Our mission: To inform, An international inspire and unite newspaper for Vol. 74, No. 8 | August 2017 Churches of Christ New law protects Ninjas religious liberty for Jesus WHY A CHRISTIAN adoption ministry urged Texas legislators to pass a TWO CHURCH MEMBERS battle bill opposed by gay-rights groups. obstacles in same episode of ‘American Ninja Warrior.’ BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE BY CHELLIE ISON | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE ABILENE, texas t age 17, Jennifer Griffith discovered he Wingnuts got ’em both. she was pregnant. Two members of The daughter of a pro-life advocate, Churches of Christ — one Griffith knew she couldn’t abort her from Tennessee, the other baby. Instead, the unmarried teen turned to Tfrom Kentucky — competed on Christian Homes and Family Services for help. the same episode of “American The 55-year-old ministry — based in this Ninja Warrior.” The popular NBC West Texas city where the wind blows hot show puts contestants up against all day and the sunset explodes with colors challenging obstacle courses, each evening — testing their strength, grip and worked with her overall stamina, to see who can to find a faithful make it through to the end. couple to adopt The church members, her baby. Dr. Brooks Tiller and Andy “I wanted my Harrington, made it through the child to have first two obstacles easily before two parents who they were eliminated on the were married Wingnuts, a series of three mov- and who were ing bars that require athletes to going to raise swing and jump sideways from their child in the one to the next — avoiding fall- Christian faith,” ing into the water below. said Griffith, who Tiller, a 37-year-old physical grew up in the therapist, made it to the third PHOTO PROVIDED BY JENNIFER GRIFFITH West Freeway See NINJAS, Page 22 The newborn daughter of Church of Christ Jennifer Griffith, who gave in Fort Worth. up her first baby for adoption A new Lone when she was a teen. Star State law — set to take effect Sept. 1 — protects the freedom of faith-based Davis Hammett organizations such as Christian Homes and Family Services to adhere to their “sincerely held religious beliefs.” VBS smiles — a global phenomenon Under House Bill 3859 — passed by the Balloons, Bible lessons, games and crafts were part of the fun at a Vacation Texas Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Bible School in the Nindirí area of Nicaragua, hosted by youths from the Central Greg Abbott — state-licensed nonprofits can Church of Christ in Tuscaloosa, Ala. The 300-member congregation sent a team require, for example, that prospective parents of 15 to the Central American nation. As the teens played and studied the Bible VIDEO STILL VIA NBC be active church members who attend with children, adults assisted Nicaraguan Christians in construction projects. Brooks Tiller gets psyched for his See ADOPTION, Page 6 From Happy to Haiti: See more VBS photos from around the world, Pages 17-19 run on ‘American Ninja Warrior.’ 2 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AUGUST 2017 Graduate Studies Where higher learning and ministry come together

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Graduate School AUGUST 2017 the christian chronicle 3 Fake news A gift fit for vs. journalism that matters a president: “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to God’s Word testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” CHRISTIAN MINISTRY distributes — John 18:37, New International Version 50,000 New Testaments in a NASHVILLE, Tenn. European nation’s native tongue. wenty-three years ago, walking toward BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE the library at Lipscomb University, The people of Slovenia recently I suddenly stopped. celebrated the birthday of Primoz T“No, not today,” I said — Trubar, regarded as the father of probably aloud. I dashed their written language. back to the And Eastern European Mission Inside Story basement HAMIL R. HARRIS brought 50,000 New Testaments to of Johnson A participant in the Mid-Ohio Valley Work Camp paints Elizabeth Carro’s home. the party. Hall, the The first copy of the re-translated newspaper Dalmatin New Testament went to the office. Central European nation’s president, Moments Borut Pahor. He invited represen- earlier — tatives of EEM, a Bible-printing and just after More than painting nonprofit supported by Churches of our deadline Christ, to take part in the official cel- Erik Tryggestad — I learned ebrations at the presidential palace in that a promi- Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana. nent official on our campus by the numbers “He was very gracious and appre- had resigned unexpectedly. ciative of the gift,” said Bart Rybinski, I grabbed the phone and vice president of European operations called Franklin Web, our for EEM. “He spoke of his country’s printer. “Is The Babbler on WORK CAMP helps young Christians serve with attitude. gratefulness for the impact the project the press yet?” I asked. will have on Slovenia.” (Yes, our student news- BY HAMIL R. HARRIS | FOR THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE in West Virginia’s Wood County who See PRESIDENT, Page 14 paper was The Babbler. It’s are unable to paint their homes due to scriptural — from Acts 17:18.) PARKERSBURG, W.Va. age, infirmity or lack of finances. They hadn’t printed it. t’s been a tough year for Elizabeth Including the 32 “Don’t!” I shouted into the Carro. After losing her husband homes painted by phone. “I’m bringing you a and her mother, she didn’t worry 350 volunteers at this new front page tonight.” much about the state of her home year’s camp, the total We got the story. The next in this West Virginia river town on number of houses day, as students picked up Ithe Ohio border. refurbished in the past the paper after chapel, I But then, one summer morning, 19 years reached 600, heard actual gasps as they James and Esther Brooks rolled into said David Muller, who read the front-page headline. her driveway in a van loaded with Carro co-directs the nonprofit Law school — which is cans of paint, ladders, cases of water with Ryan Ice. why I was headed to the and teenagers with plenty of energy. But the camp is about more than library in the first place — “It is a miracle,” said Carro, 55, whose painting by the numbers. was out the window. home got a fresh coat of paint courtesy “We hope that God sent us to these Seven years later, another of the Mid-Ohio Valley Work Camp. 32 homes for a reason,” Muller said. EASTERN EUROPEAN MISSION moment that changed my For nearly two decades, the camp “We try to be good examples so that President Borat Pahor of Slovenia life happened at Lipscomb has brought together young Christians we will be able to bring Jesus into receives a New Testament in his coun- See JOURNALISM, Page 4 from across the region to help people See WORK CAMP, Page 8 try’s language from EEM. 4 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE INSIDE STORY AUGUST 2017 JOURNALISM: ‘What is truth?’ FROM PAGE 3 have latched onto the ramblings of — also in the basement of Johnson Internet trolls, conspiracy theorists Hall. Kim Chaudoin, the university’s and spewers of utter garbage. communications director — who was Many of us have decried this a big sister to me during my years as “fake news” (a term we should at Lipscomb — forwarded me an despise — it’s not news if it’s fake) email from someone named Virginia only to have that phrase coopted Ware at The Christian Chronicle. One and thrown back at any media of their editors, Glover Shipp, was giving voice to views with which retiring, and they were looking for a we disagree. The vitriol I sense reporter who was a faithful member in Facebook comments from my of a Church of Christ. I was working brothers and sisters in Christ as they for The Savannah Morning News in lash out at “the media” frightens me. coastal Georgia at the time. “What is truth?” Pilate flippantly “I know you’re not interested,” asked as he confronted Jesus with Kim wrote. But they had asked her the fake news of his day — that our to pass the message along to any Savior had committed an offense Christian journalists she knew — worthy of death. That attitude, I fear, and I was basically it. increasingly characterizes our society. I wasn’t sure I was interested. The Have we abandoned the search Chronicle isn’t a real newspaper, I for truth in favor of the “facts” that told myself. Working there would support what we want to believe? mean sacrificing my objectivity and When I was a student at Lipscomb, doing advocacy writing for my faith. we talked about living in a Christian What if it didn’t work out? Would bubble as we prepared to go out and the people who run the daily news- get jobs in the real world. papers let me back in? I think we got that wrong. If I’ve been thinking about what’s real Jesus testifies to the truth, then and what’s fake a lot lately — ever Christianity isn’t an alternate reality. since the folks at my alma mater God is reality, and the world that asked me to speak at this year’s attempts to deny God is the bubble ERIK TRYGGESTAD Summer Celebration. In the past 16 — the deception pulled over our Jovan Barrington, senior minister for the Littleton Church of Christ in Centennial, Colo., years, as I’ve reported on Churches of eyes that tells us to believe whatever speaks on God’s righteousness (Romans 3:21-26) at Lipscomb’s Summer Celebration. Christ around the world, I’ve watched we want, to embrace the fake. the industry I love crack and crumble. Christian journalism shouldn’t be a I tried to communicate that to my Christian students will experience life- Talented people, who seek only to subset of “real” journalism. It should audience at Summer Celebration. defining moments — like the one I tell the stories of their communities, be the best journalism — honest, I received so much positive feed- had in front of the library 23 years ago. have lost their jobs as advertising fact-supported, relevant. It should be back for our ministry here at the Our world is fallen, but salvation revenues and circulation dwindle. the mission of Christian journalists to Chronicle, and I praise God for all of has come. Too many of us, meanwhile, have redeem our profession by adhering to you who take the time to let us know That’s the real news. It matters. turned away from the words of fact- sound principles of information gath- that what we do matters. checkers and reliable sources and ering. If not us, then who? I pray that future generations of CONTACT: [email protected]

Digital News Editor: Chellie Ison The Christian Chronicle® encourages feedback The Christian Chronicle® is published monthly and is [email protected] that promotes thoughtful and respectful discussion. served by a national Board of Trustees that is charged Chief Correspondent: Bobby Ross Jr. Letters and comments should not exceed 300 words if with the responsibility for policy and governance. Our mission: Inform, inspire, unite [email protected] possible and may be edited for length and clarity. All trustees, editors and staff are active members of Advertising Manager: Tonya Patton Comments to the print or online editions are Churches of Christ. A subsidiary of Oklahoma Christian University [email protected] considered to be letters to the editor and may be Administrative Assistant: Lynda Sheehan published. Please include name, city and state of resi- www.christianchronicle.org [email protected] dence, as well as home congregation. Administrative Assistant: Joy McMillon Phone: (405) 425-5070; Fax (405) 425-5076 [email protected] The Christian Chronicle® is not a teaching or doctrinal Mail: P.O. Box 11000, Oklahoma City, OK 73136-1100 Administrative Assistant: Melinda Wilson publication but a newspaper with news and opinion Delivery: 2801 E. Memorial Road, Edmond, OK 73013 [email protected] content in sections clearly labeled. Signed columns and Staff Accountant: Louise Beyer reviews reflect the opinions of the authors. facebook.com/ChristianChronicle Editor Emeritus: Bailey McBride Advertising contains commercial messages from twitter.com/CofCnews [email protected] those who purchase the advertising space. Trustees: News coverage, opinion columns, reviews, letters Deon Fair, chairman President and CEO: Lynn A McMillon TO SUBSCRIBE: See www.christianchronicle.org, to the editor and advertising do not necessarily repre- Ed Biggers • Alfred Branch • Dwain Chaffin [email protected] email [email protected] sent the views of or constitute endorsement by the John deSteiguer • James Moore Editor in Chief: Erik Tryggestad or call (405) 425-5070. editors, the staff, the Board of Trustees of The Christian Robert Oglesby Sr. • Mike O’Neal • Barry Packer [email protected] LETTERS: [email protected] Chronicle or Oklahoma Christian University. Harold Redd • Milton Sewell • Gary Tabor AUGUST 2017 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 5 spotlight A healthy servant STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. — No one was surprised to see Mike Embry engaged in recent Vacation Bible School activities at the Metro Church of Christ. VBS is just one of many activities in which the faithful member is involved, Metro elder Doug Edwards said. On the profes- sional side, Embry is the newly installed Embry president of the National Association of Health Underwriters. In his position as a lobbyist in Washington, D.C., he meets with top congressional staff members, helping put together national health-care legislation. A profile of Embry in the associa- tion’s national publication noted that he struggled with alcohol abuse early in his life. “As a Christian, he has overcome that abuse to be a great LAUREN KOSKI, AMARILLO GLBOE-NEWS model for recovery,” Edwards said. Another example of Embry’s At a Texas church, a safe place for adults with special needs Christian service is his involvement Karen Thompson speaks with her daughter Hali Thompson at Zacchaeus’ Place, a social night and Bible study at Southwest on the Planned Giving Advisory Church of Christ in Amarillo, Texas. The outings for adults with special needs are part of The Hali Project, a ministry started Council at the Church of Christ by Brad and Karen Thompson to honor their daughter. “We wanted to provide for them a place where they could have Care Center in Clinton, Mich., appropriate, safe interaction, and it’s theirs,” Karen Thompson told the Amarillo Globe-News. “It’s their party, not anybody else’s.” where his mother resides.

MASSACHUSETTS CORE is the congregation’s commu- of 765 at its first service. But after CHICoPEE — Thirty young people and nity outreach ministry. the loss of General Dynamics and chaperones from the Center Hill The ride, organized by minister Carswell Air Force Base in 1993 and Church of Christ in Paragould, Ark., Stan Cunningham, coincided with 1994, the church suffered a major helped canvas the streets and facili- the Music City Motorcyle Rally at loss of membership. tate a Vacation Bible School for the the Fontanel. The rally included a In May 2016, the congregation was Greater Springfield Church of Christ. Bless the Bikes worship service, approached about selling its 26-acre The crew knocked more than which Cunningham led. Funds property, Farmer said. 1,400 doors and found 26 neighbors raised “will be used to bring Negotiations resulted in the interested in learning more about blessing into the lives of people church selling its facilities and PHOTO PROVIDED God’s word, Greater Springfield living in this low-resourced district buying the old Las Vegas Church Cory Collins, Will Reynolds and Spencer Ross minister Jim Buker said. of Nashville,” the minister said. of Christ building in Fort Worth. Buker expressed gratitude for The first worship assembly recently Ministers Cory Collins and the visiting Christians’ “selfless TEXAS drew 357 people. Spencer Ross direct the camp. generosity, enthusiastic efforts and FORT WORTH — The West Freeway incredible blessing.” Church of Christ — now at a new KELLER — The Keller Church of WEST VIRGINIA location — is debt free and looking Christ recently hosted its fourth MORGANTOWN — The Morgantown TENNESSEE to grow, preaching minister Britt annual TITUS Camp. Church of Christ recently held its NASHVILLE — A charity motorcycle Farmer said. The four-day preaching camp drew annual We Are The Sermon Sunday. ride raised $1,000 for the Northside With the merger of six Churches 18 boys entering sixth through ninth About 120 church members partic- Church of Christ’s Community of Christ, the West Freeway congre- grades. TITUS stands for Teens in ipated in a dozen service projects, Organized Renewal Efforts ministry. gation began in 1984 with attendance Training for Useful Service. The Dominion Post reported. 6 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE ACROSS THE NATION AUGUST 2017 ADOPTION: Faith-based programs win protection FROM PAGE 1 worship services weekly. Moreover, taxpayer-funded chari- ties can decline to place children with same-sex couples. However, in such cases, the ministries must refer the couples to more suitable providers. The law also will permit agen- cies to place children in religious schools, decline to refer teens for abortions and refuse to enter into contracts with organizations that don’t share their beliefs. Religious groups make up roughly a quarter of Texas’ 210 state- licensed child-welfare providers. Texas is home to more than 250,000 members of Churches of Christ — the most of any state. “We had to create an environ- ment in which the state’s work can coexist with the work of faith-based organizations, and I thought this bill really succeeded in doing that,” said Sherri Statler, president and CEO of Christian Homes and Family Services, which is associated with BOBBY ROSS JR. Churches of Christ. Sherri Statler reminisces about some of the many babies adopted through Christian Homes and Family Services in Abilene, Texas. But House Bill 3859 drew fierce opposition from gay-rights advocates funded or private adoption agencies The Huntsville, Ala.-based ministry Association. Nearly 50 ministries and progressive religious groups. In to use religion as a weapon to refuse requires prospective parents to sign associated with Churches of Christ response to the law, California banned adoption requests from LGBTQ a detailed, three-page statement comprise the national group. The state-sponsored travel to Texas, couples, Jewish people, Muslims, of Christian faith. The document “1:27” references Bible verses such accusing it of authorizing discrimina- single parents and other marginal- affirms the sacredness of all human as 1 Samuel 1:27 and James 1:27. tion based on sexual orientation. ized groups.” life — including unborn babies — and Holmes’ advice for Christian child- GLAAD, an LGBTQ rights group, Texas Impact, which is affiliated expresses the organization’s stance placing ministries: “No. 1, have your said the law “will soon allow state- with the Texas Interfaith Center for on marriage, gender policies in place, and know who you Public Policy, complained: “While and sexuality. are and what you stand for. No. 2, receiving taxpayer money from the “AGAPE believes treat everyone who walks in your state, a Christian provider will be able that God Himself door with dignity and respect. If to refuse to work with Muslim foster wonderfully and you’re not a good fit for them, then parents; a Baptist provider will be immutably creates be prepared to work with them to able to put a Catholic foster child in a each person as male find an agency or a method through Baptist private school; and a Jewish or female,” the form which they can adopt that doesn’t foster parent will be able to force a states. “These two hurt your conscience.” Christian child to eat kosher.” distinct, comple- Holmes mentary genders together reflect CONSCIENCE PROTECTION A NATIONAL CONCERN the image and nature of God. (Gen Here in Texas, Statler testified for Nearly two years have passed since 1:26-27.) Rejection of one’s biological the Freedom to Serve Children Act the U.S. Supreme Court’s 5-4 deci- sex is a rejection of the image of God at legislative committee hearings sion legalizing same-sex marriage. within that person. in Austin, joined by representatives In the wake of that ruling, “We believe that the term ‘mar- of Catholic Charities and Baptist- Christian foster care and adoption riage’ has only one meaning: the unit- affiliated Buckner International. agencies nationwide are adjusting ing of one man and one woman in a Supporters said the law doesn’t their policies to withstand poten- single, exclusive union, as defined in exclude anyone but allows faith-based tial legal challenges, said Danny Scripture (Gen. 2:18-25).” agencies to keep serving children PHOTO PROVIDED BY JENNIFER GRIFFITH Holmes, executive director of Agape Holmes serves as president of without violating their consciences. Jennifer Griffith, now 34, posing of North Alabama, which is associ- Network 1:27, formerly known as the “For example, we get calls from with her husband, Brittain. ated with Churches of Christ. Christian Child and Family Services Jewish couples,” said Statler, herself AUGUST 2017 ACROSS THE NATION THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 7

JENNA THORNTON John and Tonda Kuhn, pictured with their family, are longtime ministry partners with Agape of North Alabama, a Christian child-placing organization based in Huntsville. an adoptive parent of a 16-year- services altogether,” Moore said. old girl, Caroline. “And when we “We would like to continue doing do, we have to say, ‘We work with work here in Lubbock by helping the Christian couples, but let us refer most vulnerable children find refuge.” you to another organization that is Glenn Newberry, president of equipped and probably better suited Foster’s Home for Children in to serve you.’” Stephenville, said: “I believe the legis- Besides recruiting couples to lation will allow faith-based agencies serve as foster and adoptive parents, to operate in an environment of safety Christian Homes and Family Services for their Scriptural convictions.” offers free maternity care for women with unplanned pregnancies. ‘A BEAUTIFUL SCENARIO’ State foster care funding covers Jake, the baby Griffith gave up for $324,000 of the nonprofit’s $2.1 million adoption, will turn 17 in September. annual budget, but 57 percent of that After her son was born, Griffith is passed directly to parents, Statler played college soccer and earned a said. The amount the ministry keeps counseling degree. Now 34, she is covers only one-third of its costs for happily married and the mother of the foster program, she said. four young girls. And much to her Before the law’s passage, some delight — thanks to an open adop- September 17-20, 2017 acu.edu/summit agencies — including Catholic tion — the Houston resident has a Our 111th annual conference invites you to campus to hear Charities — had started dismantling friendly relationship with Jake and outstanding preaching, instruction and concerts designed to their child-placing programs in Texas. the couple who raised him. “If you look at other states — in “It was a God thing because the inspire communal unity on our journey toward Christlike living. California, in Massachusetts, in family that I chose couldn’t have Washington, D.C. — Catholic been a more perfect fit,” she said. Charities closed their foster/ “Our faith — my faith and his adop- adoption programs completely tive parents’ faith — is really the because the state required child underlying factor to it being such a placements with same-sex couples,” beautiful scenario.” said Jennifer Carr Allmon, execu- That faith, Griffith said, provided LANDON SEAN JAMES JOSH tive director of the Texas Catholic the solid foundation that turned a SAUNDERS PALMER K.A. ROSS Conference of Bishops. difficult situation into something SMITH For the 63-year-old Children’s truly wonderful. Home of Lubbock — which is She sees Texas’ new law as a way associated with Churches of Christ to help other women and children — the law removes the fear of being enjoy similar happy endings. sued, President Jimmy Moore said. “They’re doing really great work,” 7 1 5 0 “It means that we won’t be she said of Christian Homes and THELMA CHRIS JEANENE - 0

BRYANT- SEIDMAN REESE 2 0 forced to either sacrifice our Family Services, “and I hope they DAVIS 0 7 closely held beliefs or dismantle are able to do it for a long time.” 1 8 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE ACROSS THE NATION AUGUST 2017 WORK CAMP: Program ‘changed the way people see the Church of Christ’ FROM PAGE 3 their lives by our friendship, our good attitudes and our camaraderie. “Our goal,” he added, “is to teach these young folks how to serve the Lord with a positive attitude.” Muller’s words were reflected in the hearts of the teenagers who, despite working hard all day, had plenty of energy left over for evenings of praise songs and devo- tionals. They also participated in a flurry of baptisms in the fountain of nearby Ohio Valley University.

WORKING TO SHOW CHRIST The camp began in 1999 when about 100 teens from Churches of Christ and their youth ministers painted six homes in the Parkersburg area. The campus of Ohio Valley University in Vienna, W.Va., a 550-student school associated with the fellowship, houses the par- During the day, young Christians participating in the Mid-Ohio Valley Work Camp paint the home of Elizabeth Carro. ticipants, who this year came from West Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Church of Christ in Nashville, Tenn. Tennessee and Maryland. “It’s hard,” she said, “but we are Among them were: doing something good. It’s a long • Tori Cannon, 16, from the St. tradition of our church’s youth Clairsville Church of Christ in group.” Ohio, about 100 miles northeast of Cathy Joe Connley of Nashville Parkersburg. For her, the camp has said she was awestruck when her become an annual mission trip. daughter, C.J., asked her to join her “I think that it’s a real good oppor- for this year’s camp. tunity to do missions in your own C.J. Connley said, “It is such a bless- community,” Cannon said as she ing to have your family be part of it.” painted Carro’s house. • Michelle Lightle, a youth leader • A team of 12 from the University who accompanied fellow members of Park Church of Christ in Hyattsville, the Xenia Church of Christ in Ohio, Md., a few miles from the U.S. Capitol. 160 miles west of Parkersburg. “I was blessed to work with an “In the Bible we are told to go out PHOTOS BY HAMIL R. HARRIS incredible group of young people and take care of our people — take At night, the campers gather at Ohio Valley University to sing hymns and pray. — and I’m learning from them as care of widows, orphans,” Lightle well,” said Esther Brooks, a federal said of the motivation for their the camp participants during their budget is limited, “we are not going employee who led the University Park church’s involvement. four-day stay. Ron Laughery, minis- cut this program back,” he said. “We group along with her husband, James. ter for the 350-member congrega- are going to increase. Ryan Mbuashu-Ndip, 14, and his ‘I LOVE THESE CHILDREN’ tion, echoed Spivy’s words. “This school,” he added, speaking sister, Katherine, accompanied the In addition to helping those in need, “This is not just about painting of Ohio Valley University, “is the University Park group. the work camp helps shape the image houses,” Laughery said. “It is about best-kept secret of Wood County.” “I hope that people see what we of Christians in the Parkersburg reaching out and sharing with peo- Beyond the benefits to the commu- are doing and are inspired — and community, said Joe Spivy, minister ple the good news of the Gospel. nity, the work camp provides a chance take a look at Christ,” he said. for the 300-member Grand Central “One man whose house was for families to bond and grow as they Garrison Jolly, another member Church of Christ in Vienna. painted said, ‘I love those children’ follow Christ’s example, said James of the University Park youth group, “This program has changed the way — and he is here having lunch.” Brooks, of the University Park church, added, “This trip has taught me fam- people see the Church of Christ,” he David Blair Couch, president of who helped paint Carro’s home along ily because it is all working together said, “because they see that people are the Wood County Commission, with his wife and daughter. to glorify God. We are helping actively involved in the community and came to Ohio Valley University on “I’m glad that I can change this people and bringing them to God.” are actually trying to help people.” the last night of the work camp. lady’s life for the better,” he said. • Angela Orozco, 16, one of 62 Members of the Lynn Street The county provided the camp with teenagers who came from the Antioch Church of Christ in Parkersburg fed $11,000 for supplies. Although its WEBSITE: www.movworkcamp.org AUGUST 2017 ACROSS THE NATION THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 9 In predominantly white West Virginia, a chance to show love across color lines PARKERSBURG, W.Va. beautiful singing voice. It sounded great. acrificial love is a key to over- I remember one young man who coming the challenges of this life. helped me carry my sleeping bag and That’s what I believe. That’s what suitcase to the dorm room where I I preach. stayed. The next night, I watched him SBut sometimes we have to leave our get baptized. comfort zones far behind to prac- Every day our group ate lunch tice that sacrificial love. Road Notes at the meeting place of the That sure was the case during Lynn Street Church of Christ the trip I took with my kids to in Parkersburg. The congrega- the Mid-Ohio Valley Work Camp tion of more than 300 souls only in Parkersburg. The city has has about four black members. a population of about 30,600, The church’s minister and I 95 percent of whom are white, talked every day, sharing our according to U.S. Census data. faith. I was amazed how many We were divided into teams of the church’s members really to paint houses. The first day Hamil R. Harris wanted to get to know the someone told me and the other youths from our congregation. African-American man in our group Our fellow Christians went out of their that we might get some looks and way to serve us. comments. Sure enough, the next day Throughout the week, I found oppor- there was a complaint by an older white tunities to share God’s love outside my man who didn’t want us to step on his comfort zone. I picked up a man walking property — which was next door to the alongside the road and gave him a ride house we were painting. to the store. I helped two young women But by day three, our team — a loving jump-start their vehicle. Their bodies Michelle Prater Roberts mix of black and white were covered with the The Memphis Workcamp has rehabilitated 821 houses in its 28 years. teens — was melting tell-tale marks of exces- hearts with songs and sive drug use. smiles. People across They opened up town started driving to me about their Paint, sweat and love by to see some of the struggles. So did one 30-plus houses that we man who walked by TRAINING TO SERVE is a key goal for work camps. were painting. the house we were By Thursday night, painting. They talked WICHITA, Kan. — In Kansas’ most them – training them – that our my son Isaiah and I about the need for jobs populated city, Christians whole idea here on earth is to had paint all over our in Parkersburg. Up and celebrated 10 years of gutter serve other people,” Heller said. clothes. We wore them down the streets of this cleaning, paint scraping, dead Across the nation, Churches like badges of honor. It community — once shrubbery pulling and profuse of Christ host similar work reminded me of 1 John flourishing from the oil sweating. camps. In Memphis, Tenn., 3:16: This is how we and natural gas indus- They celebrated by doing it volunteers with the Memphis know what love is: Jesus tries — I saw crumbling all again. Workcamp have painted 821 Christ laid down his life remains of the past. The Wichita WorkCamp, houses since the first camp for us. And we ought to I pray for Parkersburg, hosted by the Northside Church in 1989. Mark McVey, youth lay down our lives for our and deep in my heart of Christ, brings young volun- minister for the Germantown brothers and sisters. PHOTO provided I believe that love can teers from across the region to Church of Christ, brought the The blisters I devel- Hamil Harris takes a break from a hard make a difference here. help rehabilitate homes. idea from Oklahoma City. oped on my toes were day of house painting to visit with By the time we left, I “The church provides the “When you dip those rollers frightening and painful. Elizabeth Carro, the home’s owner. didn’t feel quite as far paint, the homeowners provide ... into that paint, and then you It was hard work, but from my comfort zone the house, and we provide the paint on that house, what are it made me feel good inside. My phone as before. The tears and the hugs we manpower,” Brenda Heller, you doing?” Memphis-area didn’t get great reception for cellular shared testify to that. a crew leader for this year’s minister Jim Harbin asked par- data — and that was a good thing. We camp, told The Wichita Eagle. ticipants in a recent workcamp. had to get to know each other. HAMIL R. HARRIS preaches for the Glenarden Church of About 150 volunteers, includ- “You are spreading the love of Every night we took part in devotionals Christ in Maryland. A former reporter for The Washington ing teens, college students and God on that house!” at Ohio Valley University as more than Post, he traveled to the Mid-Ohio Valley Work Camp adults, painted 15 homes and 350 volunteers gathered to sing hymns with members of the University Park Church of Christ in helped the city remove graffiti. Websites: www.memphisworkcamp.org, and pray. Everyone, it seemed, had a Hyattsville, Md. “This is our way of teaching wichitaworkcamp.org 10 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AUGUST 2017 Classifieds

Full-Time Pulpit Minister Full-time Evangelist Candidate should have an in-depth knowledge of Okemah Church of Christ in Okemah, Okla., God’s Word, hold fast to Biblical truths and be able is searching for a full-time minister with to effectively communicate those truths for the edifi- a love for evangelism. Candidates should cation of the congregation and growth of the church. have a genuine love for people spanning A bachelor’s degree or higher is an asset, and the from young to elderly and be willing to visit candidate should be a Bible scholar and well read. shut-ins and make hospital visits. We are Salary and benefits are commensurate with a congregation of approximately 70 with experience and education. Please submit your the desire to be involved in the community resume, DVDs of two sermons, and a concise while spreading the Word of God. one- or two-page statement that characterizes Please mail resume and three references to: your current ministry efforts and style to: Okemah Church of Christ Central Church of Christ Attn: Elders 801 East Airline Road, Victoria, TX 77901 PO Box 407 [email protected] Okemah, OK 74859

MOUNTAIN PREACHER WANTED: A small COMMUNITY conservative rural congregation OPPORTUNITY with limited resources needs a OPPORTUNITY preacher who is sound in the faith Tiny congregation looking for sound to replace the retiring preacher. Christian leadership. Retirement or Large, nice 3-bedroom, brick, 2-car other support needed. garage house is provided. Send resume, three recorded sermons Church of Christ and salary needs to: Attn: Billy McCarty Church of Christ PO Box 487, Reserve, NM 87830 PO Box 315 (575) 533-6574 Allen, OK 74825

Full or Part-Time Minister - Prescott Valley, Arizona Full-time Associate Minister Preacher Wanted Echo Meadows Church of Christ is seeking a The Prescott Valley Church of Christ in Prescott Valley, Ariz., is looking for a full or part-time full-time associate minister that is well grounded minister. Prescott Valley is in the beautiful mountains of Northern Arizona with a mild climate Enterprise Boulevard Church of in Scripture to work with our youth and families. Christ is searching for a full-time, in both the winter and summer months. We are a congregation of around 25 members with the We are located in Oregon, Ohio. Qualified potential for growth. We are a caring congregation who truly has a great love for one another, candidates must possess a Bible degree from a energetic pulpit minister. Our area our community and our faith. Presently, we can provide some salary as our resources are limited, Church of Christ-affiliated college or university is fast growing and ripe for the but with growth, benefits could be forthcoming. and have previous experience as a minister. We harvest. Parsonage available. Our ideal candidate is either a retired or semi-retired person who could devote time and energy offer a competitive salary package based upon to building the congregation and especially creating and using social media platforms to attract education and experience which includes a four- Enterprise Boulevard younger congregants. Prescott Valley is a city of around 40,000. Please email your resume and a bedroom parsonage. Please submit a resume, Church of Christ paragraph describing the strengths you will bring to our congregation to: cover letter, and three references for consider- ation. Also include two recent sermon samples 2801 Enterprise Blvd Mark Green (CD/DVD, flash drive or online link). Lake Charles, LA 70601 [email protected] [email protected] Fax: (337) 430-0093 Please include references from your current and/or previous congregations. www.echomeadowschurchofchrist.org [email protected]

Please visit our online listings at: www.christianchronicle.org/classifieds. Deadline for next two issues: August 11 and September 8. Contact: Tonya Patton at: [email protected]. AUGUST 2017 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 11 PROFESSOR AND POLITICIAN Shirley N. Weber wants Christians pursuing elected office to stand for their beliefs from day one. ‘Don’t play political games’ BY Lynn Mcmillon | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE My love for God causes me to love those who agree and disagree with hirley N. Weber says she never me. Being in a political environment sought a career in politics. is no different than working at the Weber, a member of the Division university or for a major corporation. Street Church of Christ in San Diego who represents California’s 79th Your background is in education. What influenced you to choose Sdistrict in the State Assembly, ran for the an academic career? office after a storied career in education. My father was a big proponent of She began teaching college at age 23 — education. He was raised in the Jim in the midst of the turbulent 1960s. While in Crow South and was allowed only graduate school at California State University to go as far as the sixth grade. His in Los Angeles, she was offered the chance to family were sharecroppers despite help San Diego State University develop an the fact that they owned and farmed their own land. The society at the African-American studies program. time demanded that they work the “I thought I would spend about a year land of others so that they did not teaching in San Diego while working on become too “uppity.” My father my dissertation,” she recalls. “Well, after realized how limited he was and 40-plus years, I am still in San Diego.” decided that his children should put She served on the National Council for Black education first. Studies and helped develop study abroad CALIFORNIA Speaker’s Office of Member Services I — the sixth of eight children Shirley N. Weber speaks on the floor during a session of the California State Assembly. — loved school and wanted to programs in Ghana and South Africa. She become a high school math teacher. hosted a weekly radio program, “It’s a New educational communities of San Working in politics must stress I entered UCLA as a math major, Day with Dr. Shirley Weber” that aired live Diego. I did this before I sought your spiritual values and faith. but eventually discovered that from Johannesburg in 2006 — in which she office, not wanting anything in return. How do you manage? math was too impersonal. I liked shared the perspectives of students in the U.S. I have a strong respect for those I I don’t wear my religion on my working with people. I met Dr. and South Africa. She has lectured throughout serve, and I believe they respect me. sleeve — or as a big sandwich Arthur Smith (Molefi Asante), who the United States, the Caribbean and Africa. We do not always agree. However, board on my was a professor In the Assembly, she’s a passionate they understand that my motives are shoulders. I am not ‘If I thought I was put here at UCLA and a not driven by personal interest. I try in the Assembly to to evangelize the Capitol, I Church of Christ advocate for education. She also has chaired to use God’s gifts to help others. condemn those who minister. He taught committees for elections, redistricting I am a woman of integrity who do not share my would be highly frustrated. communications and the state’s budget. She has received fights difficult battles on behalf beliefs. I, however, However, I can share my and black rhetorical Legislator of the Year awards from groups of children and families. Even my do want them to studies. including the Red Cross, advocates for Republican colleagues have said see the peace, faith in my attitude, my As a student the disabled, the Black American Political they admire my work and integrity. love, strength and perspective and my honesty.’ of his, I found Association of California and the Early I am not vindictive, and I don’t play determination I my passion. He political games. My word is my have as a result of Shirley N. Weber, California State Assembly became my mentor Childhood Education Network. bond, and I strive to rise above the my faith. and shepherded She’s a regular speaker at church-sponsored fray and make good decisions. I accept the fact me through the events, including the Division Street church’s I mentor new Assembly members, that I work with persons who do not undergraduate program. He women’s seminar, scheduled for December. and most members meet with me share my faith. However, they share nominated me for the Woodrow because they believe that people my belief in democracy and justice. Wilson Fellowship. As one of 17 Many people have a strong listen to me. When I rise on the My faith drives my spirit and fellows in a class of more than 6,000, mistrust of politicians. How have floor, the noise ceases because they brings comfort to me in difficult my fate to become a university you attempted to counter that? believe I have something to say — times. If I thought I was put here to professor was sealed. I was admitted I have a strong bond with the and generally I do. evangelize the Capitol, I would be to several graduate schools but constituents I serve. Prior to I came to this position because of highly frustrated. However, I can decided to remain at UCLA for my coming to the Assembly, I spent 40 my integrity and honesty. I refuse to share my faith in my attitude, my master’s and Ph.D. years helping families navigate the allow the political climate to taint that. perspective and my honesty. See WEBER, Page 12 12 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE DIALOGUE AUGUST 2017 WEBER: Decision Full-time Minister The 4th Avenue Church of Christ to run wasn’t easy in Dallas, Texas, is seeking a full- time minister. Located in historic FROM PAGE 11 south Dallas, we are seeking a pulpit How did you decide to run for minister with substantial urban office? It was never a goal of mine. When experience and a heart for outreach. I ran for the school board in 1988, it was because the representative Please email your resume to: for our neighborhood was retiring. [email protected] She actively sought a replacement. (214) 421-9549 I had been a strong voice in the community for quality education and equity while working Minister Search Pulpit Minister - Valdosta, Ga. at the university. A Minister wanted to grow with and to help grow the The Central Avenue Church of Christ is looking for a Pulpit Minister. We are located on I-75, church in Malakoff, Texas. We are a congregation group of educators and we are the last county in Georgia before you get to Florida. We want someone who is of 65+ who serve Henderson County. We are and community searching for a man with a heart for the lost and visionary in nature, who is a dynamic proclaimer of God’s Word and who is committed to leaders approached one who desires to share the saving message of building and strengthening a congregation of 500 members (275 families). We are biblically me about running. I sound yet progressive in methodology. We are seeking a minister committed to equipping a Christ throughout our community and county. declined, but they — If you desire to be considered for this position, diverse body of believers for ministry and to proclaiming and interpreting God’s Word to a please submit your resume, contact information, rapidly changing world. Supporting the work are five elders, 16 deacons, two ministers, and and my husband — salary requirements, three professional references, two secretaries. We have a newly refurbished and well-maintained facility. If you would be were persistent. Weber and two of your most recent recorded sermons on interested in working and worshipping with us in South Georgia, please contact: I was in the middle DVD, thumb/flash drive or website link to: John Klimko, Jr. of my career and did not want to Malakoff Church of Christ interrupt my plans. However, the Attn: Preacher Selection Committee Central Avenue Church of Christ PO Box 395 (229) 242-6115 304 E Central Ave community was in the midst of an Malakoff, Texas 75148 [email protected] Valdosta, GA 31601 integration court order, and someone needed to protect the interest of all children. I agreed to run. I said I would only serve two terms because Lakeview Christian I had unfinished business at the university. I served from 1988-96. Hospice Care, I retired from the university Carlsbad, New Mexico in 2010. Two years later, I was approached by Assembly member has a unique opportunity for ministry. Toni Atkins to consider running for We are seeking a full-time chaplain to the California State Assembly. work with our dying patients and their Initially, I refused. A few months families. This position allows you later, after observing the critical state to minister to people at a, sometimes, California was in and the need for difficult time, listen to family life reviews someone with extensive educational and hear incredible stories, and support background who knew K-12 and post- secondary, I agreed to run. I ran in the patients and families. Must be willing to University President primary of seven candidates and came work in patient’s home, work comfortably out first. I had more than 50 percent of The Board of Trustees of Ohio Valley University invites in multi-denominational environment, the votes cast for Democrats. In 2012, nominations or applications for the position of President, ef- have knowledge of the grief process and I became the first African-American fective July 1, 2018. understanding of hospice philosophy. elected to any state position south of the Los Angeles area. I was re-elected Potential candidates or interested parties are encouraged Cindy Defer (575) 887-0933 in 2014 and 2016. to contact Cecelia Goff, Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees humanresources@ What advice do you have for and Chair of the Presidential Search Committee, at: lakeviewchristian.com Christians who are considering running for political office? (304) 865-6132 Lakeview Christian Home You set the tone of who you are and 1905 West Pierce St what you believe on day one — and [email protected] people respect that. Your ability to Carlsbad, New Mexico 88220 help and care for your colleagues will cause many to seek you out, ask for advice and help you in difficult times. AUGUST 2017 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 13 BRAZIL spoTLIGHT SãO PAULO — God, marriage and family, then ministry. Those are the priorities for church leaders around the globe. A business-minded “However, internal and external pressures work to reverse this mission down under order,” said Jerry Heiderich, a former missionary LILYDALE, Australia — Two Christian to Brazil, now a families in this eastern suburb marriage and family of Melbourne are serving lattes therapist in Texas. and sticky date puddings to their Heiderich and his community. wife, Gail, make They’re also regular visits to PHOTO PROVIDED serving street chil- South America, J.P. Hackett teaches U.S. and Costa Rican teens at the Sarchi Church of Christ. dren in Africa. Heiderich where they coordi- Lilydale Pantry nate spiritual renewal Teaching character in Costa Rica is a café and a and leadership retreats. social enterprise, In São Paulo, 25 Brazilian couples SARCHI, Costa Rica — J.P. Hackett got the chance to use his ministry and explained Benny spent three days in prayer and business skills during a recent mission trip to Costa Rica. Hackett, youth Tabalujan, a member Tabalujan small-group studies during a retreat minister for the Gulf Shores Church of Christ in Alabama, led a team of teens of the Belmore Road featuring Osmar Ludovico — a and adults from his congregation — plus members of Churches of Christ in Church of Christ in Melbourne. renowned minister, theologian and the Alabama towns of Summerdale and Robertsdale — on a trip to work with “The social goals of the café include author — and his wife, Isabelle. Torch Missions. During Sunday worship with a Church of Christ in the town generating employment opportuni- of Sarchi, he taught a combined Bible class of U.S. and Latin American teens. ties, especially for Christians, and HONDURAS “While our team worked with the local government of Sarchi, doing service undertaking community-oriented proj- San Marcos — Erick Rivera isn’t projects and doing Vacation Bible School in three local schools, I helped ects,” Tabalujan said. ashamed of the Gospel — or his present a leadership seminar to local ministers,” Hackett said. The minister, The first project is fundraising for chains. who is an affiliate trainer and coach for Oklahoma-based Strata Leadership Made In The Streets, a Kenya-based The former prison inmate, now a LLC, also was invited to present a one-day business leadership seminar to ministry associated with Churches of minister in Santa Anita, Honduras, business leaders and government officials on character leadership. Christ and overseen by Charles and shared the story of his conversion “Our trip did a lot to provide a positive connection between the local Darlene Coulston. behind bars during an area-wide Churches of Christ and the community,” Hackett said. Sandy Bass, another Belmore Road worship hosted by the San Marcos member, serves as the café’s full- Church of Christ. time manager. Bass and his wife, “There was not a dry eye in the MOZAMBIQUE PERU Michelle, along with Tabalujan and place when they heard what the Mutarara — It took an hour of SAMAN — Christians in this South his wife, Pauline, have invested Holy Spirit did, is doing, and will driving on paved roads — and American nation make long, twice- “time, money and effort as part of an do in Erick’s life,” said Monte Lalli, nine more on dirt roads — for Tim yearly journeys into the remote attempt to live out Jesus’ commands director of Missouri-based Doors Brumfield to reach villages around to be salt and light to the world,” Slammed Open Ministries. Five this town in northern Lake Titicaca to Benny Tabalujan said. “It’s been baptisms followed Rivera’s testimony. Mozambique, near share the Gospel wonderful to receive the prayers and After prison, Rivera was one of the Malawi border. and encourage small support of a wide group of friends the first two men to graduate from But the fellow- Churches of Christ and family in this interesting journey the Bible Institute in Ocotepeque, ship was worth there. — one not entirely devoid of fun. Honduras, a school supported by the journey, said Members of the Search for “Lilydale Panty” on Doors Slammed Open Ministries. Brumfield, a dean of Montecarlo Church Facebook for more information. ministry training for Brumfield Garcia of Christ in Peru’s Sunset International capital, Lima, have Bible Institute in Lubbock, Texas. conducted Vacation Bible Schools Brumfield visited new Churches for more than 200 children in the of Christ in Mutarara as part of region and hosted gospel meetings, a mission trip to the Portuguese- said minister Helmut Garcia. speaking nation and to South Sudan. Funds for the trips are limited, Most of the churches in the Garcia said, but he and his fellow regions were formerly denomina- Christians do what they can. The tional, Brumfield said, and have their church members in Saman District own buildings. In recent years the “are always happy for us to help churches have grown to 90 congrega- out in evangelism,” he added, “to PHOTO PROVIDED BY INTERSECTIONS MAGAZINE DSO ministries tions, he added, and most are eager to encourage them to stay faithful and Australian church members Michelle and One of five baptisms in San Marcos. learn more about the Gospel. work harder for the Lord’s church.” Sandy Bass oversee the Lilydale Café. 14 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AROUND THE WORLD AUGUST 2017 A ‘cacophony’ of praise in Europe SINGING IN SEVEN LANGUAGES, Christians in ‘lonely ministry’ find solace at retreat.

DOUBRAVA, Czech Republic Emch, an American who works with Christians verybody go ahead and sing in your in Rostov-on-Don, Russia. own language,” Jaro Marcin told Matus and Melissa Dedina, church members participants in the recent Central in Prague, organized the retreat, which featured European Retreat. lessons on “A Journey with Jesus” from Patrick So that’s what a group of about Boyns, principal of the British Bible School in ‘E50 believers did — in Czech, Slovak, German, Corby, England. Dutch, Hungarian, Polish and English — as Roman Halamicek, a minister in Bratislava, Marcin, a member of a Church of Christ in Slovakia, said that many of the participants labor Prague, Czech Republic, led “This is the Day “in lonely ministry, with what can seem like That the Lord Has Made.” minimal fruit despite many years of service.” It was “a cacophony, perhaps, to the human The retreat is “a time of fellowship, connection ear, but our gracious Father gets it,” said Eileen with other believers and restoration.”

ROMAN HALAMICEK ROMAN HALAMICEK MATUS DEDINA Johanna Halamicek attempts to play soccer on stilts, which Patrick Boyns teaches that, on a journey with Jesus, the After a day of Bible study, Christians spend an evening her husband, Roman, later used to try ballroom dancing. journey can be valuable — not just the destination. in fellowship as they roast marshmallows. PRESIDENT: Gift aims to ‘bring back the Word of God’ in Slovenia FROM PAGE 3 spare tires and under the floorboards That project — a modern version of vans before sending them through of the Bible first translated in 1587 by the Iron Curtain and into nations Jurij Dalmatin — is the work of the dominated by Soviet influence. Trubar Forum, a Slovene-led transla- Now the mission prints Bibles and tion group. Dalmatin, a student of faith-based literature in countries Primoz Trubar, published the first where it once was forbidden, Slovene-language translation, which including Russia, and distributes set the standard for the Slovene them to churches and schools. people’s written language and con- PHOTO PROVIDED With the Lovses recommendation, EASTERN EUROPEAN MISSION tributed to their cultural identity. The Lovse family, natives of Slovenia, EEM worked with the Trubar Forum Bart Rybinski, left, of Eastern European The Trubar Forum prepared the work in youth ministry in Maribor. to print 50,000 copies of the new trans- Mission, meets with Slovenia’s president, updated translation to coincide lation — to be distributed to Slovenian Borat Pahor, in Ljubljana. with the 500th anniversary of the Slovenia, and works in youth ministry. schools, libraries, government offices Protestant Reformation in October. Eastern European Mission once and to individuals who request them. for reading God’s Word in their mod- Rybinski learned of the project smuggled Bibles into Slovenia — Rybinski, who worships with a ern language. through Andrei and Nina Lovse, during the Cold War, when the small Church of Christ in Vienna, “We can’t wait to see how God Slovene natives and graduates of the nation was part of Yugoslavia. said he and his coworkers are will use this — and how lives will Zagreb Bible Institute in Croatia, a Workers with EEM, founded in 1961 excited to help “bring back the Word change in this beautiful country.” school associated with Churches of by missionaries in Vienna, Austria, of God to the people of Slovenia, to Christ. The couple lives in Maribor, packed tiny New Testaments into enable Slovenia’s passion and love WEBSITE: www.eem.org AUGUST 2017 AROUND THE WORLD THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 15 ‘The little movement that makes a radical difference’

SMALL MISSION team finds an island of blessings.

BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE

he mission trip almost didn’t happen. After 10 years of serving street children in Siem Reap, Cambodia through an annual Tevent called Angkor of Faith, young Christians in Southeast Asia looked for a new venue. City ordinances kept the street children away, and Cambodian Christians were taking a growing role in serving their needs. The organizers chose Bantayan Island, off the coast of Cebu in the Philippines. There, members of Churches of Christ serve a small, struggling community through a Filipino-led relief ministry, MARCH for Christ. They’ve nicknamed it MARCH Village. “The village kids, teens and even parents need to see examples of young Christians and experience how exactly Christ has worked in their Tommy Gong of Malaysia sings songs and plays games with children in MARCH Village on Bantayan Island, off the coast of Cebu. lives,” said Minnie Lagria, a church member who works with the people numbers were “God’s way of telling prove to us, the big-city foreign- of MARCH Village. “Without these us that the mission was a bad idea.” ers, that he isn’t limited by human examples, the kids cannot envision Nonetheless, a humble team of 11 insufficiency. He doesn’t need how they can better their lives. Their Christians from five nations made plans, schedules and itineraries to older siblings have married early, the trip. John Lim, a member of the get his will done.” gotten pregnant and are unemployed. Pasir Panjang Church of Christ in The team came just at the right The teens do not really see a good Singapore, said the group immedi- time, Lagria said, and gave the village future after high ately felt like family. children the chance “to see Christ in school. Their parents “Our heritage of being the little us, to touch Christ through us and to cannot afford to send movement that makes a radical hear him through our examples.” them to college. difference, founded on the blood of Chito Cusi, director of MARCH “They do not see Christ, unites us no matter where for Christ, said that the campaigners beyond the sea,” we come from,” he said. “injected life” into the village. Gigie Lagria said. Their Unlike the detail-heavy Angkor Carranza, another MARCH worker only choice is fishing of Faith trips, “this was all new from Manila and longtime Angkor and trying to survive. Lagria ground,” Lim said. Bantayan Island of Faith participant, said she was Despite the need “was a place to explore new ways we overwhelmed by the spirit of her for short-term workers, only a could serve this community.” brothers and sisters from abroad. fraction of the 130 believers who The group spent its days walking “If these young people are the participated in Angkor of Faith were through the village, interacting with kind of passion we have, the future able to sign up for the new MARCH teens and helping students practice of the church looks bright,” she of Faith mission trip. After a terror- English. They hosted activities for said. “There were only 11 of us, but ist attack on the Philippine island children, teaching them Bible songs we worked together with such fire.” of Mindanao, the trip’s organizers and serving them dinner. One eve- The group is developing plans for thought they would have to cancel. ning, more than 200 came to eat next year’s MARCH of Faith. Timothy Gong, a member of “I realize now that God wasn’t just “A storm of grace is brewing,” Lim PHOTOS BY TOMMY CHIA the Seremban Church of Christ in serving the local community,” Lim said, “here in this little island in the Children on Bantayan Island enjoy food Malaysia, said he feared that the low said. “He was using this chance to middle of the Philippines.” provided by the MARCH mission team. 16 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AUGUST 2017

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Children from two Churches of Christ, along with those bused in from nearby neighborhoods, enjoy a carnival on the final night of the churches’ joint Vacation Bible School. A pioneering VBS PADUCAH, Ky. Ninth Street building. Church members also e’ve got spirit!” bused in additional participants from nearby Children from two Churches of neighborhoods and housing projects. After each Christ — one predomiantly white, night’s skits, the children learned about pioneer the other predominantly black life and traveling west to new territories — all — shouted those words together centered on lessons from the Bible. ‘Wbefore settling in to watch the nightly skit at An average of 145 children, ages 2 to 18, Vacation Bible School. attended each night’s activities, said Jed Lovejoy, It was the first joint VBS for the 150-member worship and children’s minister for the Broadway Ninth Street Church of Christ and the church, and more than 200 kids — plus many 360-member Broadway Church of Christ, which adults — gathered for a Friday night carnival meet two-and-a-half miles apart in this western in the Ninth Street church’s parking lot to “play PHOTOS PROVIDED BY JED LOVEJOY Kentucky city. Each evening children from both games, eat food and build unity and fellowship Mark Rowe, minister for the Ninth Street Church of congregations gathered in the auditorium of the between the two congregations,” Lovejoy said. Christ, winds up to take a shot at the dunking booth. 18 AUGUST 2017 CURRENTS THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 19

Katherine Gould PHOTO PROVIDED PHOTO PROVIDED Children pray during VBS at the Garden At the Brentwood Oaks Church of Christ in Austin, Texas, young Christians perform a Children sing during a “Star Wars”- Ridge Church of Christ in Lewisville, Texas. Bible-based skit complete with a dinosaur and Slinky dog from the movie “Toy Story.” themed VBS in La Grange, Texas.

Dr. Lisa Dunham and medical missionaries arrive at Xepocol for Sunday worship. The wide world of VBS From Happy, Texas, to Cap Haitien, Haiti, children spend a few days each summer getting ‘wrapped up, tied up, tangled up in Jesus’ during Vacation Bible School. Churches of Christ around the globe host the Bible-based programs — some performing elaborate dramas, complete with pyrotechnics, for hundreds of kids. Others use paper, crayons and smiles to share Jesus with young ones.

Davis Hammett In rural Nicaragua, Natalie Jacks, of the Central Church of Christ in Tuscaloosa, Ala., helps children assemble a Noah’s Ark art project during Vacation Bible School.

Julie Dempsey TIM BARCUS andrew brown JEFF ABRAMS In Happy, Texas, population 678, a child waits for The Gospel Chariot, a converted cotton trailer, for a ride David Snelling, left, made covered wagons for a trailblazing VBS at the Kirksville Church At a school in Cap Haitien, Haiti, a child colors during a Vacation Bible School, hosted Thad Looser, children’s minister, speaks to an auditorium of red shirts during a “Days of to VBS. An average of 55 kids attended, including a few grandchildren of the original riders from 1966. of Christ in Missouri. After VBS, church members gave the wagons to the participants. by volunteers from the Christian Relief Fund and older students at the school. Elijah” themed VBS at the Tuscumbia Church of Christ in Alabama. About 475 attended. 20 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AUGUST 2017 CAMPUS MINISTRY highlight the university and the Atlanta Highway corridor, Williams said. AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST TUCSON, Ariz. — The University of Arizona’s HARDING SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY Ambassadors for Christ softball team MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Harding has introduced lost the recent intramural championship a Live Interactive Video Education — game, 11-10. dubbed LIVE — classroom setup for But even though campus minister Jesse its master’s degree programs in Bible, Warren was out of town, the team — ministry and theology. comprised mainly of players recruited It’s formatted to allow distance learners from the campus recreation center — to better engage with peers in the class- gathered in a circle to pray after the game. room. Using two-way audio and visual A teammate asked Benjie Parsalaw, the streaming, students virtually attend only player who is a member of the A4C weekly classes with local students via ministry, to lead the prayer. The ministry their computer and webcam. LIVE allows is associated with Churches of Christ. distance students to engage in class discussions in real time and see their classmates and professor on screen. “Unlike online programs that rely on recorded lectures and typed discussion forums, HST LIVE brings students to an actual classroom,” said Matt Carter, director of admissions. “As students participate in discussions, their ideas are sharpened, and they help sharpen their classmate’s ideas. Real-time, immediate feedback helps them learn and grow.” SAMANTHA WHITE Ambassadors for Christ pray after the game. LUBBOCK CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY LUBBOCK, Texas — Sixty trees for 60 years. child and family services LCU students, faculty and staff recently planted 60 trees across campus in celebra- PHOTOS PROVIDED BY LIPSCOMB UNIVERSITY FAIR HAVEN CHILDREN’S HOME tion of the university’s 60th anniversary. STRAFFORD, Mo. — The youth group from “We seek to demonstrate our continuing the Liberty Church of Christ in Conway, commitment to good stewardship while Students join ‘Bus Ride to Justice’ Ark., worked to organize and clean the creating beautiful spaces on campus where High school students walk across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Ala., Fair Haven campus and Thrift Haven, relationships and community can be during a “Bus Ride to Justice” program. The recent trek was part of “Engage,” a the home’s affordable clothing and fostered,” President Tim Perrin said. youth theology program presented by Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tenn. household goods store. During a 10-day camp, 26 students from across the U.S. spent eight days on Twelve students and their adult chap- OKLAHOMA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY Lipscomb’s campus studying theology and history. The other two days featured erones spent a week at Fair Haven for OKLAHOMA CITY — Three years ago, tours of significant sites of the U.S. Civil Rights Movement throughout Alabama. the second straight year. At night, the Oklahoma Christian teens ate with Fair Haven residents and launched a campaign FOR MORE INFORMATION, see www.lipscomb.edu/bible/special-programs/engage. played with the children in care. called “Thrive.” The “We love doing this,” minister goal was to raise $30 Jonathan House said. “It’s a great million for projects that opportunity for our young people to would enhance students’ interact with the children at Fair Haven college experience. and to be involved in God’s mission.” More than 9,300 donors deSteiguer helped the university meet the goal ahead of HIGHER EDUCATION schedule. The campaign recently ended with $33,940,222 raised or pledged, and FAULKNER UNIVERITY 15 major projects already completed. MONTGOMERY, ala. — Faulkner is building a “We’re thrilled so many people new entryway facing Atlanta Highway. embraced the idea of making quick, The current entrance is set back from tangible things happen for our the road and obscured by trees, President students,” President John deSteiguer Mike Williams said. said. “Thrive was the perfect way to do The renovation project, which will a lot of important things that touched a include burying power lines, will serve to lot of areas on campus.” Participants of all ages come together at ‘Engage,’ funded by a Lilly grant. AUGUST 2017 PARTNERS THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 21 Camp Hunt marks“Lift 70 years Up Your Eyes” HUBBARDSVILLE, N.Y. — Camp Hunt, L.T. Gurganus and Wheeler Pounds established in 1947, is celebrating its — were campers in theand late 1940s. See God’s“Lift Purpose Up inYour Europe Eyes” 70th anniversary. Pounds came back as a counselor in About 200 people marked the the 1960s. occasion during the camp’s annual Also telling his story was Wayne and See God’s Purpose in Europe Family Weekend Retreat, said David Newland,Mainz, who was Germany involved with Owens, elder and minister for the Camp Hunt in the 1950s. Wetzel Road Church of Christ in “WayneOctober shared many4 -7, pictures 2017 and Liverpool, N.Y. memories of people and events from “There were three people from the that decade,” Owens said. early days who were able to come CampRegistration supporters hope - Oct. to organize 4th to the celebration and share some a larger celebration for Hunt’s 75th memories,” Owens said. anniversaryGroup Sessions in 2022. & Sharing George Gurganus helped start For more information,Oct. 5 - 6 see www. the camp, and two of his cousins — camphunt.com.

Breakfast & Closing Mainz, Germany October 4 -7, 2017 Christian Standard’s newOct. 7thowners Make plans now to meet us in Mainz, Germany, and share the amazing plan to continue Restoration ideals things that our Lord is doing in Europe. If you enjoyed the 2016 Refugee Conference in Greece then you will enjoy and benefit from BY LYNN Mcmillon | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE instrumental fellowship. being with us this year in Germany. After experiencing Make plans falling now circula to meet- us in Mainz,“Lift Germany Up and share Your the amazing Eyes” things that Christian Standard, one of the tion in recent years, the Standard oldest publications among churches was purchasedour Lord in isFebruary doing inby Europe.the •If youHear enjoyed fromand European Seethe 2016 God’s leaders Refugee Purpose and veteran Conference in missionariesEurope in Greece about associated with the Restoration Solomonthen Foundation, you will a enjoy financial and benefit fromopportunities being with and us methods this year for outreachin France. in a European context/ Movement, has a new owner and a organization based in Parker, Colo., Mainz,community Germany new look. that works with churches. The  We will hear from European• leadersOctoberLearn from 4and -7, 2017 thoseveteran experienced missionaries in reaching about refugees opportunities and Five men launched the Standard publication’s new owners said they in 1866. One of them, James A. remain committedand methods to its purpose: for outreach in aRegistration immigrantsEuropean - Oct. context/community. 4th

Garfield, became “dedicated to the • Enjoy choral groups and a challenging speakers each night President of the  Learnrestoration from those of experiencedGroup in Sessionsreaching & Sharing refugees and immigrants. • EnjoyOct. a 5 time - 6 of discussion, brainstorming, fellowship and United States 14 New Testament years later. Another,  Each Christianity,evening we its willdoc- enjoy aencouragementBreakfast choral & group Closing fromand a your challenging coworkers speaker. from across Europe. Isaac Errett, served trine, its ordinances Oct. 7th • Encourage and be encouraged by your coworkers. as the periodical’s and its fruits.” editor until his  Enjoy aNew time publisher of discussion, brainstorming, fellowship and encouragement from death in 1888. Jerry Harris To help, we invite two members of your congregation to be our your coworkers from across Europe. Make plans now to meet us in Mainz, Germany and share the amazing things that The newspaper emphasized the guests.our Lord Lodging is doing inand Europe. meals If you for enjoyed these the two 2016 will Refugee be Conference covered in by Greece the gained a following importance of  sponsors.then you All will enjoyguests and arebenefit responsible from being with for us thistransportation. year in France. among Churches of We inviteupholding everyone the to attend, encourage and be encouraged by your coworkers.  We will hear(All from are European welcome leaders to come and veteran but we missionaries can only aboutcover opportunities the Christ in the north- To help,Restoration we invite ideal. two members andof methods your forcongregation outreach in a European to context/community.be our guests. Lodging ern U.S., while “The relationship lodging for two, sharing a double room) and meals for these two will be coveredLearn from those by experiencedthe sponsors. in reaching Allrefugees guests and immigrants. are responsi- Christians in the we have with South turned to the ble fora cappellatransportation. Churches  Each evening we will enjoy a choral group and a challenging speaker. Gospel Advocate. (Allof are Christ welcome could to come but we can For only covermore the lodginginformation for two, sharing visit a double room). J.W. McGarvey, double that influ-  Enjoy a time of discussion, brainstorming, fellowship and encouragement from your coworkers from across Europe. a prominent ence,” he said. www.sunset.bible/mainz Restoration scholar, CHRISTIAN STANDARD media The new Sponsored We inviteBy everyone Your to Friends attend, encourage at: and be encouraged by your coworkers. wrote a regular The redesigned Christian Standard. Standard, format- To help, we invite two members of your congregation to be our guests. Lodging column for the ted as a magazine, and meals for these two will be covered by the sponsors. All guests are responsi- ble for transportation. Standard from 1893 to 1904, in which appeared in June, with content (All are welcome to come but we can only cover the lodging for two, sharing a double room). he often focused on combatting the focused on practical advice for theological liberalism of the day. Christian families and churches. Its Sponsored By Your Friends at: When the a cappella Churches of circulation of 15,000 serves a fellow- Christ and instrumental Christian ship of 1.3 million spread among Churches/Churches of Christ 5,300 Christian Churches in the U.S. parted ways in the early 1900s, the Standard became the voice of the Website: www.christianstandard.com 22 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE PEOPLE AUGUST 2017 NINJAS: On the set of a TV competition, athletes find faith FROM PAGE 1 Wingnut before he lost his grip. “I knew I was physically and men- tally capable of making it through the course,” said Tiller, a member of the Brentwood Hills Church of Christ in Nashville, Tenn. “It was frustrating, but as soon as I got out of the water it was like, ‘Hey, I did my best and tomorrow’s a new day. It’s OK.’” Harrington, 27, didn’t lose his grip, but did dislocate his shoulder. He thought about trying to finish the course, but feared he might severely injure himself. So he fell into the water below. “At the time, I was really upset with myself, but there was nothing I could do,” said Harrington, who worships with the Central Church of Christ in Benton, Ky. “I performed my best. God just had other plans for me.” Though a clip of Harrington appeared in a training montage for the episode, producers didn’t air his run at the course. A brief version of VIDEO STILL VIA NBC Tiller’s run appears on the episode. Brooks Tiller battles the Wingnuts during “American Ninja Warrior.” Find a link to watch the episode at www.drbrookstiller.com.

‘IT’S A BIG RUSH’ couple of his friends who are big Warrior” found an online video of compete, knowing I wasn’t any less Although many competitors make fans of the show encouraged him to the Tillers performing with Beyond physically capable than they were,” multiple appearances on “American give it a try. He trained relentlessly Wings and asked both of them to Harrington said. Ninja Warrior,” Tiller and Harrington for two years and submitted a video consider appearing on the show. He only remembers “bits and were newcomers to the show. and written application to the show. Emily Tiller was pieces” of the Harrington, who always has been He learned in early March that he pregnant during obstacle course. physically fit and athletic, said a would get the chance to compete. filming and unable “As soon as I “It’s a big rush when you find out to compete. stepped on stage I you made it,” Harrington said. just became hyper- He trained about three hours per ‘YOU SEE A LOT OF focused and things day leading up to the competition, PEOPLE PRAYING’ just seemed to slow concentrating on sprints, pull-ups During his visit down.” and other upper-body exercises that to Daytona Beach, His run on the would increase his strength and Brooks Tiller said show resulted in stamina. Then, in early April, he trav- he was impressed shoulder surgery. eled to Daytona Beach, Fla., for the by his fellow Doctors told him he late-night taping. athletes’ expres- had broken bone “It’s very high energy,” Harrington sions of faith. fragments off of his said. “The crowd’s really into it.” “You see a lot of ball joint. Tiller, meanwhile, said that the people praying,” he Nonetheless, he opportunity to compete in Daytona said. “You talk to a hopes to return Beach fell into his lap. lot of guys and find PHOTO provided by andy Harrington to training after In addition to his work as a physi- there’s a faith with Andy Harrington on the set of he heals — and cal therapist, Tiller is the host of them. They’re there, “American Ninja Warrior” in Florida. perhaps try out “Healthy Hunter TV,” a series of and they’re acknowl- again someday. YouTube videos in which he gives edging that it’s not all about them, Brooks Tiller might, too. advice on workouts, hunting and but about what God’s helping them Being on the course gave him a PHOTO provided by brooks tiller cooking. His wife, Emily, operates to do.” better idea of what he needs to do to Brooks Tiller, on the set of “American Beyond Wings, a circus company Harrington added that he enjoyed prepare, he said. Ninja Warrior,” with his wife, Emily, and that includes acrobatic acts by aeri- watching the competitors who were “I’m actually building some their son, Thor. Their daughter, Vera Elle, alist flyers. making repeat visits to the show. obstacles in my backyard,” he said, was born after the episode taped. Producers of “American Ninja “It was neat watching them “to train more specifically for it.” AUGUST 2017 PEOPLE THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 23 Frances Zorn remembered for sacrifices that made Lads to Leaders possible Milestones Showcasing the moments of your life and the lives of loved ones. BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE “When Jack decided to give up preaching and teaching to devote 1947, in the home of her parents, Mr. Without her, there would be no his life to spreading Lads to Birthdays and Mrs. Ira Wommack, at Oakman, Lads to Leaders. Leaders, he had no funding,” Roy Okla. Mr. Scroggins’ parents were That’s how Roy Johnson, execu- Johnson said. “Frances took on John F. and Essie Akins Scroggins. tive director of the popular youth- three jobs — working days, nights, He was raised in the Cedar Grove- training ministry in Churches of and weekends — to provide enough 100th: Bernice Francis communities and attended Christ, described his sister, Frances money to feed the family and travel Crudup, July 15, school there. He worked as a Zorn. The wife of Lads to Leaders money for Jack to visit churches and Sun City, Calif. machinist for Eureka Tool Company founder Jack Zorn died July 15 at hold workshops across the nation.” in Oklahoma City and at Oklahoma their home in Alabama. She was 80. In 2018, the ministry celebrates its Machine Company and Kerr Pumps Her grandfather helped establish 50th anniversary. More than 250,000 in Ada. Mr. Scroggins retired from a Church of Christ in the rural town children, parents, ministers and Kerr Pumps in 1990 after having of Hollins, Ala., where her father church leaders have participated in 85th: Bill E. Wilson, Aug. 16, worked there for 36 years. later served as an elder. She studied the program, Roy Johnson said. The and 83rd: Sue Wilson, Aug. 5, Mrs. Scroggins was raised in the at Alabama Christian College, now ministry hosts annual conventions at Edmond, Okla. Oakman community, and attended Faulkner University, and worked as nine sites in the U.S. and abroad. school at Oakman and Byng. She an assistant to the Despite suffering graduated from Byng in 1949. registrar. from heart prob- She was employed as a secretary “Jack Zorn had lems and memory at Mutual of Omaha Insurance hitchhiked to loss in recent Company and later at the Oklahoma campus without a years, Frances Department of Transportation, high school educa- Zorn and her where she worked for 26 years. tion, but a deep husband made Mr. and Mrs. Scroggins retired desire to preach appearances at the same day in September 1990. the Word of God,” Lads to Leaders Both are active members of the Roy Johnson said. conventions to 82nd: Colonel Carroll Sites, July Southwest Church of Christ. “The very first day, show their support 4. 62nd Anniversary: Carroll and Mr. Scroggins has served as a he met Frances for the ministry. Sarah Sites, July 17, Greers Ferry, Ark. Bible school teacher, a deacon Johnson, and it was Phillip Hines, and an elder in the church. Mrs. love at first sight minister for Scroggins taught Bible school for for both of them. the Hartselle many years and serves in fellow- Dr. Rex Turner, Church of Christ ship and benevolent works. With the president of the PHOTO PROVIDED BY RHONDA FERNANDEZ in Alabama and exception of living in Oklahoma City school, allowed Frances and Jack Zorn were married chairman of Lads for a few months when they were Jack to finish his for 61 years. See a feature on the to Leaders’ board first married, the couple has lived in high school and family’s health struggles, their children of directors, said, Oakman and Ada the remainder of then attend college and their faith in our Caregivers series, “The loss of our their 70 years of marriage. on a work-study online at www.christianchronicle.org beloved Frances The couple has one daughter, program. Zorn will be Lynda Collins, who lives in “Frances came home to tell her deeply felt in the family of Lads to Anniversaries Mannford with her husband, Jud; mom and dad that she was getting Leaders, Untold numbers of young and one son, David, who lives in married to Jack Zorn. Her mom, people have been mentored and Frisco, Texas, with his wife, Nancy. Sarah, announced that she had nurtured by her gentle guiding Wilbert and Juanita The couple has four grandchildren some news also. She was having a hand. I am so honored to have Scroggins and five great-grandchildren. baby. That was me.” known and loved her.” After graduating from college, Roy Johnson added that his sister 70 years Jack Zorn preached full time in “passed away ... with her Jack Mr. and Mrs. Wib Scroggins were four states and did mission work. holding her hand.” honored with a reception Saturday, While preaching in Warner Robins, Frances Zorn is survived by her June 17, at the Southwest Church of Ga., he founded Lads to Leaders in husband of 61 years; daughters Christ in Ada, Okla. The occasion 1968. The youths he helped train for Resa Byrd (Herb), Rhonda Zorn marked the couple’s 70th wedding the program gave their first public Fernandez (Halo), and Sonya Zorn anniversary. Hosts for the event speeches on Sunday morning, Jan. King (Johnny); five granddaughters; were the couple’s children, grand- 5, 1969. Frances Zorn helped train nine great-grandchildren; and many children and great-grandchildren. the first Leaderettes — partici- nieces and nephews. Wilbert “Wib” Scroggins and pants in a version of the program for Juanita Foxx were married June 14, (More Milestones, Page 24) young women. Website: www.lads2leaders.com 24 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE August 2017AUGust 2017 PEOPLE the christian chronicle 25

Milestones (continued) Newsmakers then went to work for the State of J.W. Bradley of Marlow, on July 7, Doyle Dennis Gilliam California Department of Corrections 1948. They settled in Duncan, and both until he retired in 1997 as chief dentist. went to work for Halliburton Services. 1931 - 2017 After Floy put Arland through dental She worked for Halliburton until the school, reared three children and birth of their first child, Vickie Sue. Doyle Dennis Gilliam, 86, of became a grandmother, she gradu- She then became a wonderful home- Lubbock, Texas, passed away on ated from California State University, maker, wife and mother. Friday, June 23, 2017. He was born in Stanislaus, with a B.S. in accounting She was baptized into Christ in Granbury, Texas, on in 1993. After moving around the 1952 and lived out her life as a devout Jan. 17, 1931. Doyle state, they settled in Oakdale, Calif., Christian woman. She and J.W. attended graduated from Poly PHOTO PROVIDED BY MOUNT DORA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Paul and Millie Woods for 30 years. Four years ago, they Westside Church of Christ and Eastside High School in Fort Scholarship winner Sebastian Rolon, 70 years moved to Madera Ranchos, Calif., and Church of Christ in Duncan. They were Worth and received a third from left, with Steve Eckman, are members of the Sunset Church of janitors at Westside for 25 years. Jeanell master’s degree from Howard Todd and Nathan Mellor. Paul and Millie Woods celebrate Christ in Madera. loved singing and helped provide music Abilene Christian their 70th wedding anniversary on Arland and Floy have three children: for weddings and funerals. University. He married AWARDED: Sebastian Rolon, senior Aug. 1, 2017, in Athens, Ala. Millie is Evonna (Kyle) Jones, of Edmond, An excellent cook, she also coor- Louise Humphrey on at Mount Dora Christian Academy a Freed-Hardeman graduate, and Paul Okla.; Philip (Celeste) Pafford, of dinated meals for funerals for many June 9, 1952. in Florida, the inaugural Howard has a master’s in Bible from Harding Corona, Calif.; and David (Tina) years. People would stand in line to Doyle had a career as a preacher, Todd Servant Scholarship. The University, after attending Abilene Pafford, of Madera Ranchos, Calif. fight for a piece of her coconut or missionary, and a 38-year career scholarship is a four-year, full- Christian University and Pepperdine They also have eight grandchildren. chocolate pie. Many visitors to Duncan teaching at Sunset International Bible tuition award by York College in University. He has been a faithful Over the years, Arland has served were welcomed into her home for a Institute. He had a passion for the Nebraska. Eligibility is limited to preacher of God’s word with Millie faithfully as a deacon, an elder and fried chicken dinner. people of Southern Africa. He was an participants in the Presidential by his side in Michigan, Nebraska, a Bible class teacher while Floy has Nineteen years after Vickie was born, avid golfer and won many tournaments Leadership Institute, hosted on the Colorado, Minnesota, Montana, taught children’s Bible classes and J.W. and Jeanell were surprised with as a young man as well as during his York campus each July. Wisconsin, Missouri and Alabama, led ladies’ Bible classes. As a couple, a bonus baby, Robin Jeanell. Jeanell time in Africa. Doyle is survived by starting in the early 1950s. They they have been faithful and active continued to be a wonderful mother to two sons, Stephen Gilliam and John NEW PRINCIPAL: Rachel Goode, have been retired and living at 27012 members of the church. As parents, both girls for the rest of her life. She Gilliam; three daughters, Charlene Ezell-Harding McLemore Circle, Harvest, AL 35749 they have always made God the center would tell you that her greatest joys in Hosking, Ellen Abshier, Laura Close; Christian School (near their son) for several years. of their loving home and family. life came from being a Christian wife a brother, Bob Gilliam; nine grand- upper school Congratulations, Paul and Millie! Congratulations, Arland and Floy! and mother, and she was proud that children, Louise Benz, Colin Hosking, in Nashville, her children and grandchildren were Jessica Shroyer, Jordan Abshier, Luke Tenn. Goode Ralph and Marcene Dodd, 75 Christians. “I have no greater joy than Close, Ashley Close, Brianna Close, is a graduate years, Saint Charles, Mo. William this — to hear that my children are living Shelby Seals, Sawni Seals; four great- of Lipscomb and Pearl Boyd, 72 years, June 11, according to the truth.” (3 John 1:4) grandchildren; and numerous nieces University in Newburg, Ore. Jeanell lived in Duncan for 63 years. and nephews. Nashville and Goode She and J.W. moved to Edmond, Okla., Harding Academy Memorials to live with Robin after she suffered a in Memphis, Tenn. stroke. She spent time with both Robin Hugh Wayne Hemingway and Vickie for five years. She lived at the 1919-2017 NEW PULPIT Ina “Jeanell” Bradley Fountains at Canterbury in Oklahoma MINISTER: David 1930 - 2017 City for the last few months of her life. Hugh Wayne Hemingway, died May Heflin, Woodward Arland and Floy Pafford Jeanell was preceded in death by 21, 2017. Born July 9, 1919, in Detroit, Church of Christ in 60 years Ina “Jeanell” Bradley was born her parents, eight brothers and sisters, he lived 97 years. Oklahoma. Heflin on Jan. 27, 1930, in the middle of a and one grandson, Thomas Beam. She He leaves behind previously served Arland and Floy Pafford of Madera snowstorm, to James “Jim” Benjamin is survived by her husband of almost three children, Beth, Heflin the Third and Ranchos, Madera, Calif., celebrate and Noma Shipman Nease in Punkin 69 years, J.W. Bradley; her daughters Lois Ferrell and Pat Kilgore Church of their 60th wedding anniversary on Center, Oklahoma. She Vickie (Clint) Stamper of Kimberling Hemingway; five Christ in Portales, N.M. Aug. 17, 2017. They met at the Los was the ninth of 11 City, Mo., and Robin (David) Beam grandchildren; and Banos Church of Christ in California children in that family of Oklahoma City, Okla.; grand- twelve great-grandchil- HONORED: Charles Riley, member and were the first couple married in and was affectionately children Brad (Holly) Morrisett of dren. He was prede- of the Grant Street Church of Christ the new church building in 1957. known as “Number 9.” Edmond, Okla., Lance (Jennifer) ceased by his bride in Decatur, Ala., with the Audie Following service in the Army, She went to be with the Morrisett of Hooker, Okla., Melissa of 69 years, Annile Murphy Patriotism Award. Jerry Arland graduated from the University Lord on July 5, 2017, (Greg) Bukovatz of Oshkosh, Wis., Chambers Hemingway and grandson, Smith, elder of the Canadian Church of California, Berkeley, on the same at Mercy Hospital in and Seth Beam of Edmond, Okla. Derek Wayne Hemingway. of Christ in Texas, for serving the day Floy graduated from high school. Oklahoma City. She is also survived by one brother Wayne knew the Scriptures well and congregation since 1976. José They were married that August. Their Jeanell graduated Gene (Charlotte) Nease and one sister lived by their teachings, serving as Demecio Romero, with the the first home was in San Francisco so as valedictorian of the class of 1948 Jimmie Lou (James) Gunkel; 10 great- elder, minister, Bible class teacher and Harold and Sally Paden Memorial Arland could attend dental school. at Central High (Marlow). She loved grandchildren, a great-great-grandchild song leader. A gifted teacher for 75 Distinguished Christian Service Arland had a private practice for music and participated in plays. She due in January; and numerous nieces, years teaching the Bible, science and Award, presented at the Red River several years in Firebaugh, Calif. and married her high school sweetheart, nephews and cousins. (continued on Page 25) Family Encampment. August 2017AUGust 2017 PEOPLE the christian chronicle 25

Milestones (continued) Newsmakers Milestones (continued) math, he was a founder, teacher and Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 22, 1951, in officer in the Mississippi Army National administrator of Athens Bible School Nashville. Together they raised six chil- Guard and the Tennessee Air National in Athens, Ala., Crowley’s Ridge dren and were married almost 57 years Guard. In Memphis, he taught and Academy in Paragould, Ark., Madison until he preceded her in death in 2008. coached at Sherwood Middle School. Academy in Huntsville, Ala. and Geneva was a Harold’s life was dedicated to educa- later at Northland Christian School in devoted and tire- tion and specifically to education from Houston, Texas. For 20 years he taught less mother, always a Christian perspective. He served public school junior high science in putting her children as a dormitory director for Lubbock PHOTO PROVIDED BY MOUNT DORA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY South Orange, N.J. He was an elder at above herself. She Christian University and as an admin- Scholarship winner Sebastian Rolon, the Chatham Church of Christ in N.J., a was mother to Ronald istrator of Lubbock Christian School third from left, with Steve Eckman, new congregation that began under his (Diane), Terrell in Lubbock, Texas. He served as the Howard Todd and Nathan Mellor. leadership. After his third retirement, (Diane), Deborah, Superintendent of Dallas Christian he taught GED and math at the Lone Danny (Cynthia), Lisa, School in Mesquite, Texas, Fort Worth AWARDED: Sebastian Rolon, senior Star College System in Texas until and Kevin (Kelly). Christian School in North Richland at Mount Dora Christian Academy 2015! Wayne Hemingway will live Her grandchildren include: Ronald Jr., Hills, Texas, and Westbury Christian in Florida, the inaugural Howard within the hearts of those who knew Stephanie, Ashley, Adam, Alysa, Aaron, School in Houston, Texas. Todd Servant Scholarship. The him, and his legacy will be carried Nicholas, Emily, Ethan, and Rachel. She In other areas scholarship is a four-year, full- forth for future generations. is also survived by several sisters-in-law, of vocation and tuition award by York College in nieces, nephews and cousins. service, Harold Nebraska. Eligibility is limited to Geneva supported many charitable served as a manager participants in the Presidential Parker Henderson causes throughout her life. She was for University Leadership Institute, hosted on the 1924-2017 particularly involved with the South Inns (a dormi- York campus each July. Oakland Shelter, helping with this cause tory management for over 20 years. As a member of the group) at Texas NEW PRINCIPAL: Rachel Goode, Parker Henderson, 92, former teacher Troy Church of Christ for 50 years, she Tech University, Ezell-Harding at Sunset International Bible Institute, also was involved with many outreach San Diego State Christian School finished his earthly and ministry programs. Geneva was University, and The upper school ministry June 22, 2017, known for being quiet and sweet, University of Michigan (Ann Arbor). in Nashville, and has entered his but having a quick wit, sharp mind He was also a Regional Director of Tenn. Goode eternal home. He was a and the uncanny ability to corral her Development for Eastern European is a graduate missionary in Thailand children (mostly the four boys) when Missions and served as a fund-raising of Lipscomb for twenty years and needed. She was a devoted wife, a consultant for Manhattan Christian University in then spent thirty years fantastic mother and grandmother, and a College in Manhattan, Kansas. Nashville and serving in Trinidad. wonderful Christian woman who will be Harold was one of the founding Goode Harding Academy He taught at Sunset for missed dearly. We love you, mom. board members for the YMCA of North in Memphis, Tenn. relatively short stints Richland Hills, Texas. After retirement, and always took a team he personally he worked with his wife, Beth, presenting NEW PULPIT recruited back to the mission field with Harold Dean Wade marriage enrichment seminars and MINISTER: David him. Parker, along with his wife Donna, encouraging healthy Christian relation- Heflin, Woodward had moved back to Lubbock several 1938 - 2017 ships in the Houston metropolitan area. Church of Christ in years ago. This dear brother will be He was a dedicated member of a local Oklahoma. Heflin missed by people he led to Christ in a Harold Dean Wade, 78, of Tomball, church throughout his life and served previously served number of countries and by a host of Texas, passed from this life into the next as a non-paid minister and preacher on Heflin the Third and other brethren and friends. on July 12, 2017, at his home surrounded numerous occasions. He participated in Kilgore Church of by his wife, Mary Elizabeth (Beth) multiple mission trips domestically and Christ in Portales, N.M. Grobe Wade and his daughters, Lorie internationally and encouraged his chil- Geneva Sadler Jones Wade Addison and Julie Wade Crum. dren to always follow the call to service HONORED: Charles Riley, member Harold was born Oct. 1, 1938, in to the Prince of Peace. of the Grant Street Church of Christ 1927 - 2017 Booneville, Miss., to Oren and Hester He is survived by his wife, Beth G. in Decatur, Ala., with the Audie Mae (Armstrong) Wade. He graduated Wade; his children: Len (Lisa) Wade, Murphy Patriotism Award. Jerry Geneva Sadler was born in Nashville, from Holcut High School in 1957 and Lorie (Glenn) Addison, Jonathan (Jodie) Smith, elder of the Canadian Church Tenn., on April 14, 1927, to Henry he completed an associate’s degree in Wade, Jennifer (Stephen) Shewmaker, of Christ in Texas, for serving the Clay and Lena Demonbreun Sadler. education from North East Mississippi Julie (Andy) Crum; and his grandchil- congregation since 1976. José She graduated high school from Central Junior College and finished his bach- dren: Nikki Addison (Brian) Lee, Austin Demecio Romero, with the the High School in Nashville in May of elor’s and master’s in education from Addison, Landon (Nicholl) Wade, Luke Harold and Sally Paden Memorial 1944 and attended business school Memphis State University. Wade, Logan Wade, Anne Wade, Rylan Distinguished Christian Service thereafter. She met Joseph F. Jones While in college and during his early Shewmaker, Nathan Wade, Catherine Award, presented at the Red River in 1948, and they were married on career, he served as a non-commissioned (continued on Page 26) Family Encampment. 26 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AUGUST 2017

Milestones (continued)

Shewmaker, Ian Crum, Annalee Crum, Alexandra Shewmaker, Dr. Perry Binyam Crum and Joseph Crum; L. Morren, Sharing Faith in the Face of Persecution his great-grandchildren: Lainey Lee, 82, June 25, Unashamed Camden Lee, and Kinsey Lee; his Childress, siblings: Lyonel (Maxine) Wade, Texas. Myra Wade Underwood, Vonceil Global Missions Experience Wade Enlow, Hoyt (Joan) Wade, Sept. 21-24, 2017 Mackey (Margaret) Wade; in-laws: Lottie Wade, Charlene Wade, Judy Harding University Tahkodah Johnson, Ginger Herbert, Terri (Kevin) Lowry; and a number of Memorial/Honor Gifts A hands-on learning event formerly known dearly loved nieces and nephews, friends and co-workers. The Christian Chronicle as the World Missions Workshop He passed in peace as he lived, appreciates and acknowledges surrounded by love. Harold asked generous gifts received in memory www.harding.edu/gme that, in lieu of flowers, mourners of Jack L. Fields and Gordon make a donation in his memory to a Russell. local Christian school.

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“My experience at OVU not only provided me with the tools I needed to pursue my career, but I was also able to grow as a Christian while getting my education. The small classroom atmosphere, knowledgeable instructors, and individuals who cared about my future success all prepared me for my career as a teacher and principal. Not only did I get an education, I made memories that will last a lifetime!”

Brittany Schob - OVU School of Education ‘10 Principal, Marietta Middle School Marietta, OH For Learning. For Faith. For Life. Learn more today: www.ovu.edu/education 28 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AUGUST 2017

AUGUST 2017 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 27 A Spirit-led stop at my father’s grave So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. — Galatians 5:16, New Living Translation DALLAS the grandfather she never got to name was Mr. Melvin. debated whether or not to stop. meet. He would have loved his Those marks don’t happen often, We had so much highway granddaughters, deeply and Mr. Melvin said. The grounds crew ahead of us. In the Word proudly. mows close to the markers, keeping Driving from Abilene Then I noticed it — two the grass short and pristine. to Birmingham proved to streaks across the bottom of Sometimes they get a little too close. Ibe as daunting as it looks on stone, rust color, like they’d “Can you fix it?” I asked. He could a map. I know Texas is big. been there for a long time. — and he would, soon. He’d send I’m from Texas, born and My heart raced. Anger me a picture and, if I wasn’t satis- raised. But when you actu- began to seep into my subcon- fied, he would order a new head- ally have to drive through scious. I squashed it. No need stone. I smiled and briefly teared up. it, the sheer enormity of it to get mad. That won’t help. I I wanted to embrace him, pull him makes you feel so small. Wendell Edwards needed to take action. into a deep, long, tight bear hug. But still I wrestled with What is it? How did it get But I didn’t. “Thank you,” I said and stopping by Dallas-Fort Worth there? How do I get it fixed? shook his hand. National Cemetery just off I-20. My I tried a baby wipe from the A week later, I got a text with a father is there. And I hadn’t visited minivan, some bottled water and picture of the fix. The line is faintly his grave in years. muscle. Nothing. I took a picture there, but I’m OK. It certainly looks I felt obligated. Perhaps it was the with my phone and drove to the front PHOTO PROVIDED by wendell edwards much better. I sent Mr. Melvin a Holy Spirit telling me I’m too close office. They couldn’t help. They gave The photo sent by Mr. Melvin — after thank-you card. not to stop. Living outside Texas, me a lovely brochure with a 1-800 the gravestone was cleaned. More so, I’m glad we stopped I wasn’t sure when I’d get another number to call. in the middle of our 14-hour drive chance. I wanted to scream. I could picture a man walking toward the building. home. I’m glad I was there. It was a We pulled up to his tombstone. I myself diving into the bureaucracy “He’s the man in charge here.” debate within myself, and I’m glad talked to it like it was my dad — a of the Department of Veteran Affairs. I met him on the walkway, told him the Holy Spirit won. real person, alive and kicking. I I just needed someone to fix my my problem, showed him the picture. know he’s not really there, but it felt father’s gravestone. “That’s a rust mark from a WENDELL EDWARDS co-anchors the morning comfortable and intimate. Then the woman behind the desk lawnmower, Mr. ... uhh?” He was news for WBMA, ABC 33/40 in Birmingham, Ala. Kennedy got out with me and said, “You know, you’re in luck.” She reaching for my name. I hadn’t even He and his family attend the Riverchase Church of talked to the marker, acknowledging pointed to the window. There was told him. I did, and I learned his Christ in Birmingham. From our readers

with the recent “radical Islamic world in the past few decades. Praise for single-parent ministry, baptisms terrorism” attack in London (Page H. Banks | Muscle Shoals, Ala. 29), I would like to say that I agree This is such a wonderful work. courageous, strong, determined, that “we live in a fallen and broken A well-worded article. We must (“Hope for single parents,” Page loving, caring and kind. I am thankful world,” but to say that “all of us never lose sight of the root cause 1, July.) Prayerfully, I hope that that this story is being shared by The have done our bit to contribute one of all that is evil — sin. The only Christians across the brotherhood will Christian Chronicle. way or another to the carnage and answer to the problem of sin is mimic what Mount Dora Children’s Please keep these boys and their that there are no innocent victims” found in Jesus Christ. Home is doing and make this whole family in your prayers, as each day is incorrect. It was rightly said by Patrick world a better place for many. brings new challenges for them. We cannot compare other wanton that acts of terror are highlighted Nancy George | Kansas City, Kan. Mary Jo Foster | Derby, Kan. acts across the world — exclusive often when it affects the affluent of wars — with the depravity of or famous, yet countless numbers This was a day of celebration that I Responses to London attacks the ISIS acts of terror; the 911 suffer daily without comment being will never forget! (“After paralysis, a slaughter of 3,000 in New York; the made. It is a complicated problem spiritual healing,” Page 21, July.) In regard to brother Patrick Orlando, San Bernardino and Paris with a simple answer: love God and We rejoice in Luke and Elliott’s Boyns’ statement on page 29 of the massacres; and literally thousands love your neighbor. baptisms. These young men are July edition of the Chronicle dealing of other terrorist acts across the Mark Hill | Loughborough, England 28 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OPINION AUGUST 2017

PHOTOS PROVIDED Steve Shaner and his eighth grade English teacher, Dorothy Fisch, at left in photos from the 1960s, were reunited in 2017. Fisch, a librarian, read to Shaner’s grandchildren. Thanking a teacher — 50 years later Pay to all what is owed to them ... Later in my adult life I was diag- After two years I transferred to chapel organizers challenged us to respect to whom respect is owed, nosed with learning disorders. I Harding College and majored in find and thank someone responsible honor to whom honor is owed. learn more by listening than by mass communication. I was a photog- for a turning point in our lives. I — Romans 13:7, English Standard Version reading. So what she was doing was rapher for the Petit Jean, our year- knew exactly who I wanted to thank. playing right into my skill set. book. I managed to cram four years But it had been 49 years. Could I FRANKFORD, Del. I was a short kid and had to develop of college into five and graduated even find Mrs. Fisch? ou’ve no doubt heard, “Give a feisty attitude in order to navigate — not cum laude. I worked as an I did, thanks to some of her friends a man a fish, and you’ll the hierarchy of school life. advertising salesman, a TV reporter, on Facebook. She lives in Ocean feed him for a day. Teach Views When I misbehaved, Mrs. a portrait studio photographer and a View, Del., and retired from teaching a man to fish, and you’ll Fisch spoke softly but firmly radio announcer. I was co-owner of a after 28 years. For the past two feedY him for a lifetime.” and gave me “the look” — the small community newspaper. decades, she’s been a librarian in Well, I say, “Have a Fisch same one moms give us when (I was even asked to become a Frankford. My wife and I had planned teach a man, and he’ll we misbehave in church. photographer for the newly elected to spend our spring break in Fairfax, become anything he wants.” It worked. governor of Arkansas, but I turned Va., with our son and his family, and In 1967 I was 13 years old. I Near the end of the school that job down because they were Frankford was only three hours away. walked into my eighth grade year, Mrs. Fisch gave me an offering me only 50 percent of my So I arranged to meet Mrs. Fisch. English class at Middletown assignment: produce a maga- present salary. “Think about this offer, We sat in the library for more High School in Rhode Island Steve Shaner zine with articles, adver- Steve,” the governor’s chief of staff than an hour, catching up over and met my English teacher, tising and cover design. I said. “This man will become the presi- iced tea and cinnamon rolls while Dorothy Fisch. That day was a even had to pitch the magazine to dent one day.” I laughed and said to a few family members and friends turning point in my life. the rest of the class. myself, “Bill Clinton will never be the watched and listened. I asked if she By that time I had been to 10 I got an A-plus — an A-plus! I had president of the United States!”) would do me a favor before we went different schools. Every time I never gotten one before. The note she I opened an advertising and public to lunch. Would she read a story to moved I got a little further behind. wrote on the front page said some- relations agency and did a little two of my grandchildren? I was told repeatedly to “just get thing like, “Everything about this was speech writing. Through the finan- She quickly found a book that my caught up at home.” I was the excellent, and the presentation portion cial setbacks and ups and downs, I grandchildren, Gavyn and Josie, second of five children. My mother gave you the extra plus. You should go stayed in the industry because, in would enjoy. They sat at her feet as struggled to give me the kind of into journalism or advertising; you my head, I heard the voice of Mrs. the story unfolded in her soft-but- personal attention I needed. would be really good at that.” Fisch: “You should go into journalism animated voice. Mrs. Fisch opened up a whole Four years later, I headed off to or advertising; you would be really I am a mass communication profes- new world to me. Eighth grade was college. When I was asked what good at that.” sional because of you, Dorothy Fisch. when literature started to be part of I had chosen for may major, I In 2007, I got a call from my alma Who is it that you want to thank? the curriculum. I had never been a responded with those same words mater, asking me to apply for a faculty Don’t wait 50 years. good reader, and the fact that Mrs. — journalism or advertising. Every position — a chance to teach others Fisch read aloud to us made the time I thought about changing my advertising and speech. I moved to STEVE SHANER is an assistant professor of difference for me. I remember being major — or adding a second major Searcy, Ark., and began working for communication at Harding University in Searcy, captivated as I listened to her. The — I remembered the sweet, calm, Harding University in August 2008. Ark., and an elder of the Downtown Church of words just came alive. but reassuring voice of Mrs. Fisch. Earlier this year our university’s Christ in Searcy. AUGUST 2017 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 29

Preparing a path for student spiritual growth and success.

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Give a student in need the gift of a Christ-centered education Start children off on the way they should go, that leads to a promising and even when they are old they will not turn future of service. from it. Proverbs 22:6

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HCC-Ghana is an internationally accredited institute of higher education offering degrees in Business, IT, and Bible. It is not affiliated with Heritage Christian University of Florence, AL.

ENGAGING FAITH IN A POST-TRUTH CULTURE Believe!ve! October 1 Opening Worship/Keynote, Gospel of John Presentation by Arthur Morton October 2 Engaging Workshops, TED Talk-style Sessions, Church Leaders Dinner October 3 Church Leaders Workshop - “Navigating the Storm”

WWW.OC.EDU/BIBLELECTURES 30 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AUGUST 2017

House Parents Are Needed!

Join the exciting Childhaven ministry team! Make an eternal difference in the lives of others! FACULTY POSITIONS AVAILABLE Seeking couples of great faith and love for the GENESIS PROJECT, our teen mom/baby/maternity program. Childhaven provides excellent salary All candidates must be active members of the church of Christ and benefits and hires both husband and wife full time. For more and committed to Christian education. information, contact: DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING AND PHYSICS. Seeking Exec. Director, Dr. Jim Wright. 256-734-6720, [email protected] DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING AND PHYSICS. Seeking full-time faculty member in civil engineering. The successful can- full-time faculty member in civil engineering. The successful can- didate will have a Ph.D. in civil engineering or closely related field. didate will have a Ph.D. in civil engineering or closely related field. Responsibilities include overseeing, planning and accrediting of the Responsibilities include overseeing, planning and accrediting of the civil engineering program in coordination with department chair; civil engineering program in coordination with department chair; curriculum development; and teaching of undergraduate lecture and curriculum development; and teaching of undergraduate lecture and laboratory courses. laboratory courses. Submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae and statement Submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae and statement of of teaching interests to Dr. Zane Gastineau, chair, at zgastineau@ teaching interests to Dr. Zane Gastineau, chair, at zgastineau@ harding.edu or Box 12290, Searcy, AR 72149. harding.edu or Box 12290, Searcy, AR 72149. DEPARTMENT OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES. Seeking full- DEPARTMENT OF PHARMACY PRACTICE. Seeking time faculty member to serve as department chair. The successful full-time faculty member. Applicants with internal medicine and candidate will possess a Ph.D. and post-doctoral training in one of internal medicine specialty experience are encouraged to apply. the pharmaceutical sciences, preferably pharmaceutics or pharma- Qualified applicants will possess a Pharm.D. as well as residency/ cology. A minimum of 10 years within an academic setting is pre- fellowship training. At least two years of academic experience is ferred with evidence of three to five years in a managerial position preferred. Eligibility for pharmacy licensure in Arkansas is required. with increasing responsibilities in academic administration. Respon- Responsibilities include didactic instruction in pharmacotherapy sibilities include mentoring, developing and evaluating faculty in and related clinical sciences, maintenance of a clinical practice site the areas of teaching, scholarship and service; establishing faculty for the purposes of service and experiential teaching, and active workloads; teaching in selected courses; evaluating and guiding the engagement in scholarship. department’s research program; setting, evaluating and achieving Submit letter of interest and curriculum vitae to Dr. Jeanie Smith, department goals and objectives; and maintaining an innovative associate professor, at [email protected] or Box 12230, Searcy, pharmaceutical sciences curriculum. AR 72149. Submit letter of interest and curriculum vitae to Dr. Jeff Mercer, dean of the College of Pharmacy, at [email protected] or Box 12230,Additional Searcy, AR openings 72149. are available in the following areas: COLLEGE OF NURSING Additional openings are available in the following areas: DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES COLLEGE OF NURSING DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY AND BIOCHEMISTRY DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY AND BIOCHEMISTRY DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES DEPARTMENT OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

Please visit harding.edu/hr/jobsfaculty for further information on these positions. To learn more about open staff positions, visit harding.edu/hr/jobs. Harding is committed to hiring a diverse faculty and staff. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply. AUGust 2017 CALENDAR the christian chronicle 31

Aug. 7-10 Respite: Renewal for Missionaries on Home Assignment. Emory, Texas, mrnet.org/events. Aug. 11-12 Dikaiosune: A Social Justice Symposium. Winston, N.C., dikaiosune.org. Aug. 12-13 Back to School Bash. Garden City, Kan., scott7stewart@ gmail.com. College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Gregory Straughn, Dean, ACU Box 29210, Abilene, Texas 79699-29210 Aug. 13-17 49th Annual Florida State Lectureship. Orlando, Fla., The Department of Language and Literature invites applications for a nine-month, tenure-track position as assistant professor beginning January 2018. floridastatelectureship.com. Candidates are expected to have a terminal degree in English, comparative Aug. 26 50th Anniversary, Camp literature, humanities, or a closely related field. Specialization in composition- Manatawny. Douglassville, Pa., rhetoric is preferred. All members of the department teach a mix of composition manatawny.org. and literature classes, from first-year writing to graduate courses in our English M.A. program; hence, evidence of a varied teaching background also is preferred. Aug. 25-27 PeacePrints Retreat #5, Applicants must have strong communication skills and interest in the development CenterPeace. Watchtower Ranch, of students. Information about the department is available at acu.edu/english. Texas, [email protected]. Collinsville Church of Christ See acu.edu/academics/provost/positions.html for a complete description 80th Anniversary/Homecoming Aug. 26-27 80th Anniversary, of this position. In a letter to the appropriate dean or chair, applicants should Collinsville Church of Christ. address their qualifications for the position. They should include in the application Saturday, August 26 Collinsville, Okla., (918) 371-4296. a statement of how faith informs their teaching; a discussion of their spiritual Singing and Visitation (6:00-9:00 p.m.) Sept. 5-8 National Christian journey; a curriculum vitae; transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work; Sunday, August 27 and names, addresses and phone numbers of five references. Review of applicants Coffee and Doughnuts (8:45 a.m.), Camping Workshop. Las Vegas, N.M., will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Nominations of naccamps.org. and applications from qualified women and minorities are especially encouraged. Class (9:30 a.m.), Worship (10:30 a.m.), Sept. 7 Mission Lazarus Gala. ACU is affiliated with the fellowship of the Churches of Christ. All applicants lunch and special activities White Creek, Tenn., [email protected]. must be professing Christians and be active, faithful members of a congregation Collinsville Church of Christ Sept. 8-10 Spanish Bible Seminar. of the Churches of Christ and deeply committed to service in Christian higher education. The mission of ACU is to educate students for Christian service and 1010 W Broadway, Nashville, Tenn., (615) 244-0608. leadership throughout the world. ACU does not unlawfully discriminate in Collinsville, OK, 74021 Sept. 10 70th Anniversary, Mount employment opportunities. Please call (918) 371-4296 if you have Vernon, Mo. Church of Christ. 170261-0817 mtvcoc.org. any questions. Hope you can join us! Sept. 14-15 New Day Conference, North Boulevard Church of Christ. SONG BOOKS NEEDED Murfreesboro, Tenn., [email protected]. Our small congregation is in need of 75 song Sept. 14-17 Midwest Women’s Now in 16X9 books. If you have extra copies of: Conference of Churches of Christ. and 4X3 Louisville, Ky., mwccc2017.com. aspect ratios Church Gospel Sept. 17-20 Summit. Abilene Songs and Hymns Christian University, Abilene, Texas, acu.edu/events. (any color is fine, donated preferably), Sept. 24 125th Anniversary please contact: Celebration, Southside Church of Cashmere Church of Christ Christ. Fort Worth, Texas, sscofc.org. Steve Crews Sept. 21-24 Global Missions PO Box 315, Cashmere, WA 98815 Experience 2017. Harding Univ., [email protected] Camp Tahkodah, harding.edu/events. (509) 679-0928 or (509) 782-4504 Sept. 24-27 Bible Lectureship. Harding University, Searcy, Ark. harding.edu/lectureship. Full-Time Pulpit Minister Sept. 30-Oct. 1 50th Anniversary, Burlington Church of Christ. Western Hills Church of Burlington, Mass., burlingtonchurch.com. Christ in Fort Worth, Texas, Oct. 1-3 Oklahoma Christian is searching for a full-time University Lectureship. Edmond, Okla., oc.edu/events/lectureship. pulpit minister. Oct. 1-5 Southeastern Regional Lectureship. Decatur, Ala., For more information, visit: moultonheights.org. Twelve volumes with over 1480 songs in PowerPoint® format whcoc.net Oct. 10-13 Abundant Living Project easy-to-read lyrics and music / CCLI license not required Branson Retreat. abundantliving Download free songs and order at: www.PaperlessHymnal.com Send your resume to: seniors.com. For PowerPoint® slides in Spanish: www.himnosenpantalla.com [email protected] FULL CALENDAR: www.christianchronicle.org 32 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE REVIEWS AUGUST 2017 Hobby Lobby founder shares family Church elder delivers laugh- strategy for laser-focused generosity out-loud school bus stories s a retired teacher, I can tell you that school avid Green and Bill High’s new book, That challenge, the authors write, has bus drivers are some of the most important, “Giving It All Away … and Getting resulted in God’s honoring the Greens by yet unappreciated, people in the world of It All Back Again,” will be a blessing granting new opportunities to grow the education. So when a book to church leaders and families company and touch more lives. Aarrived in our office with a man — What we're In Print Dwanting to create a legacy of generosity. Two key points I find in the book complete with sunglasses, mustache reading The book tells the story of Hobby are the family conferences held by the and mutton chops — smiling in front Lobby, started as a family business in Greens to develop a heritage as givers of a big yellow school bus, I immedi- the Greens’ garage. Now the Oklahoma and a legacy of generosity. This did ately wanted to read it. City based arts and crafts chain has 600 not happen by accident. The family’s Tom Brandon, author of “Mr. stores nationwide — and donates more hard labor created an intentional plan Brandon’s School Bus: What I than 50 percent of its pretax profits to a that now involves three generations Heard on the Way to School,” portfolio of evangelical ministries. of Greens in the mission, strategy and has worked as a teacher, coach The Greens are honest about the values of a family committed to gener- and bus driver for a rural school in tough times they’ve endured, including Scott Sager osity and giving. northern Alabama. He’s a graduate Melinda Wilson some decisions that took them off focus. Even more, this family brought in Bill of Harding University in Arkansas They also discuss some current-day challenges High and the National Christian Foundation and an elder of the Meridianville Church of Christ that they try to respond to in wisdom and faith. to help them develop a strategy to be as in Alabama. He has served on a number of educa- The book begins by recounting Hobby generous as possible — and to use the tax laws tion advisory councils and received a Steve Harvey Lobby’s opposition to the Affordable Care to Kingdom benefit. This resulted in better Neighborhood Award, sponsored by the actor and Act’s provision mandating that companies fund communication across the family and a struc- comedian, for Best Bus Driver of the Year. the distribution of emer- ture that requires family The book is a collection of short, page-long gency contraceptive (often members to work for a living (or less) tales from the school bus. Mr. Brandon called “morning after”) and give generously from the narrates his escapades with the elementary age char- pills for their employees. family fortune to churches acters he serves. I laughed out loud many times, This violated the family’s and nonprofits — with a shed tears and read conscience, and the resulting keen eye upon Kingdom a few of his stories lawsuit was heard by the initiatives. to those who sat still U.S. Supreme Court. Bill High’s son, Joseph, long enough to laugh In June 2014, the court attends Lipscomb University, with me. I grew fond ruled that companies such where I serve. He is my of his regular riders as Hobby Lobby cannot be son’s soccer coach and has — Hot Pickle Boy, Mr. required to pay to cover become dear to our family. Mucus and the Twins some types of contracep- The faith and intentionality That Are Not Twins. tives for their employees. of the Green and High fami- The vivid writing style (Christian Chronicle readers lies inspire me. made me feel like I may remember that Lori If your church has an was on that yellow bus. Windham, a Church of 80/20 principle (where only Mr. Brandon is a Christ member and grad- a few families give about storyteller. He has a uate of Abilene Christian 80 percent of the weekly front-row seat to the University, served on the offering), then know that this wonder and innocence Greens’ legal team.) book can benefit everyone in of childhood, and he The book then shifts to the your congregation. helps these kiddos Tom Brandon. Mr. story of the Greens’ journey It will be especially helpful get to school safely Brandon’s School Bus: into generosity — and into David Green with Bill High. “Giving for your larger givers. Green so they can learn. What I Heard on the Way a competition to “out-give It All Away…and Getting It All and High will remind them We all learn on Mr. to School. Montgomery, God.” Although they know it Back Again: The Way of Living to be intentional and laser- Brandon’s school bus. Ala.: NewSouth Books, cannot be done, the Greens Generously.” Grand Rapids, Mich. focused in giving — and not I will never look at a 2017. 144 pages. $15.95. decided to try to give their Zondervan, 2017. 192 pages. $19.99. to coast behind large dona- big, yellow school bus fortune away — following tions that do not engage the the same way again. Most likely, when school starts the challenge given by God to the prophet heart of the entire family. each fall and I miss it for a nanosecond, I’ll pick up Malachi (“Bring the whole tithe into the store- To build a legacy of generosity for your family, “Mr. Brandon’s School Bus” and feel like I’m back. house, that there may be food in my house. Test start with this book. Then call a family meeting. I may even become a bus driver myself. me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I OK, maybe not. will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and SCOTT SAGER is vice president for church services and a member pour out so much blessing that there will not be of the Bible faculty at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tenn. He is a MELINDA WILSON is an administrative assistant for The Christian Chronicle. room enough to store it.” — Malachi 3:10) former minister for the Preston Road Church of Christ in Dallas. She worships with the Memorial Road Church of Christ in Oklahoma City. AUGUST 2017 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 33

Executive Director Search Sunny Glen Children’s Home of San Benito, The 40-year-old AMEN Ministry Texas, is seeking candidates for the Ex- ecutive Director position. Sunny Glen connects Christians in the Children’s Home is a faith-based general United States military with local residential operation that provides nurturing homes and treatment services to children churches of Christ both over- from difficult backgrounds. The Executive seas and in the U.S. Director has strategic and operational responsibility for staff, programs, expansion, Please send name, email, and other and the execution of its mission. Qualified applicants will: 1) be a faithful member of the contact info to: Church of Christ, 2) have a Bachelor’s (Mas- ter’s preferred) in a social science field, 3) possess an LCCA, or be eligible to obtain an AMEN Ministry LCCA, and 4) have substantial administrative and residential childcare experience. Inter- P.O. Box 353 ested applicants may submit a cover letter Hebron, CT 06248 and resume by August 31, 2017, to: Tim Ousley, [email protected] Search Committee Chairperson (860) 372-7051 [email protected] 34 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OPINION AUGUST 2017 Home again — and far from home — returning missionaries begin new life esus’ last words to his disciples, tion. The couple grew closer as they “You will be my witnesses in lived in a different culture. They had HERITAGE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY Jerusalem, and in all Judea and great respect for their teammates — Samaria, and to the ends of the including those who joined the team earth,”J call all of us to be evangelistic. in later years. They have confidence The Nichols family has done that in the leaders of the church they PRESIDENTIAL for eight years in the Rio de Janeiro helped start. They still feel very suburb of Niteroi, Brazil. Since connected to the SEARCH January, the family — Brent, Jill Insight work in Niteroi and and their sons Titus, 5, and Jack, 3 recently returned — have been my neighbors as they there for the inau- transition back into life in the U.S. gural service in the Brent now works in real estate. new building. As a college student, Brent trav- When I asked eled to Warsaw, Poland, with his about the decision to Heritage Christian University is campus minister before he graduated return to the United conducting a national search for its from college. He served as a campus States, they told me Bailey McBride next President. minister in Oklahoma and yearly took that family was their college students to Brazil to teach greatest concern. and encourage. Both have aging parents, but their The university seeks in its next leader the values, Jill graduated from Texas A&M greatest concern was for their chil- skills, and knowledge to build upon its commitment to University before she moved to dren to grow up seeing grandpar- Oklahoma. She and her mother trav- ents more than once or twice a year. the advancement of churches of Christ by equipping eled to Warsaw to read the Bible While the transition for adults can servants through undergraduate and graduate programs with people wanting to improve their be a challenge, the transition for English. Jill also Titus and Jack will and continuing education. The new president will traveled to Brazil be harder. They continue HCU’s legacy of producing effective with Brent’s campus are coming to a ministry. place they have communicators, preachers, teachers, and missionaries In 2003 they only visited. Now for real-world ministry with a focus on evangelism and a married and worked it is their home. to help college Both have friends in commitment to scripture. students develop Brazil that are closer faith and spiritual than the friends The new president must be a person of strong faith in leadership. they have made When a group of here. They have Christ, evidenced by exemplary character, personal students in their to move between integrity, respect for scripture, love for souls, and ministry started English and talking of forming Portuguese, without service to the Lord’s church. a team and going understanding how to Rio, they began either works. praying about the The Nicholses The Board of Directors has named a Presidential Search work and eventu- PHOTO PROVIDED have worked very Committee that will seek broad input, identify and ally became one of The Nichols family stands behind hard to help their four families that the word “GO,” decorated with the sons make friends in interview candidates, and make recommendations to moved and planted fingerprints of their fellow Christians, this community. Jill the Board. a church in Niteroi. during a recent Missions Sunday. arranges play dates The team helped with cousins and bring people to Christ. Eventually, friends. She is careful to help Titus Interested parties should submit a resume and any rele- the church bought property and built and Jack work through the confusion vant information on or before August 15, 2017, to Dale a meeting place. that accompanies a major move. Kirkland, Heritage Search Committee Chair, at They left as two, but came home The Nicholses were a blessing to as four. When I visited with them the Kingdom in Brazil, and they will [email protected]. about their experiences, neither had be a blessing to the Kingdom in the any regrets. Jill had a chance to get United States as they continue their proficient in Portuguese, and Brent lives of faith. 3625 Helton Drive | P.O. Box HCU | Florence, AL 35630 provided teaching and leadership 800.367.3565 | 256.766.6610 | www.hcu.edu as the team planted the congrega- COntact: [email protected] AUGUST 2017 OPINION THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 35 Why we support

Alanand Michelle Bain id you know that 114 donors perspective that the church is indeed (individuals, couples and worldwide — and is not limited to our families) have contributed to own country, our own city, our own The Christian Chronicle for congregation,” Alan Bain said. D20 consecutive years — or more? Alan and Michelle Bain are Why do you read The Christian among them. Chronicle? A lifelong resident of Chicago, Alan: “I think it gives a balanced Alan Bain grew up in the Northwest approach on the different issues Church of Christ, facing the church. where he now I especially enjoy ERIK TRYGGESTAD serves as an elder. the international Notes of encouragement from readers, posted in the offices of The Christian Chronicle. He preached his outlook, whereby first sermon at age the newspaper 15 for the church broadens our EDITORIAL — now a trilingual vista in respect congregation that to the church. I shares the Gospel think often we get in English, Spanish focused on the local You have blessed us and Korean. congregation and The church the issues and the Thank you, Christian Chronicle positive ending balances. But things also supports a PHOTO PROVIDED problems there, but readers! The Lord has touched your changed this past year, and you missionary and a Alan and Michelle Bain the Chronicle opens hearts to respond to our urgent have responded generously. school in Honduras. our eyes to efforts need by giving generously. We are Partnership in Christian ministry Bain first learned of the Chronicle around the world. I know we could very grateful! is a great blessing. All of us at the from his parents, who were avid receive it for free, but I felt that we Many of you Chronicle, our Board of Trustees, readers in the 1960s. He and his wife, needed to pay the equivalent of a added notes of writers and administrative assis- Michelle, have supported the Chronicle subscription for something that is encouragement to tants see our work as a ministry to for 30 consecutive years. worthwhile. I think it’s a blessing to your contributions, inform, inspire and keep Churches of The newspaper “gives us a the brotherhood as a whole.” and we’re so thankful Christ connected. Our autonomous for that. One reader structure challenges all of us to stay To make a donation or to find out how to bless the Chronicle through our simply wrote, “You informed and to know each other. monthly Keepers program, contact Lynda Sheehan at (405) 425-5070. make a difference!” We believe that this paper meets How powerful and Lynn McMillon that need. However, it costs a great humbling! deal of money to produce a quality In the June issue I explained the publication written by professional (Left) A child reads a Korean song Chronicle’s need for $50,000 to make Christian journalists. book during Bible class at the up a deficit in the operating budget. Your inspiring responses are help- Northwest Church of Christ in As of this printing you have given ing us close the gap in our budget. Chicago. $72,566 and for that we are deeply I truly do not like to ask for funds appreciative. beyond what you have already given, Visit www.christianchronicle. This is the first time in 21 years but this year it was needed. org/continuing-coverage/ that I have had to ask for money to With sincerest thanks, churches-that-work to read our end a fiscal operating year in the Churches That Work feature on black. For those many years, the the trilingual congregation. Lord’s blessing, your giving and BOBBY ROSS JR. good management have resulted in Lynn McMillon, President, CEO An international newspaper for Churches of Christ INSIDE CALENDAR...... 31 MILESTONES...... 23 CURRENTS...... 17 NATIONAL...... 5 Share Jesus with DIALOGUE...... 11 PARTNERS...... 20 EDITORIAL...... 35 PEOPLE...... 22 World Bible School. INSIGHT...... 34 REVIEWS...... 32 Vol. 74, No. 8 | August 2017 | www.christianchronicle.org INTERNATIONAL.....13 VIEWS...... 28

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