 Christ, a once-thriving congregation less twister with 140 mph than a mile from the Kansas state line. winds ripped through JHe baptized his daughter, Kelly, there. the offices of a gospel Wallin When loved ones died, he sang hymns publication he serves, and shed tears there. House to House/Heart to Heart. The “It’s a cherished place for so many,” said Jacksonville, Ala., facility also houses Pendleton, who served as a church elder. the offices of two other ministries “There are so many memories there.” associated with Churches of Christ At one point, average Sunday attendance — Polishing the Pulpit and the Great topped 350. Smoky Mountain Marriage Retreat. The church “Maybe an emergency worker, expanded to two volunteer or college student will be morning worship converted as they interact with us in assemblies. the cleanup or rebuild,” Wallin said. But in more “Maybe our grace under pressure recent years, the will show Jesus to someone.” congregation Melissa Webster, whose husband, became older Allen, ministers for the Jacksonville and grayer. The Church of Christ, was at the building Deb Smeltzer, right, hugs a numbers shrank, when the storm hit. She and her fellow Christian on the new down to about 80 daughters met at the building and congregation’s first day of on a typical Lord’s were able to get into the basement worship at the Red Bridge Day. Attracting just moments before the storm hit. Road location. and retaining “We’re just really thankful no one young families was hurt,” Wallin said. became increasingly difficult. Many of the ministries’ employees “Lord, show us your will for Red Bridge,” work remotely, so their daily opera- the church’s leaders began praying a year tions were not severely impacted, ago. “What do you want us to do? What do he said. The latest issue of House to you want us to become?” House/Heart to Heart was published The answer came not with a whisper but and delivered as scheduled. with a loud thud — as God opened the door PHOTOS BY EMILY JOHNSON “God is able to do a lot with a little,” for the old, declining church to close and a Drew Hathaway and sister Harper are dressed up for the Southpoint Wallin said. “So, pray for recovery for new, growing church to replace it. Church of Christ’s first Sunday morning assembly at the Red Bridge everything, but also for our light to See CHURCH PLANT, Page 10 Road building. Their mother, Karen Hathaway, walks behind them. shine and for God to be glorified.” 2 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE MAY 2018 MAY 2018 the christian chronicle 3 Teens serve the ‘Soul-winning’ evangelist Phillips dies at 86

hungry as their TULSA, Okla. — Marvin Phillips, a minis- thousands of attendees from Churches What a great friend!” ter known for his ever-present smile, a of Christ to the Tulsa He launched ministries to support teachers strike missionary who raised money to buy Fairgrounds annually. evangelism overseas and hosted a Bibles for Africa and the driving force The free gathering, weekly TV show. He also had a well- OKLAHOMA CITY behind the Tulsa Workshop died April later shortened to “the developed sense of humor, friends ews helicopters circled 18 after a long illness. He was 86. Tulsa Workshop,” ran said — including the ability to imitate the Oklahoma State Phillips was pulpit minister for the for 40 years. a Coke bottle opening, a referee’s Capitol on a Tuesday Garnett Church of Christ in Tulsa Terry Rush, minister whistle and an electric drill. One book afternoon as thou- for 26 years, retiring in 1996. He for the Memorial Drive he authored is titled “Never Lick a Nsands of teachers squeezed had served with the church since its Church of Christ in Moving Blender: Humorous Insights Phillips into the rotunda, demanding beginnings in a school gym in 1970. Tulsa and longtime that Motivate and Encourage.” more money for their over- He oversaw the International Soul co-director of the workshop, said of crowded, dilapidated schools. Winning Workshop, which brought Phillips, “This man made a difference. EXPANDED COVERAGE: christianchronicle.org “We’ll be Inside Story back on Wednesday!” they chanted. despite rapid modernization, the internet remains out of reach in many parts of About five Africa. So Christians are taking a web-based university back into the classroom. miles away, on South Harvey Street, a beige van Online learning, old school Erik Tryggestad drove slowly through the BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE inner-city neighborhood of Capitol Hill, a mostly PRETORIA, South Africa Spanish-speaking commu- his isn’t Wakanda, the dazzling, nity of small houses, muffler high-tech African kingdom shops and gas stations with depicted in the blockbuster film barred windows. “Black Panther.” Four teenagers darted But Pretoria is, nonetheless, back and forth from the van, Tan ever-modernizing metropolis, knocking on doors, handing the seat of power for the Republic out white, shoebox-size of South Africa’s executive branch, to-go meals and running home to nearly a million souls. back to reload. On a Friday afternoon, the city’s “We know that this businesspeople rush into cafés and walkout has affected a lot buffets and squeeze into minibus of people, including people taxis. Nowadays, more who are less privileged,” and more of them use said George Hartman, one their smartphones to of the teens, “so giving them summon rides from lunches, which they usually Uber and a local ser- would get at school, is a vice called Zebra Cabs. great way to help.” Amidst the techno- The teens worship with the logical waves crashing ERIK TRYGGESTAD Memorial Road Church of Xoshe across the continent, Zonge Xoshe teaches NationsUniversity material, designed for the internet, in Pretoria. Christ on the north side of something decidedly town, just outside the affluent low-tech is going on in the basement describing the final days of King His students — some in their 20s, Oklahoma City suburb of of the Downtown Church of Christ. David. “It shows you that, with the other more “advanced in years” them- Edmond. I’m a deacon there, With the distinctive tap, tap, tap of experience he has and the older he selves, dutifully scribble down notes, and interviewing these kids chalk on chalkboard, preacher Zonge gets, the closer he gets to God. Do pencil on paper. was surreal. I had just seen Xoshe writes out Bible verses from the you realize that? But with Saul, once “See, don’t get close to God, as you many of them perform skits Old Testament book of 1 Kings. he assumed the position, only for two are, and when you get old you get away and puppet shows at the “Some translations use the words years he stayed with God, and then … from God,” Xoshe warns the students. See STRIKE, Page 4 ‘advanced in years,’” Xoshe says, humility made way for arrogance.” See OLD SCHOOL, Page 25 4 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE INSIDE STORY MAY 2018 STRIKE: Don’t be blind to the real world — our city

FROM PAGE 3 Edmond, “because we’ve got testing, North Texas Leadership Training and this is the point where we’d be for Christ convention in Dallas. I studying for state tests.” remember when most of them were Several of her friends have vaca- born. I’m pretty sure I was at the tions, including Disney trips, sched- weddings of a few of their parents. uled for the end of the term, Rieger I hope their parents are as proud said. Others have mission trips of them as I am. scheduled for early June, including Rather than use the statewide Jared Pollock, a senior at Edmond teacher strike as “Spring Break Memorial who plans to serve along- 2.0” (as one of them, Isaiah Phelps, side fellow Christians in Honduras. joked), the teens traveled south to But “mission” isn’t confined to work with the Capitol Hill Church Central America, said Brian Plumb, of Christ, an inner-city congrega- a youth minister for the 2,400- tion planted by Memorial Road that member Memorial Road church. meets in a former funeral home He teaches the youths that Jesus’ across the street from an elementary mission to serve, seek and save school — empty and eerily quiet on goes on continually — and far the second day of the walkout. beyond the confines of the church’s Children from the neighborhood walls. Giving out meals is one worship with the congregation, said simple way the young believers can youth minister Matthew Brazle, and live out their faith, Plumb said. the church feeds the attendees. Logan Mayes, youth and family Many, when they arrive for Sunday ERIK TRYGGESTAD ministry associate, added that the worship at 4 p.m., haven’t eaten all day, Isaac Jones, right, and George Hartman hand out free lunches in the Capitol service project forces the teens to he said. These same children depend Hill neighborhood of Oklahoma City in the midst of a teacher strike. “not just be blind to the real world on free lunches from their schools. — even in our own city.” For the Memorial Road teens, added some sides — including mac with a giggle. The next day, however, That reality, said Pollock, preaches that’s a sobering reality. and cheese. Only a dozen or so “some of them saw us and said, a sermon of its own. “I guess before now I didn’t families came to the church building ‘Yeah, we need seven,’” said Jackson “Obviously, my graduation and think school lunches were very for the lunches, so the teens loaded Tate, a junior at Memorial High. moving on to the next level is very important,” said Madison Leonard, them into four vans and distributed After circling the neighborhood, important,” Pollock said, “but seeing a freshman at Edmond Memorial them door to door along with flyers the teens gathered in the Capitol that these people have basic needs High School. “But now I see that advertising where to get more. Hill building before heading back like food that they get from school kids actually depend on this. On the first day of the strike, north to Edmond. Several said … it really kind of puts my needs in “We complain when we don’t some of the Capitol Hill residents they’re concerned about the impact perspective.” like something. They don’t get to hesitated to open their doors and a prolonged strike could have on For that reason, the youths said, complain.” accept the meals. their studies — and their summer. they’d be back on Wednesday. Feed the Children, an Oklahoma “It kind of looks a little stalker-ish “It’s kind of worrisome,” said And they were. City nonprofit, provided the meals — white van, white packages,” said Emily Rieger, a seventh grader and Capitol Hill church members one of the teens, Vivian Tefertiller, at Sequoyah Middle School in CONTACT: [email protected].

Chief Correspondent: Bobby Ross Jr. The Christian Chronicle® encourages feedback The Christian [email protected] that promotes thoughtful and respectful discussion. Chronicle® is Digital News Editor: Chellie Ison Letters and comments should not exceed 300 words if published monthly Our mission: Inform, inspire, unite [email protected] possible and may be edited for length and clarity. and is served by Advertising Manager: Tonya Patton Comments to the print or online editions are a national Board A subsidiary of Oklahoma Christian University [email protected] considered to be letters to the editor and may be of Trustees that is Administrative Assistant: Lynda Sheehan published. Please include name, city and state of resi- charged with the christianchronicle.org [email protected] dence, as well as home congregation. responsibility for Administrative Assistant: Joy McMillon policy and gover- Phone: (405) 425-5070; Fax (405) 425-5076 [email protected] The Christian Chronicle® is not a teaching or doctrinal nance. All trustees, Mail: P.O. Box 11000, Oklahoma City, OK 73136-1100 Administrative Assistant: Melinda Wilson publication but a newspaper with news and opinion editors and staff are Delivery: 2801 E. Memorial Road, Edmond, OK 73013 [email protected] content in sections clearly labeled. Signed columns and active members of Churches of Christ. Staff Accountant: Louise Beyer reviews reflect the opinions of the authors. facebook.com/ChristianChronicle Editor Emeritus: Bailey McBride Advertising contains commercial messages from Trustees: twitter.com/CofCnews [email protected] those who purchase the advertising space. Deon Fair, chairman News coverage, opinion columns, reviews, letters Ed Biggers • Alfred Branch • Dwain Chaffin President and CEO: Lynn A McMillon TO SUBSCRIBE: See www.christianchronicle.org, to the editor and advertising do not necessarily repre- Monte Cox • Billy Curl • John deSteiguer • Erin Engelke [email protected] email [email protected] sent the views of or constitute endorsement by the James Moore • Robert Oglesby Sr. • Mike O’Neal Editor in Chief: Erik Tryggestad or call (405) 425-5070. editors, the staff, the Board ofT rustees of The Christian Barry Packer • David Seat • Brian Simmons [email protected] LETTERS: [email protected] Chronicle or Oklahoma Christian University. Harold Redd • Milton Sewell • Gary Tabor MAY 2018 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 5 Artist’s painting brings sermon to life ABILENE, Texas ennifer Crawford, a member of the Southern Hills Church of Christ, uses her paintbrush to help bring alive biblical scenes. As Jarrod Robinson, Southern Hills’ minister of the Word, launched aJ recent sermon series on baptism, he asked Crawford to paint as he preached. “He invited children to the stage, and they watched Jennifer as he preached,” said Stephen Corbett, the church’s communications minister. Robinson urged the PHOTOs by STEPHEN CORBETT church to join Paint drips from Jennifer him in a study Crawford’s brush. of baptism and what it means. “I believe that baptism is essential when it comes to the life of a disciple,” he told the church. “I believe it is our formal way of asking for grace and confessing our need for grace.” But since he was immersed at age 13, Robinson said, his understanding of baptism has grown deeper. Artist Jennifer Crawford, a Southern Hills church member, paints a baptism scene during minister Jarrod Robinson’s sermon.

Children invited on stage watch as Jennifer Crawford paints a baptism scene during Jarrod Robinson’s sermon. Jennifer Crawford poses beside her painting. 6 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE MAY 2018

College of Arts and Sciences The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication Dr. Gregory Straughn, Dean, ACU Box 29210, Abilene, Texas 79699-9210 invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track faculty member to join six colleagues beginning Aug. 1, 2018, in an ACEJMC-accredited program in a The Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences invites state-of-the-art facility. About 150 students are enrolled in advertising/public applications for a full-time, tenure-track position in animal science, beginning relations, convergence journalism or multimedia majors within the department August 2018. Applicants must have a master’s degree in animal sciences, or or in an interdisciplinary graphic design/advertising major. Students in the closely related field, from an AVMA-accredited institution, with a doctoral degree advertising/PR major spend two semesters working at Morris+Mitchell, preferred (Ph.D., Ph.D./D.V.M or D.V.M). Individuals working toward terminal a student-run agency. The ideal candidate will have academic credentials and degrees will be considered. Our faculty are expected to be exceptional teachers professional experience for teaching public relations courses in the ad/PR who value working with and mentoring students. Faculty also are expected to major. Though not required, applicants who bring a second area of interest in engage in scholarly activity with interest in continued growth and enhancement sports communication, social media or film are particularly encouraged to apply. of the department’s participation in ACU’s undergraduate research program. A terminal degree is strongly preferred, but applicants who are ABD will be The animal science major has four concentrations: animal industry and business, considered. Research and service expectations support the university’s status biotechnology and research, livestock management, and pre-veterinary medicine as a premier comprehensive university. Information about the department is and health. Information about the department is available at acu.edu/agenv. available at acu.edu/jmc. The Department of Communication and Sociology invites applications for a tenure-track position at assistant professor level beginning August 2018. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in sociology. Areas of specialization are open, Brown Library but we particularly seek applicants who can teach undergraduate statistics and Dr. Mark McCallon, Associate Dean for Library Information Systems, research methods. Our faculty is engaged in research with undergraduate students ACU Box 29208, Abilene, Texas 79699-9208 on a broad range of topics. All applicants should demonstrate a record of excellent ACU’s Brown Library invites applications for the head of research and classroom teaching, the potential for scholarly endeavors, and collegial service. instructional services, a full-time tenure-track faculty position. Applicants must Applicants must have strong communication skills and interest in the development have an ALA-accredited M.L.S. or equivalent degree and experience with of students. Information about the department is available at acu.edu/sociology. successful college teaching. This position is responsible for leading and managing The Department of Communication and Sociology invites applications the instructional and research activities of the Information Services Division and for an instructor-level position beginning August 2018. Duties include serving collaboratively oversees the development and maintenance of the library’s print as director of forensics (DOF) for a national-level forensics program and teaching collections and the displays, events and collections in the Reading Commons. a variety of communication studies courses. The successful candidate should be Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. Applications a communication generalist and be prepared to teach various courses, including received by May 20, 2018, will receive full consideration. Information about the debate and the basic communication course. The teaching load is six courses per Brown Library is available at acu.edu/library. academic year within a semester system. The DOF assignment is in addition to the teaching load. Applicants must have a master’s degree in communication, See acu.edu/academics/provost/positions for complete descriptions of and teaching and forensics experience. Salary is commensurate with these positions. In a letter to the appropriate dean or chair, applicants qualifications and experience. Information about the department is should address their qualifications for the position. They should include available at acu.edu/communication. in the application a statement of how faith informs their teaching; a The Department of Engineering and Physics invites applications for discussion of their spiritual journey; a curriculum vitae; transcripts of faculty positions in engineering and physics that likely will begin in Fall 2018. all undergraduate and graduate work; and names, addresses and phone The position(s) will be contingent on funding and may be at any faculty or contract numbers of five references. Review of applicants will begin immediately level. For a tenure-track position, scholarship/research is required. A strong and continue until the position is filled. Nominations of and applications interest in undergraduate teaching is required, and involving undergraduates in from qualified women and minorities are especially encouraged. ACU is scholarship activities is highly encouraged. ACU offers degrees in physics and affiliated with the fellowship of the Churches of Christ. All applicants must engineering with various concentrations. The B.S.E. degree has recently been be professing Christians and be active, faithful members of a congregation accredited by ABET, and the department is housed in the new $50 million science of the Churches of Christ and deeply committed complex that includes the state-of-the-art Halbert-Walling Research Center, to service in Christian higher education. The the Engineering and Physics Laboratories at Bennett Gymnasium, and the mission of ACU is to educate students for Christian Robert R. and Kay Onstead Science Center. The department has a reputation service and leadership throughout the world. ACU of producing students who excel not only in academics, but also show strong does not unlawfully discriminate in employment personal characteristics of honesty and integrity. Information about the opportunities. department is available at acu.edu/physics and acu.edu/engineering.

170261-0518 MAY 2018 ACROSS THE NATION the christian chronicle 7 Sermon inspires a big idea — tiny homes

BY CHELLIE ISON | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE

NORMAN, Okla. n this college town, known for national football titles and Heisman trophies, sits a commu- nity of a different kind — one that is changing lives by helping Ipeople get a fresh start. Students at the University of Oklahoma, focused on big careers and bright futures, make up a large portion of Norman’s population. But just a couple of miles away from the university sits a neighborhood full of individuals and families who are living a different reality. Their focus: where their next meal will come from and how they will stretch one paycheck to the next. While the homeless population in Norman is not as big as in some large cities, there are hundreds who make their home under McKown Village is made up of 32 small homes. The homes give individuals or families privacy as they work toward independence. bridges or, if they’re lucky, in the warmth of the Salvation Army or So he did. meals each day. BUILDINGS AND BLESSINGS other community shelters. The next morning, he wrote a “Since opening The Village, we “I’ve been very, very blessed,” It’s a community that Gene check and took it to a local non- have already seen countless lives McKown said. “(I’m) very fortunate McKown, a homebuilder and profit, Food and Shelter, and told changed,” April Heiple, executive to have the opportunity to do the member of the Alameda Church of workers there that he wanted to director of Food things I do. Christ, believes God has called him help them build a homeless shelter. and Shelter, told “I’m 74 years old. to serve — in a big way. Within just a couple of weeks, the Chronicle. I come to work “I’ve never heard God talk to McKown helped the organization to “This village is every day to make me,” McKown told The Christian raise more than $300,000 toward the sharing love in money to do stuff Chronicle. “But, sometimes, I wake project. a way Christ like this.” up in the morning with something “My personal goal is to get all the moves us to do.” He’s not slowing so heavy on my mind that I just homeless people a place to sleep at Area busi- down, either. have to do something.” night,” McKown said. nesses and McKown recently That’s exactly what led Gene and As the owner of Ideal Homes, churches adopt helped the Salvation his late wife Judy to spearhead the McKown not only helped raise funds the homes. They Army build a new building of a community of 32 small for the community, but he also was then provide children’s center, houses — slightly bigger than the able to provide plans for the homes furnishings, and he hopes to help trendy “tiny homes” popping up and get businesses in the area to dishes and other them add additional across the country — to serve as donate lumber, bricks and other household items bed space to their transitional housing for the homeless. materials needed for the project. for the residents shelter in the future The homes, each between 400 — items they — ensuring more VILLAGE SHARES LOVE, LIKE CHRIST and 840 square feet, are a part of a can keep when PHOTOS By chellie ison people will have a The idea came to McKown on larger plan — helping the homeless they’re able to More than just a home: See a video warm place to sleep a Sunday morning. As he sat in get on their feet. move out of the interview with Gene McKown, and at night. the pews, Alameda minister Rusty “We’re trying to make homeless community and hear how God has led him to help the The projects are Tugman encouraged the congrega- people into tax-paying people,” into their own homeless, at christianchronicle.org. big, but he takes tion to live lives of benevolence. McKown said. home. very little credit, “At the end of the sermon he The Food and Shelter offices are The United Way of Norman pointing to God rather than himself. said, ‘If you’ve been thinking about on site. The nonprofit offer classes awarded McKown its 2017 Kathey “I just think it’s something God’s doing something benevolent in our to residents on topics including Hopper Drummond Community blessed me with, and it makes me community, I want you to go today money management and job inter- Service Award for “his leadership, happy,” McKown said. or tomorrow and do something view skills. The charity also has a compassion and dedication to mak- about it,’” McKown recalled. clothing room and serves several ing Norman better,” the award reads. WEBSITE: www.foodandshelterinc.org 8 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE ACROSS THE NATION MAY 2018

ILLINOIS TEXAS CHICAGO — On a recent Wednesday HOUSTON — Just as the Vietnamese night, a group gathered, as usual, Church of Christ publicized its efforts for Bible study at the Maypole to raise money for its own building Avenue Church of Christ. last fall, Hurricane Harvey struck. Police say it was during this The enormity of the storm caused time that a gunman entered the Christians to focus on disaster relief church building and “announced a efforts, but now the Vietnamese robbery.” A security guard for the church’s leaders are hoping fellow BOSS. congregation exchanged gunfire church members might consider with the suspect. Both were injured helping their cause. MBA.MAcc. and taken to area hospitals. The congregation has land for “We know that senseless violence a building but lacks funding for Be the boss of your life, schedule, and career with a MBA or Master of exists,” minister Gerald Walker construction, as The Christian Accountancy degree. OC is Home to America’s #1 best value Christian MBA said. “What a commentary it is that Chronicle reported in September. program, led by real-world business leaders who treat you like a boss. you have to have armed security to Checks earmarked for worship the Lord! What does it say “Vietnamese building fund” may be ONSITE OR ONLINE when saints are frightened when sent to the Northwest Church of GRADUATE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS they come to the house of God?” Christ at 6720 West Tidwell Road, OC.EDU/BOSS Houston, TX 77092. MISSISSIPPI ROXIE — Drinking water problems in nearby Fayette brought help from Churches of Christ Disaster Relief Effort, a ministry based in Nashville, Tenn. The ministry sent multiple tractor- trailer loads full of bottled water to help the community. East Roxie Church of Christ members took charge of unloading and distributing the water. PHOTO PROVIDED BY RANDY CLAY OKLAHOMA A church member works on painting one OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma City of the new signs at the former Southside Become the Christian leader God wants you to be. With affordable classes Community Foundation provides Church of Christ — now the Cross Tower just one day a week, you can get the knowledge your calling demands. warm meals to homebound elderly congregation — in West Jordan, Utah. citizens through grants to Mobile ONSITE OR ONLINE Meals programs. UTAH GRADUATE SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY Grant recipients include three WEST JORDAN — The Southside OC.EDU/GST Mobile Meals organized by Church of Christ in the Salt Lake Churches of Christ. City area has a new name. The Britton Road, Northeast and The 300-member congregation — Oakcrest congregations all benefit the largest Church of Christ in Utah from the grants. — is now the Cross Tower Church of Christ. The recent change SOUTH DAKOTA followed the 2015 construction of BELLE FOURCHE — The recent fourth a cell phone tower on the church’s annual youth rally hosted by the campus by Verizon. Northern Hills Church of Christ, “It’s 80 feet tall — with four giant between Belle Fourche and Spearfish, crosses on it,” minister Randy Clay drew 25 students and 15 adults. said of the tower. “It’s the highest The adults included six college-age structure in the city of West Jordan.” MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ENGINEERING - ONSITE OR ONLINE! Christians who helped with the MASTER OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE event, said Silas Fitzsimmons, the CLARIFICATION: A news brief on Page 6 of the church’s campus ministry. April issue, concerning the St. Thomas Church of Advance your career with an accelerated MSE or MSCS degree designed for “We had six congregations Christ, contained outdated information. “Electricity you, the working professional. Earn your degree in less than two years while represented from 100 miles around, has been restored to the property since January,” balancing your busy work and family schedules. including one from Montana,” minister Elton Terry said. “The four families that Fitzsimmons said. “Every time were housed in a shelter following the two OC.EDU/PRO we do this, it is truly an areawide hurricanes (Irma and Maria) are not in that effort with our speakers coming situation anymore. Though there are still members from five different congregations.” with needs, no one is in a desperate situation.” MAY 2018 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 9

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northboulevard.com/newdayconference 10 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE ACROSS THE NATION may 2018

Marcus Hicks prays for elders Scott Eggleston and Brad Wayland and minister Joe The Southpoint Church of Christ gathers for worship at Martin City Elementary Brumfield and their wives on the church plant’s first Sunday worship at the school. School in Kansas City, Mo. After months at the school, the church has a new home. CHURCH PLANT: For the sake of the kingdom FROM PAGE 1 This past fall, the 151st Street accomplished our goal.” much sooner.” “Sometimes, the Holy Spirit does church sent off a big chunk of its Cody and Emily Johnson and their As doors kept closing, the whisper, as was told in the Bible own membership — roughly 40 per- four children — ranging in age from 2 Southpoint church asked its real when the tornado came, the earth- cent — to begin meeting at Martin to 12 — were among the families who estate agent to reach out blindly to quake came, the forest fire came, City Elementary School on the committed to devote their talents to the struggling Red Bridge congre- and then the whisper of the Lord south side of Kansas City, Mo. the new Southpoint Church of Christ. gation and see if it might be willing came,” Pendleton said, referring to “When we asked members for a “It was hard to leave that close to sell its building. Elijah’s experience firm commitment body of Christians there at 151st Almost a month passed. in 1 Kings 19. to go with the Street,” Cody Johnson said. When the answer finally came, “Well, this time, he plant, we were But for the sake of the kingdom, it was, “Maybe.” The Red Bridge came and thudded somewhat sur- they decided to go. elders wanted to know if the inquir- on the door.” prised by the size “We prayed about it,” Emily ing party was a Church of Christ. While the Red of the response,” Johnson said, “and just wanted to “No small number of our mem- Bridge church said Richard Wolfe, see how God would use us.” bers had gone to that church,” sought divine the 151st Street Pendleton said. “It was only a few guidance, the church’s minister AN INCREDIBLE ‘GIFT’ FOR A NEW CHURCH miles from here. I mean, let’s face 151st Street since 2005. “By this After just a few months, the Sunday it — they were on a roll. Church of Christ time, we were aver- gathering at the school “I’m not going to say in fast-growing aging about 350 on exceeded 200 men, God was against us or Olathe, Kan. — Sunday morning, women and children for them more than about 20 minutes and 150 said they on a regular basis. us,” he added. “But it away — took its would go. But then came an was clear that there own leap of faith. “Many of our unexpected chal- was a lot of excite- For years, the staying mem- lenge: School officials ment and momentum 151st Street con- PHOTOS BY EMILY JOHNSON bers were a bit told church members around their startup gregation had con- anxious over this they’d need to be out and their plant, and we Abel Johnson, left, and Hunter Holley Johnson Pendleton templated planting at the church plant’s sendoff assembly development,” of the building by the thought, ‘Why don’t a new church at the 151th Street Church of Christ in Wolfe added, end of May. Summer renovations we just to the best of our ability let when it outgrew Olathe, Kan. Abel’s family joined the “but eventually were planned that would make the them come and have this building?’” its facilities. group that left to launch the new church. they saw it as a weekly assemblies impossible. The Red Bridge church had a few In 2016, the good thing. We “This was not the news we were financial obligations that it needed to congregation hired domestic mis- had always said that we wanted our hoping for,” Brumfield said. “We cover, and it wanted to offer severance sionary Joe Brumfield — who earlier planted church to be strong and self- had been looking for a future space to its preacher and a former minister. had planted the Jackson Street supporting, with a full complement or for some land that we might be But after discussions between Church of Christ in Willard, Mo., near of elders, teachers, song leaders, able to build on. This forced us to the two congregations’ leaders, the Springfield — to lead that effort. etc., from the very start, and we had start looking for another option Southpoint church paid “a fraction may 2018 ACROSS THE NATION THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 11

Christians — from the new church and the old one — stand to sing at the Southpoint Church of Christ’s first Sunday morning worship assembly at the Red Bridge Road location. of what the building is worth” for Only God could have orchestrated the 20,000-square-foot facility and the Southpoint congregation’s move two nearby homes. to the new site, said Marcus Hicks, “And they are asking their mem- whose family moved to the area just bers to stay and be a part of the as the church plant began meeting. new church,” Brumfield said. “It “When you’re doing things God’s is an incredible ‘gift’ to a newly way, things work out like this,” said planted church.” Hicks, who is married to Brandy The Red Bridge elders resigned and has two sons, ages 9 and 2. “I and put themselves under the over- feel like the elders and Joe have sight of the Southpoint shepherds: been about God’s business, and Scott Eggleston, Randy Powell and that’s what made this happen.” Brad Wayland. Pendleton said he can’t speak for A NEW NAME ON THE SIGN all of the Red Bridge elders. What’s the secret to the success “But my thinking was: There’s of the new church — now called some reason people Southpoint Church are leaving here of Christ on Red and going other Kingdom repurposing Bridge Road? places,” he said. The Heritage 21 Foundation partners with It’s not innova- Joe Brumfield, right, greets Garrett Holloway on the first Sunday on Red Bridge Road. “Why would we declining churches “to help them faithfully tive worship style: want to muddy preserve and repurpose their resources The congregation “I think that’s attractive to people,” professor Evertt W. Huffard of the waters trying for new kingdom work,” according to the features a cappella he added. “It’s not nuanced. It’s not Harding School of Theology in to keep our foot nonprofit’s website. The foundation is not singing with a hard to understand.” Memphis, Tenn. “They’re born, they in the door when involved with the Kansas City, Mo., effort but single song leader. Once a month, the congregation grow old, and they die.” these guys are on is seeking church partners. Look for additional It’s not focuses on learning new songs. For Pendleton, the chance to keep a roll? ... Let’s get coverage at christianchronicle.org. expanded gender “We try to keep that part of our praising God in a place so close to our leadership out roles: Men lead worship fresh and new,” Brumfield his heart is a blessing. of the way and let the assembly. said. “We try to bring a lot of energy However, the new name on the sign their leadership get to work.” It’s not progressive theology: that way. For whatever reason, outside has required adjustment. The first Sunday of the new The sermons emphasize simple our church plant gathered a lot of “I was a lifelong Red Bridger, so to arrangement drew a crowd of 375, messages from God’s word. workers, and they work hard.” speak,” the former elder said. “But if including 121 children. Most, if not all, “I try to do everything I can to be Perhaps the secret is simply a you can get over that, it was nothing of the Red Bridge members chose to just as positive and straightforward as fresh start. but upside.” become a part of the new church and possible,” Brumfield said. “I also think “Churches have a life cycle,” said submit to the new leadership. it’s a clear presentation of the Gospel. Brumfield, citing insight from RELATED COLUMN: Page 12 12 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE ACROSS THE NATION MAY 2018 Preaching is where

PHOTO PROVIDED BY JOE BRUMFIELD we began Josh, Nick, Latina, Joe and Jake Brumfield in a photo taken before Nick died of cancer. Training Preachers since 1962 Two years of tuition-free 19-year-old cancer victim’s faith training and in-depth inspires parents to keep serving

Bible study KANSAS CITY, Mo. “You have a lot of friends here, ick Brumfield would have Nick,” Joe Brumfield recalled saying. A lifetime of in uence loved the Southpoint Church “I’ll make friends anywhere I go,” of Christ on Red Nick replied. Bridge Road’s first Road Notes Latina Brumfield Now is the time to change NSunday at its new location. remembers her oldest son as His parents, Joe and a “very spiritual young man your world Latina Brumfield, have no who was also kind of shy. doubt of that. “After he died, we found “I think he would have some notebooks where he been really excited to see had written some beautiful International Bible Institute 800.658.9553 • www.sibi.cc what we were doing,” Latina journal entries and prayers Brumfield said. and things that just further The oldest of the Bobby Ross Jr. illustrated how spiritual he Brumfields’ three sons, was,” she said. “But it was a Nick was 19 years old when he died very private thing for him.” of brain cancer on Oct. 9, 2011. While undergoing treatment at St. He lived just long enough to Jude Children’s Research Hospital see the successful completion of in Memphis, Tenn., Nick would pray his family’s first church plant, the with his doctors and nurses. Jackson Street Church of Christ “He would lead the prayer,” his Connect in Willard, Mo., near Springfield. mother said. “Prayer was how Nick The Brumfields would really show served with that you the depth of his congregation for relationship with six years. God.” With Us! “His greatest April 7 would have desire was to see been Nick’s 26th the new church birthday. His family plant in Willard,” remembered him by Joe Bright, eating Mexican food christianchronicle.org former minister and Kripsy Kreme Digital Newsletter for the Sunset doughnuts. “He Church of Christ loved both of those,” in Springfield, EMILY JOHNSON his father said. which launched Joe and Latina Brumfield Nick’s parents the Jackson Street still talk about him @cofcnews @christianchronicle The Christian christianchronicle.org/ congregation, told The Christian all the time — and his strong faith Chronicle newsletter Chronicle in 2011. inspires them to keep serving God. The Brumfields learned about “What we do in and for the Don't miss out. Subscribe at christianchronicle.org/newsletter Nick’s cancer just as they were kingdom is all that matters,” Joe preparing to move from to Brumfield said. “The rest will fade Tennessee to Missouri to plant the away.” Jackson Street church. They told their son they didn’t have to move. contact: [email protected] 12 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE DECEMBER 2017

MAY 2018 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 13 ALBANIA spoTLIGHT DURRES — More than 100 women gathered with the Church of Christ in this seaside city of central Europe to celebrate International Women’s Day. A rut-less church A visiting chorus from the Marseille Church of Christ in France sang in South America Christian songs in French, Albanian and English. Christian women deliv- SANTIAGO, Chile — Churches of Christ ered inspirational messages. can easily fall into a “rut,” said Bob “We use these events to evange- Young. The Oklahoma minister lize in our community and reach and missions consultant to Spanish- them with the Gospel of Jesus,” said speaking nations has seen it happen Durres minister Shkelqim Kafexhiu. repeatedly. Churches reach a plateau of 50 to 75 members and stop growing BRAZIL as “satisfaction sets in,” he said. SÃo paulo — More than 400 minis- The elders of the Nogales Church ters and church leaders discussed of Christ in Chile’s capital didn’t “The Church of the Future” at want that to happen, Young said. So, ENOC 2018, an annual men’s retreat about 10 years ago, they “committed for Brazilian Christians hosted at a themselves to shepherding and campsite outside São Paulo. asked the members to accept “It was an important reminder to responsibility for the daily function look forward and realize that what of the church. The preaching task at we do today will impact where we Nogales is now shared by a number will be tomorrow,” said Larry Zinck, of brothers. The ministries are over- a missionary in Rio de Janeiro. seen by a group of brothers who serve as evangelists. The church BURUNDI has committed itself to evangelism Mwumba — A recent door-to-door and to discipling new members.” evangelism campaign resulted in 17 The congregation has grown from baptisms in this small East African 80 to about 200 members in the nation, said evangelist Akembe past decade, Young said, adding Ahumbwe Amou. The new Christians that church members are effec- received Bibles in French and STEVE WORLEY tively sharing the Gospel with native Kirundi, a native tongue in Burundi. Chileans plus economic refugees from Amou was converted through a New life and big crowds in central Africa Haiti and Venezuela. The Nogales Bible correspondence course, said In the central African town of Dona Manga, Chad, villagers witness one of 26 baptisms church also partners with more than Doyle Kee, a U.S.-based missionary during a recent, two-day gospel meeting. Steve Worley, director of development for the a dozen Chilean congregations to who serves the French-speaking School of Biblical Studies in Jos, Nigeria, preached during the meeting and visited with evangelize South America through a world. The Burundian believer local Christians. The Petersville Church of Christ in Florence, Ala., sent Worley to Chad to ministry called “Mission Chile.” “has never received any outside, see the work, which the congregation supports. More than 320 people, representing 11 “Here is a model church that is regular support,” Kee said, “but has churches in a 50-mile radius, attended the meeting. “Words do little to describe the effect continuing to develop,” Young said worked tirelessly to develop the each trip to Chad has on me, both physically and spiritually,” Worley said. “To live and work of the Nogales congregation. “The church in Burundi.” among the brethren in Chad who have so little yet accomplish so much is truly inspiring.” church is seeking more shepherds Amou has worked as a taxi and is constantly seeking to expand motorcycle driver and as a driving ministry. One of the biggest chal- instructor to support himself as THAILAND lenges they face right now is that they he plants churches. He is “one of Kanchanaburi — Christians from have simply outgrown their building.” the unsung heros of the church in the Asian metropolis of Bangkok French Africa,” Kee said. explored God’s intricate creation — with tweezers and flashlights — CROATIA as they participated in a gemstone Crikvenica — Christians from identification class in Kanchanaburi. Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and The city in western Thailand is Herzegovina and the U.S. partici- famous for the vivid blue sapphires pated in the 23rd Spiritual Retreat that come from its mines and its in this coastal town on the Adriatic gem market. FRENCH WORLD MISSIONS Sea. The believers enjoyed times The field trip was an outreach Akembe Ahumbwe Amou holds Bibles in of fellowship and Bible study, said activity of the Somprasong 4 Church PHOTO PROVIDED French and Kirundi for new converts. Croatian minister Mislav Ilic. of Christ in Bangkok. Bob Young speaks to the Nogales church. 14 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE around the world MAY 2017 A journey to the Scotland of the South Pacific VOCATIONAL MISSIONARIES from the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe move to New Caledonia, nurture a young church

BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE opportunities in New Caledonia. “I have made trips or recruited ere, it’s really another others to make trips there ever since,” world,” Christophe Zamord Baggott said. “There have been six said of his new home, the baptisms so far, and studies continue South Pacific islands known with a number of other people when- ‘Has New Caledonia. ever one of us makes the trip.” That’s where he and his wife, The Zamords came to New Adzoa, are nurturing a newborn Caledonia from another island — church and hope to spread the Gospel Guadeloupe, more than 9,300 miles among the islands’ 269,000 souls. away in the Caribbean Sea. The “The landscapes actually couple was an active part remind us of Scotland,” of a Church of Christ he said, “with majestic in Guadeloupe, also a hills as far as the eye New Caledonia territory of France. can see and small, Christophe Zamord, winding streams a public school lined with brittle teacher, accepted stones.” a transfer to New British explorer Australia Caledonia. PHOTO PROVIDED James Cook Arlin and The Zamord family shows off a view of their new home in northern New Caledonia. thought the same Pamela Hendrix, when he first longtime mission- arrival in New Caledonia. everyone being in their little corner spotted the islands in aries in Lyon, France, “We had the impression of having and complaining of isolation and 1774 and named them make regular trips to known each other for a long time,” discouragement.” in honor of Caledonia, Guadeloupe and have Christophe Zamord said. “We ate Distance remains a challenge, he the Latin name given to worked with the Zamords. a good meal together and learned added. Some of the believers live 250 Scotland by the ancient Romans. “Christophe and Adzoa were a some new songs.” miles away. Nonetheless, attendance Now the islands, an overseas real plus for the church ... providing Two months later, “Sunday meet- is growing, and the church soon will territory of France, are home to leadership and zeal,” Arlin Hendrix ings are now regular and better- have to arrange for a new meeting about 269,000 souls and no known said in an email from Guadeloupe. organized, even though we do place, Christophe Zamord said. Churches of Christ. “They are greatly missed, and they not have a full-time minister,” “Any visit from brethren from the Robert Martin, a missionary who are in the prayers of everyone as Christophe Zamord told The rest of the world will be warmly has planted Churches of Christ across they try to meet the needs of the Christian Chronicle. “The brethren welcomed,” he said, “whether for a the South Pacific, contacted Barry Christians in New Caledonia.” have tasted how good it is when the church mission or for a short vaca- Baggott, a missionary to French- Thirteen people attended the first church is able to meet to worship tion. The island is beautiful and has speaking nations, in 2009 about worship service after the Zamords’ God as the body of Christ instead of many souls to bring to the Lord.” Europeans pray and plan for church in Luxembourg

LUXEMBOURG — “Churches of Christ today, yet a small group of Christians full fellowship with us. begin worship in Luxembourg,” now comprise a small church there.” “There has been close contact announced a front-page headline in Frérot, minister for a Church of with this family, which represents The Christian Chronicle in 1993. Christ in Verviers, Belgium, said that a the church in this small country The story detailed a campaign by family in the capital, Luxembourg City, since 2015. Today, a solid link exists missionaries to win souls in the grand found his church’s website a few years between us with our making peri- duchy — a landlocked nation of ago and traveled to Verviers to visit. odic visits to their area.” about a half-million people bordering “They knew what the Word said Recently, an immigrant from the France, Germany and Belgium. about many things, a little like the African nation of Ivory Coast living “However, it was not yet the time Jews of Berea,” Frérot said, refer- in Luxembourg and a young woman for the church in Luxembourg,” encing Acts 17. “After a period of from Belgium were baptized. Frérot Jean-Marie Frérot said of the effort study with them, we found them to and fellow Christians plan to nurture a quarter-century ago. “It is not any be already in the broader family of the small group and pray that the new easier to evangelize the country God, and we welcomed them into congregation will take root. map and globe via wikimedia commons and cia world factbook MAY 2018 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 15

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BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE

N REMEMBRANCE OF ME.” The words of Jesus, spoken to his disciples at the Last Supper, recorded in the Gospel of Luke ‘Iand carved into countless tables of fellowship around the world, were the theme of this year’s Lads to Leaders conventions. More than 20,000 youths from Churches of Christ and their fami- lies gather annually for the conven- tions at the Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tenn., and other venues across the nation, from Florida to California. As they performed Bible lessons with puppets, read Scriptures and sang, the participants celebrated the program’s golden anniversary — and its humble beginnings. Jack Zorn, the founder of Lads to Leaders known for his signature red blazer, was preaching for a Church of Christ in Warner Robins, Ga., when he launched a special Bible class for Youths prepare for a puppet drama in a scene from a fundraising video for the Lads to Leaders ministry. eight boys. He taught them to prepare sermons, and they gave their first which young men from the program public speeches on Sunday morning, led singing and delivered sermons. Jan. 5, 1969. Zorn’s wife, Frances, “When you see men proclaiming helped train the first Leaderettes God’s Word like this, young ladies — participants in learning to be like the a version of the woman of Proverbs 31, program for young the future of the church women. The first looks good.” Lads convention Logan Richardson, a drew 74 participants high school junior from to Alabama Christian Florence, Ala., led a College — now communion devotional. Faulkner University He shared the story of a — in 1973. meal Jesus shared with Frances Zorn’s his disciples after the brother, Roy Lord’s Supper — when Johnson, was video stills via www.lads2leaders.com a newly resurrected Jack Zorn, far right, worships alongside Lads to Leaders participants. one of the first Logan Richardson shares a Messiah joined them on participants in the message before the Lord’s the shores of the Sea why is Jesus eating with them? The “The next time when you see program and now Supper as the Nashville Lads of Galilee for a feast of answer is simple: He loves them. those words etched onto the front serves as execu- to Leaders convention closes. miraculously caught fish, There is no complex, theological of that large wooden table in front tive director of the as recorded in John 21. reason. It all boils down to his love.” of the pulpit, remember that those Montgomery, Ala.-based ministry. “Now, wait a minute, I thought As they train to become leaders words are not just there for decora- “The future of the church looks these were the guys who fell asleep in the Lord’s church, Richardson tion,” he said. “Those words are good,” Johnson said during a Sunday on the watch and who scattered urged the young believers to stay there to remind us of his love.” morning worship at the conclusion when things got hard and who left focused on Jesus’ words, “This do in of the Nashville convention, during Jesus,” Richardson said. “So then, remembrance of me.” WEBSITE: www.lads2leaders.com 18 MAY 2018 CURRENTS THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 19

Bryan Hastings from the Blue River Church of Children from the Rolla Church of Christ in Missouri sing at the Heart of America Leadership Joel Coehoorn and his sixth-grade daughter, Alice, from the East Hill Church of Christ in York, Neb., Emma Winton, a seventh-grader from the Prairie Hill Church of Christ in Comanche, Okla., Christ in Lee’s Summit, Mo., leads singing. Training for Christ convention in Kansas City, Mo. pray during the closing celebration of the Heart of America Leadership Training for Christ convention. submitted this depiction of David fighting Goliath from 1 Samuel 17 for her LTC art project. “I thought it was interesting that David was chosen to go up against the giant even though he was a shepherd, not even a soldier,” she wrote. “However, he knew all along that the Lord was with him.” The Heart of America: Small churches Young artists share their faith

‘it changes a lot of lives,’ says one parent at the annual Leadership Training for Christ convention in Kansas City. It also brings believers together. here’s more to the annual Lads to Leaders and Leadership Training BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE “I always love it when multiple congrega- can take advantage of reduced rates. minister Thomas Andrew Pruett, served for Christ conventions than puppet tions come together — just the fellowship Rick Karsten, who served as chairman as LTC coordinator for the South Dakota shows and song leading. Each year KANSAS CITY, Mo. and unity that are there,” said Nathan of the Heart of America convention, said congregation. Tyoung believers participate in a host of our families from the Northern Hills Thompson, a Northern Hills member and he sees LTC as a way to minister to small “It’s a lot of work, but it’s an awesome pre-convention events, including visual art, Church of Christ in western South father of nine, including Alaethia, Kaitlyn congregations that could not organize such thing that is so encouraging every time we photography, video production and song Dakota drove more than 700 miles and Sophia. “Seeing so many people from so an event on their own. come,” said Amy Pruett, a mother of four writing. The Christian Chronicle wants to see each way to attend this year’s Heart many different churches is just great.” In particular, the Kansas City event children, ages 10 months to 15 years old. your work (art, photos, speeches and videos) of America Leadership Training for Jenifer Zoller, mother of serves Churches of Christ in Iowa, Kansas, “I’m really excited to be a part of something for possible inclusion in our publication — in Christ convention. Sammy, said LTC has helped Missouri and Nebraska — plus a few so big (in which) our kids can come and see print and online. Please send submissions to FAlaethia Thompson — one of 11 LTC her daughter grow both congregations from Colorado, Illinois, PHOTOS by BOBBY ROSS JR. so many other Christian kids. [email protected]. participants from the 70-member church in biblical knowledge and Minnesota, Oklahoma and South Dakota, Puppets from the Tri-Lakes Church of Christ in “The artwork is always amazing. The between Spearfish and Belle Fourche — personal confidence. organizers said. Monument, Colo., make a biblical point. singing is amazing,” she added. “Seeing the developed her talents in events such as Bible “Before, she was shy and “It changes a lot of lives,” said Karsten, young people’s creativity is just a lot of fun. quiz, Christian art and small group chorus. wouldn’t stand in front of who attends the Overland Park Church of overcome, realizing that fact when her last I’m always tired (when it’s over), but I’m so “I love how LTC just brings everyone people and participate very Christ in Kansas. “A lot of it is parent-driven; event was over, and began to cry.” glad we get to come.” together, and all of the things that I partici- Thompson well,” Jenifer Zoller said. it’s not necessarily church staff-driven. It’s Tina Bowen, a member of the Southwest Thomas Pruett said the church works hard pated in were just amazing and so much “To see her up on that stage got a lot of parents involved (as coaches) Church of Christ in Omaha, Neb., said she not to put the focus on the convention itself: fun,” said Thompson, who sang on stage tonight singing in front of hundreds of where they might not otherwise be.” enjoys watching the older children become “Leadership Training for Christ should be at Saturday’s closing celebration with her people makes me very proud of the young Six young people came from the mentors to the younger ones. something you do anyway, and as a bonus, sisters Kaitlyn, 14, and Sophia, 12, and woman she is becoming.” 100-member Leavenworth Church of “It’s so neat to see (the older children) you get to count it for the convention.” fellow Northern Hills church member Nationwide, Lads to Leaders/ Christ in Kansas — ranging from a third- graduate out of the program and see how After the convention, he said, “We have Sammy Zoller, 12. Leaderettes and Leadership Training grader to a high school senior. much they have grown and how much they our young guys preach and teach on From puppeteers to song leaders, signers for Christ conventions each spring draw “So, we had one just beginning and one help the younger ones. It’s a mentoring rela- Sunday morning. Signers (for the deaf) for the deaf to Christian fiction writers, 579 more than 40,000 members of Churches of ending the LTC journey,” said Morrisa tionship, and they don’t even know they’re will work on interpreting the singing. We “Dear God, thank you for this beautiful creation. Joseph Shaw, an eighth-grader from the Kings young people — not counting parents and Christ to 17 sites in 13 states. Most of the Watson Summers, the Leavenworth church’s doing it,” said Bowen, mother of Miranda, believe in the spark that LTC provides.” It captures my heart,” writes Audrey Light, a Crossing Church of Christ in Corpus Christi, Texas, sponsors — flocked to Kansas City’s Crown conventions occur over Easter weekend — LTC coordinator and wife of minister Michael 20; Nathan, 16; and Benjamin, 11. seventh-grader from the Collinsville Church of constructed this cross for his LTC project. The church Center for the Heart of America event. a slow period for hotels when organizers Waymon Summers. “Our 12th-grader was Amy Pruett, wife of Northern Hills WEBSITE: hoaltc.org Christ in Texas, in a description of her photo. has participated in LTC for more than 30 years. 20 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE CURRENTS may 2018

Promoting biblical preaching and teaching, encouragingPromoting those biblical who givepreaching their lives and to teaching those ministries. and encouraging those who give their lives to those ministries. For schedule, registration, Forand schedule other information and registration visit ERIK TRYGGESTAD

informationwww.sermonseminar.comFor call schedule, 512-476 -registration,2772 or and other information Members of the Freetown Road Church of Christ get ready for the North Texas LTC. Promoting biblical preaching and teaching and go to www.sermonseminar.comvisit: www.sermonseminar.com encouraging those who give their lives to those ministries. At massive Dallas LTC, small

For schedule and registration churches connect as they train information call 512-476-2772 or BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE has made him more willing and go to www.sermonseminar.com confident to take on leadership roles DALLAS — Everything’s bigger in the youth group of his congrega- in Texas, and the North Texas tion, the Freetown Road Church of Offering MA and BA degrees Leadership Training for Christ con- Christ, a 200-member congregation vention is no exception. that meets about about 30 minutes www.austingrad.edu This year 4,213 students and their from the Anatole in Grand Prairie. families — representing Churches “I think LTC is one of the ways of Christ in Texas, Oklahoma and they can see you work, see you New Mexico, to name just a few — making progress,” Rendon said of the Promoting biblical preaching and teaching and jammed the hallways support he gets from encouraging those who give their lives to those ministries. and the elevators of his fellow Christians. three convention sites He plans to take that For schedule and registration www.austingrad.edu in the Dallas metro, foundation to college information call 512-476-2772 or Offering BA online and including the massive — hopefully Texas go to www.sermonseminar.com MA degrees Hilton Anatole. (Plus, A&M, he said. Lads to Leaders Many of the groups hosted its own clustered around convention in Dallas the banquet hall Rendon Buchanan at the Gaylord Texan.) tables represented At the Anatole, children lined the multiple congregations. Individual tables of a banquet room — big members of small, rural churches enough to house a couple of commer- joined teams from bigger, suburban Promoting biblical preaching and teaching and cial aircraft — for the LTC Bible Bowl. congregations. Become the Christian leader God wants you In another banquet hall, church At one table, about 10 youths from encouraging those who give theirto be. With lives affordable to those classes ministries.just one day members staked out tables and the Westside Church of Christ in a week, you can get the knowledge your covered them with coats, boxes of Texarkana, Texas, and friends from M&Ms, drama scripts and costumes. a nearby church geared up for a For schedule and registration calling demands.www.austingrad.edu The tables served as bases of weekend of Bible bowling and drama information call 512-476-2772 or Offering BA online and operation for many of the small, local skitting. The 160-member church congregations that participate in LTC. launched its LTC effort about 10 go to www.sermonseminar.com MA degrees Dressed in a coat and tie, Freddy years ago, said youth minister Trevon Rendon paged through his well-worn Buchanan, and in four short years it ONSITE OR ONLINE Bible — last-minute prep for his grew from four participants to 18. GRADUATE SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY Scripture-reading event. The high “I think we, as a church, don’t get OC.EDU/GST school junior also participated in together enough,” Buchanan said. song leading, speech and art. “I love for my kids to see other kids His involvement in LTC, which their age living out, by example, dates back to about sixth grade, what we as the church need to do.” may 2018 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 21 the picture painted by former members of Churches of Christ ‘saddens and breaks my heart,’ says Erma Williams Churches need grace, tact, sensibility BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE In recent years, Churches of my — rules they feel they’re being Christ in the U.S. have declined told to follow in order to belong. rma Williams was one of 645 respon- numerically. Why do you think A friend of mine attended a dents to The Christian Chronicle’s survey, that is happening? congregation whose elders marked “A closer look at Churches of Christ Distractions. Today we use Google an X on hymns they didn’t want led to find answers to everything. Our during worship because of word in the U.S.” We found her responses 24-7 society (think Amazon) says choices such as “Holy Spirit.” Eparticularly thought-provoking, so we share you can get what you want when At a regional youth and children’s them here in their entirety — with Williams’ you want it — at whatever price you ministry networking meeting, during permission and a few follow-up comments. want to pay. Why wait until Sunday, an introduction exercise, a lady Williams has worshiped with the Roanoke much less Wednesday night, to get beside me literally scooted her chair Church of Christ in southwest Virginia for 26 answers to our religious questions? away from me when she discovered I At the same time, I believe younger worship with a Church of Christ. years. Before that she was a longtime member generations question everything Later I learned that her church had of the University Park Church of Christ in the we do. They want to know why we ridiculed her and her family when Washington suburb of Hyattsville, Md. take communion each week. Why she was a teenager over some issue. She works as a trainer for a publisher do we sing a cappella? Why do we She said her mom cried all the time of curricula for children’s Bible classes and not have women preaching? These PHOTO PROVIDED and withdrew from the church (she Vacation Bible Schools. Her job brings her into are questions that make the church Erma Williams had been actively involved in many uncomfortable, and many of us are church activities), and her father contact with people from a variety of religious unprepared to answer. Too often, we care and attention when my family became aggressive and distant. backgrounds — including former members of reply with “thou shalt not” instead of went through a tragic incident when I On the flip side, I learned of a Churches of Christ. Some tell stories depicting saying, “Well, let’s look together at was young. If it weren’t for them, I’m congregation that split three ways. their former congregations as totalitarian what the Scriptures have to say.” not sure that I would have had the The elders were publicly accused of and controlling, almost cult-like, she says. It Jesus didn’t attack his foes. He endurance and desire to be the child lying and stealing, and resignations “saddens and breaks my heart all at once.” answered questions with questions. of God I am designed to be. They were demanded. None of the elders He allowed his audience to discover taught by showing me, by loving me, resigned but told each family She remains steadfast in her love for Jesus the answers. That requires patience, by being Jesus-centered themselves. leaving the church that they would and his church, she says, and she prays for not a five-step plan for salvation — always be welcomed back. Churches of Christ to show the love and grace or Google. What excites you about your The elders showed grace, leader- her Savior has shown her. congregation? ship and love to people who showed Why are you a member of the My church gets it — gets that them disdain. Fast forward 20-plus What would you say defines a Church of Christ? we’re all broken, that all have sinned years, and approximately 70 percent Church of Christ? It’s by design and faith. Yes, I grew and fallen short. They understand of those who left have returned. A Church of Christ is an assembly up in the church, but I took owner- that there are many outside the Many have apologized and become of believers who look ship of my faith when fellowship that need to be fed physi- members once again. to the Scriptures I married and moved cally to be able to be fed spiritually. We must not only show grace, but to learn how to be away from my family There’s no judgment. We all come also tact and sensibility. Jesus-centered. and my faith support as we are, opening ourselves to what system. God desires us to be. Is there anything else you’d like What are some Marrying a to add? of the signifi- non-Christian made me What are your greatest concerns I love the church as much as I cant strengths of question everything I about our fellowship in the love Jesus. I realize on a daily basis Churches of Christ? did. Seeking answers to United States? that not only am I an ambassador for There is no central my spouse’s questions We must realize that Churches of Jesus, but I’m also an ambassador headquarters, but there in the Bible forced me Christ have a bad reputation in the for the church. is a desire to search the to ask questions, too. I marketplace. Often, there’s a pregnant pause Scriptures for answers Find additional coverage at have realized over the As a trainer who works with former when I identify myself with the and not rely on hier- www.christianchronicle.org. years that I was very church members, I am privy to many Church of Christ because of our archy. We have the blessed by my faith testimonies of how the Church of negative reputation and marketing. ability to visit any town in America (or foundation but needed the extra little Christ has failed them. They recount I’m proud of my heritage, my the world) and do the “six degrees of kick in the seat to get me engaged. episode after episode of judgment, lineage and my foundation. separation” game, knowing someone My foundation is rooted in a unsympathetic leadership, a lack of Still, I wish the church had more who knows someone’s somebody. congregation that took extra special desire to understand, and — my, oh of a love and grace approach. 22 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE DIALOGUE MAY 2018 Ken Ham on God, creation and the Earth’s age ARK ENCOUNTER’S FOUNDER touts the Genesis story and rejects Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution.

BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE

EDMOND, Okla. en Ham, a creationist who rejects Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, made headlines recently when he was invited, then disinvited Kand finally reinvited to speak at a public university in Oklahoma. The native Australian is the founder of the Ark Encounter — a $102 million, 800-acre Noah’s Ark theme park that opened in Williamstown, Ky., two years ago. Ham, 66, serves as president of the Christian apologetics organization Answers in Genesis, which also owns the $27 million, 75,000-square- foot Creation Museum, west of the Cincinnati Airport in Petersburg, Ky. Before his presentation at the FACEBOOK.COM/HPCHURCHOFCHRIST University of Central Oklahoma, Young people from the Highland Park Church of Christ in Muscle Shoals, Ala., visit the Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Ky. Ham talked to The Christian Chronicle about topics ranging from Bible are fallible. I mean, there are have adopted millions of years, and to looked on it, to start with, as some- the age of the Earth to his 2014 hundreds of dating methods. Some one degree or another, have adopted body was going to win or lose the debate with “Science Guy” Bill Nye: get thousands of years and millions of evolutionary ideas, whether it be debate. I looked on it as an opportu- • On descriptions of him years and everywhere in between, but biology or astronomy, anthropology nity to be a witness to Bill Nye and as a young Earth creationist: they’re all based on assumptions.” and so on. And they’ve adopted to present him with the Gospel.” “When people say, “Are you a • On whether it matters if those ideas and • On criti- young Earth creationist?” I want a Christian is a young Earth added them into cism of the Ark people to also understand that, you creationist: “Nowhere in the Bible Scripture, which Encounter’s know, the reason we believe what does it connect salvation to the age I see as compro- $102 million we do is not because we’re young of the Earth. Right? If you confess mising the word of price tag: “When Earth creationists. It’s because with your mouth the Lord Jesus and God.” critics say those we’re biblical creationists. As a believe in your heart that God has • On who sort of things consequence of taking the Bible as raised him from the dead, then you won the 2014 about the money written, we believe in a young Earth. will be saved. Romans 10:9. In other debate between that was spent on But we’re not young Earth first.” words, salvation is conditioned on him and Nye: “I the Ark Encounter, • On whether the Earth is faith in Christ. Faith alone. Grace never looked on I would imme- 6,000 years old or 4.5 billion alone. Christ alone. ... it as somebody diately respond years old: “Ultimately, the only way “Then if people say to me, ‘So, it was going to win by saying, ‘You to determine the age of the Earth is doesn’t matter?’ I would say, ‘Yes, a debate. I think know, that shows if you were there and could recount it does matter.’ And the reason I debates are such, ERIK TRYGGESTAD discrimination and it all. Now we weren’t there, but I say ‘Yes, it does matter’ is because, sometimes it Ken Ham makes a point during an prejudice right would say there was someone who ultimately, it’s an authority issue. depends on who’s interview with The Christian Chronicle. off the bat then, was, and that is the God who created In other words, where you get the got the better argu- because what things. And so, the only absolute millions of years from, you don’t get ment, not who’s all about the truth. about all the other projects in the age-dating method that I know is the that in Scripture.” So, it’s interesting. There are a lot of world?’ I mean, take the presidential Bible. That God himself reveals to us • On why he’s controversial atheists that said Bill Nye won the library for President Obama. They that he created in six days, and day with some fellow believers: “Well, debate, and there are a lot of other spent $175 million on roadwork six he made Adam and Eve. ... I think it’s because within the church, people who said Ken Ham won. alone. They say the library itself will “So, if those days are ordinary days, if we’re really honest, the majority It almost came down to, if you had cost over $1 billion. Tell me, are they then you’ve only got about 6,000 years. of our Christian college professors, Bill Nye’s worldview, he won the saying the same thing about that? All the age-dating methods that you Bible college professors, seminary debate. If you had Ken Ham’s world- can use to age-date the earth from the professors … the majority of them view, he won the debate. But I never EXPANDED Q&A: www.christianchronicle.org MAY 2018 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 23 CHILDREN AND FAMILIES TEXAS BIBLE BOWL BANDERA, Texas — The Texas Bible Bowl drew more than 225 children, parents and volunteers to Camp Bandina in the Texas Hill Country. Bible students ranging from third-graders to adults over 70 years old studied 1 Samuel in preparation for the recent event. PHOTO PROVIDED BY HOLLEE McADAMS Next year’s Malachi McAdams event will placed at the Bible Bowl. cover the Gospel of John. For more information, see texasbiblebowl.org. FACEBOOK.COM/HARDINGACADEMY HIGHER EDUCATION CANstruction pyramid helps feed the hungry in Tennessee Advanced Placement Calculus students from Harding Academy of Memphis, Tenn., celebrate winning the Mid-South Food Bank’s FAULKNER UNIVERSITY CANstruction Award. The students’ pyramid model contributed 2,000 items to the almost 14,000 pounds from 15 schools that MONTGOMERY, Ala. — “Building the recently competed at the University of Memphis. Harding Academy of Memphis is associated with Churches of Christ. City of God: The Past, Present and Future of Christian Higher Education” served as the theme He planned stops K-12 CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS spoTLIGHT for Faulkner’s recent 10th annual at ACU, Lipscomb Institute of Faith and the Academy. University in GREAT LAKES CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL The institute is devoted to Nashville, Tenn., and MINFORD, Ohio — The chorus from Banana blessings research and reflection on how other locations in Great Lakes Christian High School Christian faith shapes and informs California, Kansas, in Beamsville, Ontario, performed YORK, Neb. — For decades, “Miss the study and teaching of all Louisiana, Minnesota, at the Sunshine Church of Christ Johnnie” Conway blessed York academic disciplines. Tennessee and Texas during a recent U.S. spring tour. College students — one banana “We host scholars from around the to share Heritage Twumasi- “The highlight was the song ‘How pudding at a time. country to share their research and Christian’s successes Ankrah Great Is Our God,’” minister Jon That dish was the discuss how Christianity influences and raise money for Parlow said. “Because they have specialty of Conway, the discovery, the creation and the college. For more information, students from around the world, who died March the dissemination of knowledge,” see hcuc.edu.gh. they did portions of the song in the 21 at age 96, after said Joshua Fullman, the institute’s native tongues of the students.” more than 50 years director and an associate professor LIPSCOMB UNIVERSITY of supporting York of English. NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Lipscomb has students. received a $23 million gift, the From fundraising Conway HERITAGE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE largest in its history, President L. dinners to bake sales ACCRA, Ghana — Samuel Twumasi- Randolph Lowry announced. to cookbooks for a cause, Conway Ankrah, founder and president of The gift, made by donors who demonstrated her love for York Heritage Christian College, toured wish to remain anonymous, will and its students. She started the the United States in April. benefit the university’s College of women’s auxiliary group Helping Twumasi-Ankrah, a Ghanaian Business, which is celebrating 100 Hands for York College in Bellevue, preacher, first shared his dream for yeras of offering business education. Neb., in the mid-1960s, serving starting the Christian college while “This is a significant moment in the many years as president. earning a master’s degree at Abilene history of Lipscomb,” Lowry said. PHOTO PROVIDED BY JON PARLOW Since the group’s founding, the Christian University in Texas two “We are grateful to these donors for The school chorus sings at the Sunshine Bellevue chapter has given close to decades ago. their commitment to this institution.” Church of Christ in Minford, Ohio. $50,000 to York to benefit students. 24 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE PARTNERS may 2018

PHOTO PROVIDED BY BOBBY aND TAMIE ROSS Minister recalls meeting Barbara Bush Americans mourned the April 17 death of Barbara Bush, 92, the former first lady who was the wife of one president and the mother of another. Brady Ross, youth minister for the Crestview Church of Christ in Waco, Texas, recalls meeting Bush in 2000 when he was a second-grader at Oklahoma Christian Academy in Edmond, Okla. Ross was among 40 Oklahoma City-area students chosen to participate in a special event where the nation’s most well-known grandmother read to children and touted the importance of literacy and leadership in society. “I thought it was cool that somebody famous wanted to read to us,” said Ross, now 24. Ross

Through its Center for Distance Education in the College of Bible and Ministry, Heritage Christian University Harding offers multiple educational tracks for adult learners wishing to complete their Bible degree, obtain an undergraduate Bible degree or celebrates its 50th anniversary pursue additional ministry and Bible training through our certificate programs. FLORENCe, Ala. — Over the past Whether you have completed preaching school half-century, Heritage Christian or need leveling for post-graduate work, we University has seen a remarkable have a track to help you complete your course. transformation, said Kirk Brothers, •Online, on ground and residential options offered president-elect. •Certificate and bachelor’s programs “In 1968, only the Lord knew the •Tuition discounts and scholarships available influence HCU would have, the places evangelism would take us,” Brothers said. “We’re excited to see where he will lead us in the next 50 years.” PHOTO PROVIDED BY HERITAGE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY The former Southeastern Institute A picture from the university’s early days. of the Bible changed its name to International Bible College and Heritage Christian’s mission remains finally to Heritage Christian, a Bible- the same, leaders said: to spread the focused institution with a reputation Gospel. Graduates serve in at least 38 [email protected] for excellence in real-world ministry states and 33 countries. education, Brothers said. Despite the many changes, WEBSITE: hcu.edu MAY 2018 Partners the christian chronicle 25 OLD SCHOOL: Africans provide pencil-and-paper training for online university FROM PAGE 3 FINDING AND SPURRING CHURCH LEADERS THEY COME IN RAW — AND LEARN The ministers recruit students for ‘NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH’ NationsUniversity through another Republic of The training program uses a cur- African-led ministry, Gospel Chariot riculum designed for the internet Missions. In red trucks, known as — NationsUniversity, a distance- “Churches of Christ on wheels,” they South Africa learning program associated with traverse the continent, conducting tent POPULATION: 50.7 million. languages: Eleven Churches of Christ. The online meetings and advertising for the online official, including English, Afrikaans, Sesotho, school has about 2,100 current program and for World Bible School, a Setswana, Xhosa and Zulu. RELIGION: Protestant students and has enrolled students correspondence ministry that teaches 36.6 percent (Zionist, Pentecostal, Methodist, Dutch from 115 countries — including basic, Bible-based Christianity. Reformed, Anglican), other Christian groups 36 some where Christians must wor- “We use World Bible School to percent, Catholic 7.1 percent, Islam 1.5 percent, ship in secret. From their laptops reach new students,” Monyamane none 15.1 pecent, other 3.7 percent. and mobile devices, the students says, “and we use NationsUniversity pursue bachelor’s and graduate to equip them.” degrees in religion. Many have been Monyamane was one of the baptized as a result of their studies. first students to receive the But internet study just isn’t a viable in-house training in 1997 and now options in the rural communities holds a master’s degree from of southern Africa, says Machona NationsUniversity. Gospel Chariot Monyamane, a South African min- operates the school that meets in ister who works with the training the Downtown church and another program. The continent lags behind campus in Venda, a South African the rest of the globe in broadband Erik tryggestad territory just south of Zimbabwe. capability, according to research by “I felt the presence of God here,” The campus schools “help us by Pretoria the United Nations, and sub-Saharan Christiana Yusuf says of the Bible school. providing a good environment for Africa has the lowest levels of inter- socialization of students,” Monyamane net access on the planet. Many rural the book of Revelation … I’ve says. “We feel that this component of areas lack reliable access to electric- learned that here. I’ve learned how equipping students is a very integral CHURCHES OF CHRIST: Missionaries from ity — much less wifi. to stand at the pulpit and preach, part of us reaching the lost.” Churches of Christ arrived in the early 1900s. New So the training program hosts how we have to present, to teach it The ministry’s leaders pray that Zealander John Sheriff preached to black miners in two “intakes” of students per year, to the people, how to apply it.” students will return to their home the 1930s. Missionaries including Eldred Echols, Guy housing them for five months Churches of Christ are growing churches equipped with skills to lead Caskey, Waymon Miller and Tex Williams have helped and providing food as they earn a rapidly in Namibia, Faustinus says, and evangelize, Xoshe says, adding plant churches. The system of apartheid made Certificate of Religious Studies from but “most of the Namibians have not that the ministry has assisted in evangelism difficult across racial lines until the end NationsUniversity. The in-house been told to get these qualifications, planting new Churches of Christ. of white minority rule in 1994. The country is now training allows the to come here, to continue to get A few years ago Mac Lynn, home to an estimated 550-600 Churches of Christ. ministers to help stu- more knowledge, to go further.” founder and chancellor of dents who have little Not all of the students come from NationsUniversity, traveled to SOURCES: CIA World Factbook, “Churches of Christ Around the previous academic Churches of Christ. Christiana Pretoria with his wife, Marty, former World” by Mac Lynn, BBC News. Globe via Wikimeida Commons. experience prepare Yusuf and her husband, Michael, director of student services. The their assignments worship with one of South Africa’s couple participated in a cap-and- had from the very beginning. It’s and study for exams, burgeoning charismatic churches. gown ceremony for graduates, this dream that spurs one on to be a Monyamane says. Hungry for Bible knowledge, she hosted by the Downtown church. leader in the Kingdom.” Participants in the learned about the NationsUniversity “Emotion gripped us. Tears But leaders aren’t perfect; they Monyamane program “come as program from a friend. came to our eyes,” Mac Lynn said. can fail, Xoshe tells the students in raw as they could be,” Xoshe says. “When I heard the (students’) “What a blessing came from that the Pretoria school as he ends his Classes begin with a 9 a.m. devo- statements of faith, I came here to experience! … One diploma was lesson on David from 1 Kings. The tional, and many students stay past see first before I joined,” she says. awarded to the mother of a student important thing is to learn from midnight, reviewing and discussing “To be honest with you, I felt the who had recently passed away. That those failures — and to remain in what they’ve learned. The course presence of God here.” moment was especially touching.” pursuit of the Lord’s will. also has a practicum component, Now she pores over the pages of The university’s curriculum is “As for David, he might have made including lessons in door-knocking her Bible, underlining passages and a good tool, says Gospel Chariot all the mistakes, but as you say, it’s a evangelism. soaking up the lessons that have founder and South African native matter of heart,” Xoshe says. “Even In terms of Bible knowledge, “I revealed to her “nothing but the George Funk because it helps in his mistakes, he never allowed his knew how to read the books,” says truth” of God’s Word, she says. students get to know God’s Word, mess to change who he is. Muyenga Faustinus, a student from Her teacher, Xoshe, points to her and “God’s Word is about getting an “He allowed his mess to bring him the town of Rundu in northern and smiles. individual into a relationship with him. closer to God.” Namibia. “But how to classify them, “I can see this one has a heart for “When one has a relationship with the specific history of the Israelites, God,” he says. God, he has the same dream God WEBSITES: nationsu.edu, gospelchariot.blogspot.com 26 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE PEOPLE MAY 2018 Remembering two missionaries to Japan Milestones — and praying for new ones to follow Birthdays humble members, Alvin and Mary oe Betts baptized me in the first time seeing a dishwasher. The Moudy. Members of the Moudy family Pacific Ocean in 1982. The waves next morning, Ruth asked me how 102nd: Maybelle L. Dean, May 1, are currently gathered and await the were pretty high because of a many eggs I’d like to eat and I said, Hancock, N.H. passing of Mary, a mother of four and typhoon, and Mr. Betts “One.” Mrs. Betts repeated, countless many in the faith. almostJ lost me in the water. Voices “One? Just one?” I had never But he didn’t, and I continue met anyone who ate two Special Request to serve God today — partially eggs at breakfast. as a result of his firm grip. She was pretty strict. She Bryan Perrin Joe Betts and his wife, didn’t allow small children Ruth, came to Japan by to run around in the church No. 1 on Mayo’s heart transplant list ship in 1956. They served building. Also, if someone —Bryan Perrin! After much prayer and as missionaries for 50 needed to be corrected, six major surgeries, Bryan has come from years, teaching at Ibaraki she didn’t mind telling Kentucky to Minnesota to await a heart Christian University. Joe was Mayumi Hancock the person what he or she transplant at the Mayo Clinic. Because a minister for Churches of needed to hear. of Bryan’s rare blood type, it may be I have been a part of the Moudy family Christ, including the Ochanomizu I married an American and moved months before he receives a match. story for nearly 36 years. For that time and Omika congregations. to the U.S., but we returned to Japan Bryan’s family has had to make some span, we’ve known each other for 12 I attended Ibaraki Christian and in 1993 as missionaries, following major life changes, renting a “transplant- years through Bible correspondence and took a course on the Old Testament the Betts’ example. We wanted to approved house” in Rochester, while his for almost 24 years in person. According taught by Mr. Joe. He made us write use our house for the Lord, so one wife, Angela, focuses on Bryan’s needs to her records, I was her 16th student the same Bible verse every time we of the first things we did was to host that require 24/7 care and homeschooling from Ghana in this evangelism effort by had a test: “Love God with all your a marriage enrichment seminar. their two children. Their only income is the Happy congregation. heart, with all your strength, and with We invited Mr. and Mrs. Betts to be Bryan’s minimal social security disability As Mary tells the story, my name, all your mind. Love your neighbor as our speakers. Their marriage was a check. This medical journey has left Philip, caught her attention, as her grand- yourself” (Luke 10:27). He hoped the testament — not to perfection, but them with no extra money. father was Phillip King. This started students would remember that verse. to godly love and service. a faithful work of God that continues He loved jokes. He had a pet flea They remained true to our scrip- today and has the Happy congrega- named Pico, and he would make tural tradition of speaking where the tion supporting a preaching school and it jump between his hands before Bible speaks and being silent where several faithful preachers in Ghana. pretending to lose it. He had a pros- the Bible is silent. I can see that same (Philip has been a faithful member of thetic eyeball he would pretend tradition continuing even now in the the Lord’s body for almost 35 years. He to clean in his mouth Omika and Ochanomizu is the author of “Examining the Great before accidentally congregations. Commission, A Call to Study.” He swallowing it. They moved to Texas worships with the Lakeview Church of Another missionary, in 2006 and taught and Christ near Tacoma, Wash.) Marlin Ray, invited counseled many Abilene The Rochester Church of Christ me to a youth retreat Christian University asks you and your church family to Memorials at Gaijin-Mura. That’s exchange students from pray for the Perrins and help them where I was baptized. Japan at their home. financially. If you need your check to Joe Betts, 1922-2018 Teachers at the retreat They died just 11 days be tax deductible, please write it to talked about which apart. Although their the Rochester Church of Christ with a Ruth Betts, 1932-2018 church I should attend passing is sad, I’m not note indicating that your gift is for the since I lived about two disappointed because Perrins. Otherwise, write your check to “Wilma” Ruth Betts, age 86, died and a half hours away Legacy.com I know we’ll see them the “Perrin Family Benefit Fund.” Mail March 20. Eleven days later, on March 31, from campus. Ruth Betts died March 20. both in heaven. gifts to: Rochester Church of Christ, her husband Joe Delton Betts, age 95, also The Mito Church of Her husband, Joe, followed Until then, I wonder 632 2nd Street SW, Rochester, MN finished his race and received his crown. Christ was closest to me, 11 days later on March 31. who will be the next 55902. For more information, email Born in Fairy, Texas, Joe Betts but Ruth Betts winked brave missionaries to [email protected]. joined the U.S. Navy and served as a at me and said “Omika ni irasshai,” serve Japan — one of the most chal- sonar operator during World War II. which means, “Come to Omika lenging mission fields on earth. Legacy He survived a Kamikaze plane attack church.” Now I am a preacher’s wife, Churches of Christ are struggling to that killed many of his shipmates, and and I boldly invite people to come to survive, and conversions can be slow. Mary Moudy his was one of the first four ships into church just like Mrs. Betts did for me. But they happen. I am proof. For nearly 36 years, God’s magnifi- Nagasaki after the bombing to rescue Joe and Ruth Betts invited young cent handiwork creating memories in U.S. prisoners of war. Witnessing the people for dinner and devotionals MAYUMI HANCOCK, a native of, and former his Kingdom has been carried out via bodies of Japanese women and children at their house once a month. I lived missionary to, Japan, lives in Lancaster, Texas, the Happy Church of Christ and two (Continued, Page 27) far away, so they invited me to stay where her husband, Mark, serves as minister for at their house overnight. It was my the Cold Springs Church of Christ. MAY 2018 PEOPLE the christian chronicle 27

Newsmakers Submit your wedding announcements, birth announcements, memorials or tributes to [email protected] Milestones or call (405) 425-5071. Submissions start at $25.

(Continued from Page 26) Alaor Leite supporters at the Riverchase Church of floating in the water, he realized he had Christ in Birmingham, Ala. Jack Strachan been fighting a government, not the people. 1942-2018 “has been a model of mentoring younger After the war, he was stationed at Treasure Alaor Leite, a longtime church leader in Christians so that the work has a founda- Island, Calif. While attending the Berkeley Brazil, died April 20 following complica- tion to continue beyond his time.” Church of Christ he met missionaries from tions from surgery. He was 75. Japan and was encouraged to become one “He was the key to Churches of Christ Jim Woodroof himself. He attended Harding College in being allowed to send missionaries (to Searcy, Ark., to train for ministry. There he Brazil) in the 1980s when every other 1933-2018 photo provided by ANTWAN D. BROWN met his future wife, Ruth Majors. religious group was refused,” said David Preacher, theologian and author James Lori Hadley, pictured with other leaders In 1956 the family settled in Ibaraki Duncan, a former missionary to Vitoria, “Jim” Simrell Woodroof, 85, died March of Mount Dora Christian Academy in prefecture, where Joe Betts taught at Ibaraki Brazil, now minister for the Memorial 22 in Searcy, Ark. Born in Obion, Tenn., Florida, received a top national honor. Christian College and preached. Fifty years Church of Christ in Houston. “He was he graduated from David Lipscomb High later, the couple moved to Abilene, Texas, dearly loved across the country.” School in Nashville, Tenn., and earned HONORED: Lori Hadley, lower and worshiped with the Hillcrest Church of religion degrees from Lipscomb University school principal at Mount Dora Christ. Joe Betts preached his last sermon on Loyd Eldon Koch and Harding School of Theology in Christian Academy in Florida, as Sunday night, March 4, with Ruth sitting in Memphis, Tenn. Educator of the Year by the National her wheelchair on the front row. 1928-2018 He and his wife Christian School Association. This of 64 years, Louine, past November, Hadley also was Loyd E. Koch, 88, passed away Sept. 8, were married in a honored for her role in spearheading Frank Farr 2017, at Central Kansas Medical Center. double ceremony the academy’s recognition as a 1942-2018 He was born April 2, 1928, to Guy and with Louine’s sister, National Blue Ribbon School. Pearl Koch in Arkansas City, Kan. He Racine, and her Franklin Farr, 75, of Shenandoah, Texas, worked for the Santa Fe Railroad 43 years, groom, Bill Kritz. APPOINTED: Charles Rix, as passed away March 7 following complica- retiring as an engineer in 1995. The Woodroofs had dean of the College of Biblical tions related to heart Loyd was a five children. Jim Studies at Oklahoma Christian surgery. member of the Woodroof preached for Churches of Christ University in Oklahoma City. Rix Frank was born Arkansas City in Tennessee, the Carolinas, Arkansas, came to Oklahoma in Abilene, Texas, Church of Christ Texas, Oklahoma and Massachusetts. He Christian in on June 5, 1942, to for 76 years. He also served in New Zealand as a missionary 2011 from the Norman and Loneta served as a deacon, and minister for the Bryndwr Church of New Brunswick Farr. Upon gradu- song leader and trea- Christ in Christchurch, New Zealand. Theological ating from high surer and oversaw He wrote books addressing issues relevant Seminary, where school he served in the benevolence, to Churches of Christ or focusing on favorite he served as an the U.S. Army and singing, and mission programs. The congre- biblical passages. At a time when the fellow- associate dean went on to graduate from Sunset School of gation sponsored four missionaries in New ship struggled with sectarian and reactionary and professor. He Rix Preaching in Lubbock, Texas. Zealand and Ecuador. He conducted song- tendencies, Jim Woodroof stressed the also was the pulpit He was married for 53 years to the love leading classes, and he and his brothers centrality of the person and work of Jesus minister for the of his life, Karen. Farr lived a life of exem- and sister formed the Koch’s quartet. Loyd Christ, the priorities of love and unity over Monmouth Church plary devotion as a husband and father. is survived by his wife, Charlene, and was doctrinal divides, and the need for personal of Christ in Tinton After his military service, he responded to preceded in death by his son, Kirby. transformation by the power of the Gospel, Falls, N.J. Tina Winn, a calling to ministry and faithfully served friends said, adding that many who read as dean of the the church for his entire professional life. his writings testify to the influence of his College of Liberal Frank and his family served briefly in Jack Strachan Christ-centered teaching on their own under- Arts at Oklahoma the Houston area before moving to New standing and practice of faith. Christian. Winn, a Hampshire to establish a church. The 1941-2018 Winn 1982 Oklahoma family then moved to California, where Bertha Mae Babers, 86, March 18, Christian graduate, he worked with the Walnut Creek Church Jack Strachen, a longtime minister for Palm Bay, Fla. previously was a teacher and of Christ. He completed his professional Churches of Christ in Scotland, died April leader at Northwestern Oklahoma ministry back in the Houston area and 8. He was 77. He preached in the Scottish Memorial Gifts State University and the served as president of Eastern European cities of Edinburgh, East Kilbride and University of Science and Arts of Mission while he and Karen cared for their Cumbernauld, where he moved in 2010, The Christian Chronicle appreciates Oklahoma. aging parents. and Brandon, Fla. He served as an elder and acknowledges generous gifts In retirement, Frank lived his life as a of the East Kilbride Church of Christ. He received in memory of Adrienne NEW MINISTER: Les Chapman, ministry, remaining active in church work and and his wife, Maureen, were dedicated Abernathy, Brian Gibbs, Terry Pratt and Hendersonville Church of Christ devoted to his family and friends to the end. “to building the body of Christ,” said Elizabeth Ann Springer. in Tennessee. 28 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE MAY 2018 A moment of doubt on the road to Memphis fifty years ago, Martin Luther King Jr. thought of giving up. He didn’t. Now, as the nation recognizes the anniversary of King’s assassination, preachers urge us to continue his crusade against injustice and poverty.

He went on a little farther and and other advisers, days before bowed with his face to the ground, traveling to Memphis. “I thought praying, “My Father! If it is possible, maybe I should just quit. Maybe I let this cup of suffering be taken have done as much as I can do in away from me. Yet I want your will to 13 years. We won Montgomery, we be done, not mine.” won Birmingham, we are winning in — Matthew 26:39, New Living Translation Chicago, we won in Selma. We are making progress. MEMPHIS, Tenn. In the Word “Maybe it is enough.” e don’t often think Let this cup pass from me. of Martin Luther Another of King’s friends, King Jr. as a man Andrew Young, said, “Dr. who ever wavered King, don’t talk that way.” Win his resolve to crusade for King interrupted, “Andy, civil rights. don’t say ‘Peace, peace’ But, like all of us, he had when there is no peace,” moments when he consid- referencing words of the ered giving up the fight. Kent Blake Old Testament prophet Jesse Jackson talked Jeremiah. “Let me talk.” about one of those moments as he “We got real quiet,” Jackson said. addressed a crowd of dignitaries, Then King said, “Maybe I can’t activists, reporters and politicians at turn around because Frederick the old Lorraine Motel in downtown Douglass and Harriet Tubman Memphis, now home of the National would not understand — those who Civil Rights Museum. Fifty years never gave up. I can’t turn around.” ago, on the hotel’s second-floor He thought about fasting to the Civil rights dignitaries honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. as they stand on the balcony, King’s life point of death, balcony of the Lorraine Motel, where King was assassinated 50 years ago. was cut short by an following the assassin’s bullet. He methods of one of And he has allowed me to go up to “We cannot wait another 50 years was 39. I was 8. his heroes, Gandhi. the mountain. And I have looked to take action against injustice and A half-century But then his mood over. And I have seen the Promised poverty.” later, the company changed, Jackson Land. I may not get there with you. What will our legacy be? Will we I work for was said, and he resolved But I want you to know, tonight, follow the teachings of Jesus and a sponsor of the to stop in Memphis that we as a people will get to the be peacemakers? Will we practice commemoration, and on his way to Promised Land. sympathy, feeling for others, or expe- I was lucky enough Washington. “So I am happy tonight. I am not rience empathy, feeling with others? to snag a ticket. Not my will, but worried about anything. I am not There was no nation, no corpo- Amid the chaotic yours be done. fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen ration, no agency authorizing or scene — yelling You can sense the glory of the coming of the Lord.” endorsing King’s message. He preachers plus a that resolve in We all have moments of doubt, had no political status. He was not noisy helicopter and the speech, full of moments when we think about approved by the establishment to a buzzing drone biblical imagery, turning back. So did Martin Luther create change. flying overhead that King delivered King Jr. Jesus understands because Remember that everything King — Jackson talked in Memphis just 24 he experienced the same thing — accomplished was done with the about the man he photos by KENT BLAKE hours before his and then some. same resource that’s available to stood next to on that Lester Holt, host of “NBC Nightly death: Knowing that gives me peace. you and me — the truth. balcony back in 1968 News” and member of a Church of “Like anybody, I Another preacher at the commem- during a strike by Christ in New York, prepares for a would like to live a oration urged all of us to carry on Kent Blake lives in the Memphis metro area the city’s sanitation live broadcast from Memphis. long life,” he said. King’s legacy. with his wife, Jennifer. He is a member of the workers. “Longevity has its “It would be shameful if faith Germantown Church of Christ in Tennessee “I’ve had a migraine headache place. But I am not concerned about leaders did not pick up the mantle and works in organizational development and for three days,” King told Jackson that now. I just want to do God’s will. that fell here 50 years ago,” he said. information technology. MAY 2018 OPINION the christian chronicle 29 editorial A quiet, unreported Job Listings

revolution of faith Visit our online listings at: www.christianchronicle.org/classifieds. Classifieds start at $325, discounts offered to smaller congregations. n the 50th anniversary of Contact Tonya Patton at: [email protected]. Deadline for next two issues: Feb. 9 and March 9. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, in a land half a world removed from Minister Search Interim Preacher Minister/Evangelist OMemphis, Tenn., a chemical attack Position available at a small congregation in Sterling City, Texas in Syria killed at least 80 people. An interim minister is available to serve the northern Texas panhandle located in Small rural church, with no elders, is looking your congregation while you search for Congregation is small but Once again, the images of for a full-time experienced minister. We are Stratford, Texas. suffering children filled our a permanent minister. I am a 65-year-old zealous for the Lord’s work. Experienced married in search of a mature spiritual leader with the retired evangelist/missionary/educa- TV screens. They struggled to desire to bring back inactive church members man preferred, sound in the scripture. Degree breathe as they suffered the symp- tor who is committed to clear, relevant, not required but graduate from a school of from the community through visits and study. engaging biblical preaching with a focus toms of reaction to a nerve agent. Position will be available November of this preaching or equivalent desired. Salary is nego- on good works and evangelism. Married, That anyone could condone such year. Salary and parsonage will be provided. tiable with parsonage provided. Please forward bilingual Spanish, Sunset graduate, an act of barbarism is grotesque. Contact: current resume with cover letter and current advanced degrees, willing to travel. Almost equally disturbing Don Davis (retiring minister) photograph to: is how fast those images — (325) 428-7102 Christopher Quinn, (626) 483-6422 Wayne L. Smith and news of the international [email protected] (806) 753-6708 or [email protected] response to the attack — disap- [email protected] peared from our media, replaced by reports of political infighting Full-time Gospel Preacher and the scandal du jour. God hasn’t forgotten about the Alexandria Church of Christ seeks full-time gospel preacher. Only a few miles from the nation's capitol in Washington, D.C. children in Khan Sheikhoun, in Small but motivated congregation seeks motivated preacher to teach the flock and serve with us. Please contact: Aleppo and in other besieged Stephen: (210) 485-8948 or [email protected] Carl: (703) 598-8674 or [email protected] towns throughout the Middle East. We shouldn’t either. Whether it’s through the Red Cross, Doctors Without Borders, Voice of the Martyrs or human HOUSEPARENTS NEEDED rights organizations, we should do whatever is in our power to The Tipton Children’s Home give aid to the hurting, to be Jesus to all those in need. is accepting applications for Christian Another underreported story is couples to serve as houseparents. the quiet revolution of faith taking place in Europe as Churches of Competitive pay, three weeks on, one week off, 401k, Christ minister to the wave of refugees from the Middle East. health insurance paid, dental and vision available. We repeatedly hear and see Our cottages have the capcity of up to eight children reports of Bible studies, bathtub at a time. We are a level B facility. baptisms and a new zeal among people who know what it means to suffer — and now choose to suffer for the cause of Christ. For more information, please contatct: We strive to share these stories when we can, mindful of the secu- rity concerns of those converted Joe Waugh and those serving the converted. (580) 667-5221 - office Know that there is good (580) 335-6442 - cell news out there, just beyond the [email protected] horizon. God takes what we intend for evil and redeems it, just as he redeemed us through his PO Box 370 Son. This darkness will not hold. TIPTON, OKLAHOMA 73570 For he who avenges blood remembers; he does not ignore the cries of the afflicted.(Psalm 9:12) 30 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OPINION may 2018 Baptism, betrayal and a lifelong quest for truth CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE SURVEY prompts a former Catholic to share her story — and thoughts on ‘correct theology’ oy and sadness, love and hate, a complete loss of the relationship I that I failed to show compassion for But I would also be the first to say peace and turmoil, relief and had previously shared with my entire my family when I chose to follow that it is our duty as a member of anxiety, excitement and depres- family. That relationship was never the Scriptures for my own salvation? the New Testament church to make sion. All of these were emotions restored, and many in my family went That perspective would certainly every effort to figure out what God’s IJ experienced late one to their graves thinking I had have saved heartache Word teaches. And Wednesday night as I was Views betrayed them. for myself as well as when we learn some- immersed in the watery Did I hate the thought for those I love dearly. thing that we may not grave of baptism. of hurting them? Yes! Was As Matthew 10:37 says, find to be comfortable, How is that possible? Isn’t there great turmoil in my “He who loves father or easy or in agreement this supposed to be the most heart? Yes! Was I extremely mother more than me is with what we would joyful time of one’s life? joyful and relieved that not worthy of me; and he like to find, it is also After reading the responses I would be added to the who loves son or daughter our duty to respond to The Christian Chronicle’s Lord’s Book of Life, yet more than me is not and be obedient — recent survey (March, Page depressed that it would at worthy of me.” even if we may not 1 and April, Page 3) I have Sherri Owens the same time devastate the Am I also dedicated to like the sadness, hate, become convinced that ones I loved? Yes! determining what is and turmoil, and anxiety it one of the most dangerous evils The Chronicle’s survey revealed what is not “tradition?” Find additional coverage at may bring on us. that exists in the New Testament a belief among some, as the news- You bet I am! And I am www.christianchronicle.org. Many members of church is the fact that so many of paper reported, that “too many absolutely appalled at Churches of Christ her members sacrificed absolutely Churches of Christ have stressed the insinuation that the scriptural today were born into their faith just as nothing — nor did they give up correct theology, being ‘right,’ understanding of such things as I was born into my Catholic faith. The anything — at the time they made over compassion for postmodern instrumental music is nothing more decision they made to be baptized their decision to be baptized. thinkers” and the unchurched. than a tradition. After extensive, was nothing but joyful for all of those I was born into a Roman Catholic My many hours of study over biblical study I can tell you that it involved. And after their decision, family that was generations deep in those eight years mostly were dedi- is not just tradition; it is Scripture. they found there was very little need the faith. For 28 years, I faithfully cated to understanding the “correct But it is, however, one of those finer to dig into Scripture to find answers. practiced every aspect of my Catholic theology” that is taught in the points of theology that requires an There were no questions. beliefs. Then I met (through a blind Word. I already sincerely believed in-depth study to discern. Sacrificing nothing, giving up date) the man who would become that Christ was my Savior and that The Roman Catholic Church is nothing — even if it is no more than my husband of now 53 years. He was he died on a cross for remission largely built on tradition, and that is time and effort to study — does not a faithful member of my sins. I not God’s way. God’s way is clearly lead to an appreciation of the faith of the Church of ‘I have become convinced that simply practiced spelled out in Scripture, and study for which Christ gave his blood. Christ. one of the most dangerous that belief in a will reveal it to us. With much different manner Would I be the first to acknowl- SHERRI OWENS and her husband, Dennis, worship prayer, we dedi- evils that exists in the New than I saw my edge that I most assuredly do not with the Sayler Park Church of Christ in Cincinnati. cated ourselves Testament church is the fact husband practice have it all figured out? Absolutely! They have two married sons and two grandchildren. to studying each that so many of her members it, even though other’s beliefs — it was the same from our readers and subsequently sacrificed absolutely nothing — core belief. accepting what- Did that belief ever God intended nor did they give up anything alone qualify ‘Big C or little c’ story gets mixed reaction for our relation- — at the time they made their me for salvation ship. So, while according to the It has been my long-thought-out NIV. Each of these uses the little c my husband was decision to be baptized.’ Scriptures? No, it conviction that the issue of lower in Romans 16:16. at work, I would did not. and upper case c or C for “Church” Why? The use of the little c dive into study of the Scriptures for Am I therefore dedicated to getting is not an issue of major significance places the signficance on Christ. hours at a time in an effort to prove the “theology” right? Absolutely! (Page 3, April). Using the big C makes the wording him wrong. Of course, the opposite I gave up family relationships A knowledge of God’s Word, nominative. Nowhere in Scripture began to happen. I began to question because I came to a realization that wisdom, discernment, love and is the nominative term used in my Catholic faith. My motto became: I didn’t have it right. I fear that if the Christ’s prayer for unity are involved connection with the church. “If it’s in the Bible, I’d better be doing younger members of the Church of in restoring the Church of Christ. Marion howell | Enid, Okla. it. If it’s not in the Bible, I’d better not Christ feel that a focus on getting the PHIL L. RISINGER | Oklahoma City be doing it.” theology correct causes us to dismiss Congratulations! You certainly It took eight years, but I finally the compassion aspect of our faith, The “Big C or little c?” question gave us an issue of The Christian determined that salvation could they might conclude that I could caught my attention. So I went to Chronicle, April 2018, worthy of a only be found in the watery grave of have remained a Catholic. the Bible to seek the answer. I went 75th anniversary celebration. baptism. That decision resulted in Would that attitude also conclude to the KJV, NKJV, NASV, ESV and BETTY LOU OLSON | Calico Rock, Ark. MAY 2018 REVIEWS THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 31 ‘Life’s storms are screams’ that awaken Church Pews For Sale What the Bible Teaches Concerning THE SABBATH Christ-followers, says stroke survivor Oak pews with green cushions. by: Finis Jay Caldwell, Jr. ark Moore grew up in a two- Moore said in an interview with Seating for approximately 240. bedroom house — which The Christian Chronicle. “They 45 pews in total. Make an offer for This book addresses what held a family of 10 — work hard on Monday and the Bible teaches regard- in a tough borough In Print expect results on Tuesday. ... some or all of the pews. ing what comprises a genuine, eternal, celestial, heavenly, spiritual Mof New York City. But he Sometimes we can’t find God Sugar Land Church of Christ Sabbath observation for Christians today. had the gift of being great because we’re not listening. 15590 Voss Road with numbers, and he did “Sometimes life’s storms Sugar Land, Texas 77498 (573) 888-5274 extremely well in school. are screams to us. We must (281) 561-0881 2011 St Francis St He became a self-made, turn to our faith. Sometimes [email protected] highly successful entrepre- we feel God, and other times Kennett, MO 63857-1566 neur, launching an internet our emotions are trying to start-up that provided turn us away. If we quit on services to the U.S. Defense Dawnna Hale ourselves, we quit on God.” Used BIBLE BOOKS needed Department. He wore tailor- He had to learn to accept made suits and lived on a help from his wife, friends If you have any used Bible books, put 10,000-square-foot property with a and experienced caregivers. Now he them to use in preacher students’ hands! pool. He honored God on Sundays, uses his struggles to help others. He but on the other six days of the and his wife established the Mark and Send them to: week, he was in control. Brenda Moore Family Foundation, African Christian Schools And then the bottom fell out from which supports advances in health- P.O. Box 41120 under him. care, education, Nashville, TN 37204 In “A Stroke of culture, arts and evan- Faith: A Stroke gelism, he said. (615) 542-6282 Survivor’s Story of For those of us [email protected] a Second Chance who follow Christ yet africanchristianschools.org at Living a Life of struggle with over-reli- Significance,” Moore ance on self, “storms details the events of are sometimes the )'6/#44+'& May 12, 2007, when a blessing of redirec- 7RDYRLGIRUQLFDWLRQ minor stroke sent him tion,” Moore told the Check out new to the hospital and a Chronicle. He’s also HDFKPDQVKRXOGKDYH second one put him in an advocate for early book titles online: KLVZLIHDQGHDFK a coma. He lost nearly medical interven- ZRPDQKHUKXVEDQG a month of his life — tion when something &RULQWKLDQV a life that would never seems amiss physically. Growing Up White In the be the same. One “Get yourself to a Heart of Memphis +DUGFRYHU day, while lying in his hospital as quickly as 3DSHU hospital bed, feeling Mark Moore. A Stroke of possible,” he advised. by David May hopeless, Moore Faith: A Stroke Survivor’s Although he didn’t 'LVFRXQWVDW remembered words Story of a Second Chance at have the typical signs :HOGRQ/DQJILHOGFRP his mother once told Living a Life of Significance. of stroke, he believes christianchronicle.org/books him: “God only gives Nashville, Tenn.: FaithWords, that “getting help you what he knows 2017. 256 pages. $12.99. quickly can be the you can handle.” difference between He decided to trust God. life and death. Talk to your doctors, The 40-year-old AMEN Ministry His story is one of and tell them what hurts and where. connects Christians in the United States tremendous courage. Do not give up.” Military with local churches of Christ both Formerly a highly effi- Regardless of health, wealth and cient, self-reliant busi- circumstances, Moore advised overseas and in the U.S. nessman, he now had believers to stay focused on God to rely on others for and resist the urge to take the reins. Please send name, email, and other even the simplest of “We can’t let God just be a catch contact info to: AMEN Ministry tasks as his brain and phrase,” he said. “We must stay body failed to commu- plugged in and connected to the rela- [email protected] Mark Moore nicate. In the process, tionship his Word creates for us.” P.O. Box 353, Hebron, CT 06248 he learned that he also needed to rely (860) 372-7051 on a higher power in order to heal. DAWNNA HALE and her family worship with the “Type A people want control,” Pitman Road Church of Christ in Sewell, N.J. 32 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE reviews may 2018

Preacher Needed Gospel Preacher In ‘Still Wrestling,’ grieving Valley County Church of Christ, located in McCall, The SUNSET CHURCH of CHRIST in Id., is looking for a part-time preacher starting Taylor, Mich., is looking for a gospel preacher minister delves into faith, doubt May 2018 thru October 2018. Ideal position for who loves God and his neighbor. Your life a semi-retired preacher wishing to spend time in here will be alongside 200 other Christians, one fine ministry involved with our youth, BY bobby ross jr. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE How long did the writing the mountains. For the right person, it could be process take? expanded to a year-round position. Please send a passionate missionary to the largest Muslim population in America, four hard- double murder. A destroyed Off and on for three years. resume and either audio or video sample lesson working servants and three prayerful shep- to us at: family. A shattered faith. When I decided to make it an herds. Send resume, one or two audios or After the tragic deaths of every-week thing — at least one Valley County Church of Christ videos of you and a one-page handwritten description of your purpose in God's his wife and 21-year-old son chapter a week — it went fast then. PO Box 2118, McCall, ID 83638 Ain 2011, minister Les Ferguson What did you learn along the Kingdom to: For more information please call: Sunset Church of Christ Jr. struggled not way? Orval Roberson (208) 643-1147 or c/o Elders @ Sunset 24800 Ecorse Rd to believe that God Wow. A lot. I learned a lot about Jack Hellbusch (208) 315-3103 Taylor, Michigan 48180 existed but that he myself. I learned a lot about God. cared. I learned that writing isn’t easy. I In the newly learned that writing is easy. It just Youth Minister/Worship Leader Minister Needed released “Still depends on the topic and how you Have some FUN in the sun in Mobile, Wrestling: Faith approach it. Ala. The Port City Church of Christ is Renewed Through I learned you really need great seeking an exceptional Youth Minister/ Brokenness,” Ferguson editors. I had some fantastic editors Worship Leader for a congregation of Ferguson explores who helped me craft the story. They about 200. If interested, send resume to: questions of faith and doubt that challenged me to go back and look helped lead him to a stronger, deeper at things and maybe even change my Port City Church of Christ relationship with his Creator. mind and reframe. 2901 Hillcrest Rd Ferguson preaches for the Lake Also, I learned that I should have Mobile, Alabama 36695 Harbour Drive Church of Christ in taken typing back in high school. Ridgeland, Miss. He discussed the What kind of response have [email protected] 224-page book in an interview with you received to the book? Email chairman for complete job description. The Christian Chronicle. I’ve been told they’re already on What compelled you to write a second printing from the day they this book? Why was it important released it. Amazon can’t keep up Bilingual Minister to you? with it. Every bit of feedback I’ve Full-time Pulpit Minister I guess this is the result of blog- gotten has been extremely positive The Church of Christ in Pecos, Texas, We are seeking a minister to minister ging. At the time, the blog was called and enthusiastic. is seeking a bilingual minister for our “Desperately Wanting What do you hope unto a congregation of 70 members Spanish-speaking congregation. Gradu- to Believe Again.” I people take away and a town population of 500. ate from preaching school or Christian university associated with Churches of blogged my way into from reading “Still If interested in learning more, please Christ preferred. Experience a plus, but wanting to write a book. Wresting?” contact: will consider a recent graduate. Candi- This is my way of That no matter how date must be fluent in English. not only dealing with broken they are, no Church of Christ all of my own hurt and matter how damaged, Attn: Randy Sherrill Church of Christ pain and loss and diffi- no matter how difficult 505 S Jefferson, Arnett, OK 73832 PO Box 1332 culty, but also wanting life is, God is still here Pecos, TX 79772 (580) 216-1224 to help others who — and they just need to [email protected] struggle, too. keep wrestling with him. How difficult Are you still Full-Time Minister was the process wrestling? Or do you Full-Time Minister Stafford Church of Christ of writing this and feel like you’re in a getting it published? much better place Small, rural congregation in central Kansas seek- Writing it was kind than a few years ago? Malden Church of Christ in ing a full-time minister to embrace our church Missouri seeks a full-time minister. family and outreach to the community with zeal. of hard. Some of the Les Ferguson Jr. Still Oh, I’m definitely in things I wrote about Wrestling: Faith Renewed a better place than I Rural congregation, 50-60 faithful Minister will need to appeal to a wide variety of age groups with lessons (both sermons and bible were difficult. I went Through Brokenness. was a few years ago. members, led by the Lord and classes) which are scriptural, relevant and realistic. through periods of time Abilene, Texas: Leafwood But what I think I’ve two elders. Compensation Nice three bedroom parsonage provided. Previous where I didn’t write Publishers, 2018. 224 learned is that I’ll commensurate with qualifications ministry experience preferred, but all applicants because I was afraid. pages. $14.99. always be wrestling. will be fairly considered. Salary commensurate It’s kind of crazy — That’s what God is and experience. Contact: with experience and fair for this area. For more I was afraid of failure and afraid of looking for — for us to wrestle with information, call (620) 549-6625. To apply, Rod Dill at (573) 281-8625 send resume, cover letter and references to: success. I’d write awhile, and then him and to continue to grow. That’s Jerry Reaves at (573) 276-8071 [email protected]. I’d get, I guess, discouraged or allow a part of the struggle. myself to think nobody would want to read this. EXPANDED Q&A: www.christianchronicle.org MAY 2018 REVIEWS THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 33

A Macedonian call to China: Volume FULL-TIME MINISTER WANTED Looking for an The Chatham Church of Christ is looking for a Energetic Evangelist chronicles a not-so-wasted effort full-time minister. We are a small congregation in northern New Jersey. Preferred qualifications The Bell Fork Road Church of Christ is assages like the Great on pots and pans.” Still, by the mid- include: master’s degree; strong preaching, searching for an energetic, evangelistic minister Commission in Matthew and 1930s, the Canton Bible School had a teaching, evangelism and inter-personal skills; to serve full time. Our desire is for a family 5-10 years of experience; and willing to make man with a love of GOD’s word and people the Macedonian call in Acts two-story building, and the mission a long-term commitment. Send resume and and also the ability to work well with a have long compelled Churches was conducting “a total of 12 evange- other relevant information to: versatile congregation of all races and ages. Pof Christ to conduct missions. listic meetings each Sunday, with a [email protected] Church of Christ When historians capture combined attendance of around Chatham Church of Christ Attn: Chris Kelsey, Chairman these narratives, they bless What we're 450 people,” Crowder writes. 382 Fairmount Ave 321 Bell Fork Rd the church. They present reading The Japanese military occu- Jacksonville, NC 28540 Chatham, NJ 07928 us with stories that not pation of China, which began [email protected] only inform and entertain, in 1937, ended the momentum. (973) 635-6810 (910) 346-6107 but they also convict and Bombing forced nationals out inspire. That’s exactly what of Canton and into the villages. Youth Minister - Bradenton, Florida Stephen V. Crowder does in Reluctantly, the missionaries “The Field is the World: returned to the U.S. Fifty Third Avenue Church of Christ is looking for an exceptional youth minister. We are a congregation with an average attendance of about 200. Our youth group is about 20 strong, with a group of involved and dedicated A History of the Canton After World War II, Lowell parents. Mission (1929-1949) of and Odessa Davis, who had the Churches of Christ.” Frank Bellizzi served in Canton prior to war, Youth Minister will plan, communicate and execute programs and activities aimed at enriching the spiritual Crowder tells the story of returned with a new emphasis lives of youth. the Canton Mission in four episodes. on humanitarian aid. The Chinese, Education: Minimum of a bachelor’s degree, preferred in Bible, youth ministry or related field. Equivalent The 1920s was a time for dreaming they discovered, were more willing experience will be considered. Salary: Commensurate with education and experience. and preparing. College students than before to accept the Gospel. A complete job description is available on our web page 53avecofc.org, or request by contacting the church George Benson and Lewis Oldham Lowell Davis reported that 210 were office at [email protected] or (941) 753-4153. Please send resume and references to the attention learned that China, the world’s most baptized in 1947. But the Communist of the Youth Minister Search Committee at the same e-mail address, or mail to: populous nation, had no mission- takeover of China in 1949 resulted 53rd Avenue Church of Christ, 3412 53rd Ave. East, Bradenton, FL 34203. aries dedicated to “the restoration in the deportation of missionaries Closing Date: Open until filled. of New Testament and the sometimes- Christianity,” according violent suppression of to their early reports. Christianity. Full-Time Family & Youth Minister The students deter- According to a recent mined to change that. estimate, China is now The Woodinville Church of Christ has a full-time position open for a Family & Youth Minister. We are a mature By the summer of home to more than 250-member strong congregation with five elders, sixteen deacons, a full-time pulpit minister and a very active fellowship. We are seeking someone to enthusiastically reach out to teens and their family members, assist 1925, George and Sallie 60 million believers of in guiding our teens to a committed relationship with God, promote the training of teens for service, local and Hockaday Benson, Protestant persuasion. foreign outreach efforts and be a spiritual mentor. The successful candidate will have at least seven years of just weeks after their Observing that growth, experience including leading and teaching teens and pulpit preaching with a desire for full-time pulpit ministry; wedding, sailed for George Benson in 1987 education should include a bachelor’s degree (Bible major preferred) or a preaching school graduate or China. Oldham and his said, “What seemed for a equivalent church-related experience. The city of Woodinville is located in the scenic Puget Sound region wife, the former Grace long time to be years of of Washington State--a small suburb with all the cultural amenities of Seattle nearby and an abundance of Narron, followed in 1927. wasted effort may prove outdoor adventure opportunities. The years 1929 yet to have been more Please submit your resume and sermon audio sample to the Family & Youth Minister Search Committee: through 1937 marked productive than we ever [email protected] a high point for the imagined possible.” www.woodinvillecofc.org mission. The team Stephen V. Crowder. The “The Field is the decided to conduct Field Is the World: A World” chronicles their work in a major History of the Canton the story of a handful Youth Minister Bilingual Evangelist city and settled on Mission (1929–1949) of the of North American The Church of Christ in Fort Stockton, Canton (also called Churches of Christ. Eugene, missionaries and their Ruston Church of Christ in Loui- Texas, is seeking an evangelist for our Guangzhou). The Ore.: Wipf and Stock, 2018. Chinese coworkers siana is seeking a qualified candi- Spanish-speaking congregation. Graduate missionaries and a few 156 pages. $16.80. who proclaimed the from a school of preaching or Christian early converts followed message of salvation. date for youth minister. Candidate university. Experience a plus, but will a strategy of Bible teaching, high- The text, accompanied by dozens should hold a degree or certificate consider a recent graduate. Candidate quality literature and public evange- of illustrations, is a welcome addi- must be fluent and well versed in the lism — even street preaching. tion to the missions historiography of completion from a sound school English and Spanish languages. The missionaries struggled to of the Churches of Christ. associated with Churches of If interested please send a resume to: become fluent in Cantonese. Anti- Christ. Send resume to: Church of Christ missionary feelings sometimes Frank Bellizzi, a longtime minister, is a PO Box 1672 came to the surface. In one village, Ph.D. candidate in American History at Texas Tech [email protected] Fort Stockton, TX 79735 a sermon was “drowned out by a University. He and his wife, Michele, worship with noisy group of young people banging the Church of Christ at The Colonies in Amarillo, Texas. 34 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OPINION MAY 2018 A bedside prayer with brother Keeble: Fifty years PULPIT MINISTER WANTED - San Jose, California Central Church of Christ is currently looking for pulpit minister who has at least five years experience in preaching with Church of Christ congregations, is deeply dedicated to the inerrancy of the Scriptures and is after his death, we remember a humble servant able to show the relevance of its message in today’s culture. We prefer a family man who has both a youthful perspective and a love for the Lord’s senior saints. He should be able to promote personal evangelism and be a e was 83, and I was 20. me. I looked across the room and role model of it, himself, as he demonstrates bringing souls to Christ through their baptism. Central is an ethnically Meeting him was the saw brother Keeble — on his knees, diverse group of more than 100 members in a city of nearly one million. Our aim is to show the love of Christ’s opportunity of a lifetime — elbows on the dorm bunk bed ready to gospel. We have an elder-centered leadership, believe in a literal interpretation of the Scriptures, hold that one that I would not fully pray. Cato asked me if I would like to baptism is essential to salvation, utilize males exclusively in leading the public worship assemblies and conduct Hunderstand for many years. join them. Insight traditional congregational-style a cappella worship services. If you feel that you satisfy the above requirements Marshall Keeble was on Tears swell in my eyes and might like to work with us, please send your resume, personal and professional references as well as a campus at Oklahoma Christian whenever I remember that digital copy of one of your sermons to [email protected]. If selected for a telephone interview, College for two days in invitation. “Yes,” I said. you may also be requested to visit us in San Jose. During this visit, we will conduct a face-to-face interview February 1962. The college I had never experienced such and you will be asked to present a sermon and teach an adult class at a Sunday morning assembly. had admitted its first black a thing. There were all three students just five months of us, on our knees on a hard earlier. Keeble was speaking at tile dormitory floor, elbows rallies for Christian education on the bed, praying. It was an across the state. Lynn McMillon overwhelming experience. Associate Minister I had never before heard an When I think of how African-American preach. I grew up gracious and warm he was to me, in a home seemingly untouched by and now knowing how many insults racial bias and largely unaware of and hardships he suffered in his We are seeking an associate minister to work with our pulpit minister with the intention the issues that would come to define life, I am deeply moved. I wish I had of transitioning to our full-time pulpit minister. The associate pulpit minister will work the tumultuous decade of the 1960s. taken a picture with him. with our current pulpit minister and elders to serve the West Olive Church of Christ by Keeble spoke in chapel. As a A few days after Keeble’s visit, I went providing a balanced ministry of preaching, teaching and assisting the elders in imple- preaching student, I was astonished to the campus library and checked menting our vision to help the congregation grow to its full potential in membership by his knowledge of Scripture, out the vinyl record albums of his and spiritual growth in Christ. We are a congregation of 450 members in a growing his communication skills and his sermons. How that man could preach community west of Phoenix, Ariz. sincerity. He spoke again at an the Word — with ethos and pathos! General Requirements: The ideal candidate should be a married, middle-aged man with evening rally at the municipal I began to learn of the hundreds of at least ten years of experience. He should be of strong personal faith and be doctrinally auditorium in downtown young African-American sound and well grounded in the Scriptures. He should have an evangelistic heart to share Oklahoma City, so I men whom he trained the Gospel with those who are lost. went to hear him. About to preach. I learned of Principal Responsibilities: Responsibilities of this position include preaching, teaching 4,000 people — black the thousands of people and participation in the life of our church family. and white — gathered who responded to his How to Apply: to hear brother Keeble. preaching. Those interested in applying should mail a copy of their resume with picture and at It’s still one of the largest Two years later, my new least three references to the attention of: gatherings among wife and I were serving Churches of Christ in a small congregation in West Olive Church of Christ our state’s history. Mississippi, just south I remember his of Memphis, Tenn. Attn: Elders explanation of what it We witnessed racism 10935 W Olive Ave means to be in Christ. firsthand — at segregated Peoria, AZ 85345 He used the example of a GOSPEL ADVOCATE lunch counters and in branding iron, placed in a See more coverage of church pews. fire until it is red hot. Marshall Keeble’s legacy at Brother Keeble came “The iron is in the www.christianchronicle.org. to Memphis, Tenn., for Full-time Minister - North Carolina fire and the fire is in a gospel meeting. We the iron,” he said. For the first time, wanted to hear him, so we and some THE JERICHO CHURCH OF CHRIST seeks a full-time minister due to retirement of present I felt like I grasped this important of our church’s members made the minister. We are located in a rural setting next to Carolina Bible Camp near Mocksville, N.C. The congregation is served by three elders and five deacons. Average attendance is 130-140. We are an theological concept. In just two days, short trip there an hour early to active congregation seeking a biblically-sound minister with good communication and interpersonal I had come to recognize that I was in get a seat. The building was packed skills, who relates well with youth and middle-aged members, and whose strong marriage includes the presence of greatness. I also felt with faces black and white. And the a wife active in church work. He is expected to minister to the flock, visit the sick and elderly, officiate that I wanted be close to this man. preaching was inspiring. weddings and funerals, conduct home Bible studies, and provide community outreach. We desire I was, it turns out. The next day I The flames of injustice still rage someone with a positive outlook, outgoing personality, strong organizational skills, and the desire for learned that Keeble and his traveling in our nation. But Keeble, 50 years church growth. We offer a competitive salary based on experience, education, and training. companion, Willie T. Cato, were after his death, continues to remind Submit your resume to: staying on the ground floor of my us that the Lord is supreme, that [email protected] dormitory. Late that evening, I finally heaven is our shared goal and that mustered up enough courage to walk “the fire is in the iron.” and visit us at: www.jerichotoday.com down the stairs to his room and knock. Cato opened the door and welcomed Contact: [email protected] MAY 2018 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 35

Full-Time Minister CALENDAR Church of Christ in Wellington, Kan. is search- ing for a pulpit minister with a heart for preach- May 19-24 Churches of Christ ing and teaching, and the ability to work with National Lectureship. Greensboro, all ages. A college degree or certificate from a N.C. cocnl2018.com/home.html. school of preaching is preferred. Salary com- May 21-24 Annual Sermon mensurate with experience. 4-bedroom house FACULTY/STAFFFACULTY/STAFF provided. Interested candidates should send a POSITIONSPOSITIONS FORFOR 2018-20192016-2017 Seminar. Austin Graduate School resume, and a link or sample sermon to: of Theology, Austin, Texas. sermon- Elders – Wellington Church of Christ Oklahoma Christian University is seeking highly qualified and mission-driven Christian faculty members seminar.com. 217 W. 13th for potential tenure-track and/or visiting positions in the following disciplines: May 31-June 3 Tapestry Retreat. Wellington, KS 67152 wellingtonchurchofchrist.org or Memphis, Tenn. centerpeace.net. TENURE-TRACK OR VISITING FACULTY IN THE June 3-9 Preacher Training Camp. Rex Harris (316) 558-2448 Faculty Positions: [email protected] DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE Oldham Lane Church of Christ, Tenure-Track or Visiting Faculty in the Department of Computer Science Abilene, Texas. cmccurley@olcoc. Clinical Instructor/Advisor in the College of Natural and Health Sciences com. TENURE-TRACKTenure-Track FACULTY Faculty INin theTHE Department DEPARTMENT of EngineeringOF ENGINEERING Minister Search July 6-8 PeacePrints Retreat. TENURE-TRACK FACULTY IN THE DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS Small congregation in need of a full-time minister Strawn, Texas. centerpeace.net. TENURE-TRACK FACULTY INStaff THE DEPARTMENT Positions: OF FINANCE/ECONOMICS who is sound in the faith, visionary in nature, Managing Director, University Honors Program July 8-13 Summer Honor Choir and passionate about preaching, teaching, and OC is also seeking applications for professional staff positions in the following areas. (High School). Harding University, equipping others for discipleship and service to Admissions Counselor God. Looking for someone who has in-depth Searcy, Ark. www.harding.edu/ TEXASIntegrated ADMISSIONS Communication REPRESENTATIVE Specialist knowledge of God’s word, holds fast to biblical honorchoir. Administrative AssistantADMISSIONS for the COUNSELOR College of Biblical Studies truths and able to effectively communicate truths Director of Freshman Experience July 15-20 Theology Summer for edification of the saints, church growth and RETAIL MANAGER-COFFEE SHOP Program Director, MasterPOLICE of OFFICER Healthcare Administration Academy. Oklahoma Christian community outreach. If you wish to apply, please Annual Giving Coordinator University, Oklahoma City. request application and position qualifications at: Creston Hills Church of Christ oc.edu/tsa. ApplicationApplication instructions instructions and and descriptions descriptions of each each position position are availableare available at oc.edu/hr. at oc.edu/hr. Attn: Vinson Simmons July 22-27 Texas Normal Oklahoma Christian University complies with all laws regarding nondiscrimination in employment, 1901 N Martin Luther King Ave including those with respect to race, color, age, sex, national origin, marital status, military service, and Singing School. Abilene, Texas. Oklahoma City, OK 73111 disability. As a religious educational institution, the University is permitted by law to consider religious singingschool.org. [email protected] beliefs and practices in making employment decisions and the University does so to achieve its mission. July 23-27 Global Reunion 2018. Oklahoma Christian University, Okla- homa City. intermissionministry.org. July 26-29 Angel Fire Bible MOUNTAIN Symposium. Angel Fire, N.M. COMMUNITY angelfirebiblesymposium.com. OPPORTUNITY Aug. 31-Sept. 3 National Christian Singles Seminar. Sugar The Religion and Philosophy Division of Pepperdine University's Seaver College of Letters, Arts Tiny congregation looking for sound Land, Texas, nationalchristiansingles. and Sciences invites applications for a Visiting Instructor of Religion. Responsibilities of this full-time visiting faculty appointment will be restricted to teaching general education courses in Christian leadership. Retirement or com. other support needed. Sept. 11 Eastern European the Old Testament and New Testament, and the possibility of one or two courses for under- graduate majors and graduate students in religion. Successful candidates should have at least Mission’s Franklin Event. Franklin, completed course work for a Ph.D. in Old or New Testament. Preference will be given to those Church of Christ Tenn. eem.org/events. candidates who have a Ph.D. and previous teaching experience. Candidates are expected to Attn: Billy McCarty Sept. 13-14 New Day Confer- demonstrate a commitment to the Christian mission of the University, and membership in a PO Box 487, Reserve, NM 87830 ence. North Blvd. Church of Christ, Church of Christ. (575) 533-6574 Murfreesboro, Tenn. https://north- Pepperdine is a Christian University committed to the highest standards of academic excellence boulevard.com. and Christian values, where students are strengthened for lives of purpose, service, and leader- Sept. 30-Oct. 3 Harding ship. Seaver College, the undergraduate liberal arts college of Pepperdine University, enrolls University Bible Lectureship. approximately 3,400 students at its residential campus in Malibu, California. The Religion and Involvement/Worship Minister Searcy, Ark. www.harding.edu/ Philosophy Division of Seaver College offers Bachelor of Arts degrees in religion and philosophy, events/lectureship. as well as three graduate degrees: the Master of Science in Ministry, the Master of Divinity, and The Fredericksburg Church of Christ is seeking the Master of Arts in Old Testament, New Testament, Church history, or Theology. Oct. 9-12 Abundant Living an Involvement / Worship Minister to work Branson Retreat. Branson, Mo. Application review will begin May 1, 2018, and continue until the position is filled. Please with our young families, lead worship/singing, submit all application materials to: apply.interfolio.com/50268. A background check will be occasionally preach, and assist congregational abundantlivingseniors.com. required as a condition of employment. efforts to reach our community for Christ. Nov. 5-11 Pan American Please send a resume, a list of references, and Lecture-ship. Havana, Cuba. Contact: Professor Daniel A. Rodriguez ([email protected]) your philosophy of ministry to: lectureship.org. Divisional Dean, Religion and Philosophy Division Fredericksburg Church of Christ Seaver College, Pepperdine University FULL CALENDAR: www.christianchronicle.org. 507 North Llano St To include your event for $25, contact 24255 Pacific Coast Highway Fredericksburg, TX 78624 Malibu, CA 90263-4352 [email protected]. [email protected] Lads to Leaders at 50 INSIDE Ministry started as a CALENDAR...... 35 NATIONAL...... 5 Bible class for eight boys CURRENTS...... 17 OPINION...... 28 now trains thousands DIALOGUE...... 21 PARTNERS...... 23 INSIDE STORY...... 3 PEOPLE...... 26 to teach, preach, sing INSIGHT...... 34 REVIEWS...... 31 Vol. 75, No. 5 | May 2018 | christianchronicle.org and sign. 17 INTERNATIONAL.....13 VIEWS...... 30

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“In the past four years as a youth minister I have encountered many teenagers seeking truth. These teens want to know who God is and what He expects of them. Whether I am teaching a class on ‘how to know the Bible is reliable’ or having a one on one discussion about giving our worries over to God, Sunset gave me the tools needed to feel comfortable in these situations. Jordon Crow, Youth Minister, Blackwell Church of Christ, Oklahoma

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Sunset International Bible Institute www.sunset.bible Family and Youth Ministry