Keeping In Touch Baptist Herald Volume61 June 1983 Number 6 The main reason that I am ad­ Pastoral dressing this subject is because Monthly Publication Editor: Barbara J. Binder several lay persons, who have heard of the Contributing editor: Sara Lou Pasiciel Performance about the Conference implementing North American Baptist (Woman's World) a performance appraisal system for Conference Editor's assistant: Gwendolyn Dickau Review and its staff, have asked if we have such 1 So. 210 Summit Ave., Subscriptions a system available for churches. My Box 159, Oakbrook Terrace, fulfillment: Nancy Shawl response thus far has been "no, we IL. 60181 Appraisal have not developed one for pastors and churches and are not sure erformance reviews and apprai­ whether we should try." After we Psals of pastors and other church have gained some positive ex­ staff are almost nonexistent in our perience in it ourselves, we may N.A.B. churches or in the churches consider sharing it with churches Anyone confronted with a tough of many other groups. Many of our and pastors on request. job over a long period of time, "We Aren't Being Fed churches have job descriptions to It has become evident that perfor­ where he is encountering opposition, Spiritually!" some workable degree, but the ma­ mance evaluation is considered im­ needs a small group of people telling jority have not tackled the difficult portant and necessary for individual him that he is loved, that he is on task of formally appraising the per- development and organizational ef­ the right track, and that people ap­ "The Lord Is Leading fectiveness in industry, education, preciate his work. Positive en­ Us to Leave!" Positive encouragement will go a and various other operations. couragement will go a long way in In 1861 the first German Bap­ long way in improving relationships It seems to be tougher to pastor improving relationships and effec­ tist church was established in JI \ Texas. Going through various every year. Someone has said, tiveness of ministry for the pastor Have you ever heard 1/ and effectiveness of ministry for the What are the factors that changes through the years, it "Have you tried juggling pieces of and the church. statements like these? Have pastor and the church. cause problems between a has a new emphasis and in­ shard glass barehanded? That's less This committee should also deal people's commitment to the dangerous than pastoring churches." with problems that exist in ministry church changed? Willis The pastor may be very pastor and his congregation? terest in ministering to the capable, but if his people or Can these be identified early community. Mary Zorn, formance of the pastor or other I Potratz discusses these Recently, have become very and seek possible solutions to these staff are not loyal to him, and resolved? Read what our Franklin Effenberger, and statements in church staff; even though informally concerned about pastor­ problems. As someone has said, there is little he can do. David nine area ministers say in an Alan Knuckles w rite about such appraisals are made all the congregation conflict over expecta­ "They will want to level w ith the HEY PASTOR! Steinhart speaks to this in interview in this in YOU'RE NOT time. Very often they are a collec­ tions. The pastor's expectations of pastor, not level him." THE LOYALTY HOW TO AVOID A GROWING FEEDING US! 4 tion of opinions, speculations, or in­ himself and the church leaders' ex­ I think such a committee could FACTOR 6 CONFLICT BETWEEN CHURCH IN nuendos gathered on church pectations sometimes are far apart. resolve some misunderstandings or PASTOR AND BLUEBONNET sidewalks, at social events and at The perceptions of performance honest differences, improve effec­ CHURCH 7 COUNTRY 16 meetings that occur following the are also in conflict. If this happens tiveness of ministry, certainly regularly scheduled meetings. and is left to continue, it will cause develop good communications, and Many reasons are given fo r a deteriorated rel"ationship between achieve a better understanding of FEATURES NEWS pastors and churches not wanting to the pastor and church leaders. the tasks and problems associated 5 PASTORING IN AN ERA OF KNOWLEDGE EXPLOSION 24 OUR CO NFERENCE IN ACTION implement an appraisal system. It is important that a forum be with pastoral ministry . What do by J. Gordon Harris Some have expressed honest fears established that will seek to resolve you think? D 26 JN MEMORIAM that an appraisal system might be the differences before the inevitable .. 14 AFFIRMING BAPTIST IDENTITY: FAITH FREELY either misunderstood or misused. happens where the pastor is asked EXERCISED 27 HELWIG APPOINTED Still others have voiced the opinion to terminate. by T . B. Maston that we simply cannot appraise Where there are such differences, 28 WHAT'S HAPPENING? spiritual ministries. Pastors may also conflicts, or strained relationships, I ?-~ COLUMNS want to give a performance ap­ suggest that a pastoral relati ons Executive director 30 CONGRATULATIONS! praisal of the church and its leaders. committee be formed. North American Baptist Conference 2 KEEPING IN TOUCH Pastoral Performance Review and Appraisal 30 FORCED TERMINATION OF MINISTERS CALLED A BAPTIST EMERGENCY by John Binder

20 CHURCH EXTENSION BUILDERS BAPTIST HERALD: Send editorial a nd business correspondence to Barbara J. Binder. Building People 1 So. 210 Summit Ave .. Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181. Send a ddress changes to Bnµt1st by Ja mes S. Leverette Herald Subscriptions. 1 So. 210 Summit Ave., O akbrook Terrace. IL 60181. Six weeks notice required for change of address. Furnish effective date and address label from re­ cent issue. Published monthly (except Ja nuary / February and July/ August bi-monthly) 21 PERSONAL REFLECTIONS by the North American Baptist Conference, I So. 210 Summit Ave.. Oakbrook Ter­ by "New Day" race. IL 60181. Second class postage paid at Vill a Park, IL 60181 a nd at additiona l mailing oHices. Subscription ratt.--s in the Uni ted States a nd Canada: one year-SS.00: two years-$15.00 Church Family Plan-56.00: Single copi•-51 .00; foreign subscrip· 22 WOMAN'S WORLD tion- $16.00 one year. Member of Evangelical Press Association. News reported and views expressed are not necessarily the position of the North American Baptist Con· ference. (Printed in the U.S.A.) USPS 042560 2 BAPTIST HERALD JUNE 1983 3 by Willis Hey Pastor! You're Not Feeding Us! Potratz Pastoring in an Era of Knowledge Explosion by J. Gordon Harris

church building contractor productive because the pastoral Nixon. Colson hesitated before A used one of two statements to ministry is relational. More time in responding. Then he looked up and n an era of space exploration, mistakes, bad grammar, and pastor preached against the space get what he wanted in building the study may bring a greater said quietly but firmly into the I black holes, hydrogen galaxies, inappropriate dress. program. 'That area is God's committee decisions. These two isolation from his people. It may microphone, "Richard Nixon is my word processors, computers, Unfortunately, many North space," he declared. "Man must not arguments were 1) "It isn't good lead to a further breakdown in friend." Instead of hostility, which urbanization and mechanization, it American Baptist pastors are being enter that territory!" That summer enough," and 2) "It costs too communication and administrative Colson expected, the student body becomes increasingly difficult to caught in another difficult the United States put several much." Church building committees, leadership. erupted into spontaneous applause. understand and minister to current transition. Some are making a astronauts in space. By the next fall, interested in getting the best, and in More important, every pastor Colson touched these students with needs. People are confused by transition from working with one the church had sold its building and saving money, repeatedly approved knows that a message or Bible study his commitment and public expres­ constantly changing life-styles. Few cultural community to dealing with disbanded. I have no idea to where the contractor's recommendations. will be meaningful only to the sion of loyalty. know what to expect in their future. different cultural groups. This also that pastor moved or what he began People in our congregations individuals who are willing to Today's disenchanted feel a general brings many changes in their to do. A pulpit which sounds a repeatedly use two statements to actively listen and are open to the Church Membership Is A Commit­ dissatisfaction with life and often leadership role. message reflecting the dated con­ express their dissatisfaction with ministry of the Holy Spirit working ment express these feelings against church In the middle of their ministry, cerns of a minister more than the their pastor and gain the decisions through the messenger. People who Membership in a local church is a leaders. they discover that standards for eternal gospel of truth will fall into they desire. The one statement is: have turned off their pastor, commitment in obedience to Christ Change constantly demands new performance appraisal have disrespect. "We just aren't being fed probably will not permit him to be and to the leadership of the Holy ideas and methods for pastors. radically shifted. Many are spiritually." The other is 'The Lord used in ministering to them. Spirit. It is also a commitment to Communities shift, and new ethnics struggling to meet the demands of Upgrading Tools and Sharpening is leading us to leave." Pastors have a responsibility to the members of that body. As Dr. move into neighborhoods. Family new situations. Occasionally,they Skills study the Bible, to know their Warren Wiersbe, the Bible teacher crises, divorce, and remarriage come have difficulty changing as fast as Churches and ministers alike need "We Just Aren't Being Fed congregation and the congregation's at the Triennial Conference sessions to each doorstep. Alcohol and drug things are changing around them. to make the investment of time and Spiritually" needs, to be disciplined in preparing held in August 1982 presented so rehabilitation threaten to absorb all Part of the reason why some funds necessary to upgrade tools This argument and complaint messages that meet needs, to care forcefully, there will be diversity in of one's counseling time. As well, struggle to change is that they which they possess and to sharpen carries with it one of the greatest for the many other responsibili ties each local church. This is God's church members are better educated possess an inadequate library, and skills which the Lord has given. The blows that can come to a devoted of the pastorate, to pray and be plan. But there is to be unity in the in all areas of the country. Such they have little money to upgrade it. present generation offers many pastor. He knows that the Word of growing spiritually, and to intercede midst of diversity. This is our Chris­ churches demand able Likewise, their church duties do not challenges to those who will be God charges him to feed and lead for their congregations. But they tian responsibility. administrators and a Christian allow time off to study. Therefore, growing leaders which our world, the congregation (I Peter 5:2). Most seldom, if ever, are helped by the We help develop that unity by be­ education program. Consequently, if they have difficulty competing with falling apart, desperately needs. D pastors were charged with this charge, "We just aren't being fed ing committed to a specific local this trend continues, some church professionals on TV and with the responsibility in their ordination spiritually." church. The option in diversity is leaders may become out of date, ill sparkle of a youth movement. service. They were reminded of it as The opposite approach is "to not to quit. It is not li kely that prepared, and quite irrelevant. they were installed as pastor of the know them which labour among Christians can say, 'The Lord is Congregations Need to Take New church. Both services were uplifting you" (II Thess. 5:12). This means leading us to leave." Unrealistic Expectations Action and motivating. Now, he is that we who labor with the pastor The two women who tangled in The situation is complicated by In order to help pastors deal with informed that he is failing in that seek to do our part to build a Philippi were told to .. . "be of the unrealistic expectations from changing expectations in an era of which is a priority. This brings a relationship with him. This helps a same mind in the Lord." The dif­ churches. Pulpit committees list knowledge explosion, it is im­ crushing blow to his self-esteem. pastor. It is an important ministry ferences and problems in Corinth attributes for a leader not too far perative that many congregations The result is increased shortcomings for us. were not pushed aside as being too short of divinity. They expect the consider new actions. They should and problems. difficult or too many to correct. pastor to be all things to all people provide a book allowance to help What can a pastor do when the "The Lord Is Leading Us to Leave" They were dealt with one by one. and to do it with expertise and the pastor upgrade his library. Such argument, "We just aren't being fed The second statement is "Tl1e Pastors need to listen to com­ smoothness. Generally, church a book allowance does not have to spiritually" is used? He can spend Lord is leading us to leave. " This ments and complaints. They need to members make fewer allowances for be extravagant; however, all such more time in the preparation of his sounds so spiritual. But, how often recognize that there is usually a funds must be used for books. messages and Bible studies. Some is it the truth? Church members kernel of truth in each one and learn Dr. ]. Gordon Congregations should also pro­ need to do this. who use this argument are usuall y from comments and complaints. Harris is vide time and money to all ow their However, once the charge is ready to use it again in a year or This all ows them to be aware of the academic vice leader to attend pastors' con­ made, better preparation is seldom two. Why? Because they take their lightning and thunder while the president and fe rences. Likewise, these churches difficulty or problem with them to storm is still in the distance and professor of Old may provide tuition and travel The Rev . Willis another church. They never find the sometimes dissipate it before it Testament at money for their pastor to attend a Potratz, perfect or even near perfect church. disrupts the work. North American January Term at the Seminary or Oakbrook Ter­ Thei r commitment to a local body The pastor, in the midst of the Ba ptist Seminary, Divinity School. The costs are not race, IL , is Area of believers is as tentative as some multitude of ministries necessary for Sioux Falls, SD. prohibitive for any church. Ministries Direc­ Hollywood marriages. leading any local church today, In an era of knowledge explosion, tor for the North Charles Colson addressed the stu­ however, will struggle more than he neither the pastors nor churches can American Baptist dent body of a university. In the needs to if he has not evaluated the afford leaders who do not grow. A Conference. discussion that followed, a very two statements: "We just aren't be­ church, which I attended in college, angry student challenged Colson ing fed spiritually" and 'The Lord is ministered primarily to a poorer about his relationship with Richard leading us to leave." 0 part of town. Week after week, the

4 BAPTIST HERALD JUNE 1983 5 The Loyalty Factor by oavid steinhart How to Avoid Conflict Between

Pastor and Church On Churches and Pastors- Their Relationships any factors contribute to a to rid themselves of their pastor and associate is to learn to adapt his per­ M pastor's performance (or lack there is no sin or laziness involved, I sonality and ministry style to the of it). Perhaps a poor self-image is am disheartened. What about Paul's pastor's. II w hat are the factors that MILTON ZEEB: The church needs affirmative as possible: "Yes, I'm a the cause, or lack of training. admonition? Peter helps us here when he tells cause problems between a to look at itself and to evaluate its great evangelist; yes, I love to visit Maybe his expectations are The calling of a pastor is often us to humble ourselves under God pastor and his congregation?" Can ministry and needs. Sometimes a with old people; yes, I love to do all unrealistic, or he may be just plain likened to a wedding. Every good "that He may lift you up in due these factors be identified early so group hears a man who may be the things you've mentioned." Many lazy. But apart from these factors, marriage involves a strong time" (I Peter 5:6). An associate that they can be dealt with before popular or a dynamic speaker, but pastors try to "sell" themselves to there is another for which the pastor commitment. Loyal love and pastor can strengthen the Church of they intensify and get to the point its needs may be in another area at the board or committee. may not be responsible (and it is not acceptance are the foundation Christ by supporting the pastor and where a church says, "Pastor, that particular time. So it is good The congregation and the church heredity). stones. refusing to encourage malicious you've got to leave!" or the pastor for an area minister to help a church board likewise misrepresent I am referring to the loyalty We certainly feel it is wrong fo r a gossip. feels so frustrated that it is difficult see where its needs are and find themselves by saying: "We want to factor. Many a pastor has had to husband to divorce his wife unless If church members come to the for him to minister to the pastors who are gifted in those par­ get going for Christi We really want leave a church because of a disloyal there is serious moral sin. But associate pastor to complain about congregation any longer?" ticular areas. to reach out into the community." congregation or a disloyal associate. somehow, when a congregation tires the senior pastor, he should en­ Recently, the editor asked the When it comes down to it, they The pastor may be very capable, of its pastor, or does not appreciate courage the persons to talk to the eight North American Baptist area mean that they want the pastor to but if his people or staff are not aspects of his personality, the senior pastor rather than listening to ministers and the area ministries do it for them. Pastors need to ask loyal to him there is little he can do. congregation thinks it is appropriate the problems himself. The associate director their v iews on problems the congregation: "What are your Paul speaks to this problem in to (may I say it?) seek a "divorce." pastor can build up both congrega­ confronting some churches and goals?" Philippians 2:1-4. He says that those Where is the striving to love and tion and pastor by dying to self and pastors today. In a conversation, who have been united with Christ accept, to discuss and work out living for Christ. these men attempted to identify Zeeb: The church needs to should be "like-minded, having the differences? some of the factors that could lead Incompetency and laziness do not look at itself and to evaluate same love, being one in spirit and If a congregation has called a belong in the ministry; when found, to future problems. purpose." It is very clear that Paul pastor, let that congregation learn to one needs to deal with it. But, then, its ministry and needs; then is writing to local churches. love and accept its pastor. Let them congregations and associate staff call a pastor who is gifted in Whenever a congregation is seeking grow together to be of one mind, need to be loyal to the pastor, LEROY SCHAUER: I believe the those particular areas. spirit, and purpose. This may be realizing that personali ty differences kind of preparation a pulpit difficult, but then how many love committee does prior to asking a Mr. David are not grounds for dismissal. Let us relationships are ever free from seek Christ's Kingdom first and "in man to candidate is important. The BARBARA BINDER: How can a WILLIS POTRATZ: In some situa­ Steinhart is a stu­ difficulties? committee needs to know more church determine its needs? A pulpit tions, the call to the pastor was not dent at Trinity humility consider others better then Paul continues by encouraging about him than just listening to him committee, it seems, wants a explicit. Some things were promised Evangelical ourselves" (Phil. 2:3). believers not to do anything "out of preach. forceful preacher, an excellent verbally and then were forgotten. Divinity School, selfish ambition or vain conceit." administrator, a versatile worker This later becomes a source of Deerfield, IL; Instead believers should "in humility with all age groups, and a genial frustration. When the pastor brings part-time youth Area ministers serve pastors, consider others better than visitor. It is impossible to find this to the attention of the leaders, director at First pastoral staff, and churches as themselves (Phil. 2: 3). someone with all these characteris­ Baptist Church, resource persons, provide com­ they feel that the pastor is initiating Since this was written to all tics. How does a church determine Bellwood, IL; a munication from the churches and conflict. believers, it certainly applies to its real needs and what type of member of Grosse Pointe Baptist associations to the Conference of­ associate pastors. Why is it that pastor it needs for this time? Church, Grosse Pointe Woods, Ml, fice, give coordinating leadership to KENNETH FENNER: In some cases, some associates are often willing to a church knows the candidate has and a former short-term missionary the Associations and communicate, ZEEB: I have a questionnaire that I agree with a parishioner's criticism certain weaknesses but calls the man to Cameroon, West Africa. interpret, and promote the Con­ use to obtain some background of the pastor? Why is it that some anyway; even though it wants ference mission and ministries. T hey material and information. I associates are quick to take someone strong in that specific area. are Isador Faszer (Alberta Area), encourage the pulpit committee to advantage of a difficult situation? In one case, the church wanted Calgary, AB; Kenneth Fenner (Great discuss these questions concerning Often the reason comes down to someone strong in administration; Lakes Area) , St. Clair Sl10res, Ml; their ministries, and have them put selfish ambition and vain conceit. they knew the candidate was not an Edmond Hohn (British Columbia the answers in writing. It is not uncommon to fi nd administrator but called him strained relationships within a multi­ Area), Kelowna, BC; Charles Litt­ man (Nort/1 Central Area), Bis­ SIEGFRIED SCHUSTER: Yes, it is anyway. That got them off on the ple church staff. Associates often important to have a church clarify wrong foot. That was an unreal ex­ find t.hat they are in the position of marck, ND; Willis"T'o tratz (Il­ linois! Wisconsin Area and area its expectations of a pastor. pectation. ~orkmg by themselves while realiz­ Unrealistic expectations on the part ing that they must not work for ministries director), Oakbrook Ter­ of the church and I or the pastor can WILMER QUIRING: Sometimes a themselves. The challenge for the race, IL ; Wilmer Quiring (Eastern Area), Rochester, NY; LeRoy lead to future problems. In the church wants a strong leader, and Schauer (Western Area), Vancouver, candidating process, a pastor is they get a person who is strong and WA; Siegfried Schuster (Manitoba! anxious to please, so he preaches his who leads them. After a while, they Saskatchewan Area), Winnipeg, best sermon. When he is asked feel that he is a dictator. They really MB· and Milton Zeeb (South Cen­ questions by the board or pulpit did not want that kind of a leader. tral.Area), Kansas City, MO. committee, he will seek to be as (Conti11ued 011 11ext µage) ~ 6 BAPTIST HERALD JUNE 1983 7 /I \ Both the church and the pastor SCHUSTER: Often the opposite of begin with high expectations . I think The other area of concern is that "What have you done to work with what Charles is saying happens. sometimes pastors think that they not become defensive and blame through a deacon board. It should it takes qui te a bit before the pastor People say that most pastors do not them? other people? be on a one-to-one basis according or the people become disappointed. are the church. The only thing that show enough interest in the every­ goes is what comes into their heads. to Matthew 18. I do not know how you can really BJB: Who would be the person to POTRATZ: That brings up a point. day life of their people and the life They never ask the congregation, If I had something against my tell at the beginning that there are raise this question with the pastor, if People may meet with the pastor to of the community at large. They are "What is your opinion?" The pastor brother, I would go to him and it is a problem? discuss things that would be helpful share it in a loving way because I some signs that later will develop in­ too absorbed in the ecclesiastical pushes programs through and does in his ministry. But the pastor needs love him in the Lord. 'Tm not here to problems. framework. things that irritate the people. Then SCHUSTER: Someone within his to be open to listen to what they are to hurt you. I am here to love you. the pastor wonders why the people saying, to evaluate and to be open CHARLES LITTMAN: There is congregation who is aware of what I am concerned about the ministry LITTMAN: Another area of poten­ do not like him. is happening and who is willing to to change. of this body and you. And because I another side to this, too. The pastor tial problems concerns a pastor's in­ sit down with him, if he is, in fact, In some instances, pastors become am concerned about it in total, let's needs the support of his wife, and in What can be done? There are ability to stay within a time period. BJB : teachable. A sense of ecclesiastical defensive and even angry. They feel go out for lunch and discuss it." some instances, that is not forth­ pastors who are tremendous in the He preaches until he is through, pride is often the problem: "You they are being attacked. So through Have this talk in the most infor­ coming. pulpit, but when it comes to w.ork­ rather than preparing a message for know, I am God's man for this their reaction, they shut off future mal atmosphere possible, and then ing with people, the~r concern 1s a specific time slot in the worship church. I have the direction, and expressions of concern by the people pray with the pastor. The pastor is pushing through thelf .own ~ro­ in their congregation. service. It is common sense, and you better follow me." human, love him. If it does not grams, without ever d1scussmg th ~ some pastors either do not have it program with the moderator or with Then when the pastor comes to or do not use it. BJB: Is there a way that a lay per­ BJB: the chairman of the board or com­ son should approach the pastor to the point of really wanting feed­ mittee to which the program per­ discuss a problem? back, the leaders will not give it. So tains, before presenting it to ~ this leads to more discouragement board. Sometimes it antagornzes the and frustration on the part of the Potratz: Even though a FENNER: It has to be a person that pastor's wife is not salaried by people so much that fi nall y the the pastor respects. It may not even pastor is forced to leave. the church, she still is ex­ necessarily be a person from a board. It may be somebody else in pected to be par t of the team . SCHUSTER: Sometimes the pastor the church. Faszer: The congregation Her supportive, positive at­ takes himself too seriously. He has knows that the pastor is not bought into a program; and his peo­ titude is needed. FASZER: When some represen­ perfect, but they expect ple have not. He pursues those tatives from a church came to me goals, but he has never really in­ for counsel, they said, "Things are ministry : someone who feeds volved his people in working not going right in our church." them from the pulpit and through the goals together to I asked: "Have you ever sat down ministers to them on a one-to­ POTRATZ: Yes, even though a ISADOR FASZER: I think one of develop a common ownership. pastor's wife is not salaried by the the problems that many pastors face and talked this matter over with one basis. church, she still is expected to be your pastor?" "No." is a breakdown in communication. BJB: How can you get a pastor to part of the team. Her supportive, I said, "Will you go home, and, Pastors may spend time in their of­ see that? positive attitude is needed; even fice, but they do not take time to sit as deacons, ask your pastor to meet though she should not be expected down with the leaders of their with you? Then share some of the pastor to the point where he may work out that way, then it may to give leadership to or be involved church, whether it be a board or a concerns you have." But I said, "Be even consider leaving the ministry come to the deacons. But to put him in many areas of the church pro­ committee to discuss the needs of Christian about it; be tender and rather than considering another in front of a board first and have kind." gram. the people. pastorate; even though he has had target practice is not scriptural. After some time, I met with the The pastor may feel threatened successful pastorates previously. When I was a pastor, the board LITTMAN: Another area that and so does not invite comments, pastor. I asked, "Did you have this and I went through a process meeting? Did you feel that they causes conflict is the pastor not be­ FASZER : There are some men who quarterly. "What are you hearing treated you right? Were they hard ing available to his people. I think a should never be asked to do the suf­ from the congregation that needs to on you, or in any way unkind or pastor ought to have regular office fe ring that they do, because they are be addressed? Are they being fed hours. Fenner: I am convinced that a ugly to you?" And he said, "No, spiritually? What needs are there in they were very kind." not suited for pastoral ministry. I Some people say that the only have conveyed this to one and tried the church that maybe I am not pastor has to work with his But in that case, the issue never time they can find the pastor is to help him understand and see it. meeting? What do you hear from men, and when you have that was resolved, because the man drinking coffee in a restaurant. The Some go for career counseling and, the body that I am not doing?" We pastor's messages become weak, and loving relationship, "I care should not have been in the ministry had open dialogue and discussed in the first place. subsequently, to retrain. then the people begin to react. It is about you and you care about whether or not it was valid criticism a cycle which causes some real me," there is a whole new BJB: You are speaking about some as they saw it. problems. BJB: If a board or group of people who probably should not have been One criticism was that I was not Some pastors become involved in spirit. meets with a pastor, even in a very in the ministry in the first place. But visiting the shut-ins. I said, too many non-church activities. The kind way, the man is still devastated what about men who have had "Gentlemen, that is entirely right. I activities are good, but the church to a certain degree. No one li kes to years of successful pastorates and have a hard time visiting the shut­ suffers. The church says, "We hired suggestions, or even criticism of SCHUSTER: I guess on a one-to-one be criticized. then, all of a sudden, they have ins because I am not a sitter. I do you to do the church work, to build what is happening or what is not basis. Sit down with him and talk What could you say to a pastor come to the place where the church not appreciate hearing the same the body, and building the body is happening. So the pastor never not your prime purpose. It seems about it. I think some of the tell tale who receives this kind of criticism in which they are now does not ap­ story 40 times. That is one of my knows whether he is doing his job signs are when a pastor begins to that would ease the pain, to help you are too involved in the com­ in the eyes of the people. He does preciate them 7 faults." complain about his people being muni ty." That hurts a church's not know what the people are think­ him evaluate, and accept this? What So l said, "Either l agree to go ministry. ing. stubborn and slow to move. He can you say that would help him to FENNER: I think, Barbara, at first and do part of this, or since you needs to ask himself the question: graciously accept the comments and the pastor should not be confronted 8 BAPTIST HERALD (Continued 011 next page)

Tl 11\lC 1 OQ'l n know that this is one of my Ask for some help and direction, SCHUSTER: They may also accept home and change my whole been relationships. We have a lot of was then that I found out what was weaknesses, you cover." So let's and I think, the church will give it, the fact that visitation or some other ministry." And I wanted to say to good people in our churches; they happening. discuss it. the leaders especially. weakness is simply not the pastor's him, ''You fool; you will be a loser will overlook a lot of weaknesses in My wife has been an invaluable You have to be open enough to strength. We have a stereotyped if you do that." a pastor. But I think the main key is help to me in my ministry. She is be vulnerable to your men. Begin SCHUSTER: I think so much idea of pastors, and we have so One couple attended a seminar for the pastor to enter into a·rela­ able to pick up things to which emphasizing that hospitality not sometimes I have been insensitive. with that relationship, realizing that depends upon the approach. If there many expectations. If we are tuned tionship with boards, with his peo­ entertaining is important. So this ple, a relationship that is open and you are not perfect, that you have is a problem in the early stages, it in with the scriptural teaching con­ couple invite people to their home, honest. One of my objectives this weaknesses, but still together you would be very helpful to try to cerning spiritual gifts, we realize not caring how it looks and smells, year is to spend quality time with are a team. I am convinced that a solve it on a one-to-one basis in a that none of us has all the gifts, but pastor has to work with his men, or how they look. They want to each senior pastor in my area. It is non-threatening way with a person some areas, of necessity, must be show hospitality to people. The peo­ and when you have that loving rela­ who has already demonstrated that covered. These areas may be very tionship, "I care about you and you ple come, and they see a mess. It is he is your friend. If a person comes low on our personal priority list devastating for their ministry, and care about me," there is a whole on very strong and tells you all the simply because we are not suited for Quiring: One needs to get new spirit. the couple cannot understand what over the feeling that you are things that have gone wrong with them. If the congregation knows this is happening. your ministry, it is hard to take. and if the man is allowed to be supposed to be perfect, so SCHAUER: Sometimes after being You may already know, but you are honest about this, then maybe the SCHUSTER: This goes back to when someone tells you that in a church for a while, the prob­ not willing to admit this to yourself. congregation will be willing to live lems become bigger and bigger, and unrealistic expectations. We are you are not, you will not be with the pastor's strengths, cover his bombarded from every side with you lose perspective. Some pastors weaknesses, and do some remedial devastated. Ask for some help need to get out and get some air. seminars and with "how-tos." Every work in other areas that may not be time something goes wrong in the and direction, and I think, the They need to spend a whole week the pastor's responsibility. with another pastor and his staff, church, we send the pastor or a church will give it, the leaders with a pastor whom he looks up to, team of people to another seminar, especially. or with someone who has a totally and that is supposed to fix it all. It different philosophy of ministry. actually deepens the problem in It would give him a chance to Schuster: When a pastor most cases because instead of important for the pastor to be HOHN: Charles mentioned the idea say, "Well, my field isn't so bad begins to complain about his becoming themselves and finding the unique ministry God wants them to himself and to use those gifts that of regular office hours. I think that after all . There are some things that people being stubborn and God has given him by interacting can be overdone. I receive many I can really do. We have some exercise as a body, they are always and relating to the people. complaints from people that their strengths." This is especially helpful slow to move, he needs to ask trying to mimic somebody else. himself the question: "What pastors have office hours, and then for a pastor who has been in the BJB: If a pastor is himself and the they are not available after that. same church for six or seven years. have you done to work with people will overlook his weaknesses The fact is that a pastor needs to The problems may become so large them ?" be available to his people 24 hours a that the pastor cannot see where he is really going. day for emergencies. That can be Hohn: The number one prob­ overdone, too, on the part of the congregation. I know we have a lot I recall a situation in my own LITTMAN: What I have been hear­ lem always has been relation­ QUIRING: I think spiritual pride of overworked pastors, but I prob­ ministry. One of my members was ing in pastor-deacon workshops as has a great deal to do with a pastor ships. It is important for the ably know as many lazy pastors. I very goal-oriented. He said, "Sig, one of the strongest criticisms is that getting his back up when some pastor to be himself and to think laziness is a valid grievance. problem comes. what are the goals for the next five pastors do not visit. Some pastors Another is that of accountability. years for you and for the church?" use those gifts that God has I remember reading of a church find it extremely difficult. Whether To whom is the pastor accountable? He asked so many things that I felt where the pastor wa!i having some the pastor feels he can visit or not, given him by interacting and That factor needs to be clear. threatened. It took half a year problems, and so the deacons met he is still going to have to visit if he relating to the people. Sometimes the people of the church with him. As they talked, one before I really began to understand is going to have any kind of have a valid criticism that the pastor deacon, especially, let the pastor that he asked those questions ministry in the church. is not accountable for his time. have it with both barrels, and the because he loved me and because he At pastor-deacon clinics, I say to rest were expecting the pastor to let wanted to help me. Once I bought the board of deacons that it should FASZER: The congregation knows to some extent, then what are valid BJB: In the last couple of years, him have it right back. But instead into that, I was thrilled to see him set goals for the pastor in visitation. that the pastor is not perfect, but I grievances that a congregation may there seems to be more dissatisfac­ become moderator of the church. the pastor recognized that there w;s Call the pastor and say, "I'll go with think they expect ministry. They have toward its pastor? tion on the part of the congregation . r .robably most of us find it very some truth in what the deacon was you, and I will help you." This toward the pastor. What causes d1ff1cult to face up to failure and to want someone who feeds them in saying, and so he said, 'Tm human· begins a team ministry in visitation. FASZER: In every church that I this? things not going well . It is impor­ the pulpit. They want someone who I make mistakes." He readily adm i t~ This helps the pastor, because if he pastored, I found someone, such as tant to let the pastor know that we ministers to them on a one-to-one ted his humanness. wants a long-range ministry of basis. the chairman of the board of SCHUSTER: I think part of it is the The openness on the pastor's part really love him. Some follow-up is spiritual and numerical growth in necessary; a constructive plan needs If a pastor finds it difficult to deacons, with whom I sat down influence from the outside. Many at that meeting was the beginning of the church, he is going to have to visit, then I do not know why he is regularly to talk openly and times people compare the pastor on some healing for this man and his to be worked out together to mend visit in homes. certain areas and reinforce weak in the pastorate. What is the freely-not only with him but also Sunday morning and his preaching receiving another chance in the areas. pastorate all about if it isn't com­ with my deacons and with the with the television preachers. church. His people were willing to POTRATZ: I find it is very difficult munication, visiting, and interper­ church board. I discussed certain If there is a good relationship be­ work with him because of that. BJB: This would be an example of to define what is a competent sonal relationship skills? These are issues with the deacons and other tween pastor and people, even One needs to get over the feeling pastoral ministry. One thing bothers issues with the church board. though he is not the greatest com­ that you are supposed to be perfect, ?ne ?,r several men or a board say­ very basic. ing, Pastor, I'll work along with me. I see some men running to this I would hear from the people municator, they will overlook it so when someone tells you that you or that seminar. where they felt the church was at are not, you will not be devastated. you on this; for example, in visita­ EDMOND HOHN: I feel that the because his love and his compassion tion. " One day when I was at a seminar, number one problem always has and where my ministry was at. It shows through. But if there are a pastor said to me, 'Tm going IO BAPTIST HERALD JUNE 1983 11 other things that are already griping POTRATZ: When the lay move­ LITTMAN: I think it all boils down SCHUSTER: Another is the problem Christ, on the part of the congrega­ work for healing, rather than the the people and then they compare ment came emphasizing the use of to time management. If the pastor is of not keeping confidences. Often tion causes frustration for the pastor abruptly leaving or being their pastor to the TV preachers, spiritual gifts, I heard the comment not spending time in study during the pastor's wife shares with others pastor. Lay people are involved in hurt and hostile, helps healing take they begin to say, "He doesn't that this could easily lead to prob­ the week, he is not going to feed his what has been shared with the everything else, but when it comes place for the congregation for the preach right; he doesn't do this; he lems in church-pastoral relation­ congregation on Sunday. Pastors pastor in confidence. That can be to really supporting the ministry of next pastor who comes. doesn't do that." ships. Do you think this has hap­ need special time to prepare. devastating, and it is a very buifding the body of Christ, they pened? legitimate complaint on the part of say that they "don't have time." SCHUSTER: Where we were able to FENNER: I think we need good, ex­ the congregation. citing Sunday morning worship ser­ SCHUSTER: What you are really catch some of the problems early SCHUSTER: Some pastors, who did talking about is discipline. Self­ ZEEB: Some pastors run the church enough, I am really hopeful that vices. I have been in some dead ser­ reasonably well 10 and 20 years vices. discipline. SCHAUER: It is the other way like a corporation. So the congrega­ their ministry will continue to be ago, are not making the transition When I was pastor at Bethel in St. around, too. tion says, "You want to run it like a fruitful and long-term. In most of today in terms of teaching, training, LITTMAN: A pastor needs to business? Then we will run it like a the situations, there was a will­ Clair Shores, MI, I said to my peo­ and encouraging their lay people to ple: "If I am wasting your hour in discipline himself. Until he learns to business." They feel they do not ingness on the part of the pastor to use the spiritual gifts God has given POTRATZ: Along the line of con­ this worship service, you come and discipline himself, he is not going to need the commitment anymore, come to me and say, 'T his is the them. They are still in the old model fidences, what I hear often is the tell me. I want you to go out of have an effective ministry. only the facts and figures. area in which I am hurting, and of the one-man show. By not being complaint that the pastor uses live here rejoicing in the Lord because of these are the problems." able to adapt, they have created illustrations from the congregation the music we sing and because you SCHAUER: Another factor is problems, and they have stopped credibility. If a pastor says he will in his sermons. LITTMAN: I think another area are spiritually fed." growing. They simply have not People will be critical if their do something and then he does not, concerns incorporating new recognized what God is doing in the it becomes a barb to the people after members into the church. There is a needs are not met. I have been to congregation, and so they are stan­ FASZER: Also, church leaders com­ some churches, and I have come out a while. plain that the pastor preaches on power struggle in which the "old" ding in the way. As a result they are members do not want to release totally depressed. being pushed over. stewardship and giving, but the FENNER: Another grievance would pastor himself gives very little. He responsibility to new members. That SCHUSTER: I agree with that, but be lack of leadership, vascillation, needs to set an example. you are still competing with the trying to please everybody. If a television pastors. I think a pastor decision has to be made even needs to be a good public relations though it is a hard decision to ZEEB: Some pastors are very free in Littman: Lack of commitment man. If he is not, he is not going to make, the pastor should give leader­ spending the church's money, and to the ministry, to building sell himself; he is not going to sell ship and guide the board in making are poor givers in return. This is an the body of Christ, on the the program that the church is seek­ that decision. area of conflict that people find dif­ ing to implement. ficult to handle. part of the congregation causes frustration for the QUIRING: I think a word in describing a pastor who is going to pastor. have trouble is intransigence, un­ Schauer: Another problem is willingness to change. credibility. If a pastor says he pastor's concerns I don't see, a t least in my ex­ will do something and then he perience, that the worship service is about their is a real frustration fo r pastors. New I talked to some of the lay people, what people have against pastors. does not, it becomes a barb to congregations people come in, and they sense that and so it never came to a confronta­ When they are really complaining the people. they are really not wanted. "They tional type of meeting. about the pastor, it is really in want our tithes and offerings, but If we are sensitive enough and if human relations. they will not let us become in­ our people and our pastors have I can tell you of a church where volved. They put us on a year, a confidence in us, then we can do the music is perfect; the organist is two-year, or three-year probation." some preventative work. Hopefully, BJB: What, do you think, are the tops; they have everything just so; it FASZER: I think that's a big factor. FASZER: Another area of grievance that will avoid that final confronta­ vali d grievances that the pastor may looks like it is exciting; and there Another factor is that we are getting may concern the pastor's family. If tion. are changes all the ti me, but much more sophisticated congrega­ the pastor does not have his own have concerning his congregation? BJB: When a church has told the underneath there is rumbling tions than we used to have. At one household basically in order, it pastor that what he is doing is not because in certain matters people are time, the pastor was primarily the acceptable, there are hard feelings. BJB: That was one of the purposes causes problems, especially if the SCHUSTER: One that is very not happy with what they get from educated man in th e congregation. Can there be healing? Can we ex­ of our discussing problems relating children are undiscipli ned, or if the disheartening is an immovable con­ the pastor. Now, there are not only college pect, according to the Bible, a love to church-pastoral relationships: wife is not supportive of his gregation. "We've never done it this graduates but also people who have between those two, that the rela­ Identify factors leading to these ministry, and she displays a way." Some congregations simply ZEEB: Some pastors want to be specialties in all ki nds of fi elds in tionship can be restored, or is there problems and maybe through negative attitude. will not budge, especially if one close to their people, "buddy, bud­ the congregation. More is required no hope? If there is hope, what reading this article, pastors and con­ dy." And they they do not com­ of a pastor to provide inspiring strong layman has run the church gregations will become more aware ZEEB: Also, conflict arises in regard steps can be taken? mand their people's respect. They preaching and church programming. for many, many years. of these and seek to resolve minor to pastoral ethics. When a former get so dose to them that nothing difficulties before they become ma­ much is expected from the pulpit. pastor keeps in touch wi th a seg­ ZEEB: Sometimes there is healing, SCHUSTER: In my mind, a more FASZER : Another is being under­ jor conflicts. D The people do not look up to the valid grievance than a boring wor­ ment of his former church member­ but not hope of remaining. I have pastor to produce. ship and returns to conduct a paid as a pastor; he simply struggles encouraged pastors to acknowledge ship service is the question of being financially. A pastor needs to lead his con­ fed with the Word because that is wedding or funeral without inform­ the situation as it is, heal the rela­ gregation. One grievance that I hear why people come. If a pastor cannot ing or seeking the new pastor's con­ tionship and be open to a pastoral is "He's so dose to those people· sent, it causes problems. It is ego­ share the Word of God with LITTMAN: Lack of commitment to change. It is not going to be as they he's with them all the time." ' authority, then he is in trouble. building for the former pastor and want it to be or as it once was. To "body destructive" for the church. the ministry, to building the body of 12 BAPTIST HERALD JUNE 1983 13 the contributions of men such as many of the Baptists who support there can be partial uniformity as Roger Williams and others of our some of the present trends do not well as complete uniformity, and forefathers. It was Williams, give much attention to the human when church or state uses coercion Affirming Baptist Identity: although he did not use the term nature of Jesus and the life he lived. to attain uniformity, it violates the "separation of church and state," Let us repeat that the human nature nature God has given to man. God by T. s. Maston who stated the position clearly and of Jesus provides the basis of himself does not coerce. He has left Faith Freely Exercised consistently. Among other things, freedom of choice that man has. In us free to accept or reject him and he said, "God requires not a unifor­ turn, that freedom of choice means, his will. hroughout the stream of We cannot know how we ought life he lived helps explain their mity of Religion be enacted in any among other things, that any coer­ It follows somewhat logically but TChristian history, there has been to live unless we know how Jesus tendency to overemphasize civil state." cion toward uniformity violates the unfortunately that many of those a tendency to neglect either the walked or lived while he was in the "orthodoxy of belief," whatever that Also, in the Bloody Tenet of basic nature of a person. who make up the so-called "religious right" in the contem­ human or the divine nature of Jesus. world. A statement by Peter in the may mean, and neglect something Persecution he, in a specific way, porary period and who contend for In the contemporary period, Baptists house of Cornelius summarizes the just as important, "orthodoxy of related enforced uniformity of or will use the power of the state to and some other Christian groups life he lived: "God anointed Jesus of life." Unfortunately, some may religion to belief in the humanity of One of the strangest aspects have, to varying degrees, neglected Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and Jesus. He said, "On an enforced of the present struggle regard­ enforce a certain amount of unifor­ attempt to make the former a mity use political strategies in an at­ the human nature. Many among us with power; ... he went about substitute for the latter. The uniformity of Religion throughout a ing church and state as far as Nation or civil state . .. denies . .. tempt to control Baptist agencies need to discover or rediscover the doing good and healing all that were preceding does not mean that we Baptists are concerned is the historic Jesus and the kind of life he oppressed by the devil, for God was that Jesus Christ is come in the and institutions. It seems that the should ever belittle "orthodoxy of ultimate purpose of such control lived when he walked among men. with him" (Acts 10:38). belief." Flesh." fact that some who consider It was John who said, "By this we Let us never forget "He went It may sound strange to us, and it themselves the most conser­ would be to force uniformity of It is tremendously important what belief. All of us should recognize may be sure that we are in him: he about doing good." Just think of the we believe concerning God, Christ, may be difficult for us to under­ vative theologically are the stand. Once understood, however, that an enforced uniformity, who says he abides in him ought to many things he did. He healed the the Holy Spirit, the Bible, man, sin, very ones who have provided walk in the same way in which he hurts of men and women, boys and we will see that it has real whether complete or partial, negates salvation, and so forth. All that is something that has been basic in walked" (I John 2:5-6). And we do girls. suggested is that it is equally signifi cance for us, real significance much of the impetus for com­ say that we abide in him if we claim Also, we know that he was for an understanding of some trends pulsory school prayer and tax Baptist life and neglects freedom and important for us, as Christians, to negates the freedom we have in to be Christians. The word for tempted as we are. It was the writer reveal the spirit of Jesus as he lived more or less prevalent among us to­ relief of some kind for private "walk" is parapeteo, literally "walk Christ. of Hebrews who said, "We have not as we live in the home, the church, day. around." It is a metaphor fo r "live" a high priest who is unable to There is not or should not be any schools. These and some as neighbors, and friends. In other Freedom Carries Heavy Respon­ and is so translated by some. sympathize with our weaknesses but words, our theology and our daily place for coercion in the area of the similar ideas or concepts who in every respect has been spiritual. There should not be any sibility life can never be separated; they undermine the separation It should be added that freedom An ethicist, teacher and writer, T. tempted as we are, yet without should always be compatible with coercion by church or state for sinning" (Heb. 4:15). The fact that uniformity. Such coercion would theory which has been so carries with it heavy responsibility. B. Maston established the Depart­ one another. First of all, there is responsibility to ment of Christian Social Ethics at he was tempted "in every respect mediate or deny the basic nature of basic in our Baptist way of ... as we are" stems from the fact man created in the image of God. life. God, who is the Truth and the Southwestern Baptist Theological Neglecting the Emphasis on source of all truth. Also, freedom at Seminary in 1943. He has taught at that he was fu lly human as well as Separation of Church and State Also, as Williams suggested, such divine. This is the basis for his coercion for uniformity would deny times should be voluntarily sur­ four other Southern Baptist Another trend which is more or understanding of and sympathy for rendered or limited for the sake of seminaries as well as the Arab Bap­ less prevalent among contemporary the human nature of Jesus whose Religious Liberty-Implicit in the us when we are tempted and even the cause of Christ and for the good tist Seminary in Beirut, Lebanon, Baptists and is more closely related coming in the flesh freed men and Nature of the Gospel Itself when we sin. The fact that he had Women to make their own decisions of others. In other words, freedom and is the author of numerous to the preceding than most of us The incarnation gave us an op­ is not simply negative (freedom books. victory over temptation encourages and then to accept the responsibility portunity to see God in action, but us "in confidence to draw near the realize is the neglect or the from) but more importantly, it is weakening of or emphasis on the for those decisons. Christ did not coerce, he only in­ throne of grace, that we may receive positive (freedom to do and be). Let separation of church and state. This School Prayer and Tax Relief vited. Therefore, the proclamation Baptists beware of pressure to con­ mercy and find grace in time of of the Gospel is predicated upon an need" (v. 16). We should be deeply is the doctrine or theory One of the strangest aspects of the trol and particularly of using or sup­ tremendously important to our present struggle regarding church uncoerced response. God still invites porting corecion for uniformity by enforced grateful that Jesus was not only the all to come to him through a faith 1.ulifonnity Son of God but also the son of nation, our denomination, our and state as far as Baptists are con­ political power. D Mary. churches, and Christianity in cerned is the fact that some who commitment to Jesus Christ, but he of rdiQion_ general. consider themselves the most conser­ will not force his will upon anyone. ~ I 1't1 r l Therefore, religious freedom to me I Ignoring Jesus the Man and the Life Separation of church and state vative theologically are the very ... 11 .. ~ ' h.--. He Lived has been a distinctive if not a ones who have provided much of is not a luxury that we can afford confounds ct1e T~e. fact ~hat many contemporary unique contribution of Baptists to the impetus for compulsory sc~oo l only when the times are good, but it civil Jlld rcfiOrOlfS Christians, including some Baptists our American way of life. It seems Prayer and tax relief of some kind is implicit in the nature of the (.r. . .p,: v largely ignore Jesus the man and the strange that some Baptists who have for private schools. These and so.me Gospel itself. been major contributors and strong simil ar ideas or concepts undermine Those who support compulsory Ir ti l~ defenders of separation of church the separation theory which has prayer or reading of the Bible in l~t and state should provide in the been so basic in our Baptist way of schools may argue that they do not contemporary period much of the life. It seems on the surface that advocate absolute uniformity, but leadership of those who would they would be the very ones who undermine if not actuall y destroy Would defend most strongly our AITH FREELY EXERCISED RELIGIOUS LIBERTY DAY JUNE 1983 our separation theory. historic position regarding the ~ Many of us need to reexamine our separation. heritage and become better ac­ One possible explanation, which quainted with our background and might be applied to what has been early history. This should include said previously, is the fact that

14 BAPTIST HERALD JUNE 1983 15 enlarge this building to provide At this point in time, Greenvine populated by the homes of Houston • restrooms and additional class­ began to take on new life. It became retirees, weekenders, and com­ rooms. These plans were interrupted clear that with the changing face of muters. The late seventies brought A Growing Church 1n Bluebonnet Country on May 29, 1960, when a fire the community Greenvine Baptist an influx of transient workers tragically destroyed the Sunday Church must strive to overcome its associated with oil and gas explora­ by Mary Jane Zorn, Franklin Effenberger, and Alan Knuckles School building. ethnic distinction in order to tion, many of whom stayed on after The members of Greenvine Bap­ minister to all God's people in the the boom had passed. surrounding community, Greenvine Baptist faced the country crossroads where fa rm Highway 290, in the heart of Church has never reached a large tist Church thanked God for sparing Central Texas' Bluebonnet Country. size numerically, her influence has the church auditorium and, relying challenge of preserving a remarkable A families meet on weekdays to historic heritage while opening its Greenvine Baptist Church was been proportionately large due to on God's promise that "all things pick up a few groceries, a sack of doors to the many people of dif­ also a first. In 1858, a young the family of churches she has work together for good to them that feed, or to exchange a li ttle small ferent backgrounds and upbringing talk, and to gather for worship on German immigrant named Frank fostered. love God," they immediately began preparations to build a modern that the Lord was leading to its Sundays- this is Greenvine, Texas. Kiefer was converted at the doorstep. They chose to, as it were, A Sunday School Begins building adequate for every educa­ Populated by several fa mily homes, grab the bull by the horns, and with Eckert's Store, the Lutheran Church In 1868, Rev. Kiefer was called to tional need for years to come. The the able le~dership of Rev. Knuckles and the Baptist Church, the town facilities in this building included a full-time mission work and left the began to form its ministries around lies in the heart of Central Texas' church in the capable hands of the modern kitchen, restrooms, and a Bluebonnet Country. fell owship hall adequate for feeding the needs of those to be reached. Rev. F. J. Gleiss. Under his Retaining the basic tenants of This is an area known for firsts jn 120 people. leadership, a Sunday school was preaching and teaching Jesus Christ, the state. Brenham, the nearest town During the next 17 years, gradual started and a group "for the study the church has moved toward mak­ of any size, had the fi rst public of music and singing."' During the l changes and improvements were ing the German Baptist Church school, begun in September of 1875, past one hundred years, the made at Greenvine. A new par­ sonage was erected and the sanc­ synonomous in the community with and the first country-supported Greenvine Baptist Church has been a warm and open fellowship of college, Blinn Junior College, was tuary improved with air condition­ served by more than a score of devout believers. founded in 1883. Texas Lutheran ing and the purchase of an organ. pastors in addition to Kiefer and Some of the changes were In December 1973, a radio College and Baylor University both Gleiss, each of whom made a physical, some spiritual. In 1978, it ministry was begun by Pastor John had their original campuses located worthy contribution to the spiritual was decided to build a recreational in or near Brenham. Silvey. The 30-minute program con­ Pastor Alan Knuckles with his wife Helen (l engefeld), and physical welfare of the church. who was a short-term missionary to Cameroon. facility to serve both the church and Near Easter, the hillsides and the It was during the pastorate of sisted of a message by the pastor The countryside was rapidly the community. The result was a roadsides are abundantly carpeted J. E. Sydow that the presen t church and recorded music featuring Green­ fenced and lighted ten- with a brilliant blue wildflower, the auditorium was constructed . It is a vine members. Attributable to this changing from miles of farmlands connected now and then by the dot nis/ volleyball / basketball court that bluebonnet-the perfect setting fo r a wood-frame structure in which some simple fo rmat, it has become one of has become the center of countless small white-frame church that had 180 people may worship. It has been the most popular church programs of a small German, Czech, or Polish its beginnings more than 120 years in the area, reaching out to listeners community to one less sparsely (Continued on next page) Greenvine Baptist Church, Burton, Texas, as it ap· remodeled several times and still ago . This church, the first German peared in 1899. serves the congregati on as its main in a 70-mile radius. It airs Sunday Baptist Church in Texas, is morning at 10 o'clock on Brenha?1's Independence Baptist Church auditorium. Through the years, Greenvine Baptist, located 11 miles additions have been made to KTIX radio 1280, and has been in­ west of Brenham, Texas, just off outside Brenham. He was trained strumental in promoting the visibil­ for the ministry at Baylor University enhance the appearance and the ity and reputation the church has and in medicine at Galveston, usefulness of this building. M ary Jane Zorn and Franklin Ef­ enjoyed . fen berger are members of Greenvine Texas. Dr. Kiefer was later hired by Pastor J. J. the Texas Baptists (later to become Baptist Church of w hich the Rev . Lippert served the Ministry Changes to Meet Needs of part of the Southern Baptist congregation at Alan Knuck les is pastor. Changing Community . Convention) as a missionary to the Greenvine from German-speaki ng people of Texas. In July 1977, Greenvine was in 1935 to 1947. search of a new pastor. Alan In 1861, Dr. Kiefer held a series During this time, of evangelistic meetings in the Knuckles, a Baylor University stu­ an educa tion dent and religion major, w~s ca ~l ed Greenvine community, and 18 building went up, persons accepted Christ as Savior. as interim pastor. He remained in _ constructed from that position for ten months. Dun ng This group officially organized lumber from the Greenvine Ebenezer German Baptist this period, it became apparent that Brenham German God was leading Greenvine to call Church on the third Sunday in B~p ti s t Church that had recently October 1861. this young man as th ~ i r pa s to ~. t dissolved. This building was a real Knuckles continued his education a As Kiefer continued his asset to the church in that it provid­ evangelistic work and as Greenvine Baylor and Southwestern Baptist ed space for Sunday school classes Theological Seminary in Dallas. He fami lies moved further into the as well as a kitchen and fell owship The educational unit was enlarged and the sanctuary remodeled so newl y designed and redesigned ministri es was called as pastor in February could begin to reach out into the community. state, other German Baptist room. In 1959 plans were begun to congregations sprang up. Thus it is 1978 and ordained in May of that year. He brought with hi m a vision that Greenvine is known as the ~uropenn Missio 11s i11 Texas by Jo h n A. :·mother church" of German Baptists eld. P ublis hed by Broadma n P ress of grea ter things fo r the glory of m Texas and, in particular, the Nashv ille, Tenn . cop y right 1936, p . '70 . God. Southern Associa ti on of North American Baptist Conference. Although the Greenvine Baptist

16 BAPTIST HERALD JUNE 1983 17 warm weather fellowships for peo­ where classes were divided and 200 homes. Greenvine is currently ple of all ages. Playground equip­ realigned to better serve different also the home of the Southern ment was added for church and age groups, particularly young mar­ Association News, the quarterly community children. ried and single adults. A nursery publication of the churches of the The next project was to enlarge was begun that now provides infant Southern Association. the educational building and remodel the sanctuary, with the overall goal of adding comfort and appeal to the worship area. This was accomplished by a connecting addition that joined the educational building and the sanctuary, pro­ viding additional Sunday School areas and enlarging the fellowship hall, while providing an overflow that directly links to the sanctuary. The sound system was improved so that the worship service can be heard in both buildings and musi­ cians can take advantage of the wealth of taped accompaniments now available in church music. The sanctuary was paneled and carpeted. The roof has been repaired and ma­ jor changes in the heating and cool­ Women meet in Sunday school to study God's word. ing systems were made that all add care during all major services, and a to a comfortable worship setting. Results: Church Growth class begun for three- to five-year­ The results: an increase in Changes in Church Ministries olds. A volunteer choir was orga­ membership of 51 percent in five Now that members and visitors nized to sing at weekly services and years, 26 baptisms, and an increase produce one major work per year. alike could worship in comfortable, in church staff of two part-time and spacious surroundings, and one volunteer position. The most lasting and encouraging result and fellowship on well-kept, well equip­ The most lasting and en­ ped grounds, the church turned its sign of growth and witness can be eye to designing new and redesign­ couraging result and sign of seen in the faces of the Christians: ing the old ministries of the church growth can be seen in the those who have reached out to and organizations to serve the needs faces of the Christians: Those others on a one-to-one basis and developed the personal relationships of its changing fellowship. who have reached out to Change and improvement took that bring in the lost, and those who place in the Sunday School program others on a one-to-one basis have been reached by this warm and developed the personal fellowship and need-oriented relationships that bring in the ministry and now are leading fuller, happier lives in the walk with lost and those who have been Christ. reached by this warm In 1981, Rev. Knuckles married fellowship and need-oriented Helen Lengefeld, a teacher and ministry and now are leading fo rmer short-term missionary to C~meroon. Together, they, with the fuller, happier lives in the church family have sought out the walk with Christ. lost to minister to them from within can I want to invest$ ______($100.00 minimum) the warm, glowing, and growing YES, I help. fellowship that is Greenvine Baptist Please check the investme nt term you prefer: Please send me a free Prospectus: Participation in Southern Associa­ Church. D INTEREST RATES tion meetings, retreats, and other United S tates Canada outings has been encouraged, and Annual Annual Investment Stated Percentage S tated Percentage Address ------Rev. Knuckles is presently serving Te rm Rate Rate Rate Rate as moderator of the Association. 0 DemancV90 Day City ______State1Prov. ____ Zip ___ The visibility of the church in the Agreement 8.25 N/A 8.25 )'J/A 0 I-year term 9.00 9.31 9.00 9.31 community has been improved by Return this coupon to: the use of the weekly radio program 0 2-year term 9.50 9.84 9.50 9.84 0 3-year term Church Extension Investors Fund and the local newspaper, which 10.00 10.38 10.00 10.38 0 5·year term N/A N/A 11.00 11.46 1 South 210 Summit Avenue features a weekly church page. A 0 Revocable I I.SO 12.01 N/A N/A Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois 60181 monthly church newsletter is Charitable Gift published and mailed to more than Thank you for becoming a par/ of ouer 1800 other inuestors reaching people for Christ.

18 BAPTIST HERALD Church Extension Project Personal Reflections by ''New Day'' by Connie Kaiser and John Kiemele

Building People "New Day" encourages concept from the program rather are not my own. I have just begun by James S. Leverette Christians to grow in their than just a "nice evening" or "good to learn to let go of my own will faith and to challenge individuals to music." and allow God to have his way in little over a year ago, Hawkwood Baptist Fellowship Our present membership stands ~t 55, while we number be servants. This type of However, none of this happens my life. " A was little more than a dream. Today it is a vibrant, our extended family to be approximately 130 people. The servanthood involves getting out apart from a team prayer life. God "I have learned what is involved growing church in Northwest Calgary, Alberta. attendance in our worship services has averaged 85 people into communities and "serving" the has brought many visible results in church growth and also the main­ The decision to start a new church in this area was not a and 60 people in Sunday school. We have seen a steady non-Christian community. It is only that have changed and affected the taining of the body. I have learned difficult one to make; fo r as the community was studied increase over the last few months, and we are thrilled as Christians build relationships team members' lives. that I cannot limit God as he works and evaluated, it became evident that there were about the possibilities before us. . with non-Christians that we will "I have discovered that different in the lives of men. Many times thousands of people who were not being reached with the We believe the future holds many blessings for us, and have an impact on our world. It is forms of prayer strengthen my when I expect nothing, God has Gospel. The census taken in 1982 indicated that in we are planning today for tomorrow's mi~istry. Our taking the powerful love of God to relationship with God. In praying shown me that he is working and is Hawkwood and its neighbouring communities, there were emphasis is reaching the lost of the commumty through the people who need it and not through scripture, I am more aware changing lives right before my already more than 12,000 people. It is estimated that the evangelism and encouraging personal growth through expecting them to come and get it. of God's sovereignty, his promises eyes." future population will be approximately 49,000 people. It discipleship. We have been, and will continue to realize Also, "New Day" desires to and his love. 'There are some really special is also estimated that only 14 percent of the current this emphasis through organized community penetration, explain Jesus Christ clearly to those songs we sing that tug at my heart. population is being ministered to by the existing churches and through the development of a long-term advertising who do not know him. There are Lasting Impact on Lives 'I Will Praise Him' leads me to of the area. This fact convinced us of the spiritual need of and promotional strategy. We are in the process of also some other important concerns The lasting impact of the team's realize praising God must happen the area, for indeed, "The harvest is plentiful, but the strengthening our prayer ministry and developing our of "New Day" members. One of the ministry on their own lives is with my whole life. 'Living Sacrifice' workers are few." community Bible studies. Currently, there are people most essential is the time spent with evidenced through these statements: follows the idea of continually plac­ Our mother church, Brentview Baptist, Calgary, planning for a Pioneer Girls' ministry, a youth ministry, a the church people, especially before "I have become more aware of ing myself on his altar, a choice I have to make daily. And finally, Alberta, played a significant role in our early development music program, and a new Christians' discipleship class. the concerts and seminars. specific needs of people: their T he Fiddler' helps me see me as I by purchasing land for us and sending a nucleus of people We believe God will continue to bless this ministry as we "It's becoming a friend, fi rst; after frustrations and hurts. really was and from where the Lord upon which to build. In September of 1982, we began our continue to walk by faith in this way. that everything becomes easier. "Because my relationship to God ministry, and God has blessed as we have worked together Matthew 18:14 tells us that "it is not the will of our extends to people, I can meet needs has brought me. What is so exciting When the people know us as is seeing where God is taking me." to spread the Gospel. Currently, we offer a wide variety of Father who is in heaven that one of these . . . should individuals, then our concerts and because someone once told me there ministries to our community: Sunday School for all ages, perish." This verse reflects God's burden for our are only three things that are of "This has been one of the best counselling become more effective. years of my life . During it, I have creative worship services, children's worship, nursery, community and our world. If this is God's burden, this That does make it harder to say eternal value: God himself, God's library with over 200 books, Christian Service Brigade, must be our burden as well, and we must be faithful to Word, and his people. I ask myself, had opportunities to learn, grow, good-bye though." and relax more than I ever had Evangelism Explosion training and visitation, and various reach out to those who are lost and dying. Another ministry area is that of 'Where am I investing my Sunday evening activities. before. I have been challenged by "When you pray, don't pray fo r vision, pray for God's technical sound. The well-balanced energies?' " "The most meaningful call I made church people, team members, and We are excited about those whom God has brought to us burden. When He gives you His burden He will give you a sound and clarity of music and was to an elderly couple. Hungry friends to become a better per- both from our mother church and from the community. vision." -Rev. Don Kinney. words affects the message more than for company, they invited us in. We son -more Christ-like. The response suspected ... that is, of course, , The Rev. James S. Leverette is pastor of the Hawkwood Your prayer and financial support through Church had tea and cookies, shared about of the congregations this year has until a small child unplugs the entire Baptist Church Extension Project and was Director of Extension Bu ilders is appreciated. Contributions illnesses and family, sang hymns overwhelmed me, and I have been Christian Education and Outreach at the mother church, designated for Hawkwood Baptist, Calgary, AB, may be system during the song. There are and included scripture and prayer. It very excited because I know that it Brentview Baptist Church, Calgary, Alberta, prior to sent to N.A.B. Conference, 1 So. 210 Summit Ave., also records that offer a continual is God choosing to use our work for reminder of "New Day's" messages showed me there are so many needs becoming pastor at Hawkwood. Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181. in our world, which we, as in­ himself." to the churches. dividuals through the church, could "After all the 'giving' 'New Day' All this, plus lead-in, testimonies, meet, if we would care more fo r does, is there no 'getting'?" and children-oriented events wrap those around us." What do you think? 0 up the messages in a package with 'The greatest impact 'New Day' power. Hopefully, the audiences has had on my life is stated in Mark leave with a particular spiritual 10:45. If I am going to have an im­ pact on peo~ le,. I. must be concerned Connie Kaiser and John Kiemele are about their md1v1dual needs; reporters for the "New Day " team. therefore, I must be a servant. As we take time for people, effective ministry takes place." "The best thing about being on team is seeing God's power work through me. Especially as I counsel with people and hear the words come from my mouth that I know

Learning about God and his plan through a Sunday School for Pastor Jim Leverelte and his wife Cheryl P,1stor Leverette leads a class for new mem ber s. all ages began 1hc 1r minoslry al Hawkwood Bap· 1i s1 on September 1982. 20 BAPTIST HERALD JUNE 1983 21 OMAN'S ORLD

my dad's acknowledgement of his their help! But that's pretty super­ He couldn't be ready w ith a word of faults and attempt to be humble, Fathers Are . . . ficial-mothers could probably learn praise when we pass a test. He k new On The Potter's Wheel open, honest, and growing. I think of by Li sa Pasiciel, to if they had to . this and accepted this and he solved the times when dad came to me to tell Who did we run to when we the dilemma. He gave us fathers! me he was wrong or that he was sorry Steinbach, MB scraped our knees? Who wiped our We have something so special in by Iona Quiring, fo r having yelled at me. I remember our fathers. They're molded in God's Have you ever wondered why God tears when others rebuffed us? Who WMF president, when he was tired and discouraged gave us fathers? He is actually our held us when fears of the dark drove image, giving us a special love that with his doctoral work and asked me Father, so why do we need another us screaming from our beds? Fathers, can only come from him, and I'm one Rogers, MN to make a desk plaque that said "Dr. one on earth? Well, for one thing, to of course! daughter that's going to return that Donald Miller" to remind him to keep She said that God uses (1) take care of income tax, balance the Mothers can be our friends, but it's love to the best of my ability! Me. striving. checks, and figure out the mortgage! our fathers we turn to for help and This Father's Day, realize that this Scripture, (2) prayer, and (3) other Then there was the Christmas that Mothers never could do it without support. God is our Father, but he isn't just a man who lives in your people, to accomplish change in our dad and I had argument after argu­ can't help us with homework, make house and pays the bills! T his is God's "So I went down to the potter's lives. Then why, when all three of ment on how I was living my life. us laugh when we feel like crying, choice, especially fo r you. house, and there he was working at these elements are available, doesn't Finally, I flew back to school a week hold up our chins when pressure pulls (Lisa's father is Dr. Ernest Pasiciel, his wheel. A nd the vessel he was rapid and obvious change take early, determined to prove to my dad Welcome to us down. professor at W innipeg Bible College making of clay was spoiled in the place? Because Scriptu re I don't that I could succeed m y way. Shortly, God fulfills an inner spiritual need, and Seminary. Lisa is a Grade 8 stu­ potter's hand, and he reworked it in­ study and don't apply won't make a hand-written note followed me by but he knew he couldn't give miracu­ den t at Steinbach Jun ior H igh to another vessel, as it seemed good me wise and loving. And prayers I mail entitled, "Declaration of In­ New Groups lous math skills just before a test. He School.) to the potter to do" (Jeremiah 18:3, don't pray can't make me more god­ dependence." In it, dad said he was couldn't be there for a goodnight kiss. 4, RSV). ly. And people I ignore aren't able letting me go, to be my own person by Lavern a to teach me. and make my own decisions. From Mehlhaff, PBPGINFWMY. T hat's short for The changing process is hindered then on, he wrote, he and mom "Please Be Patient, God Is Not when I resist God by hanging onto a women's would support me in my choices and Finished W ith Me Yet." God loves pet sin, or by not allowing him to be there to help me up, if I wanted work director me just as I am, but he loves-me too break a bad habit. It reminds me of help, when and if I fell . A Father I guess that was one of my worst much to leave me that way. my little finger . I broke it once play­ It is all these things which enable fears in growing up-disappointing In the springtime we rejoice as the I know God is working in my life, ing volleyball, and it healed wrong. me to write a tribute to my father. In vegetation bursts forth in all of its A Friend dad. Whether it was in facing dad's b ut it seems so slow. There are good I should have let the doctor break many ways my father has become an accusing fi nger when I dented up the beauty. O ur hearts are revived and by Denny Miller, times when I feel like "work in pro­ and reset it, so it could heal properly example and inspiration to me challenged as we plan for another car or having made a wrong decision, cess." There's a little more love or and function normally. But I didn't. through his willingness to be real to season. We are again reminded of Sioux Fa ll s, SD I idolized my father and felt horrible patience or kindness evident in my I was afraid it would hurt. Now my me through sharing his struggles, the faithfulness of God for season I don't want to write a typical when I felt I was less than perfect in life than there was last week, and finger is crooked and funny looking, needs, and dreams: his failures and follows season without fail just as gushy essay about my father because, his eyes. I'm encouraged. O ther days I feel and the middle joint won't bend. successes. day follows night. "The earth is the quite truthfully, over the years my I don't know that dad ever set like a "reject," like I've goofed so Not so serious, but a good object What can I say now but thank you Lord's and the fullness thereof; the fa ther has caused me a lot of frustra­ down standards of performance for badly that God has to start all over. lesson. and .. . I love you, dad. world and they that dwell therein" tion and tears. me. I observed his personal goal­ Sometimes I wish that he would just J. am comforted when I read in (Denny's father is Dr. Donald Miller, (Psalm 24:1). For example, he has caused me no setting and perfectionism and deter­ whirl me around on his potter's Jeremiah 18:4 that the potter didn't pastor of the Bethany Baptist Church As women we have much cause end of embarrassment by trying to mination . I saw how important it was throw away the vessel that was wheel and make me a perfect speci­ in Portland, O R. Denny is a student of rejoicing. Several new WMF joke with my friends ot use me in ser­ for him to do his best in all he under­ men in forty days. spoiled. He reworked it into at the North American Baptist groups have been organized in re­ mon illustrations. When, as a grade took and his criticism of those who something that pleased him. Thank A few years ago at our women's Seminary, Sioux Falls, SD.) cent months and several other schooler, I was beaten up on the way weren't self-disciplined, and I worried retreat, Loree Kiel spoke on Evelyn you, Lord, for caring enough to cor­ groups, including some of our ex­ home from school by an older boy, that I couldn't measure up . Christenson's book, Lord, Change rect and reshape me, even if it hurts. tension churches, are planning to the pain suffered was second only to It wasn't that dad was so bad. We organize. A special welcome to the having the whole school hear about it had great times as kids fishing I guess as I grew up there were prompted dad to say many of the new groups from Bethel Baptist on Sunday morning. through the basemen t windows for several things I observed about my things which I felt were unfair or Mission in Surrey, BC, and from Sometimes it seemed to me that he p rizes on family night. Although dad dad, and it is those things which have critical, as though he were trying to our Hartland Church Extension was not proud enough of me either. was often busy with church or, later, brought me to deeper understanding When others bragged about their seminary work, he always had time run my life. Church in Prince George, BC. We and love for my father both as a welcome all new groups that are children's accomplishments, he sat for coffee breaks or late n igh t d iscus­ Second, my father is not perfect. parent and as a person. He struggles with faults and things he joining the WMF. quietl y. When I did better than my sions-sometimes theological, some­ We praise the Lord for faithful brother or sister in school, he never ti mes silly, sometimes dreaming or The first thing is that dad has doesn't like in himself as do I. Often I women seeking to serve Christ seemed to notice. I got the usual, problem-solving. Once when I was in always loved me, believed in me, and was unfairly critical of him because I through the women's organization "Good job!" I will never forget, high school, dad and I took a week's wanted the best for me. It is that saw in him many of the things I didn't of our local churches and our Con­ either, the time he blatantly told me vacation together in Hawaii, explor­ desire- that I realize my greatest like in myself. Surely, by his age, he ference. he was disappointed in something I ing the island and getting to know potential, be it academics, marriage, should have resolved them! had done. one another. career, or spiritual matters- that Finally, and most importantly, is

22 BAPTIST HERALD JUNE 1983 23 our conference in action our conference in action WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES honored at a supper and program at the Several persons alternate driving the Refreshments were served during a time "New Commandment," from Briercrest in their honor, and they were presented Bible College as special guests. with a gift in appreciation. The Hoffmans Mr. and Mrs. Henry Classen, Dallas, Nokomis Baptist Church where they are bus to bring the elderly and children to of fellowship. moved to Medicine Hat, AB, where he is OR, were honored at a reception given by members. (Mrs. Marianne Patzer, re­ Sunday School, Sunday morning and eve­ "We thank God for answered prayer in Using the book of Job as his theme, porter.) sending the Herrmanns to Redeemer," Rev. Klassen spoke several times during serving as chaplain at the Haven of Rest their children: Mrs. Virginia Thiesies, ning worship services, Wednesday eve­ ning prayer service and family night. On says Doris L. Patel, reporter. the weekend: on Friday evening to the Home. (Maxine Bettenhausen, reporter.) GLEN Ell YN, IL. Chaplain Thomas family night there are classes for all ages youth; on Saturday at a men's breakfast, Alan Zimmerman was ordained at 3 p .m. from preschool to elderly. EBENEZER, SK. Miss LaVerna at the Special Care Home and at a special WINNIPEG, MB . February proved to on Feb . 6, 1983, by Village Green Baptist The Church also purchased an acreage Mehlhaff, assistant director of Women's banquet that evening. On Sunday morn­ be a very busy month for Fort Richmond Church . Dr. G. K. Zimmerman, father of for a new church building. The Rev. Herb Missionary Fellowship, spoke to the ing, Rev. Klassen concluded his series dur­ Baptist Church: the W.M.S. hosted a Chaplain Zimmerman, emphasized God's Schauer is pastor. (Mrs. Walter Kitzan, women of the Ebenezer Baptist Church ing the morning worship service. sweetheart potluck supper with guest call, commission and companionship as reporter.) recently. Neighboring women's fellow­ Several individuals expressed interest in speaker, Dr. John Foerster and the Pio­ he gave the ordination sermon for his son . ships participated in the afternoon becoming more involved with the church neer Girls and Boys' Brigade hosted an in­ Chaplain Zimmerman's brother, Paul LODI, CA . T he First Baptist Church meeting. "In the evening service, Miss following this weekend. formative exciting evening at another oc­ of Lo uisville, KY, was guest organist, and was privileged to have "New Day" (music Mehlhaff gave ideas on making our fel­ "We thank the Lord for the many spe­ casion. Parents and friends heard about Miss Cleo Enockson, Forest Pa rk, IL, was section) at the Church. Chall enging times lowship more appealing to others," writes cial blessings of these days," says Carol the clubs' activities and asked questions. soloist. and relevant messages relating to the Martha Dreger, reporter. Church, church clerk. Jim Church is the An exciting experience for our newly Min isters who participated in the or­ Christian's daily walk were delivered each T he "Singing Men" presented a sacred pastor. organized Junior Choir was their par­ dination service were the Rev. Stanley night. A definite response was called for concert at the Calvary Baptist Church in ticipation in a Children's Festival of Praise Sommerschield, interim pastor, invoca­ from the hearts of those listening. Regina. UN DERWOOD, ND. The First Baptist held at Grant Memorial; choirs from tion, and the Rev. Gordon Bauslaugh, The group joined three of the adult Church had a Mortgage Burning Cere­ other N.A.B. churches in Manitoba also scripture, both of Village Green; Dr. Sunday School classes for a lighthearted mony for a newly purchased parsonage, sang. BROOKFIELD, WI. On the afternoon Hawood Classen, and David Classen, and Richard Schilke, Oak Park, prayer; the time of fellowship at a Sweetheart Ban­ during the morning service, Feb. 20, 1983. The Church hosted a film series by John of Sunday, February 27, a celebration of their grandchilden at Salt Creek Baptist Rev. Willis Potratz, N.A.B. area quet on Saturday evening. The following took part in the ceremony MacArthur on the family. It was co-spon­ Church, March 5, 1983. They have been mi.nistries director, ordination prayer; The play, "Home Again-Portrait of a the 40th anniversary of the ordination of (pictured): Pastor Wesley Gerber (left ), sored by Southdale Community Baptist active members there fo r many years. Miss La Verna Mehlhaff, W.M.F. director Family," performed on Sunday evening the Rev. and Mrs. Jack E. Jones was held Moderator Carl Radke, Treasurer Melvin Church. (Bonnie Edel, reporter.) charge to the church; the Rev. Everet; climaxed a marvelous week with these at Immanuel Baptist Church. In addition Koenig and Trustees Delene Brockel, Dale to those who appeared on the program, a Mr. and Mrs. George Holzaepfel were Barker, Wheaton, IL, charge to the can­ t~len t ed, dedicated young people. "Our Radke and Curtis Nutz. WEST ST. PAUL, MN. Riverview Bap­ honored on the occasion of their SOth didate, and the Rev. Eldon Schroeder lives were ent"iched because of 'New basketfu l of greetings, in the fo rm of cards tist Church hosted the Minnesota­ wedding anniversary in June 1982 as fami­ Foster Avenue Baptist, welcome to t h ~ Day's' presence among us," writes Della and letters from friends and former pa­ LaCrosse Annual Spring Rally and Music ly and friends gathered at Centra l Baptist ministry. Lutz, reporter. rishoners, was given to Pastor Jack and Festival on the afternoon of March 6, Church, Kitchener, ON. They have been T he Rev. T homas Zimmerman is a Gladys. 1983. A mass choir under the capable graduate of Northern Baptist Sem in ary. ST. PAUL, MN. T he Redeemer Baptist Greetings were brought by represent~­ direction of Tim Blackburn, Apple Valley tives of the many a reas of ministry in He completed his residency at St. Luke's Church held an installation service for its Baptist Church, sang several numb~rs of Hospitals, St. Louis, MO, where he is a new pastor and wife, the Rev. and Mrs. which Pastor Jack has been and is e~­ praise and adoration. A rich variety of fu ll-time chaplain. He and his wife, Lin da, Rubin Herrmann and fam ily, on Feb. 27, gaged. Denominational, state, communi­ choir numbers and other musical selec­ a registered nurse, have one son, Mark 1983 . The Minnesota-LaCrosse Associa­ ty, and ecumenical involvements were tions were also provided by participating Jason. tion Churches brought musical and scrip­ represented and gave, as he said in. his churches. Special guests bringing brief tural selections. response, "a good overview of the various remarks were the Rev. Charles Littman, EBENEZER, SK . Stephen Patrick was facets of the ministry in which I've been North Central Area minister, and the Rev. ordained by Ebenezer Baptist Church at a engaged during the past 40 years." Connie Salios, N.A.B. Development service on Feb. 6, 1983. The ordination Director. An informal time of fellowship service was chaired by the moderator, Ar­ CH EEKTOWAG A, NY . Pastor Ber­ followed the Festival. (Barbara Glewwe, The parsonage was purchased in Oc­ thur Patzer. nard Thole of Temple Baptist Chur~h reporter.) Participants in the service were John tober 1981 at a total cost of $78,854. The spent three informative weeks in final payment was made Jan. 31, 1983. MacDonald, scripture and prayer; Martin Cameroon. He is a member of the N.A.B. (Lorine Lutz, reporter.) Arndt, council report; and the Rev. Sieg­ Board of Missions. fried Schuster, the charge to the candidate Pastor Thole visited schools, colleges, and the charge to the church. The Rev . FARGO, ND. On Feb. 13, 1983, the and hospitals, as well as preached in some Rev. Terry Stoltenow was installed at active members of the church since it was Delvin Bertsch, pastor, Central Baptist national churches. One was roofless, Metropolitan Baptist Church as pastor. founded with Mr. Holzaepfel having Church, Yorkton, gave the ordination simply because the congregat ion ran out Rev. Stoltenow was called to Metropol­ served as church deacon and church elder message and welcomed Rev. Patrick into of money. However, the Holy Spirit was itan Baptist after the resignation of the for many years. the ministry. Musical selections were pro­ much in evidence. vided by the "Singing Men," the youth Rev. Ted Keck, now of Grapevine, TX. Pastor Thole was pleased and thankful The service consisted of greetings from Mr. and Mrs. Dav id Patzer, Nokomis, group, and Douglas Fairhead. for all that has been accomplished by our SK, celebrated their SOth wedding an­ A love offering for Rev. Patrick's the Rev. Charles Littman, area minister, devoted missionaries as well as by the words of welcome from officers of the niversary on Feb.19, 1983. They were library was received. The parents of both Cameroonians; but there is much yet to be the pastor and his wife, Mr. and Mrs. Ar­ church, special music, and a message by done. He had lunch with the United States Rev . Stoltenow, followed by a noon pot­ thur Patrick, Marquette, MI, and Mr. and Ambassador in Yaounde. luck. CHICAGO, IL. The Baptist Mission Mrs. Clifford Sellen, Lena, WI, were pres­ While Pastor Thole was absent from ent. (Martha Dreger, reporter.) Rev. Stoltenow, his wife Sharon, and Church celebrated its 25th anniversary on Temple Church, the pulpit was filled. by their two daughters served at the North The Rev. Charles Littman, area minis­ three young men from the congregation. February 27. A multi-media presentation HEBRON, "'D. First Baptist Church Sheridan Baptist Church, Peoria, IL, prior of "25 Years for Christ" was the highlight ter, brought the message on 'The Authen­ "Wh at a blessing an d inspira· · t1"o n these achieved a project long in planning: the tic Church." to coming to Metropolitan Baptist of the Saturday night banquet, attended men were," says Mrs. G. Hartman, r~ Church. (Wanda Strandquist, reporter.) purchase of a retired school bus. The Lord Charges were given to the pastor and Porter. "What a glorious way the Lor by more than 230 members and friends. showed his great way in doing things. congregation. Rev. Herrmann assured us Works through our young people." Former pastors: Dr. Friedham Radant, the Within two weeks enough contributions of his sincere desire to serve God in our RAPID CITY, SD. On Sunday March 20, Rev. Fred Merke and the Rev. Elvin 1983, the Rev. and Mrs. Walter Hoffman Schuelke, participated in the two-hour came in for the bus, plus funds to use for midst. f STERHAZY SK . Esterhazy Baptist expenses. The young adult class scraped Dr. Pieter Smit , who so ably served as ' · kend was concluded their two and one-half year bilingual morning worship service. C hurch's annual Valentine wee ministry at South Canyon Baptist The Sunday afternoon service, under the yellow paint and had the bus re­ interim pastor for the past year, closed held February 11-13 with Rev. Norm painted. Church. A noon potluck dinner was held the direction of Pastor M ichael Pen- with a dedicatory prayer. Klassen and a high school singing group, 24 BAPTIST HERALD JUNE 1983 25 our conference in action In Memoriam nington, was a special gathering with during this crusade. It was a time of com­ ing the teenagers. Group participation has MRS. BARBARA ERFLE SCHMIEDT (102), vivors include a brother, Winfred Siems; a Norman and Arnold; brothers: Bennie and members and friends from the area mitment, rededication, and renewal. been encouraged as the youth gather in Lodi, CA, born in Teplitz, Beserabia, Russia, daughter, Ruth (Mrs. Leon Jacob), Elgin; a son, Ernest; and sisters: Mrs. Gust Rauser, Mrs. on May 30, 1880, died Jan. 28, 1983. As a Rev. John R. Siems, Louisville, KY; Hve grand­ N.A.B. churches. Dr. John Binder, the (Rosalie Russett, reporter.) homes every two weeks. John Eke!, and Mrs. George Kessler. Pastor teenager, she immigrated to the U.S.A. to children; and three great-grandchildren. He Rev. Willis Potratz, and Dr. Richard Recently an overnight sleep-in was held Dennis Goodin officiated at the funeral service. Bowden, ND. She married John J. Schmiedt, was preceded in death by his wife in 1967; by Schilke brought greetings. "We praise EMERY, SD. A "Keen-Ager" Recogni­ at the church w ith alternating activities in­ Dec. 27, 1903, in Lodi, CA. Mrs. Schmiedt ac­ his parents; a sister Marie; a brother Victor; cluding sports, devotionals, films, music, JACOB PERMANN (78), born in Eureka, God for his wonderful guidance and the tion Night, honoring the senior citizens cepted Christ as her Savior in 1913, was bap­ and a grandson Richard Jacob. Pastors Ben SD, Feb. 8, 1905, died March 2, 1983. In 1921 promise of a bright future for our church who make up one quarter of the church and food. tized, and joined First Baptist Church, Lodi. he moved to Carbon, AB. In 1929 he married Hulsing and Bert Sweeney officiated at the family," says Eva Helwing, reporter. membership was held during the evening She faithfully served her Lord in First Baptist Alma Forsch. He accepted Christ in 1931 and funeral services. service at First Baptist Church recently. and later became a charter member of Temple joined Freudental Baptist Church. In 1959 they The film , "You Haven't Lived Yet," w as Baptist Church, where she was vitally in­ OCHRE RIVER, MB. Fifty-four years moved to Carbon and joined Carbon Baptist HERBERT STURHAHN was born April 7, terested in the missionary outreach and work ago, Mr. Herman Prikker became organist shown, and the King's Kinsmen provided Church, where he fai thfully served the Lord. 1910, in Varel, Germany, to Heinrich and of a mission outreach of M cDermot Ave­ special music. of the Church. Survivors include two Helene Sturhahn and died March 13, 1983 . He He was predeceased by his parents, Christian daughters: Pauline Gigax, Lodi, and Virginia nue Baptist Church, Winnipeg. This mis­ A reception, organized by the Board of and Lydia; three brothers and three step­ received the Lord Jesus Christ as his Savior Mauch, Sacramento; three sons: George and very early and was baptized in 1919. The fami­ Deacons, followed the service. Over 80 sisters. Survivors include his wife, Alma; one sion had its beginning in 1927 when G er­ Gus of Lodi, and Melvin of Sacramento; 16 ly moved to Canada in 1927. In 1935 he mar­ daughter and her husband, Berniece and Elmer man Baptists immigrated to Canada. The "Keen-Agers" attended and received but­ grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Pre­ ried Katie Friesen. This marriage was blessed mission later became Grace Baptist terfly lapel tags. Ziegler; two granddaughters, Susan (Mrs. Ran­ deceasing her were her husband, John, in 1959; with five children: Herb (married to Delores Church, Ochre River. The evening's highlights included dy) Gieck and Bonnie; one great-grandson, her daughter, Frieda, in 1923; her son, Henry, Ross); Trudy (married to Scott Nelson); Walt; Travis Gieck; two sisters, Emma Ginger and During the first 13 years, the congrega­ humorous poetry read by Ed Roskens, in 1960; and her son, Clifford, in 1981. Dr. R. Hildie (married to Garth Richter); Edna (mar­ Ida Rempfer; three brothers: Paul, Walter, and tion met for worship in the Turtle River and a plant given to Bess Edzards in Schreiber and Dr. K. L. Fischer officiated at the ried to Stanley Grenz). He was a charter Bennie; one stepsister, Frieda Rempfer; and funeral service. School, where Mr. Prikker began his min­ recognition of her many years of playing member of the Bethany Baptist Church in Van­ two stepbrothers, Ted and John Schmidt. The couver, faithful and active until his death. He istry as organist at the age of 16 in 1928. the piano and organ in church. Rev. Richard Grabke, assisted by Mr. Allen On April 10, an Easter Cantata was ADAM SCHUH (86), born at Groslieben­ was predeceased by his brother William in Two church buildings were la ter Unger, officiated at the funeral service. A Jake dahl, S. Russia, Nov. 1, 1896, died March 30, 1980. He is survived by his wife Katie, five presented in the evening by the Wesleyan dedicated-one in 1940 and one in Permann Memorial has been established with 1983. At fou r years, he emigrated from Russia children, seven grandchildren, and his sisters: 1969-and Mr. Prikker has served as Methodist Church of Mitchell. (Helen L. contributions to the Carbon Baptist Church for with his parents, settling in Parkston, SD, for a Hanna (Mrs. Walter Blessin) and Agnes (Mrs. organist in both. Walter, reporter.) On March 6, 1983, a baptismal service Bibles fo r N.A.B mission fields in Africa. brief time. In 1906 they moved to Underwood, Bruno Hiller). The Rev. Ulrich Laser officiated "Mr. Prikker is part of the church was held, welcoming two more members ND, where his parents homesteaded. At 18, he at the funeral. history, and the congregation acknowl­ BUFFALO CENTER, IA. On Palm Sun­ (pictured w ith Pastor Terry Jarosch) to !DA RIEDLINGER (94), McClusky, ND. accepted the Lord as his Savior and became a born at Emery, SD, to John F. and Karolina edged his 54 years of faithful service in the day evening, Pastor James Brygger had the church. (Dorothy Potter, church faithful member of the church. He was a char­ MICHAEL PANSEGRAU (72). born May 4, (Bender) Wahl, Jan. 24, 1889, died Feb. 23, church. We can never repay nor thank the joy of baptizing five people at First clerk.) ter member of First Baptist in Underwood and 1910, in Potresbno, Poland, to Johann and 1983, at Harvey, ND. In her youth, she ac­ served as its clerk, as a trustee, and a Sunday Sidona Pansegrau, died Oct. 1, 1982. In 1929 him enough for his many years of Baptist Church. This was followed by a cepted Christ as Savior, was baptized, and school treasurer. He loved the Lord and the he emigrated from Poland to the Yorkton area service," writes Fred J. Amman, reporter. Candlelight Communion Service at which BEU LAH, ND . Immanuel Baptist joined the church at Emery . In 1903, she moved church. Survivors include his wife, Pauline; of Saskatchewan. In 1937 he moved to time those baptized were welcomed into Church witnessed real growth on Sunday, to McClusky, ND. On Oct. 27, 1908, she mar­ two sons: DeRell and Marvin; one daughter: Kelowna, BC. On March 23, 1937, he married ARNPRIOR, ON. We, at First Baptist the church membership and given the February 27, during a special baptismal ried Chris Riedlinger. In 1920, they moved to Mrs. Doreen Speaks; 12 grandchildren; 13 Annie Kirsch; she died in February 1953 . Two Church, enjoyed a thrilling weekend dur­ right hand of fellowship. service. Pastor Voegele baptized three Washburn, returning to McClusky in 1943. She great-grandchildren; and one brother, Tom. children were born to this union . On Aug. 20, ing our Spiritual Renewal Crusade '83 candidates, and four others became mem­ is survived by three daughters: Mrs. Emil The Rev. Wesley Gerber officiated at the 1953, he married the former Mrs. Alice Hait. held March 17-20. The Rev. Larry Burd, PRINCE RUPERT, BC. Youth activities bers of the Church by letter of transfer. Rosenau, Ogden, UT, Mrs. Walter Essig, funeral service. He accepted the Lord as his personal Savior, Getzville, NY, was our special guest at Bethel First Baptist Church have been "We praise the Lo rd for this exciting Bismarck, and Mrs. J. Arthur Froehlich. Mc­ was baptized, and joined Grace Baptist Clusky; two sons: William, McClusky, and speaker, with H omer James as soloist. bustling since September 1982 when three growth taking place in our church," says WALTER DIEDRICH SIEMS (90). Elgin. IA, Church, Kelowna, later transferring to Trinity Theodore, Everette, WA; four sisters: Mrs. Many lives were blessed and touched men took leadership in guiding and teach- Luella Forthun, reporter. born Aug. 31, 1892, to the Rev . D. J. Siems and Baptist Church. He loved the fellowship of Emma Lang and Mrs. Irvin Boling of Bismarck; Anna Riefenberg Siems, near Danville, IA, God's people and was a faithful attender in Mrs. Martha Faul, Bakersfiel d, CA; and Mrs. died Feb. 25, 1983. Walter accepted Christ as God's House. Survivors include his wife, Alice; Velda Ryder, Sacramento, CA; two brothers: his Savior, was baptized March 12, 1905, and a daughter and son-in-law, Evelyn and Ron J. 0. Wahl, Harvey, and John Wahl, San joined First German Baptist Church (Oak Bartz; a son and daughter-in-law, Allen and Diego, CA; 11 grandchildren, 23 great­ Street Bapt ist Church), Burlington, IA. He Norma Pansegrau; two grandchildren, Melanie ing as Sunday school treasurer, church usher, Hildebrandt and B. Rist officiated at the grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grand­ served in the Sunday school for 60 years and as and Wayne Pansegrau; and a sister, Mrs. Mar­ In Memoriam and trustee fo r many years. In 1962 they retired funeral service. children. Her husband predeceased her in 1956. a deacon for many years. On Aug. 10, 1921, he tha Jantz. The Rev . Richard Hohensee of­ from fa rming and moved to Fessenden. Mrs. The Rev . Oscar Fritzke officiated at the funeral married Lydia E. Reusser; they lived near Dan­ ficiated at the funeral service. Driesner died in 1963. Survivors include two LAURA ELIZABETH GRAALMANN (95) ville. In 1972 he moved to the Elgin area. Sur- DAVID SONNENBERG was born April 24, sons and one grandson. Pastor Daniel Berger was born in Michigan Oct. 31, 1886, and died service. 1901, in Leduc, AB, to Edward and Mat ilda assisted by the Rev. Otto Fiesel officiated at the March 25 in Okeene, OK. She and Otto Sonnenberg and died Feb. 16, 1983. As a young funeral service. Graalman were married in Chicago, IL, May .. man of 17, he accepted Christ as his Savior and 16, 1911 . They established a home in Okeene. was baptized. He joined Fi rst Baptist Church, PAULINE FICHTNER (90). born Feb. 22, 1893, Mrs. Graalman was a charter member of Zion where he remained a fa ithful member. On Oct. in Milejow, Wielun, Poland, to Wilhelm and Baptist Church, Okeene, OK, and served as I- 16, 1929, he married Elizabeth Weigum. They Julianna Schulz, died Feb. 8, 1983. Early in her church organist for 50 years. She was a faithfu l Helwig Appointed for Communications W illow Rancho Baptist farmed in the Leduc district and moved into life she accepted Jesus Christ as Savior, was and Joyal member. She is survived by her hus­ Church, Sacramento, CA. town in 1966; he then worked as a carpenter. baptized, and joined the Zdunska-Wola Baptist band Otto; a son, Robert Edward Graalman, The Rev. Arthur Council takes effect June 1, 1983. "It Mr. Helwig was born in Hanover, He is survived by his wife Elizabeth; three Church. In 1914, she married Emil Heubscher, Fairview, OK; two grandchildren; and two is with a sense of challenge and excite­ O N, and grew up in the Neustadt daugh ters and their husbands: Irma and Hank Helwig has ac­ who died about three years later. She married great-grandchildren. Three brothers and two Baptist Church. After attending Vos, Edmonton; Hazel and Lawrence Roth, Adolf Fichtner in Milejow, Poland, in 1919. sisters preceded her in death. The Rev . Edward cepted a three­ ment that I accept this appointment," North American Baptist College, Ed­ Leduc; Joanne and Robert Hickman, Edmon­ This marriage was blessed with five ch ildren, Kopf and Bob Pearle officiated at the fu neral year appointment states Helwig. ton; six grandchildren; one brother; and two monton, AB, for two years, he en­ four of which preceded her in death. In Oc­ service. as associate direc­ Mr. Helwig has served as director sisters. He was predeceased by one sister and tober 1951, she fle d wi th her family to Herne, rolled in Sioux Falls College, SD, t o r of com ­ of ministry recruitment and public one brother. Dr. Joe Sonnenberg officiated at West Germany. In February 1952, she im­ FRED MILLER, (87) Turtle Lake, ND. was relations at the North American Bap­ where he received a Bachelor of Arts the memorial service. munications for migrated with her family to Prince George, BC. born Feb. 19, 1895, in Odessa, South Russia, tist Seminary, Sioux Falls, SD, since degree. He continued his studies at Canada, where she joined Bethel Baptist the Development and died Sept. 21, 1982. In 1901 he came with 1980. Prior to that he and his wife the North American Baptist Seminary ALBERT DRIESNER (84), Fessenden, ND, Church. In September 1971, her husband Adolf his parents to the United States to the Turtle Department at the born March 10, 1898, in Shumer, Russia, died Dorothy (Ehman) served for six years in Sioux Falls, where he earned the died. In August 1973 she moved to Edmonton. Lake area. He served with the army in France North American March 8, 1983. He was baptized at the age of where she became a faithful member of Ger­ as North American Baptist Con­ Master of Ministry degree. He is during World War I. He married Mabel Pom­ Baptist Conference O ffice in 13 and joined the church at Shumer. At age 17, man Zion Baptist Church. Survivors include ference missionaries in Cameroon, presently working toward his doctor ranke, Oct. 14, 1925. He served as president of Oakbrook Terrace, IL, according to he came to the United States and engaged in her daughter, Tabea Bayzert and her husband, the Turtle Lake School Board for 18 years. He West Africa. Before becoming a mis­ of ministry degree. farming southeast of Fessenden. In 1925 he Tadeuz, Hamilton, ON; son-in-law Ernest was a member of the Turtle Lake Baptist the Rev . Connie Salios, development The Helwigs have three children: married Lena E. Rappuhn . He was very active sionary, Mr. Helwig was director of Tripke, Edmonton, AB; six grandch il dren; and Church, ND. Survivors include his wife; sons: director. This appointment by the Ex­ Jered (10), Leighton (8), and Eva (6). in the Baptist ch urch activities, faithfully serv- seven great-grandchildren. Pastors K. Christian education and youth at (Continued 0 11 next page) ecutive Committee of the General

26 BAPTIST HERALD JUNE 1983 27 Invitation What's Happening to the 7Sth A.nniversary of Officers for the N.A.B. Ministers' The Rev. Terry Chrisope resigned Wiesenthal Baptist Church Fellowship met recently in Sioux as pastor of Redeemer Baptist Millet, Alberta Falls, SD, and chose the dates of Aug. Church, Columbus, NE, to continue on July 29, 30 and 31, 1983 14-17, 1984, for the next N.A.B. his studies. Ministers' and Wives' Conference. It All friends and former members is to be held in Sioux Falls, SD, ac­ Mr. David Jahn became the pastor are invited to celebrate this occa­ cording to the Rev. Ron Berg, Ed­ of First Baptist Church, Smoky Lake, sion with the Church. monton, AB, president; the Rev. AB, on June 1, 1983. For further information contact: Rubin Herrmann, St. Paul, MN, vice Rev. Neil Strohschein Your Life Is a Special president; and the Rev. Allan Gerber, Professor George Lang was pro­ Wiesenthal Baptist Church moted to the rank of assistant pro­ Ashley, NO, secretary-treasurer. R.R. 2 Gift from God. The Rev. D. Stuart Briscoe, pastor fessor of Missions retroactive to Sept. Millet, Alberta, TDC lZO of Elmbrook Church, Waukesha, WI, 1, 1982, at N.A.B. Seminary. He con­ and author, has accepted the officers' tinues as Library Administrator, also, invitation to be guest speaker. His at the N.A.B. Seminary. Invitation wife, Jill, has agreed to be the speaker to for the Ministers' Wives' program. Mr. Gavin Huffmaster resigned as 75th A.nniversary Churches should plan to send their administrator I principal of Willow pastors and families to this Con­ Rancho Baptist Church, Sacramento, Turtle Lake Baptist Church ference. CA, effective June 1983. He has Turtle Lake, North Dakota served there since 1981. July 9, 10, 1983 Dr. W. Hulitt Cloer presented his Let Us Help You Mr. Jeff Patet, a 1983 graduate of resignition as assistant professor of Saturday N.A.B. Seminary, has accepted the New Testament at North American 9:00 a.m. Continental Breakfast pastorate of Immanuel Baptist 12:00 noon Salad Luncheon Become All You Were Baptist Seminary, Sioux Falls, SD, ef­ Church, Loyal, OK, effective Sept. 1, 2:00 p.m. Reflections fective June 30, 1983. He has accepted 1983. 6:30 p.m . Banquet Intended To Be. a similar position at Midwestern Bap­ Sunday tist Theological Seminary in Kansas Dr. Dan Leininger was promoted 9:00 a.m. Continental Breakfast City, MO. to associate professor of Pastoral 10:30 a.m. Anniversary Worship Care and Counseling effective Sept. Service 6:00 p.m. Looking to the Future The Rev. E. Ronald Miller accepted 1, 1983, and Dr. Stan Grenz was pro­ the pastorate of Canaan Baptist moted to associate professor of Church, Crawford, TX, effective Theology effective January 1, 1984, Chaplain Richard Uhler, Jr. was Program Of Study April 30, 1983. He resigned from by the Board of Trustees of the promoted to the rank of captain in T reschwig Baptist Church, Spring, N.A.B. Seminary at its annual the U.S. Army on Dec. 1, 1982. He is Certificate in Bibl ical Studies l Yr . TX, where he was pastor since 1977. meeting in March. presently stationed in Colorado. Diploma in Biblical Studies 2 yrs. ,------Diploma in Music 2 yrs. 1 I Announcing Bachelor of Arts in Religion 4 yrs. I Yes, I am interested in Dan, please send me more information. ~ I Bachelor of Religious Studies 4 yrs. I I _Enclosed is $8.00 for album, Singing the Sh epherd's Song . \ ~::- Daniel Grueneich's I I __Send more information. Please call me soon about scheduling For a catalogue or other infonna­ I Dan in o ur church for fall 1983. 1&J Musical Ministries, tion , write or call: I I Dan Grueneich, a North American Baptist, is the son of the Rev. and Mrs. Reuben Grueneich of Rock Rapids, Iowa. He has traveled exten­ NORTH Rev . Kurt Redschlag Name sively; within the last four years, he has been engaged in full-time Gospel AMERICAN Director of Recruitment singing at home and abroad. He has traveled across Canada, and several North American Baptist College years ago, he traveled to Africa. Dan has recorded an album entitled, Street Address BAPTIST Singing the Shepherd's So ngs, and is currently working on a new release 11525 - 23 Avenue for February 1984. COllEGE Edmonton, Alberta Dan is available fo r concerts, youth rallies, banquets, and revival City State/Province Code T6J 4T3 crusades. For added attraction during his concerts, Dan presents a Biblical story Phone (403) 437-1960 Phone Number with his gospel puppets for the children. To schedule Dan in your church, call or write his Scheduling Coor­ Mail to: Rev. Greg Odell dinator, the Rev. Greg Odell, Box 68, Plevna, Montana 59344 N.A.B.C. is oc:credited by the American Association of Bible Colleges and operates under Box 74, Plevna, Montana 59344 (406-772-5635). charter of the Province of Alberto. To receive a copy of Dan's record, also contact Rev. Odell and enclose $8.00 postage paid. ------28 BAPTIST HERALD JUNE 1983 29 Partners U[h]lf@[UJ@[h) Planning and to find ways to help churches in con­ They also requested help for the wives FORCED flict," he said. and children of terminated ministers who "He's been here too long" is the reason need assistance in dealing with their hurts. CHURCH EXTENSION TERMINATION OF most frequently cited by churches which The need was cited for an insurance com­ terminate a minister, said Faulkner. "The pensation program where ministers and MISSIONS MINISTERS congregations that keep their ministers a churches could contribute so terminated long time can relate to them as human be­ ministers could receive compensation CALLED A ings and allow them to fail on occasions." while unemployed. Other frequent factors listed in forced "I really believe our churches love the BAPTIST terminations included professional or in­ concept of the pastor," said one pastor. EMERGENCY terpersonal incompetence and power 'This (insurance program) would be a struggles in the congregation, Faulkner means whereby a pastor could offer his said. resignation before the conflict becomes By Linda Lawson He listed six early warning signs of too heated in a church and still know he potential problems, beginning with fre­ will have compensation to live." JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (BP)-The quent complaints by church members on Illustrating the concern about finances, burgeoning numbers of ministers being anything from a pastor's preaching to his a pastor observed, "I was in no financial fired or forced to resign amid conflicts in sermon preparation to the way he moder­ position to go to a counselor and in no Southern Baptist churches was charater­ ates a business meeting. emotional state to spill my guts to anyone ized as a state of emergency and a cancer Others include withdrawal from the at first. What I needed was food for my by several ministers who have experi­ pastor, drops in giving and attendance, family, a roof over my head and a place to enced forced termination. radical changes in lay leadership, adamant put my furniture when I had to leave the In sessions in which 30 ministers sought stands being taken by groups who used to pastorium." D to honestly share their feelings, the ex­ be flexible and changes in the pastor's perience of forced termination was com­ behavior (such as becoming defensive) . pared to the grief of death and divorce. Faulkner urged ministers to look at a Congratulations! The loss of something they believed God church's history in ministerial tenure as To the following churches for joining had called them to do could not easily be part of considering a call . "You can't the Church Family Subscription Plan explained nor understood. change a neurotic church, but you can to the Baptist Herald: "I never woke up in the morning with keep yourself from being swallowed up by Emmanuel Baptist, Morris, MB; nothing to do," said one minister. An­ one," said Faulkner. "However, God can Rev. Morley Schultz, pastor; Mrs. other said his needs suddenly were as sim­ change the church." Sam Hoffman, agent. ple and as seemingly insurmountable as He also urged the ministers to evaluate First Baptist, Linton, ND; Rev. food and a roof over his head. themselves and to be aware of problems Clyde Zimbelman, pastor; Mrs. Mar­ 'Tm dying, " another said quietly. they have which may have contributed to tha Ballard, agent. The two-day conference, believed to be conflicts in the church. Hilda Baptist, Hilda, AB; Rev. Herb the first of its kind in the denomination, The need for personal and professional Bachler, pastor; Mrs. Marilyn Haag, EDUCATION was sponsored by the Missouri Baptist support during unemployment and con­ agent. Convention and directed by C. D. Butler, tinuing concern for the churches they had church minister relations consulta nt. left were two issues cited most frequently To these churches for renewing "Our purpose is to help these ministers by participants. through the Church Family Subscrip­ tion Plan to the Baptist Herald: ------Catliay Baptist, Cathay, ND; Rev. READERSHIP SURVEY John R. Dikkers, pastor; Mrs. Albert Seibold, agent. Please rate the following articles East Olds Baptist, Olds, AB; Rev. (1 is lowest, 5 is highest) Ritchie White, pastor; Mr. Walter 1. Hey Pastor! You're Not feeding Us 1 2 3 4 5 Unger, agent. First Baptist, Ellinwood, KS; Rev. 2. Pastoring in an Era of Knowledge Explosion 1 2 3 4 5 Randall Kinnison, pastor; Mr. Dale 3. The Loyalty Factor 1 2 3 4 5 5 Hartig, agent. 4. How to Avoid Conflict between Pastor and Church 1 2 3 4 First Baptist, George, IA; Rev. 3 4 5 5. A Growing Church in Bluebonnet Country 1 2 Helmut Strauss, pastor. "For me, saying 'thank you' to God a secure lifetime in come with a re­ Send to: 6. Affirming Baptist Identity 1 2 3 4 5 First Baptist, Golden Prairie, SK; is expressed by sharing what he has turn as high as 14 percent and a 4 5 Jim Frey 7. Keeping in Touch 1 2 3 Mr. Arnold Martin, agent. giJ1en me. One way I share with our source of funds for our outreach for North American Baptist Conference 5 8. Building People 1 2 3 4 Grace Baptist, Ochre River, MB; North American Bap tist Conference Christ. 1 So. 210 Summit Ave. 9. Personal Reflections of "New Day" 1 2 3 4 5 Rev. Helmut Poschwatta, pastor; Mr. Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181 5 Fred Amman, agent. ministries, and at the same time pro­ 10. Woman's World 1 2 3 4 Our Co nference ministries rely on I'm interested in investing in people's Grant Park Baptist, Winnipeg, MB; J!ide for my finan cial security, is 11. Our Conference in Action 1 2 3 4 5 people li ke you and Edith. Your lives through the N.A.B. Gift Annuity Mr. Ed Hughes, pastor; Mrs. Irma I. through the North American Baptist Progran:· Please send additional in- O n a separate piece of paper, please answer one of the following questions: Kelm, agent. support helps ... Maintain a world­ Gift Annuity Program. My gift an­ wide mission outreach ... Build new fonnatwn. If you are a pastor, what do you most appreciate about your congregation? M cDermot Avenue Baptist, Win­ nipeg, MB; Rev. Richard Goetze, nu ities accomplish three thillgs: I N.A.B. churches ... Educa te pastors, Narne If you are a layperson, what do you appreciate about your congregation? pastor; Mrs. Alic:e Parr, agent. haPe peace of mind in knowing my missionaries and lay leaders ... Win Address Age: under 20 0 20-29 0 30-39 0 40-49 0 50-59 0 60-69 0 70+ D Plum Creek Baptist, Emery, SD; Mr. i11 J1estme11ts are safe. I recei Fe a life­ others to Christ. Tim Walker, pastor; Mr. and Mrs. Ed­ City Male 0 Female 0 time income, and th e Conference Make a sound investm ent in the win Jucht, agents. State/Prov. Zip Please send your response to Baptist Herald, 1 So. 210 Summit A ve., Oakbrook Treschwig Baptist, Spring, TX; Rev. has funds to be used for its minis­ lives of others for the cause of Christ Telephone No. ( ) Terrace, IL 60181 I Ronald E. Miller, fo rmer pastor. tries." - Miss Edith Barton through an N.A.B. gi ft annuity. Fill in the coupon and ma il .. . todar . Birth Date ------. Many people, li ke Edith, are mak­ 30 BAPT IST HERALD ing an investment that provides both JUNE 1983 31 Baptist Herald 1 So. 210 Summit Ave. Oakbrook Terrace, Villa Park, IL. 60181

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Contact: ~~ Rev. Kurt Red sch lag NORTH Director of Recruitment AMERICAN North American Baptist Divinity School BAPTIST 11525 - 23 Avenue DIVINITY Edmonton, Alberta SCHOOL T6J 4T3 Phone (403) 437- 1960