Online Edition

CHURCH OF GOD

EvangelNovember 2011

REAPING THE HISPANIC HARVEST THE BIBLE AND IMMIGRATION LATINOS RESHAPING AMERICAN EVANGELICALISM

ON MY MIND

Hop Till You Drop

LANCE COLKMIRE NE OUT OF every seven Amer- content. But when they are asked to EDITOR ican adults changes churches make a serious commitment of time, Oevery year. talent, or treasure, they look for another Hop, Jane, hop. place of rest. See Jane hop. 4. Short-term leaders. When the typi- Another one out of six adults cal pastor hops to a new sheepfold every attends a handful of selected churches three or four years, sheep are prone to PEOPLE COME TO on a rotating basis, reports the Barna look for greener pastures too. Research Group. 5. Fear of being known. God designed Hop, Dick, hop. the church as a place to love and be A CHURCH ASKING, Hop, hop, hop. loved, to know others. But that gets To get a grip on this phenomenon, messy. Genuine relationships mean car- some churchy terms must be defined: rying one another’s hurts . . . being hurt “WHAT DO YOU • Shop: To look for a new church . . . revealing one’s own sins and weak- • Hop: To move from one church to nesses. It’s easier to run away. HAVE TO OFFER ME another In a Lee University course I once • Stop: To stay at one church for a taught, I explained how church mem- few months, then go shopping and hop- bers should be in covenant with one AND MY FAMILY?” ping again another. One student was amazed at • Flip-flop: After stopping at a new the idea that long-term church rela- church, to bad-mouth the church the tionships should be the norm. She IF IT’S NOT GOOD person just left explained how her parents had always • Drop: After a lifetime of shopping, moved from congregation to congrega- hopping, stopping, and flip-flopping, to tion, “ministering” everywhere they ENOUGH, THEY’LL give up going to church because there went. So she thought bopping was are no more places left to try normal. What has turned so many American Sorry . . . I used another churchy term CHECK OUT THE Christians into church hoppers? Here without first defining it. To bop means are five factors: “to hop to different churches, stopping WORSHIPMART 1. A rootless society. A century ago, long enough to demonstrate one’s spiri- most people lived and died in the town tual superiority before moving on.” where they were born. Today people After being bopped, long-term DOWN THE STREET. move from place to place—four times church members have to mop—“clean is the norm—as they pursue education up after the damage inflicted by bop- and careers. pers, hoppers, or shoppers.” 2. A consumer culture. Americans are As a long-term leader at my church, always looking for the best price, the I know how much it hurts to see people newest gadget, and the latest fashion come and go. Why can’t today’s church . . . and the church is seen as one more be the body Christ calls us to be in place to shop. People come to a church Ephesians 4:16? “From him the whole asking, “What do you have to offer me body, joined and held together by every and my family?” If it’s not good enough, supporting ligament, grows and builds they’ll check out the WorshipMart itself up in love, as each part does its You may contact the editor down the street. work” (NIV). by writing to him at [email protected] 3. Unwillingness to serve. As long as Stay, Dick, stay. or by calling 423-478-7592. they can sit and soak, some folks are See Dick stay.

EVANGEL | November 2011 3 ONLINE EDITION

November 2011 Contents volume 101 ■ issue 11

HISPANIC MINISTRIES COLUMNS 3 On My Mind 10 Reaping the Hispanic Harvest Lance Colkmire An unprecedented opportunity by Carlos S. Morán 6 Forward Together Raymond F. Culpepper

12 Providing Hope Through a Home 27 Where Are They Now? Casa Hogar in Poza Rica, Mexico David G. Roebuck by Tony P. Lane 30 Creative Church 14 ‘The Firewall of Righteousness Jerry Lawson and Justice’ An interview with Samuel Rodriguez Doing What Isn’t Easy in Nogales DEPARTMENTS 23 New Life Home for Children 8 Currents 16 Diary of an Evangelist’s Wife by Yvette Santana 28 People and Events Trusting the Lord’s calling by Irma Macias FEATURES

18 Walking in the Spirit on the Streets 24 Finding Financial Freedom Serving a Hispanic community Out of a half-million-dollar hole by Abel Cuen by Lance Colkmire

20 God, the Bible, and Immigration 26 What I Am Thankful For A call to compassion Expressing gratitude to God by Miguel A. Vega by Homer G. Rhea

Subscribe to the Evangel by calling 800-553-8506. PUBLICATIONS MINISTRIES DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR David M. Griffis DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS Terry Hart ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT David Ray MANAGING EDITOR Lance Colkmire SPIRIT-FILLED CENTRAL DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR HISPANICS Robert McCall CFO FERVENCY IN WORSHIP, com- Wayne Walston mitment to family, and a willingness PRINTING DIRECTOR to work hard are three traits of the Mike Burnett Hispanic church that serve as an example for the entire Church of God: EVANGEL STAFF • Hispanic congregations typically EDITOR do not rush through worship services. Lance Colkmire They forget about time as they sing, EXECUTIVE SECRETARY preach, and pray. Elaine McDavid • Prioritizing family relationships COPY EDITORS helps Hispanics to build strong com- Tammy Henkel, Esther Metaxas mitments within their larger church GRAPHIC DESIGNER family. Bob Fisher • Hispanics are known for their hard labor in the secular workforce, EDITORIAL AND PUBLICATIONS BOARD and when this ethic flows into a church, its ministries are enhanced. Stephen Darnell, Raymond Hodge, Ray E. Hurt, Timothy Brown, David Nitz , Tony Cooper, Jeffrey Robinson

OCTOBER EVANGEL POLL RESULTS* INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Raymond F. Culpepper, Timothy M. Hill, Mark L. Williams, David M. Griffis, Wallace J. Sibley Q. What is your belief about the Rapture of the Church?

CHURCH OF GOD congregations meet through- out the United States and in more than 180 More prophetic other countries. To find a church and times of The Rapture coulduld services near you, access the church website, take placee aatt events must be fulfffulfilled before www.churchofgod.org, or fax your request to any moment.nt. 423-478-7616. ChCChrist returns. Publication of material in the Evangel does not nec- essarily imply endorsement of the Church of God. 83% The Church of God Evangel (ISSN 0745-6778) is ThTThe Rapture will edited and published monthly. ■ Church of God ttakeak place during Publishing House, 1080 Montgomery Ave., P.O. 111% thet middle of the Box 2250, Cleveland, TN 37320-2250 ■ Subscrip- Great Tribulation. tion rates: Single subscription per year $17, Canada (1.5%) $24, Bundle of 15 per month $17, Canada $28, Bundle of 5 per month $7.50, Canada $11.25 ■ The Rapture Single copy $1.50 ■ Periodical postage paid at Cleveland, TN 37311 and at additional mailing will occur at the offices ■ ©2011 Church of God Publications ■ All conclusion of the ■ I have a different rights reserved POSTMASTER: Send change of Great Tribulation address to Evangel, P.O. Box 2250, Cleveland, TN belief. (3%) (1.5%) 37320-2250. (USPS 112-240) *as of 10/29/2011 Participate in the current poll by visiting the pathwaypress.org home page. MEMBER OF THE EVANGELICAL PRESS ASSOCIATION AND THE INTERNATIONAL PENTECOSTAL PRESS ASSOCIATION FORWARD TOGETHER

Hispanic Ministries and the Great Commission RAYMOND F. CULPEPPER N HIS LETTER to the church at Rome, Spain led the church world in modeling GENERAL OVERSEER Paul said, “Whenever I journey to these significant principles of the Great Spain, I shall come to you” (Rom. Commission as set forth by Paul. 15:24 NKJV; see also v. 28). In the Through the dedicated lives of Spanish Icontext of these words, the missionary missionaries, the Church journeyed to an THE SPIRIT OF GOD apostle expressed four great-but- unreached world. Thousands of unnamed practical principles of fulfilling the Great ministers of the Word were “brought on PLACED THE COUNTRY Commission of the Church: their way” by those who had been blessed 1. The mission of the Church must by the “fullness of the gospel of Christ.” OF SPAIN IN THE HEART always extend to the unreached world (vv. Almost one and a half millennia after 20-21). the death of Paul, on August 3, 1492, 2. Missionaries rely on fellow believers Christopher Columbus set sail from Palos, OF PAUL. CENTURIES to be “helped on [their] way” (vv. 23-24 a coastal port in the country of Spain, on a NKJV). journey that would “discover” a “new world.” LATER, THE SPIRIT 3. Believers who have been blessed This historical voyage was led by an should bless other believers in need (vv. Italian believer who loved the Bible. His 26-27). explorations ensured that Christianity OF GOD DIRECTED 4. Mission ministries bring the “fullness would be in the forefront of the settling of the blessing of the gospel of Christ” (v. and developing of the Western Hemisphere THE AFFAIRS OF THE 29). during the next five centuries. Biblically, these principles guided Paul Today, many people—especially in as the “minister of Jesus Christ to the the United States—tend to downplay the NATIONS SO SPANISH Gentiles” (v. 16 NKJV). His twice-expressed Church’s significant impact on the New desire to go to Spain was founded on his World. It is easy to forget that over 200 MISSIONARIES WOULD desire to preach the gospel “where Christ years before the Pilgrims landed in New was not known” (v. 20 NIV). His passion England, Columbus landed on the shores of was guided by the prophecy of Isaiah, Hispaniola—the island that now comprises BRING THE GOSPEL “Those who were not told about him will the two nations of the Dominican Republic see, and those who have not heard will and Haiti. TO THE WESTERN understand” (v. 21 NIV; cf. Isa. 52:15). However, historical names are one reminder of the significant influence of the The Christian Church in Spain Church in the early days of the Western HEMISPHERE. Greatly Influenced the World explorations. Spanish mission outposts The Bible does not record that Paul many times were fortified in order to defend reached Spain. But Clement of Rome the new inhabitants of the area, and they said he reached “the extreme limit of often bore the name of an honored “saint” the West.” This historical note provides of the Church. credible evidence that Paul probably did Such names denoted that the primary indeed include the country of Spain in his purpose was to serve as a mission of the missionary journeys. Certainly, his heart Church rather than as a fortress of the traveled there, as surely as his vision of country. Literally hundreds of these mission “a man of Macedonia” compelled him to sites eventually evolved into major cities that journey to Philippi (Acts 16:9-12). continue to use the name of an early church Regardless, history testifies clearly father. Names that incorporate Santa, Santo, that Spain was one of the first Western or San are easily recognizable. European nations to receive the gospel. The first settlement in the New World And, historically, missionaries from was named after Isabella, the queen of

6 EVANGEL | November 2011 Spain. She was the matron sponsor of Therefore, I believe that our sovereign God during the second half of the last that historic voyage. However, within a God has directed the affairs of the nations of century was miraculous. short while it was renamed Santo Domingo the earth in order to accomplish His desire Today, Church of God congregations in honor of Saint Dominic. He was the for the church of His Son, Jesus Christ. The are thriving from the Mexico/USA border founder of the Dominicans—the “Order of Spirit of God placed the country of Spain in to the southern tips of Chile and Argentina. the Preachers.” the heart of Paul. Centuries later, the Spirit Operating in 18 countries, the Latin Other such cities in the Latin world of God directed the affairs of the nations American church has over 600,000 members today include San Juan, Puerto Rico; so Spanish missionaries would bring the and 8,500 ministers in 7,347 churches Santiago, Chile; Santa Cruz, Bolivia; San gospel to the Western Hemisphere. And the and 1,835 missions. The small country of Luis Potosí, Mexico; Santiago de Cuba, Spirit of God is miraculously moving on the Guatemala, with a population less than 14 Cuba; Santa Fe, Argentina; San Salvador, El Hispanic Church of God in these last days. million, has 233,831 members—well over Salvador; San Pedro Sula, Honduras; Santa twice as many members as the largest state/ Marta, Colombia; and so forth. Growth of the Church region in the United States. In the United States, the nation’s oldest By the time of the Pentecostal outpouring city, St. Augustine, Florida, is a similar at Shearer’s Schoolhouse in 1896, much Love for the Word of God testimony. Other cities in this nation whose of the church world in Latin America had One of the cardinal characteristics of names continue to testify to the Spanish believers is their love for the influence of the church from Spain Operating in 18 countries, Word of God. It was not by chance include San Antonio, San Diego, San the Church of God in Latin that the oldest city in the New World, Francisco, Santa Cruz, San Jose, Santa America has over 600,000 Santo Domingo, is named after members and 8,500 ministers Fe, and so forth. Mexico in 7,347 churches and 1,835 the founder of “The Order of the missions. The small country Preachers.” Dominic de Guzmán’s love God’s Sovereignty Over of Guatemala, with a popula- for the Bible is his greatest acclaim. the Nations tion less than 14 million, has This same love for Scriptures has 233,831 members—well over Many skeptics today discount twice as many members as characterized the Church of God in the role of the Spanish church in the largest state/region in the Latin America from its earliest days. the discoveries and development United States. The deep desire to study the Bible is of the Western Hemisphere. In the reflected in the fact that our Latin Guatemala same manner, they downplay the American churches sponsor some of Honduras importance of religion in Jamestown the finest fully-accredited educational and the Plymouth colonies. El institutions in the Church of God. Salvador As believers in the one God of The denomination has four levels heaven and earth, we should never Nicaragua of certification for its schools. Level III forget that the unbelievers of the refers to degree-granting institutions modern world see the events of and Level IV refers to graduate degree- history through eyes of flesh. They do backslidden into a state of semi-paganism. granting schools. In Latin America, not understand that man is not in charge But in 1931, Maria Atkinson, a Spirit-filled the church has 10 degree-granting schools of the affairs of this earth. However, I am native of Mexico whose husband was from with six of these offering graduate degree persuaded that our God sovereignly directs the U.S., began the first missionary work of programs. In addition, the church has 29 the affairs of the nations of this world. the Church of God in Mexico. By then, hungry Level II and Level I certified schools and Ultimately, the God of the universe hearts were searching for the truth of the literally hundreds of distinctive educational accomplishes His will and fulfills His fullness of the gospel of Christ. The Church and training programs in local churches. purpose. To this day, He looks at the of God soon discovered that the countries That love for the Word also characterizes nations of the world and declares, “Behold, of Latin America were fertile fields for the Hispanic Ministries in the United States. the nations are as a drop of a bucket, planting of the seed of the Word of God. Ministers and laity have been greatly and are counted as the small dust of the At first, the growth of the Church of God influenced by the Hispanic Regional Bible balance” (Isa. 40:15). He is the God who in Latin America was steady but slow. But Institutes that reach hundreds of students has “made of one blood all nations of as social uprisings, revolutions, drug wars, each year. With a strong emphasis on the men for to dwell on all the face of the and persecutions began to rock the nations Pentecostal message that exalts the joy of earth, and hath determined the times of Central and South America, the message spiritual worship “in Spirit and in truth,” we before appointed, and the bounds of their of Pentecost was especially powerful. The rejoice that Hispanic churches in the U.S. are habitation” (Acts 17:26). growth of the Latin American Church of expanding the kingdom of God.

EVANGEL | November 2011 7 Currents The purpose of CURRENTS is to inform readers of trends and events influencing the culture.

lowship, said chaplains are the ones most States Scramble to Find Prison Chaplains likely to help inmates after riots, rapes, and ■ IN THE TWO MONTHS since North ing increasing workloads in tough economic other traumatic incidents or to facilitate Carolina’s legislature laid off most of its pris- times, even as the religious diversity of special requests—like a phone call from a on chaplains, Betty Brown, director of prison inmates continues to grow. relative near death. chaplaincy services, has been crisscrossing In California, where about 130 prison “For the safety of the institution, it’s the state searching for volunteers who can chaplains are currently employed, there are important that persons going through attend to the religious needs of Native Amer- three dozen vacancies. At the California those horrible situations have someone to ican, Wiccan, and Rastafarian prisoners. Men’s Colony, a medium- and minimum- help them to defuse the situation,” he said. State legislators had assumed volunteer security prison in San Luis Obispo, Rabbi “Otherwise, tension can get really high or ministries would jump in and help prisoners Lon Moskowitz, the Jewish chaplain, is help- out of control.” meet the ritual and devotional needs of their ing fulfill the duties of a Muslim chaplain Nolan said his evangelical organiza- faiths. So far, that hasn’t happened. who died a few months ago. tion—which also has faced its own staff cuts “It’s been tough locating volunteers “Twice a month . . . I oversee their Juma due to the economy—urged volunteers to for those faith groups,” said Brown, whose prayer,” he said. contact legislators and fight for the Texas department lost 26 full-time prison chap- During Passover and summer solstice chaplains. With North Carolina, there sim- lains as part of an effort to close a $2.6 bil- observances, he said, some Jewish and ply wasn’t time: “It was a done deal before lion state budget gap. Native American inmates were unable to we could mobilize anybody.” Across the nation, religious life behind attend communal events due to lockdowns The well-being and safety of prisoners bars is changing as correctional departments in their yards prompted by budget-related aren’t the only reasons to keep chaplains. shortages in guards. There are legal issues too, state prison offi- “They had to observe cials say. their religious service The Religious Land Use and Institution- within their assigned alized Persons Act of 2000 puts government housing unit,” said Lt. agencies on alert that they can’t get in the Dean Spears, a spokes- way of the free religious practice of prison- man for the facility. ers. With no professional chaplains left in Indiana’s prisons— North Carolina’s medium- and minimum- which have nine vacan- security prisons, that legal requirement has cies among 37 chaplain become the biggest headache for Brown, the positions—have had prison chaplaincy director. similar restrictions when “Inmates have a right to practice their overseen by skeleton faith while they’re incarcerated,” said the Inmates in Sugarland, Texas, studying the Bible crews at times when Rev. Mark Reamer, a Roman Catholic priest inmates might have who has celebrated Mass at a Raleigh prison face budget cuts along with other state agen- attended chapel, said the Rev. Stephen Hall, for the past 16 years. “Chaplains ensure a cies. Some states like North Carolina have director of religious services for the Indiana certain fairness.” seen outright cuts. In other states, vacancies Department of Correction. Tom O’Connor, a former Oregon prison due to hiring freezes mean no replacements When there’s a drastic cut in chaplains, chaplain who runs the company Transform- for chaplains who die or retire. as in North Carolina, questions arise about ing Corrections, said chaplains have to Gary Friedman, spokesman for the Ameri- everyday religious concerns as well as special advocate more effectively about their contri- can Correctional Chaplains Association, said or weekly observances. butions—not only supporting inmates but his organization distributes brochures to “Laypeople tend to think chaplains mobilizing volunteers and helping with re- explain to legislators mulling cuts the benefits perform services on holy days,” said D. entry programs that can reduce recidivism. of retaining correctional chaplains. “Chap- Craig Horn, a North Carolina legislator who “Most of these prisoners are going to get lains are getting caught up in all these budget opposed his state’s chaplaincy cuts. “My out,” said Horn, the North Carolina state reductions and staff reductions,” he said. “It’s view is that a professional chaplain adds legislator. “We don’t want them to come going on all over the country.” stability and has a tremendous impact on back. That would be a lousy investment. The Some states, such as Texas, were able to promoting calm and providing prisoners state of North Carolina needs to protect its spare chaplains in the budget negotiations. with counseling and direction.” investment.”—Yonat Shimron and Adelle M. But in other states, prison chaplains are see- Pat Nolan, vice president of Prison Fel- Banks (RNS)

8 EVANGEL | November 2011 Mehdi Forootan

“I started to tell them how, when I was Iranian Christian a teenager, I struggled with substance abuse in Prison 105 Days and how when I was in university I found Jesus and He saved me, and I have been free ■ IT WAS EARLY in the morning the ever since,” Forootan said. “But he became day after Christmas. It was cold. Mehdi angry and turned off the camera. He said: Forootan sat in the back seat of an under- ‘I asked you to tell about your crime, not cover police car in front of his house in Teh- evangelize us.’” ran, Iran. He was barely awake. An officer After 38 days of solitary confinement, pointed a camcorder at him. Forootan’s prayer was answered to move to a The officer had recorded the entire police group cell. For the next two months, Foroot- raid on his house, where he and three other an shared a cell with about 30 other inmates. officers claiming to be from the anti-narcot- right. Authorities took him down a long cor- Some of them were Baha’i, some from al- ics squad confiscated Forootan’s books, com- ridor of single-occupancy cells and showed Qaeda, and others from political groups like puters, and other important documents. him his: two meters wide, three meters long. the Green Movement that protested Iran’s Forootan, 33, had heard of Christian There was no bed, no chair, no table— elections in 2009 and demanded President friends being arrested and released, and he only a thin blanket, a small toilet, and a Mahmoud Ahmadinejad step down. thought he could manage being in prison as metallic washing basin. There was a Koran “When I said I’m a Christian and I came they had. The officers said they wanted to and a Muslim prayer book on the windowsill. out of Islam, they were really angry,” Forootan ask him some questions and that they would “Settle in and relax,” the prison guard said of the al-Qaeda members in his prison return him home in a few hours. Forootan told him. “You’ll be here a long time.” cell. “After a week . . . I asked them why they thought he might make it back in time for Forootan spent the first of many nights kill people with bombs and guns. Is this really the Christmas sermon he had prepared for sleeping on the bare, cold floor. The next Islam? They started to talk about Koran, and a group of Iranian believers who were going morning, Evin interrogation authorities I started to talk about Bible, and we became to meet in a home that evening. The camera brought him to a separate room to ask him friends . . . because we all have one enemy in was still on him. endless questions. They told him he was prison: the Islamic Republic of Iran.” “Do you know why you were arrested?” charged with threatening national security After 105 days in prison, Forootan was the officer behind the camcorder asked him. because of his evangelization activities and released on April 9. He would not speak to “I guess you arrested me for Christianity his work with a Christian ministry. anyone of his prison experience for fear that and my faith in Jesus Christ,” Forootan said. Forootan did not respond to his inter- authorities were watching and would re- The officer turned off the camera and rogators until three weeks into his imprison- arrest him again. His parents had given the asked: “Do you want to come back to Islam?” ment, when a police officer walked into the deed of their house to authorities as bail. “No,” Forootan said. interrogation room with a stack of docu- He and his fiancée decided it was best “We want to take you to a bad place,” the ments from a friend’s laptop. for him to leave Iran and go to Turkey as a officer said. “Do you know anything about “If you continue to be silent, we can keep refugee. For Forootan, this meant an illegal Evin?” you in prison for two, three, four years,” the escape through the mountains, because Forootan’s heart sank at the mention of officer said. “You won’t have a lawyer. We authorities had confiscated his passport. the ill-famed prison, though he tried not to can do anything we want.” When Forootan arrived in Turkey, he show it. “Yes, I know.” That day Forootan wrote his first state- and his fiancée, also a convert to Christian- On Dec. 26, 2010, authorities had arrest- ment, one of many about his life as a Chris- ity, got married. They found a house and ed Forootan in a wave of persecution against tian leader in Iran—trying to guess what his were together for two months before she Iran’s underground church movement. It is interrogators already suspected about him had to return to Norway, where she had estimated that Iranian authorities arrested and his activities as a cell-group leader in Iran. been granted asylum. over 120 Christians in a two-month period. “They are really afraid of cell groups in Forootan said the only thing more diffi- Most of them were released within days, but Iran,” he explained. “They say, ‘If you are cult than leaving his parents in Iran was not Forootan was among a small group who were Christian you can go to a [church] building,’ knowing what his future holds. He hopes not. Without explanation, authorities freed so they can monitor what churches do.” he can join his wife in Norway one day and him on April 9; a few others are still in prison. During one interrogation, an officer start a Christian family of his own in free- At Evin Prison, authorities ordered turned on a camcorder and pointed it toward dom. For now, as he seeks refugee status in Forootan to change into a blue uniform and him. “Tell us about your crime!” he said, Turkey, he said he feels stateless.—Damaris took pictures of him from the front, left, and ordering Forootan to speak into the camera. Kremida (Compass Direct News)

EVANGEL | November 2011 9 HISPANIC MINISTRIES

HE LATINO population in the United States is bursting at the seams. This exponential growth Tis taking place in major cities, suburban communities, and in rural locations in almost every state. The more than 50.5 million Latinos in the United States are for the taking in many ways. The business world is fully aware of their trillion-dollar buying power and is quickly responding to their needs as consumers. Politicians— Democrats and Republicans, conservative and liberals—have taken note of their increasing electoral power and are adjusting their strategies accordingly. The current societal conditions portend a powerful move of God: Reaping the HISPANIC • The Hispanic population is growing at a faster rate than previously anticipated. HARVEST • Hispanics are migrating to the suburbs in increasing numbers. • Hispanics have great financial challenges. • Hispanics are the group with the The Church’s unprecedented opportunity highest increase in Internet use in the United States. to reach Latinos for Christ • Hispanics are showing more receptivity to the evangelical message by Carlos S. Morán than ever before; at the same time, the number saying they have no interest in religion has increased. status, Mexicans are not the dominant Church of God congregations in the Hispanics of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Hispanic origin group in many of the United States. and Cuban origin or descent remain the nation’s metropolitan areas. Among the nation’s three largest Hispanic country- Miami metropolitan area’s 1.5 million Study the Composition of the of-origin groups, according to the 2010 Hispanics, half are Cuban. In the New Latino Harvest U.S. Census. However, while the relative York/northeastern New Jersey metro A great shift in the composition of position of these three groups has area, 29.4 percent of Hispanics are of the Latino community is under way. remained unchanged since 2000, the Puerto Rican origin and 19.7 percent are The formation of the second and third next four Hispanic subgroups grew faster of Dominican origin. In Washington, generation of Latinos in the U.S. is a during the decade. DC, Salvadorans are the largest group, demographic reality and evangelistic Hispanics of Salvadoran origin, the comprising one-third of the area’s challenge. How the Church of God fourth-largest group, has grown 152 Hispanics. responds to this challenge is of eternal percent since 2000. The Dominican The Lord Jesus said: “I tell you, open consequence. population has grown by 85 percent; your eyes and look at the fields! They are 1. In reaching Latinos for Christ, we Guatemalans, 180 percent; Colombians, ripe for harvest” (John 4:35 NIV). Can must know their country of origin and its 93 percent. Meanwhile, the Cuban we Latinos plant more Hispanic churches implications. and Puerto Rican populations have that are multicultural, multiethnic, and 2. We should determine their grown by 44 percent and 36 percent, multilingual? Si se puede—yes, we can! language proficiency and preference— respectively. Despite their first-place Our goal is to plant one thousand new whether Spanish only, English only,

10 EVANGEL | November 2011 or fully functional in two languages Another value is the important role Bob Roberts’ Acts 11 model of en- (bilingual). Language proficiency and emotions play in the everyday lives of gaging society first is a good example. preference affects how Latinos interact Latinos. They are people of the heart (el New churches should be embedded with and how they want to be approached. It corazón)—if something is not heartfelt, it the vision that every congregation must is wrong to assume just because someone is not accepted. Latinos like to understand give birth to another congregation. In the has a Spanish name or surname, or “looks and “feel” preaching and music expressing Latino harvest, lay leaders play a crucial Latino,” that he or she speaks Spanish. compassion and hospitality. role in planting new churches. They have Further, their language in itself should not Personal dignity, or respeto, is another to receive the minimum instruction, be seen as either a hindrance or an asset. value that characterizes Latinos—people guidance, and encouragement they will 3. Latinos have proportionally the should be recognized and treated with need to be effective church planters. largest number of children and young respect even if they are illiterate or poor. While the Church of God Latino people than any other ethnic group. An individual is valuable regardless of work has grown in recent years, we Churches that are multilingual, multiethnic, educational standing, material assets, or are reaching a very small percentage and multigenerational are needed to reach social class. Generally, when Latinos are of the large Latino population living in the Latino harvest. A one-style approach to treated with respect, they respond in like the Unites States. Millions of Latinos reaching Latinos is insufficient. manner. are living without the direction, hope, 4. The composition of the Latino In Latin America, Church of God and peace that can only be experienced harvest fields calls for the development of missionaries from the United States through a personal relationship with effective strategies in evangelism, church who took the time to establish healthy Jesus Christ. Many need churches where planting, church growth, leadership relationships of mutual respect with the they can hear the gospel in Spanish training, and productive partnerships national leaders have been highly regarded only. Other Latinos need churches that between Spanish-speaking regions and and appreciated. We must do our best are multicultural, multilingual, and Anglo state and regional offices. to establish enriching relationships that multigenerational. will open the door for the reaching of the What can we do? What is our re- Know the Values of the Latino harvest. sponsibility? Christ commanded us to Latino Harvest Regarding citizenship, most Latino sow the gospel and make disciples of all The immediate and extended family residents were born in the United States. nations, and planting churches is one of is the main unit in the Latino community, They are the children and grandchildren the most effective ways to do this. Look superseding the church, political organ- of immigrants. Meanwhile, the number at the fields; they are ripe for the harvest. ization, or any other societal group. of foreign-born Latinos becoming citizens Let us pray to the Lord of the harvest to Latinos usually think and act as family is increasing. give us understanding, strength, and unit. In reaching them, this under- The undocumented Latinos are very passion to reach the Latinos at our door- standing can be either an obstacle or a receptive to the gospel. They left their step for His honor and glory. benefit. own countries because of persecution, If we try to reach a member of the poverty, or other social conditions. family, the family ties and pressure make Gaining the freedom to attend the church Carlos S. Morán, Ed.D. (coghmcsm@ it very difficult for that person to make of their choice and create friendships gmail.com) is international director of a decision for Christ independent of the with other Christians, many find Christ. Church of God Hispanic Ministries. entire family. However, a whole family Churches providing practical ministries may come to Christ when the elder or such as food distribution, health clinics, Resources for this article: most influential member of the family is and computer classes provide a friendship —The Hispanic (Latino) Market in the won first. bridge through which the gospel can be U.S.A.: Generational View, 7th edition Next to family ties, friendship net- communicated. When the immigration —21st Century Hispanic Realities; Daniel R. works occupy the most important place issue is resolved by the federal govern- Sanchez and Bobby Sena in social relationships. Families and ment, congregations that provide English —U.S. Hispanic Country of Origin Counts friends celebrate the special times in their courses and citizenship classes will be in a for Nation; The Pew Hispanic Center lives, such as quinceañeras (celebrating a strategic position to reach large numbers —A Future for the Latino Church; Daniel 15-year-old girl’s transition into young of Latinos for Christ. Rodriguez womanhood), birthdays, anniversaries, —The Hispanic Challenge: Opportunities holidays, baptisms, and so on. Engaging the Latino Harvest Confronting the Church; Manuel Ortiz These social relationships can become a Many Latino communities will not —The Great Commission Connection; bridge through which the gospel message is be reached without new churches. There Pérsida Morán communicated or a barrier that discourages are a variety of approaches to engage —The Multiplying Church; Bob Roberts Jr. a Latino person from responding to the the Latino harvest and plant healthy —Empowering Hispanic Leaders; Victor gospel and joining our churches. churches. Cuartas

EVANGEL | November 2011 11 HISPANIC MINISTRIES

Casa Hogar in Providing HOPE Poza Rica, Mexico by Tony P. Lane Through a HOME LIAS AND TERESA HERRERA have gone beyond the four walls Girls dormitory and four children in their own Ehome to obey God’s call to take hope to forgotten children in southeast- ern Mexico. Elias understands the street. At age 19, he was a drug addict and dealer. At a Christian conference, he heard the Word of God and accepted Christ. He cried for two hours as his heart was pierced by the claims of Christ. After attending a Bible institute, Elias started a pioneer missionary work in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico, planting church- es among the unreached Chinanteco tribe. His life was threatened and one of his coworkers was murdered. Due to poor living conditions among the people he There God exposed Elias and Teresa to the Though difficult to house children in was endeavoring to reach, his health suf- great need. They began to take clothing such small quarters, they persevered. The fered. Yet he persevered. and food to the kids. One 12-year-old girl children lived in two Sunday school class- God blessed, and additional churches had given birth to a baby and was raising rooms from 1992 until 1998. Then God in unreached tribal areas were started as her child under the bridge. began to reveal His plan. As the Herreras the result of his obedience and sacrifice. As the Herreras developed relation- and the children prayed, God provided. For 20 years, Elias and Teresa served the ships with the children, the children’s The Lord led them to property which Lord on the mission field. great needs became their call from God. was purchased with the assistance of In 1989, the Herreras accepted a call The Herreras opened their home, the many groups, including single adults in to pastor the Iglesia de Dios (Church of church parsonage, to give the children the Church of God, under the coordina- God) in Poza Rica. There they founded a place to live. There the children heard tion of the International Youth and a new mission—the Casa Hogar Alfa y about Christ, experienced godly love, and Discipleship Department. Plans were com- Omega Orphanage. were nurtured. pleted and the first phase begun. Here is Poza Rica, a city in the state of Vera- the ongoing development to this point: cruz, is known for its oil refineries. Many Elias and • 1999—first dormitory built men leave their families behind to work Teresa Herrera • 2001—director’s house completed, there, and often engage in prostitution. electricity installed, and road paved This has resulted in many unwanted chil- • 2003—girls’ dormitory completed dren being left on the streets. They live by • 2005—school building completed; begging and stealing, sleeping anywhere classes begun they can. They try to escape their real- • 2005—prayer tower dedicated ity by inhaling paint thinner and taking • 2007—apartment added for orphan- cheap drugs. age workers Many of the children chose the land • 2010—completion of living quarters beneath a bridge as their temporary home. for little boys

12 EVANGEL | November 2011 The Herreras have walked by faith since the ministry began. During the early years, they stretched their pastoral salary to meet the basic needs of their own chil- dren as well as the children they received. Often, they all shared beans or just the broth from the beans. But they have never complained and have continued to see God’s provision through the Church of God family. The greatest need for some time has been a dining hall. The present kitchen is not enclosed, so bugs and rodents are a constant problem for any food stored there. Also, because of the number of chil- dren, there is no place for everyone to eat together at one time. In June 2011, the Herreras broke ground on a multipurpose building which will house a new kitchen, dining hall, and chapel. This is being started by Children praying for provision for new building faith that God will provide the means to finish it. Since 1999, the Youth and Disciple- Sunday school classes, children’s minis- in the nearby trash dump, where the ship Department has coordinated mis- tries, and churches can sponsor children orphanage’s children and staff minister sions trips to the orphanage two or three on a monthly basis to help meet their regularly. times per year, taking teams to minister basic needs. The Herreras’ son and his wife and work. Hundreds of individuals have Each January, we travel to Poza Rica have been called to direct the New Life joined these teams. We have also set up to share Christmas gifts with the children Orphanage in Nogales, Mexico, which a sponsorship program whereby families, and staff, as well as with families living opened this fall. It was part of the 2010 YWEA project. Their daughter and her husband, Omar Galvan, are serving as the Church of God youth and discipleship director for Mexico. I first visited Casa Hogar in 1999. Little did I realize that it would not be just a one-time venture. Attending as a rep- resentative for children’s ministry in the Church of God, I observed firsthand the Herreras’ God-given passion for children in need. The story was incredible and the faith exercised to follow God’s call was even more amazing. What touched my heart then continues to stir me 12 years later. So many children have been served by this ministry—lives are being changed for eternity.

Tony P. Lane ([email protected]) Staff and residents is coordinator of discipleship and children’s of Casa Hogar ministries for the International Youth and Discipleship Department.

EVANGEL | November 2011 13 HISPANIC MINISTRIES ‘The FIREWALL of RIGHTEOUSNESS and JUSTICE’ Samuel Rodriguez’s Perspective on Hispanic Christianity

AS PRESIDENT of the National Hispanic push back against the divorce rate in the very powerful when we see many Anglo Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC), Spanish-American community. churches declining in membership, while Samuel Rodriguez is the most prominent • We prioritize fulfilling the Great in many of our denominations we see the spokesperson for the Hispanic evangelical Commission by preaching the good news. Hispanic church booming. The Hispanic movement. The Evangel interviewed Rodri- As a Hispanic-American church, we still church may well be the salvation of Amer- guez shortly before he spoke at the Church of believe there is power in the name of ican Evangelicalism. God National Hispanic Congress in August. Jesus. We still believe Jesus is not a way, Second, the Hispanic community is but the only way. We are committed to committed to both the vertical and hori- Tell us about your ministerial back- making sure the Hispanic-American com- zontal elements of the Christian cross. ground. munity emerges with a biblical worldview. We are both sanctification and service, My mom grew up in the Church • Education, justice, stewardship, and both righteousness and justice, both cov- of God in Puerto Rico. I’ve ministered youth—these are the other four items that enant and community. We’re both John throughout my youth career and evan- make up what we call our seven directives. 3:16 and Matthew 25. Historically, white gelism career in many Church of God We have 57 denominational mem- Evangelicals and white Pentecostals have churches, conventions, and conferences. bers, 48 other membership organizations, focused on vertical issues, and African- I became a certified Assemblies of God and about 15 universities and schools. Americans have focused on horizontal minister when I was 16 years old, and issues such as social justice and education. sought my ordination when I was 23. What does the Anglo church need to The Hispanics say, “It’s not either or; it’s understand about Hispanics? both.” The strongest part of the cross Describe the organization that you First, understand that the Hispanic- is where the vertical and the horizontal lead. American community in the 21st century intersect—the nexus, the point of con- The NHCLC started in 1992 through will emerge as the firewall of righteous- vergence. It is not the political center but the leadership of Dr. Jesse Miranda. It ness and justice in America. That is not the prophetic center, and that’s where is the Hispanic National Association some kind of Pollyanic presumptuous we want to fit as a community—where of Evangelicals in essence, armed with rhetoric; it’s a statement based on demo- righteousness meets justice and where the 34,218 churches and about 18 million graphics and research. Out of 50 million fishes meet the bread . . . where John 3:16 constituents. We have seven priorities: Hispanic-Americans, according to the marries Matthew 25. • We have the priority of life. We 2010 census, approximately 18 million At the end of the day, the vertical does defend life in and out of the womb in the identify themselves as Evangelical; 30 trump the horizontal issues. So, when we Hispanic-American community. million are Roman Catholic. see other communities focusing only on • Families are our second directive. Among the Evangelicals, 86 percent horizontal issues—poverty, education, We have been very busy legislatively are Pentecostal. Among the Catholics, 52 and health care—we believe that salvation with state constitutional amendments percent are Charismatic. In other words, through Christ is the most important issue. defending biblical marriage. In addition, the majority of Hispanics in America The vertical cross alone will still stand, but we tackle the issue of pornography and are Charismatic or Pentecostal. That’s the horizontal will fall on its face.

14 EVANGEL | November 2011 Do you see your church as a micro- cosm of what is happening nationally? I do. The future of American Evan- gelicalism and the future of the American Pentecostal church is multiethnic. It needs to stay biblical in orthodoxy; we cannot dilute the gospel. We’re living in a time of moral relativism, of cultural deca- dence, of spiritual apathy. We’re living in the time of a lukewarm church in many areas and regions. We need to rise up with biblical truth. It has to be multiethnic because America is changing demographically. We also need to be multigenerationally inclined. We have to reach out to Abra- ham, Isaac, and Jacob, and even Joseph if at all possible—three or four generations worshiping God in a single church. That will be powerful. My daughter is 19 years of age. She wants a cause that is greater than herself, and she is passionate for Christ. Let’s give Samuel Rodriguez her that. Let’s give her a cause under the canopy of Christ where she can serve com- “THE HISPANIC COMMUNITY IS COMMITTED TO BOTH THE VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL ELEMENTS OF THE CHRISTIAN CROSS.”

What do you see happening in the great outpouring of the power of God. I munity for the purpose of fulfilling the Church of God among Hispanics? was on the plane and doing my notes for Great Commission. What are the encouraging signs? a forthcoming conference when I heard We are seeing the emergence of some from God in my spirit. I tested it, making National elections are coming next incredible, vibrant Hispanic churches such sure it was not anything emotionally or year. What potential influence do as Abundant Life Church of God (San internally driven—making sure it was Hispanic Evangelicals have? Antonio, Texas) and New Life Church of God. I received a number of definitive The Hispanic evangelical voters may God (Tucson, Arizona) that are taking confirmations that I could not deny. I very well be the quintessential swing vot- the strong biblical message of salvation heard God say, “I want you to start a ers and the deal-making voters in states through Christ and the empowering of work here that is multiethnic and King- like Florida, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexi- the Holy Spirit to the next generation. I dom-cultural, not multicultural.” I also co, and Pennsylvania. see the Hispanic Church of God move- heard God say, “Bring them together, but We as a [Christian] community will ment as catalytic, with the potential do not quench My Spirit. Let my Spirit not in any way, form, or shape marry the of being the leading movement in the move freely.” agenda of the donkey or marry the agenda Hispanic-American faith community. We started the church in September of the elephant. We’re only sold out to the of last year, and it’s a pretty fast-growing agenda of the Lamb—our agenda is the Tell us about the church you started church. We give God the glory, knowing agenda of Jesus Christ. We are pro-life, in Sacramento, California, in 2010. it’s all Him. We’re seeing African-Ameri- pro biblical marriage, pro limited govern- I was speaking at a conference with cans, Hispanics, Anglos, and Asians come ment, pro religious liberty, and pro Judeo- Bishop T. D. Jakes, where there was a together worshiping Christ. We’re excited. Christian values.

EVANGEL | November 2011 15 HISPANIC MINISTRIES

Y HUSBAND, Ignacio R. Macias, was born in Gua- Ignacio and dalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Irma Macias Mand came to Michigan in 1959 on a student visa. The first week after arriving in Michigan, he was invited to a Hispanic Church of God service where he accepted the Lord and started reading the Bible fervently. He continued studying the Bible through Church of God correspondence courses, and in 1961 we were married. The next year, Ignacio accepted the Lord’s call into ministry. We began our first pastorate in 1964 at the Hispanic Church of God in Lansing, Michigan. Five years later, we accepted a pastorate in Toledo, Ohio. During our five years in Toledo, my husband served as district overseer and established five new churches. During the summers, he preached in migrant camps and invited the workers to come to church on Sunday. Many came, and some families found permanent work in Toledo so their children could continue to Diary of an by Irma Macias EVANGELIST’S WIFE “I often wondered if my husband’s evangelizing was worth his absence from home.” be involved in our youth ministry. These meeting in the cellar of a Church of God building program. This time I obeyed his families are still there; some of their sons building. Within a month, we outgrew the calling, not really knowing what I was and daughters attended Lee University cellar and moved into a storefront; but getting into. We left the Fresno church in and now have successful careers. within another month, we outgrew that good hands with a new pastor and, in July In 1973, during a time of prayer and building and he started searching the city 1975, moved to San Antonio, Texas, from fasting, my husband felt the call to evan- for a larger place. where Ignacio would travel back and forth gelize in Mexico. This frightened me since Ignacio found an Armenian congrega- to Mexico. we had three small children; instead, I tion that was willing to let us use their In those days, the telephone service in talked him into going to West Coast Bible lovely facility in exchange for the upkeep Mexico was not user-friendly, to say the College in Fresno, California, for further of the church lawn. This church had a seat- least. To contact us, my husband would education. ing capacity of more than 300, yet within have to find a public phone, and if our line There was no Spanish-speaking three months, this facility was also full! was busy, his call would not get through, Church of God congregation in Fresno After much prayer, my husband again for there was no “call waiting.” He had to at that time, and after six months, my felt the call to evangelism in Mexico and try again whenever he was in a city with husband felt led of the Lord to start one. decided to leave the church before it was a public phone service, which sometimes We began with three Hispanic families time to move the congregation into a was days or weeks later.

16 EVANGEL | November 2011 Our sons were 8, 10, and 12 years old speak with Brother Macias to ask I thank God for evangelist Ignacio when he started evangelizing in Mexico, him what had happened to her. He Macias accepting the Lord’s call to and they were not used to having their explained the plan of salvation and preach the gospel, because it was the baptism in the Holy Spirit, and through his obedience that the father gone for so long. Those were very suggested she attend the Church of Andrade family’s destiny was changed hard years, and I often wondered if his God in Nogales, which she did with forever. evangelizing was worth his absence from her whole family. home. Difficult situations happen when It has been nearly 30 years since As soon as Brother Andrade started the head of the family is gone: the furnace that revival. My mother has held on speaking to me, the floodgates opened breaks down on the coldest night of winter; firmly to the biblical principles and is and I started crying uncontrollably. It the car quits and there is no money to fix still persevering in the Lord’s ways. was as if the Lord himself was telling me Since that time, we have seen God’s that nothing that we do for Him is in vain it; a son breaks his leg on a church roller- grace in her life; first, by bringing skating trip (we had no medical insurance, or goes unnoticed—even the sacrifices her husband, Ernesto, to Christ. He of daily living without the head of the but the church did!). Driving three boys exchanged a can of beer for a hymn to various sports activities, music lessons, book, dedicating the majority of his family in the home. Besides the Andrade tutoring sessions, and church activities time to music ministry in the church. family testimony, there are many more was unending and often stressful. His music ministry has taken him to testimonies we have heard over the years. several states in Mexico, and to the I do not regret having obeyed the Lord’s When the boys’ teenage years arrived southwestern United States. calling on my husband’s life by staying at and they started driving, there were Ernesto’s parents have eight chil- home with the family so he could evange- fender benders but no serious accidents, dren, and three have served as pas- lize in Mexico. thank the Lord. We still had to try to pay tors in the Church of God. A brother, After serving the Lord for 50 years, for the repairs so the insurance company Hector Andrade, currently serves as Romans 8:28—“All things work together would not drop us . . . which they finally a teacher for a Church of God Bible for good . . . to those who are the called did anyway. school. For 10 years, I have served as a pastor, district overseer, Bible school according to His purpose” (NKJV)—is My husband was always sure to be director, and camp director. The third very real to me. home for the Christmas holidays, but generation of Andrades are serving the was seldom home for birthdays or school Lord as musicians in different congre- activities. For 12 years, he evangelized all gations in the Phoenix, Arizona, area. Irma J. Macias lives in San Antonio, Texas. over Mexico by conducting revivals and preaching on radio stations. He was often gone for weeks at a time—sometimes for New Music for Hispanic Churches three or four months. Those years were ANOINTED PRAISE Music and Pathway Press have collaborated to provide a wonderful emotionally draining for me, and there new Spanish worship project, Anointed Praise Espanol. It contains exciting, fresh, and easy-to- were times I felt I could not continue sing music. The collection includes upbeat and inspiring praise songs as well as slower worship being mother and father. songs that will help Spanish-speaking and bilingual congregations glorify the Lord. In August 2009, at the end of the Worship leaders can teach their congregation these new songs in a short time. They were Church of God Hispanic Congress in written and recorded by worship leaders who know what it means to flow with the Holy Spirit. Oakland, California, the Lord sent Martin Call 800-553-8506 to order. Ask for the Evangel special price of $15 for the book and CD Andrade, pastor in Fresno, to speak to me. (listening pack), or $35 for the book, CD, and split-track (performance pack). He was sent to tell me, not my husband, Thanks goes to Jay and Ben Garcia along with Greg Saez for their help in making this the testimony of his mother’s salvation project possible.—Steve Holder that affected his whole family: Thirty years ago, Brother Macias came to Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, and rented the coliseum for a revival. The coliseum was full the night my moth- er, Mrs. Antonia Duarte de Andrade, came forward for prayer. She received her salvation and was baptized with the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues that night. She had never read the Bible before then, but the Lord in His sovereignty was marking the beginning of a new jour- Ben Garcia, Steve Holder, Jay Garcia ney of faith for her and her family. After the service, she waited to

EVANGEL | November 2011 17 HISPANIC MINISTRIES Walking in the SPIRIT on the STREETS Embracing a Hispanic Community by Abel Cuen WAS A businessman for a custom- the guy.” I was surprised. The Lord had they go to school. They have iPods and doors factory in Tucson, Arizona, everything prepared for every step of iPhones. At home, they have computers when the Lord called me into the the way. That’s how we started leading and television. However, sometimes our I ministry. For six months, my wife, the Woodward Avenue Church of God Hispanic churches are like a time machine, Gabriella, and I prayed every day at 5 Hispanic Ministries. Five years later, we going back 50 years. o’clock in the morning because the Lord are pastoring a church that is heavily So, our church is investing in technol- told us we were going to be part of a involved in the community. ogy and in young people. Because His- group of people who would take the His- panics are family-oriented, we have good panic Church of God to the next level for Pastoral Challenges connection with our youth. The problem the next generation. As a Hispanic pastor in the United is keeping them when they are 18 years or We did not understand. We had never States, my challenge starts with my older because of technology, language, and been pastors, although we had been in kids—Amy, 17, and Alphonso, 15. They cultural issues. the Church of God all of our lives. One are Americans who speak Spanish, but Another matter is how to integrate day, Brother Fidencio Burgueno (then the they also speak English. They have the Hispanics into the American church. I overseer of the Southwest Hispanic Region) Hispanic heritage, but they also are thank God for putting me under the lead- told us about an opening at the Oasis part of the American culture. Every day ership of Pastor Clifford Waters. He has a Retreat Center. Somebody was needed to clean the bathrooms and wash the Abel and dishes for weekend retreats, and we sold Gabriella everything to make that step of faith. We Cuen worked there for a year in the middle of the desert near Palm Springs, California. For those 12 months, we had the opportunity to be by ourselves, pray- ing at night, just looking at the stars. It sounds kind of romantic, but it was that way. That’s how the Lord prepared us spiritually. We were ready to go and do anything for Him. In November 2006, the Lord brought us to Cleveland, Tennessee, to attend the Pentecostal Theological Seminary. Three months later, Brother Fidencio (then serving as Hispanic Ministries director) told me, “There is an Anglo Church in Athens (30 miles from Cleveland) that is looking for a pastor for the Hispanic min- istry. Would you be interested?” When I showed up for the interview, Pastor Clifford Waters told me, “You’re

18 EVANGEL | November 2011 heart for Hispanics. He understands the bilingual secretary—Deanna Cordova. She challenge we have as a church. is doing an awesome job. Because our congregation is part of We have Spanish-language chaplaincy- the Woodward Avenue Church of God, training seminars taking place all around I do not have to worry about paying the the nation. As a pastor, I schedule my An Ever-Expanding utility bill and paying rent at the end of traveling around the country between Ministry the month. Instead, I can concentrate on Wednesday and Sunday because, even working in the school district and doing though we are still a small church, I want THE CENTER for Hispanic Adults chaplaincy ministry, which makes a big to be there. Receiving Community Support is one of impact in the community. I recently came back from Chicago, the chaplaincy outreaches that Pastor where the Hispanic chaplaincy ministry is Community Ministry Abel Cuen has developed for the Athens, under the coordination of Alberto Arias. Tennessee, community. It offers various Because of my involvement in the He is doing a great job. Since the last Gen- levels of education, counsel, and crisis McMinn County schools as a community eral Assembly, we have 250 new Hispanic intervention to the Hispanic community service chaplain, one day I received a call chaplains in Chicago doing all kinds of and beyond. about a student named Noah. He was going work. It is amazing. Also, several chaplains from the to be expelled because he had 25 absences Hispanics who want to get involved in Woodward Avenue Church have been without justification, along with many chaplaincy have to understand things are installed into the pastoral-care services other problems. His mother, who does not different in the U.S. than in their country at the Athens Regional Medical Center. speak English, did not know about all this. of origin. In my home country of Mexico, Others serve as chaplains in McMinn Finally, this situation reached court, where I for example, ministers can go into the County schools. was asked to be the interpreter. hospital freely, but not in the United Meanwhile, the church is operating After the hearing, the mother asked to States. That’s where chaplaincy training a crisis hotline for the community, with speak with me. Noah did not have a father comes along. community-service chaplains serving at home. I began meeting with this young Chaplaincy ministry starts with the as the mainstay, fielding calls from the man and his family, and in three months, pastor. After the pastor becomes a certi- distressed, impoverished, suicidal, and they started attending our church. They fied community service chaplain, he can battered. were born again! start his own chaplaincy chapter in his This church’s chaplaincy ministry The older sister is now working in the church. extends far beyond their local com- media ministry. The youngest child is Individuals can have a very effective munity. Immediately following the heavily involved, and the mother is there. ministry in hospitals, jails, schools, and devastating tornadoes which struck Noah is singing in the choir. His school- private industries when they are trained, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, in April, Chaplain teachers are saying a lot of good things certified, and recognized as chaplains. If Cuen took 25 chaplains to do counsel- about him. He is making good grades. you want to know the social needs in the ing and hands-on ministry, where they This did not begin at the church, but at Hispanic community, get involved with the served for three days. One man they the courthouse. schools, because that is where the kids are. helped told Pasor Cuen that his opinion We need ministers to stop being the It’s a gold mine! I believe every pastor in of Hispanics changed as a result of their pastor of the church and start being the the Church of God needs to be a chaplain. labor of love. pastor of the community. We need to Shortly after this outreach, a smaller walk in the Holy Spirit on the streets of A Willing Spirit group traveled to tornado-devasted our city. In Athens, we are developing a I wish I had better preparation as a Joplin, Missouri, to assist the homeless, mentoring program for Hispanic kids with pastor and a leader, and I know the Lord is injured, and traumatized.—Jake Popejoy no father figure. going to give me that opportunity some- day. So, I use myself as an encouragement National Chaplaincy for others: Don’t look at whether you’re When the Church of God Chaplains ready or not; just be willing, and the Lord Commission was looking for a Hispanic is going to help you with the rest. coordinator, I showed up at the office to meet with Brother Jack Popejoy. He had a lot of well-qualified applicants from every- Abel Cuen is pastor of the Hispanic con- where (even outside the U.S.), yet once gregation of the Woodward Avenue Church again I heard, “You’re the man.” of God in Athens, Tennessee, and Hispanic This position began in 2010, and now coordinator for the Church of God Chaplains School chaplains in Athens, Tennessee the Chaplains Commission also has a Commission.

EVANGEL | November 2011 19 HISPANIC MINISTRIES GOD, the BIBLE, and IMMIGRATION by Miguel A. Vega

HE THEME of immigration Pharaoh. Moses’ goal, in his various inter- to eternal punishment, but the righ- permeates the pages of Holy actions with the Egyptian ruler, was to teous to eternal life” (vv. 40, 45-46). Scripture. Although a “theol- teach the Pharaoh that “the earth is the The Old Testament Shows T ogy of immigration” has not Lord’s” (Ex. 9:29).* Therefore, even in Immigrants Should Receive been developed by Christian authors, this Egypt where Pharaoh reigned, God would Just and Humane Treatment is not due to a lack of biblical material. not tolerate subhuman policies carried Jews and Christians alike consider Sadly, this absence of Christian thinking out against immigrants. Abraham to be the founder or “father” of on immigration reflects our prejudices. The affirmation that “the earth is the their religions. God established a special Nevertheless, it points out the need for us Lord’s” also made ethical demands on covenant with Abraham in which all of the to do our homework and return to God’s Jews. Far from being pampered as God’s nations of the earth would be blessed in Word to find just responses to the chal- holy people, they had to meet a higher him (Gen. 12:2-3). lenges of immigration. code of ethics. Precisely because “the earth This “transnational blessing”—the is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the humane and benevolent treatment by God Is the Absolute Owner of world, and all who live in it,” only those foreigners toward Abraham—is the pre- the Earth who have “clean hands and a pure heart” requisite for receiving God’s blessing. In As the Creator of all things, God is will see God’s salvation” (Ps. 24:1, 4). fact, Abraham is the perfect paradigm of also the “owner” of everything. God plac- an immigrant. He immigrated from his es men and women on earth to take care Every Human Being Has an Intrinsic Dignity homeland of Haran. After passing through of His creation. All people have the calling the land of the Canaanites, he lived as a to represent God on earth as stewards Humanity is the apex of Creation foreigner in the land of Egypt. He was or administrators, and we will all give an because we have been created according treated well by the Pharaoh in spite of account of our stewardship to God. to the image and likeness of God himself lying to him concerning his wife, Sarah, in Therefore, biblical teaching does not (Gen. 1:26). An image of God is borne an attempt to protect his own life. totally agree with an extreme form of capi- by every human being—male or female; Nevertheless, he did not learn his talism where the individual is the absolute brown, black, or white; rich or poor; old or lesson and repeated the same lie to King owner of “private property,” nor with an young. Consequently, every human being Abimelech in Gerar. Again he was forgiven extreme form of socialism where the state has an intrinsic dignity and is worth more and treated well. Both kings received is the absolute owner. Within both “isms,” than all the possessions in the world. God’s blessing because they went beyond humanity—both individually and collec- Actions directed toward a human a narrow definition of justice in their tively—is called to use the earth accord- being are directed toward God himself treatment of Abraham and extended ing to divine principles. Because God is (Job 31:13-15; Prov. 14:31; James 3:9- mercy to him. the true owner of everything and He has 10). The clearest example of this ethical Years later, a famine spread throughout shared His creation with us, possessions principle is found in Matthew 25:31-46, the land. The descendants of Abraham under our stewardship should be wisely where Jesus identifies with the hungry, immigrated to Egypt. The Pharaoh received and generously shared with those in need. the thirsty, the stranger (immigrant), the them with open arms through Joseph: The affirmation that God is the owner naked, the sick, and the imprisoned: of the earth was frequently repeated in “The land of Egypt is before you; “‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for settle your father and your brothers the Hebrew Scriptures with important one of the least of these brothers and in the best part of the land. Let them ethical demands for Jews and Gentiles sisters of mine, you did for me. . . . live in Goshen. And if you know of alike. During their last years as “immi- Truly I tell you, whatever you did not any among them with special ability, grants” in Egypt, the Hebrews suffered do for one of the least of these, you did put them in charge of my own live- greatly under the unjust policies of the not do for me.’ Then they will go away stock” (Gen. 47:6).

20 EVANGEL | November 2011 Such generous hospitality from the The Bible recognizes that immigrants, Something similar happens today. Egyptians became part of the expectations along with orphans and widows, are fre- Many countries in the “global North” are for the people of God. The Hebrews were quently the victims of various types of willing to provide visas for talented and forbidden to mistreat or oppress foreigners oppression. For this reason, God is the highly educated foreigners (athletes, med- precisely because they themselves had lived defender of foreigners and demands that ical and business professionals, the rich, as foreigners in Egypt (Ex. 22:21; 23:9). they receive the same treatment as citi- etc.) but not for poor or illiterate foreign- The loving hospitality showered on zens (Ps. 146:9). ers. Although these policies that encour- Joseph and his family did not continue King David provides us with another age “brain drain” are understandable, they throughout the generations. The numeri- pertinent example of unjust treatment undermine the truth that all people are cal growth of the Hebrews came to be of foreigners. He had sexual relations created in God’s image and worthy of pro- interpreted as a threat to the Egyptians with Bathsheba, the wife of the Hittite found respect. (just as the numerical growth of Hispan- Uriah. When she became pregnant, David The Book of Ruth cannot be properly ics in the U.S. is sometimes interpreted as tried to hide his sin, finally giving orders understood without an awareness of Jew- a danger). This led to the Exodus. As the for Uriah to be killed so he could keep ish legislation in favor of immigrants. Hebrews left Egypt, many people from Bathsheba for himself. David was willing Elimelech, a Jew, had immigrated to other races (“a mixed multitude” NKJV) to cause the death of one foreigner so he Moab with his family when a famine joined them (12:38). could obtain another foreigner (Bathshe- occurred in Israel. His two sons each mar- These new immigrants were allowed ba) who was more valuable to him. ried a Moabite woman. to join the people of God with all of the David did not literally kill Uriah, but he All three men died. Ruth, one of the corresponding privileges and responsibili- did order Uriah to be left alone on the front daughters-in-law, insisted upon living ties. In fact, every foreigner who desired line in order to be killed by the enemy army. with and providing for her mother-in-law, to become part of the Jewish people This is a clear example of structural sin. God Naomi. Ruth immigrated to Bethlehem would receive the same treatment under held David responsible for using structures because she promised Naomi, “Where you the Law. (Lev. 24:22). to implement his sin (2 Sam. 11). go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16). In order to support herself, and her mother-in-law, Ruth began to harvest the barley grains in the fields. During this process she met Boaz, they married, and formed part of the messianic genealogy of Jesus (Matt. 1:5). The immigration legislation that forms the vital background for the Book of Ruth is found in Leviticus 19:9-10 and 23:22. Based on the truth that God is the owner of the whole earth, Moses had implement- ed the following legislation: “When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Do not go over your vineyard a second time or pick up the grapes that have fallen. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the Lord your God” (Lev. 19:9-10). If the Book of Ruth defends the rights of foreigners in Israel, the Book of Esther demonstrates the rights of Jews living in foreign lands. Jews were living in Per- sia, exiled and far from their homeland. When the Persian king Xerxes deposed his wife from the throne, he sponsored a kind of “Miss Persia” contest in which

EVANGEL | November 2011 21 HISPANIC MINISTRIES

beautiful young women from throughout But, since Jesus said what we do unto “the seed of the gospel to the four corners of the empire participated. A Jewish woman, least” of people we do unto Him (Matt. the Empire (ch. 18). Esther, won the competition and became 25:40), it stands to reason that we make The missionary work of the apostle the new queen. room for Jesus in our hearts by making Paul would not have reached as far as it Haman, one of the king’s cabinet room for immigrants in our nation. did if he had not possessed the freedom members, successfully maneuvered One of the few episodes of the infancy to travel as a Roman citizen. (If Paul lived Xerxes to issue a decree to “annihilate all of Jesus narrated in Scripture portrays today, he likely would have had trouble the Jews” (Est. 3:8-13). Esther had the Jesus as an international, political refugee. getting visas approved and crossing courage to place her own life at risk to intercede on behalf of the Jewish people. “WE AS CHRISTIANS TODAY ARE She succeeded, the decree was annulled, and in this way the Jewish immigrants ALSO ‘FOREIGNERS AND STRANGERS’ obtained legal protection for their lives. The prophetic ministry of Amos is NO MATTER WHERE WE LIVE ON relevant for our contemporary discussion of immigration. He begins his prophetic THIS EARTH, AND WE ARE CALLED denunciations by describing the sins of the countries that surrounded Judah TO REACH OUT TO PEOPLE FROM and Israel. Although God judges His own OTHER PLACES WHO LIVE WITHIN people with higher ethical criteria, the Lord requires all nations to live according OUR NATION’S BORDERS.” to basic moral standards of human inter- action. In particular, the sins of Gaza, In order to escape the infanticide ordered fenced borders, thus slowing the spread of Tyre, Edom, and Ammon dealt with the by King Herod, Jesus was taken by His the gospel.) oppression of immigrants (see Amos 1). parents to Egypt (again the country of hos- In his first epistle, Peter recommended Their unjust pitality). Jesus the Asian was well received Christians to consider themselves as treatment in the African continent when His life was “foreigners and exiles”—people without a of foreign- in danger. country—who had become the people of ers received a Although many immigrants migrate God (2:9-11). severe denun- for economic reasons, some do so under The author of the Epistle to the Subscribe to the ciation by the direct circumstances when their lives are Hebrews said the heroes of the faith Evangel by calling prophet. at stake. For example, during the 1980s, recognized they were “foreigners and 800-553-8506. The mod- many Central Americans came to the strangers on earth” who longed for a bet- ern world is United States to escape the dangers of ter country—a heavenly one (11:13-16). complex with many institutions (gov- civil war in their own countries. God was not ashamed to call these people ernmental, business, religious, etc.) that One of the best-known conversations His own, and He prepared a special place mediate actions between individuals. that Jesus had took place with a Samari- for them. These institutions are not morally neutral. tan woman (John 4). The Samaritans and We as Christians today are also “for- They also are evaluated according to God’s the Jews did not normally have dealings eigners and strangers” no matter where ethical principles. They may be structures with each other. Nevertheless, Jesus pur- we live on this earth, and we are called of virtue and blessing, or perhaps they are posefully led His disciples into Samaria in to reach out to people from other places conduits of structural sin and injustice. order to challenge the political and racial who live within our nation’s borders. Just In the world in which Amos lived, human barriers that divided the two groups. He as believers in Bible times placed their institutions came under divine scrutiny. affirmed that people from all nations earthly possessions in God’s hands to be would be received by God if they wor- shared with their neighbors, we are called The New Testament Shows shiped Him in Spirit and truth. to follow their example. Immigrants Should Receive The gospel rapidly expanded through- Just and Humane Treatment out the Roman Empire, largely due to *Unless otherwise noted, scriptures are from The story of the birth of Jesus says great immigration movements. The gos- the New International Version. there was no room in the inn for Mary pel spread out past Jerusalem due to the and Joseph. Christmas sermons today persecution that took place there (Acts frequently chide the residents of Bethle- 8:4). Later, Priscilla and Aquila, together Miguel A. Vega is administrative bishop hem for their inhospitality and then urge with many Jewish Christians, were forced of the East-Central Hispanic Region of the us to make room for Jesus in our hearts. to abandon Rome, but they carried the Church of God.

22 EVANGEL | November 2011 day by rescuing children from the streets and the gates of hell, and offering them a Doing What Isn’t Easy in haven of rest and restoration. It is a place where God’s love, acceptance, hope and patience reign—a place where although things aren’t easy, they are not impos- sible! We do everything in God’s name NOGALES and for His glory. by Yvette Santana What are you doing that is not easy? What are you doing to fulfill the com- S WITH MANY TOWNS in In verse 15, the disciples told Jesus it mand to clothe, feed, and visit? I challenge Mexico that border the United was getting late and He had better wind you to get uncomfortable, roll up your States, the amount of people things down and send the crowd away sleeves, and allow the Holy Spirit to quick- A crowding against you in so they could find something to eat. But en you to do something that is not easy! Nogales to attempt to sell you something Jesus replied, “They do not need to go If you would like to partner with us (anything) is overwhelming. The despera- away. You give them something to eat” (v. and help fulfill Matthew 25 for the chil- tion in their eyes lingers in your heart 16 NIV). Wow! dren of Nogales, please lift up the New Life long after you’ve crossed the border and How easy it was for the disciples to ask Home for Children in prayer. If you would returned to everyday life. to send them away. How easy it is for me, like to make a tax-deductible donation, My husband was waiting to cross at and perhaps for you, to avoid eye contact. you can do so via Church of God World the border of Nogales, Sonora, into the How easy to change the channel when Missions, P.O. Box 8016, Cleveland, TN United States five years ago when God that commercial comes on with babies 37320; project number 102-7079 (New birthed the New Life Home for Children whose bellies are bloated and who are cov- Life Home for Children). into his heart. There he saw children ered in flies. If I’ve learned anything in my selling food, candy, musical instru- walk with God, it is that He hasn’t called ments, blankets, and any other number us to do easy things. Matthew 25:34-40 Yvette Santana and her husband, Samuel, of souvenir items. The scene broke his tells us we are called to feed the hungry, serve the Southwestern Hispanic Region of heart. Not only were these children not give water to the thirsty, clothe the naked, the Church of God, where he is the adminis- in school, they were living on the street. and visit the sick and imprisoned. trative bishop and she is director of women’s My husband felt terrible about what he At the New Life Home for Children in discipleship. They reside in California with was witnessing. He wondered where they Nogales, we are living Matthew 25 every their two sons, Sam and David. slept . . . what they ate . . . and if they were already addicted to drugs. He wonderedd if some of them might be sold in sex trade. The Holy Spirit beckoned him that day, saying, “What will you do about it?” I am ashamed to admit (and con- victed in my spirit) that when a home- less person is right in front of me, I often don’t make eye contact. I see their sign asking for help, but I try not to see them. I am willing to buy them something to eat, but not often will- ing to sit and have a conversation with them. Can you relate to that? This reminds me of when John the Baptist, who aside from being Jesus’ cousin was also a dear friend to Him, was NewNNew LifeLiffe HomeHome forffor ChildrenChilddren executed for his faith (Matt. 14:1-12). Jesus was notified, and He wanted to be alone. However, the crowds followed Him. Even in His grief, the Bible says, “He had compassion on them and healed their sick” (v. 14 NIV).

EVANGEL | November 2011 23 by LANCE COLKMIRE Finding Financial Freedom One Couple’s Incredible Story

HAT DOES A couple do ing us. We believed the word-of-faith move- together, and running over will be put when they are a half-million ment’s idea that if we gave much, we could into your bosom” (Luke 6:38). dollars in debt—including speak to our bills and they would go away.” The Dunns believed each scripture, $125,000 in credit card However, those bills did not vanish. and walked in the faith that the Lord bills?W That’s where Ed and Marilyn Dunn Instead, when the Dunns finally stopped would bring them out of debt. They found themselves in the early 1990s. and looked at the crisis they had created, stopped buying unnecessary items and The better first question is, How did “it was astounding,” Marilyn said. “We started living on a budget. they get in such a mess? were overwhelmed.” They confessed their financial mis- “Our story begins in the early 1950s It was 1993. Realizing their home takes to the church and asked members when I was called to preach,” Ed said. “I mortgage, debt on two cars, and credit- for prayer support, but did not ask anyone pastored several churches in California, card bills had them on the brink of bank- for money. Instead, “We only shared with and then, in the late ’60s, I became a ruptcy, at first Ed and Marilyn tried to the church so they would not go down the national evangelist for the Church of God.” blame each other. Then, “after the dust same path that we were on,” Pastor Dunn Ed married Marilyn, who is also an settled, God brought us back to sanity, said. “Many were already headed in that ordained minister, and they preached, and we decided to work this out together direction.” sang, and taught in churches throughout and with God,” Ed said. Ed had a vision of being debt free in California in the late ’70s. Marilyn admitted, “By trade, I am an 1993, but when the year ended, they were Ed says, “In 1981, we felt led to start accountant. I thought, How in the world still buried in red ink. Yet they continued a church in Garden Grove. Together, we did we get into this mess? It was extremely living on a budget, not overspending, made three decisions. First, we would embarrassing at first. Ed has tremendous believing in God’s Word, and giving to His start the church with our own funds. Sec- faith. He would say, ‘I believe God is going kingdom. ond, my wife would continue to work and to take care of this.’ I was thinking, You Ed recalls, “In the late 1990s, things support us. Third, I would take no salary don’t live in the real world like I do.” began to pop. First, someone felt led to from the church. They asked for God’s forgiveness and His give us $25,000. We cried and thanked “As we look back on this decision, we council, turning to His Word. Several scrip- the Lord for this, and promptly applied are not sure it was the right thing to do, as tures became part of their daily worship: it to our credit-card accounts. In a couple we took the financial responsibility from • “Do not lay up for yourselves of months, someone else settled a lawsuit God and placed it on our own shoulders.” treasures on earth. . . . For where your and gave us $10,000 for our debt. Anoth- Pastor Dunn continued, “We plod- treasure is, there your heart will be also” er person gave us $25,000 for the same ded along for years and rarely asked the (Matt. 6:19, 21).* purpose. This left us owing $65,000 in people for offerings. We paid all our own • “Seek first the kingdom of God and credit-card debt. About a year later, one of expenses for travel and daily living. Many His righteousness, and all these [other] our church’s young people, who had been times, we subsidized the church’s rent and things shall be added to you” (v. 33). saved and filled with the Spirit, received paid its bills. • “Now to Him who is able to do an inheritance and came to us with a “We began our journey of using credit exceedingly abundantly above all that we check for our personal use. We looked at cards to pay for things that were not ask or think, according to the power that it and our mouths fell open—it was for needed; not just for us, but for the church works in us” (Eph. 3:20). $65,000!” as well. We were under the misconception • “Give, and it will be given to you: In early 2002, the Dunns received a that if we had lots of things, God was bless- good measure, pressed down, shaken notice from the Church of God-sponsored

24 EVANGEL | November 2011 Ministry to Israel about an urgent need. and the Lord said, “Do it again.” just something we felt the Lord called us They sent a couple hundred dollars, think- The Dunns have continued giving to to do.” ing it would be just a onetime donation. the Ministry to Israel for 10 years now. Meanwhile, the Dunns sold their large The next month came, and they felt the Ed said, “The Bible says, if you bless Israel, three-bedroom home, giving them the Holy Spirit prompt them, “Do it again,” you’re going to be blessed. God honors funds to pay cash for a smaller manufac- and they did. Then came the third month, His Word. It was not a formula. It was tured home, pay off their cars, and put some money in savings. “In 2003, I felt the Lord was urging “As an accountant, me to retire from pastoring,” Pastor Dunn said. “Marilyn and I sat down and again if I tried to figure studied our finances. We looked at each out, line by line, other and simultaneously said, ‘We are how everything debt free in 2003!’” The financial blessings did not stop happened, I could there. The Dunns were given a piece of not do it. To see property which they sold for $80,000. what God has done They tithed on it and gave to missions. Ed testified, “In 2008, before the big has opened up crash, when everyone was losing money another dimension in their 401(k)’s, we prayed and felt led to of spirituality to change our funds to some very conserva- tive ventures. Our 401(k) remained stable me.”—Marilyn Dunn and even made a little interest.” After Marilyn’s dad passed away in 2006, the Dunns moved to Cleveland, Tennessee, where they were able to pay cash for their retirement home. Based on their experiences, what financial advice do the Dunns have for young ministers? Ed says, “Put God first. Work yourself into a budget. Stay within the lines and do not go into debt. Tithes and offerings are mandatory, the Word teaches. The offerings come from where the Holy Spirit is leading you. My heart’s desire is that when people read this, many will begin to support the Ministry to Israel.” Marilyn observed, “As an accountant, if I tried to figure out, line by line, how everything happened, I could not do it. It’s not black-and-white like accounting is. To see what God has done has opened up another dimension of spirituality to me, because I work on a more practical level. “We’re not rich, but we have no debt. Sometimes there will be a need and I will think, Oh, we can write a check for that. What an incredible feeling!”

*All scriptures are from the New King James Version.

EVANGEL | November 2011 25 by HOMER G. RHEA What I Am Thankful For AVE YOU COUNTED your bless- He lived in an attic in Brooklyn for 18 he found the Baxters. Then he waved to ings lately? Here are a few things months, working as a tailor so he could them and mouthed the words, “I love Hfor which I am thankful. earn enough money to buy a train ticket you.” In this way, Stewart showed his I am thankful circumstances are as good to Fort Worth, Texas. And now Granddad gratitude to Baxter publicly. as they are. Sometimes life deals us a heavy was there to see Mort become president I am thankful for joy and peace in Jesus blow, but things could be worse. Robert A. of a major corporation. Christ. There is an old European story Meyer’s children taught him this lesson. At the end of the meeting, Mort’s about a traveler who came upon a barn He and his wife were enjoying a second grandfather came forward with tears where the devil had stored seeds that he cup of coffee after breakfast on Thanks- in his eyes. He hugged Mort and said, planned to sow in the hearts of people. giving Day while their five children played “Son, through you I have fulfilled all of Various bags were marked “Hatred,” in the next room. Shortly after the sound the dreams I had as a young man when I “Fear,” “Doubt,” “Despair,” “Unforgive- of a brief scuffle, Mary, their 3-year-old, came to America.” ness,” “Pride,” and “Greed.” burst into the kitchen in tears. I am thankful for those who have influ- The devil appeared and struck up a con- “Mommy! Daddy! Christopher hit me!” enced my life. P. O. Lombard, Sr., was my versation with the traveler. He gleefully told she sobbed. pastor in the formative years of my life. the traveler how easily the seeds he sowed Before either of them could reply, the By his example, he taught me never to go sprouted in the hearts of men and women. calm voice of their 9-year-old daughter to the pulpit without something worth- “Are there any hearts in which these came from the next room: “It’s Thanksgiv- while to say and how important it is to seeds will not sprout?” asked the traveler. ing. Be thankful he didn’t bite you!” live a godly life. Persons I have pastored, A melancholy look appeared on the I am thankful for my country. People colleagues I have worked with—all have devil’s face: “These seeds will not sprout in from all over the world read the Evangel. made my life richer. the heart of a thankful and joyful person.” Each has reasons for being grateful for the In The Clergy Journal, Robert W. So many other things for which I am country in which he or she lives. I hap- Stackel wrote about Melvin Stewart, who thankful could be mentioned. I want to pened to be born in the United States. I won an Olympic gold medal in swimming spend more time counting my blessings love my country and I am thankful for the in 1992. But Stewart wasn’t going to keep and giving thanks to Him who has so opportunities it affords its citizens. the medal. He planned on giving it to abundantly blessed my life. When Mort Myerson became the George Baxter, a 76-year-old businessman president of Electronic Data Systems, his who financed Stewart’s education and 95-year-old grandfather was there. Mort’s pushed him to be a good student. When Homer G. Rhea Jr. is a Church of God min- grandfather was forced to flee Russia Stewart climbed out of the Olympic pool ister and former editor-in-chief of Church of many years earlier because he was a Jew. a winner, he searched the stands until God Publications.

26 EVANGEL | November 2011 WHERE ARE THEY Faithful Heroes and NOW? Available Servants by David G. Roebuck Antonino and Dora Bonilla

UNDREDS OF delegates Without financial resources, when working in Church of God Latin American gathered in Athens, Tennes- Antonino’s family came to the Lord they Department, which was then located in see, August 4-6, 2011, for dedicated his life as a thanksgiving offer- San Antonio and oversaw the ministry of the 14th National Hispanic ing for their salvation. After making a Spanish-speaking congregations world- Congress.H Representatives of the 1,000 personal commitment to the Lord and wide. The department provided song- Spanish-speaking Church of God churches the call to preach the gospel, Antonino books, literature, and the periodical El and missions in the United States recog- began to work closely with his father Evangelio de la Iglesia de Dios. nized both the 125th anniversary of the in pastoral ministry. As a teenager, he After graduation from IPI, Antonino denomination and the 100th anniversary attended Instituto Biblico Mexicano in served as pastor of congregations in of the first-known Spanish-speaking con- Mexico City and then International Pre- Mexico, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and gregation. The theme for their celebration paratory Institute (IPI) in San Antonio, Texas. A gifted leader, the Church of was “Honoring Our Heritage: History and Texas. God appointed him as youth and Chris- Heroes,” and Hispanic Ministries coordi- Antonino and Dora met while they tian education director of Mexico, then nator Carlos S. Morán paid special tribute were both young teens. Saved at the age of Mexico and Central America, and finally to some of those living heroes. 8, she gained ministerial experience sing- all of Latin America. He initiated the first Antonino and Dora Bonilla were among ing on the radio, working with children’s youth camps among Spanish-speaking the honored guests. Antonino’s family was ministries, and serving as secretary and congregations. Church of God pioneers in Mexico. His treasurer for her congregation’s women’s Other appointments included mis- maternal grandfather was saved at the first ministries. Her accounting and secretarial sionary, overseer of Northwest Mexico, Church of God established in Sonora. Mis- skills later provided opportunities for her superintendent of Mexico, and overseer of sionary Maria Atkinson planted that con- to work as the executive secretary of the the South Central Hispanic Region in the gregation and frequently visited the Bonilla Latin American Department as well as United States. Following his administra- household. Other influencers in Antonino’s other offices where the Church of God tive leadership, he served as a national life included missionaries J. H. Ingram and appointed Antonino. evangelist and then in a lengthy pastorate Vessie D. Hargrave.g While attendinggg IPI, Antonino began of the Bethesda Church of God in San Antonio (1986-2007). Throughout these years, Dora led women’s ministries and was a frequent teacher and lecturer. Although these heroes of the faith officially retired in 2007, they remain actively involved in the multicampus congregation Abundant Life, which their son Eliezer serves as pastor. Antonino is a zone director of four Spanish language districts, continues to preach, and travels extensively throughout the United States, Mexico, and Central America. When asked about his current activities, he laughingly replied, “I’m available!” Together these heroes of the faith remain committed to their call.

David G. Roebuck, Ph.D., is the Church of God historian and director of the Pentecostal Resource Center in Cleveland, Tennessee.

EVANGEL | November 2011 27 For daily news updates about what’s happening in the Church of God and Evangelical world, visit FAITH NEWS people NETWORK, at www.faithnews.cc. and events

What do the musicians and “I’m no professional singer Pickin’ and Praisin’ Gospel Jam singers say about the monthly or musician , but once a month I gathering? get to be with others just like me “I have made new friends who to give my best back to God.”— have come from 80 miles away, Larry Harrell and they are great musicians. The “The gospel jam is an inspi- gospel jam is now my favorite place ration for the city of Bainbridge to play.”—Tommy Thompson where people can come together “The gospel jam means put- in song and spirit to praise the ting God first in my music. For me Lord. These songs have a mes- that’s a very big change because sage.”—Mike and Sandra McComb I used to play Southern rock and “I’m so glad that Jerry heavy metal. My life has changed Murkerson answered God’s call since those days, and it feels good to start this gospel jam. I love to be a part of something that is string music—even more, gospel so good and feels so real.”—Tim string music. Let’s keep praising Pickin’ and Praisin’ Gospel Jam Dickens Jesus.”—Mark Ward BAINBRIDGE, Ga.—It is about month. Many denominations are 5:00 p.m. Cars start filling up the represented. ‘It’s All About Jesus’ House of Refuge Reaching Thousands parking lot and car trunks start is the theme, being inspired by a DILWORTH, Ala.—Our Most importantly, many opening. Instrument cases of all message preached by Assistant new pastor, Nelson Kimberly, souls have been saved for God’s sorts start appearing. Soon there General Overseer Mark Williams at had gathered the lay leaders of glory. Through a young widow’s is a host of “pickers” breaking out the 2010 district camp meeting in the Dilworth Church of God to dream to feed the community, tuners. What is going on? It is time Bainbridge. complete a survey regarding our heavenly Father has done a for “Pickin’ and Praisin’ Gospel “The instruments range the congregation’s goals and great work. Jam” in Bainbridge. from banjos to trombones, from visions. While many topics were Sheila Cook has won the The Port City Church of God accordions to acoustic and electric being discussed, Sheila Cook, battle over cancer through hosts this exciting event for folks guitars. The fist jam drew about 70 twice-widowed, said, “Pastor, I God’s miraculous healing, and who love Southern gospel, country people in May, and had grown to have always wanted to feed the remains active as the warehouse gospel, or bluegrass gospel music more than 170 by August. About community Thanksgiving din- supervisor at House of Refuge. in the tri-state area of deep south- 15 pickers are usually on stage, and ner. Can we do this?” —Denise Gilliland west Georgia. we have about 20 singers. From this one statement, In early May, the Lord im- “Community involvement is the “House of Refuge Food pressed upon the heart of Jerry increasing. At the August jam, Bank” was born. This ministry is Murkerson and his friend, Deborah Beulah-Thomas Baptist Church now in its seventh year serving Cox, to seek out a place where furnished cakes for the refresh- Thanksgiving and Christmas musicians could bring their instru- ment time during the intermission. dinners, providing Christmas ments and play for the Lord on Meanwhile, Baindrige TV station gifts and school supplies for Saturday nights. Pastor Joe Tatum WMGR (channel 22) videotaped children, operating a clothes provided that place. the August jam for replay four closet, supporting “Shoes for Murkerson said, “I have times each month.” Orphan Souls,” and offering been playing gospel music in the Pastor Tatum said, “The free medical clinics. In our Bainbridge area for 25 years. I monthly jam brings positive public- first food bank, we served 76 contacted many of my fellow ity to Port City Church of God and families out of a small Sunday musicians and singers about gives anyone interested an oppor- school room. This outreach now the idea of a ‘gospel jam.’ The tunity to use their talents to give has its own building, and this response was overwhelmingly praise to Jesus. . . . That is what the year the House of Refuge has Sheila Cook favorable. The jam is held on the Port City Church is here to do—lift provided food to 50,000 people. third Saturday night of each up Jesus.”

28 EVANGEL | November 2011 From Ruins to Redemption CLEVELAND, Tenn.—When “Wayne, Evelyn’s life may an unprecedented line of torna- have been lost here, but you can does moved through Bradley find your life at this same spot,” County on April 27, Wayne John- Charles said. “God spared you son lost not only his home, but because of His great mercy, love, also his wife, Evelyn. They had and grace. Your life was spared to been married 11 years. keep you from going to hell. God is Wayne tells about their last giving you another chance.” North Georgia State Office Hosts moments together—how they Following a short prayer, Georgia Legislature Representatives were discussing it was hard to Wayne was gloriously saved. believe that storms were predicted Wayne told Tommy—his ATLANTA, Ga.—At the was to recognize, connect with, and on such a beautiful evening. As he drinking buddy and Evelyn’s broth- Georgia State Capital on August affirm these individuals for their walked to the front door, he heard er—about his salvation experience, 16, a luncheon took place for rep- distinguished public service,” said a noise like a freight train and the and Tommy accepted Christ. A resentatives of the state legislature Michael Baker, state administrative house began to be sucked into the few weeks later, Tommy and who are connected to the Church bishop. “As a result of the event, we sky. Wayne was thrown under his Wayne were baptized by Charles of God. Hosted by the North Geor- are planning for an annual oppor- wife’s car, which served as a shield in the above-ground pool at the gia Church of God State Offices, tunity for connectivity, affirmation, from the unrelenting twister. Less new home the Lord provided for among those attending were state and dialogue—with the goal of than a minute and it was over. The Wayne. senators, state representatives, expanding the circle of leadership Johnsons’ home, which had been Wayne says he is a new per- lobbyists, and leadership and to include other Christian leaders in paid off just a few weeks earlier, son: “Because of Jesus, I don’t staff members from various state the Georgia legislature. This time was a pile of splinters. Wayne’s think like I used to and my desires departments. In addition, Church of together proved to be extremely truck had been thrown 300 yards. are not the same desires.” God pastors for each of the legisla- beneficial for future engagement of Evelyn was dead, her body lying Wayne’s testimony does not ture representatives were present. the Church of God and significant several yards away from the stop there. Back at his devastated “The purpose of the luncheon Georgia government leadership.” remains of their home. property, the recyclable and sal- Unlike her husband, Evelyn vageable materials were sold for had been a loyal church mem- more than $2,000! Wayne told DECEASED MINISTERS and COMPANIONS ber. In the hours after the storm, Charles, “I want every penny of it AMISON, J. Don; 76; ordained MCINTOSH, Alex H.; 80; Wayne was a bitter man. He felt to go to Church of God Disaster bishop; Tennessee; Wilma ordained bishop; Indiana; like God “made a mistake” by let- Relief. God’s love has been dem- Amison (wife) Irene McIntosh (wife) ting his wife die instead of him. onstrated to me, and I want to CASTEEL, Paul Eugene; 67; POPLIN, Marshall R.; 89; Trying to cope in the days show my appreciation by blessing exhorter; Florida; Jeanean ordained bishop; North Carolina; following the storms, Wayne was someone else.” Casteel (wife) Margaret Poplin (wife) bombarded with Christian love. Dozens of volunteers removed Wayne Johnson (left) CLARKE, Gilbert S.; 82; PUETTE, Lane Napoleon; 94; trees, separated items, and preparing to be baptized ordained bishop; Indiana; ordained bishop; North Carolina; cleaned Wayne’s property while by Charles Hollifield Lucille Clarke (wife) Delores McNeal (daughter) he grieved the loss of his wife. HALL, Margaret; 76; exhorter; WATKINS, Lloyd Birl; 79; One volunteer he encoun- Georgia; Janice Hall (daughter) ordained bishop; Alabama; tered every day was Charles Melba Watkins (wife) Hollifield, head of operations for JOHNSON, Coral; 78; exhorter; the Church of God International Bahamas; Leslie Norville WEBBER, Wedis; 77; exhorter; Offices. Charles tried to console (daughter) Georgia; Bryan Webber (husband) Wayne with the love of Christ. LAMBERT, Maynard E.; 72; One day, Charles walked with exhorter; Michigan; Connie Wayne to the site where Evelyn’s Lambert (wife) body had been found.

EVANGEL | November 2011 29 CREATIVE CHURCH

The Curse of Knowledge

ITH THE American We are cursed with knowledge that By JERRY LAWSON church culture firm- our “target”—lost people—do not have. ly in the grips of We know what time worship starts. We steep organizational know that Brother Bob gets to church Wdecline, few argue the fact that some- late and tunes his guitar during the first OUR thing needs to change. But many differ song because he works the night shift on the question of just what is wrong on Saturday. We know where to park UNDERSTANDING with the Western church, or our version in the parking lot. We know that we of it. May I suggest the following? We always sing the first, second, and fourth are actually not doing anything wrong. verses on the hymns. (By the way, who ABOUT OUR Church as we are presenting it to the wrote all those horrible third verses?) lost world is just perfect . . . for 1987. We also know all of the inside lan- CHURCH The message is timeless. The love of guage. We know what the pastor means God knows no language or time barri- when he says, “As it was in the days of ers. God’s Spirit moves in every genera- Noah. . . .” We know how to “get under SUB┾CULTURE tion just as He moved on the waters in the spout where the glory comes out.” Genesis 1. But if our way of communi- We know that “deliverance” is a good HAS MADE IT cating the perfect news remains out- thing, not just an icky Burt Reynolds dated, emerging generations will be left movie from the 1970s. on the outside looking in as they grip What we know is not a bad thing. REMARKABLY tightly to the world’s message while However, if we are not careful we will ours appears to be irrelevant. design worship experiences that are DIFFICULT FOR US It’s not that our message is imper- built on this expected knowledge base, fect in any way; it just lacks the handles and those who are far from God and do TO REACH THOSE needed for lost people to catch on. not have a church background will be While the message is not flawed, we completely confused. We must teach (the messengers) are. We have the deliverance to our people. We must WHO LACK THIS “curse of knowledge”—our understand- experience the glory of God. We must ing about our church sub-culture has recognize the days we are living in. KNOWLEDGE. made it remarkably difficult for us to However, we cannot do it by leaving the reach those who lack this knowledge. lost (our mission) behind. In their book Made to Stick, Chip and As church leaders, we must examine Dan Heath say, “Once we know some- ourselves—examine how we act, how thing, we find it hard to imagine what it we speak, how we communicate the love was like not to know it. Our knowledge of God. Since God’s love is the greatest has ‘cursed’ us. And it becomes difficult gift ever given to humanity, should we for us to share our knowledge with oth- not take great care in how we share that JERRY LAWSON is lead pastor of the Daystar Church of God ers, because we can’t readily re-create gift? Shouldn’t we communicate God’s in Cullman, Alabama. our listeners’ state of mind.” love in the most effective way?

30 EVANGEL | November 2011