384 Dennett Road Oakland, MD 21550 WEST MARVA DISTRICT 301-334-9270 John Ballinger, Interim Executive Minister MEMO J . Rogers Fike, Executive Minister Emeritus Brenda Harvey, Administrative Assistant SEPTEMBER 2019 www.westmarvachurches.org

On the Road with DE John Ballinger:

They said to each other, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?” (Luke 24:32 NLT)

“So tell us about the ,” the couple inquired. It was early March, and we were seated at an indoor track meet where our children were competing members of their college teams. My wife Kathy and I had struck up a conversation with the couple seated next to us, and as we became acquainted, they asked us what we did for a living.

“My wife is a dental hygienist,” I said, “and I’m a district minister in the Church of the Brethren.” When they asked about our church, I thought I would try a different answer instead of mentioning and .

Lately I had wondered if restating our Anabaptist/Pietist heritage in modern terms might prove useful in describing our Brethren identity, so I had done some reading. My studies convinced me that while the language of our heritage may no longer be understood by today’s culture, its underlying values are.

The word Anabaptism (which means re-, not anti-baptism!) refers to a model of faith commitment and church life that originated in Switzerland in the 1500s. The movement grew in response to the baptism of infants into church and state membership, and it was characterized by obedience to the teaching of Jesus, believer’s baptism (baptizing only those old enough to consent to and understand their commitment), and devotion to the faith community.

The term Pietism describes a revival movement that swept over Europe in the 1600s, born in response the cold, formal religious teaching of the time. Its name was derived from the word piety, a Bible word that means godliness, reverence, affection for the family of God, pity, compassion, gentle, harmless and simple. Pietists practiced a vital, life-changing faith in God through Jesus Christ and placed great emphasis on the Bible.

These two movements converged in the hearts and minds of eight Christians who were rebaptized in the Eder River in Schwarzenau, Germany, in 1708. Among them was (whom we call the “founder” of the Church of the Brethren) and his wife, Anna Margaret. The union of these Anabaptist and Pietist values created our Brethren identity.

I concluded that while the values of Anabaptism and Pietism are as relevant today as they were in 1708, most people have no clue what we’re talking about if we use those terms to describe our identity. So I considered using other terms such as “believing and belonging,” “spirituality and service,” “faith and faithful living,” “loving God and neighbor,” or “a vital, life-changing faith coupled with a sense of community” as substitutes.

But were these terms acceptable? Here was my opportunity to find out! I took a deep breath and replied, “We are a New Testament Church that follows the teaching of Jesus, and we emphasize both believing and belonging, spirituality and service, faith and faithful living.” They were delighted with my answer, and it stimulated a lively conversation about the Christian faith!

While not a comprehensive study of our Anabaptist-Pietist heritage (I recommend reading Jeff Bach, Carl Bowman, Dale Brown, Donald Durnbaugh, Denise Kettering-Lane, Harold Martin, and Dale Stoffer for that), I offer these thoughts as “another way of answering” when asked to describe our Brethren identity. No other voice in mainline or evangelical offers a vital, life-changing faith coupled with a sense of community in this manner.

I found that recalling our Brethren heritage and restating it in modern terms can stimulate lively conversation about our identity, and about the important values we have been given. This is our unique, timely expression of the faith we are commanded by Jesus Christ to share with the world.

ATTENTION DISTRICT CONFERENCE DELEGATES: District Conference delegate registration forms were sent to all pastors/contacts in May but there are still a number of churches who have not returned their forms. At this time I have sent out business packets to all of the delegates who have registered. Contact the District Office if you have not received your business packet.

CEU’S AVAILABLE FOR ORDAINED MINISTERS WHO AT- TEND DISTRICT CONFERENCE: The West Marva Ministerial Leadership Team is announcing that .5 CEU’s will be available to all ordained ministers who attend District Conference. Ministers must attend both Fri- day night and all day Saturday (in the same year) one time during the five year cycle.

One list with Friday night and Saturday to be signed will be made available for all ministers wishing to receive CEU’s. RESERVATIONS FOR DISTRICT CONFERENCE SEPTEMBER 20-21, 2019

The lunch served on Saturday will be on a pre-pay basis and you must have a meal ticket in order to receive your lunch the day of conference. It is extremely difficult to prepare a meal when you don't have a number to work with. The menu will consist of: Chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, applesauce, coleslaw, rolls, tea, lemonade and coffee and desserts. Meal prepared by the Moorefield Church. Reservations need to be in by September 7, 2019 along with a check made payable to West Marva District, 384 Dennett Road, Oakland, MD 21550.

Person sending reservations: ______

From congregation: ______

Phone number (if needed for contact) ______

MEAL RESERVATIONS:

Number of persons: ______Saturday noon (cost of meal $13.00)

MEAL TICKETS MUST BE PICKED UP AT THE REGISTRATION TABLE ON SATURDAY MORNING

DISTRICT CONFERENCE MOTEL ACCOMODATIONS: Motel reservations should be made directly, arranging with the following public accommodations:

In Moorefield: In Petersburg:(20 to 25 minutes away) South Branch Inn (304)538-2033 Fort Hill (304)257-4717 Rt. 220 North Honors AAA & AARP Hermitage Motor Inn (304)257-1771 If your church has a tax exempt number Virginia Avenue bring a copy of it with you to be tax exempt

Evans Motel (304)538-7771 N. Main St. Homestead Inn, Rt. 55 (304)257-1049

Singers needed for District Conference Choir

We would like to assemble a choir for the 2019 West Marva District Conference which will be held at the Moorefield Church of the Brethren, September 20-21, 2019 Ezra Yoder will be leading this group as they will be singing two familiar hymns on Friday evening and one hymn during the morning worship on Saturday morning. If you would be interested in singing with this choir (really need tenors) there will be a practice at the Moorefield Church (choir room) at 5:30 p.m. on the 20th. For more information contact Ezra at 301-895-5988.

ATTENTION ALL BOOK WORMS!!!!

There will be a FREE Book Swap!!! At the West Marva District Conference Friday September 20th & Saturday 21st 2019

Bring a book – Take a book (or 2 or 3 or more!!!)

Please bring your gently used books, Bible studies, devotionals, DVDs & CD’s, and VBS materials to share! It would be helpful if you have a collection or a series to band them together. For VBS material please label with church and contact name and phone number. Books may be dropped off at the Moorefield COB prior to the conference. For further information or to make arrangements call Lucy @ 304-703-7572.

The Return of an Old Friend! For the last few years, this excellent resource, offering study materials in 13 chapters, has not been available. We learned that Brethren Press was not go- ing to print any more, and our District obtained the necessary permission from Wendy McFadden, Publisher of Brethren Press, to print and distribute a new printing of this item.

Copies will be available at District Conference: 1—9 Copies:…………………………………...$2.00 each. 10—99 Copies:…………………………………$1.75 each. 100 or more Copies:………………………...$1.50 each. This pocket sized booklet, states traditional Church of the Breth- ren understandings of New Testament teachings on the following topics of Doctrine (Teachings):

1. Doctrine of God 7. Doctrine of the Church 13. Bible Reading Guidance 2. Doctrine of Christ 8. Christian Baptism 3. Doctrine of the Holy Spirit 9. The Love Feast Additionally, the following other 4. Doctrine of Man 10. Christian Ideals subjects are included: 5. Doctrine of Sin 11. Christian Discipline  Bibliography 6. Doctrine of Salvation 12. Lord, Teach Us to Pray  The Brethren “Card”

This resource is suitable for Sunday School Classes, Membership Classes, Bible Study Sessions, Personal Growth and Development, and other settings. Be Creative!

ALLEGHENY PASSAGE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE Allegheny Passage is the definitive history of the West Marva District that was lovingly written by Dr. Emmert F. Bittinger. It is authoritative as history and genealogy. This 2012 (latest) edition has been priced at $79.95. New price is only $40.00. To avoid $5 Shipping and Handling fee, if ordered by mail, purchase at Conference, the District Office, or the Westernport Church of the Brethren. Permanent Price Reduction— Now, ONLY $40.00 Pre-ordered copies will be delivered at District Conference

Make check payable to West Marva District.

2019 Women’s Camp Report

The West Marva District Women's Camp was held Thursday and Friday August 8th - 9th 2019 at Camp Galilee with the theme of COME To The Table. We had perfect weather both days!! Our evening began with a wonderful dinner, an annual tradition of a game of Bible Jeopardy, a FANTASTIC Bible study led by Debbie DeWitt of the Pine Grove COB, and we wrapped up the evening with a perfect camp fire (Thank you Isaiah Spaid for building it for us!!) with singing and Betty Wolford led us in a closing devotion. A total of 9 women spent the night with several being first time campers!!!

Friday morning's Rise & Shine time was greeted with a wonderful devotion led by Anna Sauders and another delicious meal of Belgian waffles and yogurt & fruit!! Roxanne Wotring and Jeanne Whitehair then led us into a time of singing praises including Come and Dine and The Wedding Banquet song.

Tammy Timbrook, of the Tearcoat COB, was our speaker of the day. She presented a very in- sightful look at some of the heritage practices of Lovefeast and the Bread & Cup Communion of the Church of the Brethren. We would like to thank Tammy for her willingness to step out of her comfort zone to let the Lord lead her and for the wonderful presentation!!

Our service project this year was The James Isaac House. The James Isaac House is a preg- nancy resource center with several locations including Oakland MD, Kingwood, Keyser and Petersburg WV. Nellie Ashby, one of the founders of this organization and ministry, joined us after lunch to share with us some of the services provided and also to inform us of some of the needs and ways that we can help and support this ministry. The women "tied" 39 fleece blan- kets to be used as part of the "layette sets" that the house offers to those in need. Along with the blankets an amazing collection of various baby items and a donation of $250.00 was pre- sented to sister Nellie. I would like to thank those that helped donate funds to purchase the fleece, Nova Stonesifer for shopping for bargains and purchasing the fleece, the women that helped cut and prep the fleece and for all that donated in any manner to this worthy minis- try!! There is a variety of ways that you could help and a great need for volunteers at The James Isaac House. If God would lay it upon your heart to become a part of this ministry please contact them at 1-800-866-2400. We were very excited for our afternoon activity!! Betty Wolford and Wendi Benson led us in a hands on demonstration of how to make communion bread!! The ladies worked in groups learning about this important part of communion and had a lot of fun at the same time. The aroma was tantalizing!! A big shout out to the camp's cooks, Maureen & Brenda, for assisting us also and sharing your space in the kitchen!!

As our communion bread was baking we gathered for a time of small group discussion. A spe- cial thank you to Marcia & Sarah Spaid for providing and leading the ladies with a wonderful book titled "The Gift of Bread" that we used as a basis for our devotion and discussion. Our topic from the book that we used was the condition of bread. Sometimes we let our bread get stale or moldy or hardened and in the same manner those same conditions can happen to our hearts and lives when we neglect God.

The final event of our time together was when we came to the table!! The setting was beauti- ful and the atmosphere was filled with the Holy Spirit!! Elisabeth Thorne shared her talents by singing, Come to The Table by Sidewalk Proph- ets, which summed up everything about coming to the table that the Lord has prepared for us. A part of the chorus of this song says, "Come to the table, Come join the sinners who have been redeemed, Take your place beside the Savior, Sit down and be set free, Come to the table." After a simple meal LaDeana Teets led us in the bread & cup communion and we dismissed by singing together "Bless be the Tie That Binds".

A total of 28 women registered throughout the 2 day event. I sincerely hope that if you have nev- er been to a Women's Camp but have been thinking about it that you will join us next sum- mer.

The next event of the West Marva District Women's Fellowship that you are invited to is the Fall Rally. It will be held Wednesday Octo- ber 9th at the Hanging Rock COB. I hope to see you then!

To God Be the Glory!

Donna Kemphfer President, West Marva District Women's Fellowship

201 9 Brethren Bits from Betty’s desk: Fracture and Division

Looking once more into the pages of ALLEGHENY PASSAGE Dr. Emmert Bittinger, author, (also our West Marva Historian Emeritus) included in his book, chapter 19 entitled, “Fracture and Division.”

The following is taken directly from his writings. …”Nearly all denominations have experienced the fractures resulting from deep, clashing convictions over doctrine and practice. Even those stressing brotherliness and unity are not spared this pain and grief. Perhaps those denominations which have placed a high value upon peace, unity and love suffer the greatest feelings of tragedy and loss when controversary and division occur.”

“Reasonable people may often work through their disagreements, even though deeply and honestly held. Sometimes however, personal characteristics, such as intolerance, ambition or egotism may be a part of the context on all sides of the issue, making a reasonable solution exceedingly difficult. The writer (Dr. Bittinger) has no interest in seeking to record the personality aspects of the controversaries and schisms except to remind the reader of the presence of this interesting but often hidden part of the background.”… (end quotes) There have been major Divisions since the 1880’s. Let us review some of the differences that brought about change within our denomination.

Quoting once more (see page 701) …”The first division occurred when the Old German Baptist Brethren or “Old Order” formed in 1881. They may be described as traditionalist because they did not wish to depart from the ways of the “.” Their movements began with around four or five thousand members and today has around five thousand members.” … (1990 when book was printed)

“The second break occurred when the formed in 1882 and 1883. They may be described as “progressive” because they regarded some of the old ways as out- dated and archaic. They wanted the church to “move forward.” Their branch began with about five thousand members and today has around fifteen thousand.” (refers to 1990 data.)

“The remaining majority of around six thousand members continued as the German Baptist Brethren. Today, they constitute the Church of the Brethren, a name which they adopted in 1908, two hundred years after the beginning of the church in Germany.”… “The divisions at more distance places, write Dr. Bittinger…occurred some years later.”

Quoting again, …”The progressive fracture was very difficult for the Second District (WV) churches, because it was not a “clean break.” Rather, it occurred gradually over a long period of time extending from around 1883 to around 1929. Several churches seem to have gone over entirely to the Brethren Church and others lost ministers and leaders over a period of years. This stretching out of the division was debilitating and demoralizing to the Second WV District and to several congregations, making recovery difficult.”

Interesting too, …”The Brethren Church ( progressive) further divided in 1939 when the Fellowship of Grace Brethren Churches was formed. Although Grace Brethren churches formed in Parkersburg and Grafton, they had little impact on the West Marva District. This was because the Church of the Brethren was not directly involved in this fracture.”

Perhaps more of you have heard about the…(once more quoting Dr. Bittinger) “additional division in the Church of the Brethren in years 1926 and 1927. At that time, conservative separated, mainly over the question of “garb” or the “order of dress,” and related matters.

During the 1910’s and 1920’s, the rules underlying the “order of dress” were weakening, and they were being widely ignored. Unhappy over the decline of the dress requirements, Dunkard Brethren sought to unite all those who wished to preserve the “garb.” This division affected several churches of West Marva District. Dunkard Brethren churches were formed in Garrett and Mineral counties, areas which were more conservative. It was fairly swift and seems to have had minimal effects on the District at large.” … end quotes.

Then Dr. Bittinger gives some insight into the historical background: …”The period preceding the divisions, especially the time from 1850-1880, was a time of growing tension and controversary in the church. Changed ways of thinking and new practices were gaining strength. These centered on concepts and developments Brethren today accept with little question, but in the 1850’s these ideas seemed dangerous and worldly.”

Interestingly, those controversaries centered on such developments as …”Sunday Schools, …the holding of “protracted meetings” (revivals); departures from traditional dress code, departures from the double mode of feetwashing; secular schooling, particularly “higher education,” foreign and home missions; the growth and spread of publishing and Brethren periodicals…”

On page 702 of Allegheny Passage…”The great body of the church was conservative but willing to move in measured fashion toward some of these innovations. At the opposite side from the “old orders” were the “progressives” who wished to move rapidly toward changing practices, especially education, mission activity, church publications and relaxation of the rigid rules of the Dress code.

CONNECTING OUR CHURCHES & SHARING OUR PASSIONS . . . Walnut Grove

How well do we know each of our district churches? With your replies to the questionnaire which was sent out some months ago in our MEMO, we’ll have an opportunity to share information with each other.

Name of Congregation: WALNUT GROVE Membership: 98 active Location: just outside Moorefield along WV State Rt. 55

What is your congregation most passionate about: Fellowship when we have get-togethers and the meals we share together; the food

How would you describe your congregation? …the best, friendly, and as a happy family; “I like the country church atmosphere and after being away 35 years, it was so nice everyone accepted me. I felt like it was coming home to our church.”

If you were not in your community what would be missing? Fellowship with our friends, neighbors and family—our Country Church, when away and then returned it was like coming home!

What do people say they like best about your church? Friendliness and concern for each other

What mission efforts has your congregation been involved in during the past year? Women’s Fellowship supports two children, Church World Service and we participate in Blanket Sunday

What hymnal does your church use? Favorite Hymns of Praise

What is your congregation’s favorite annual event? Love Feast, Revival, the Christmas Play and apple butter making

Do you celebrate Christmas & Easter in a special way? Lighting Advent Candles, Christmas Play with refreshments, the children exchange gifts, Easter Sunrise Service and the Children’s Easter Egg Hunt

What major changes have you seen in your congregation in the past 10 years? None really before Pastor Donnie Knotts resigned in October 2017; now we are trying to draw youth in with different younger activities, large TV in sanctuary & praise songs, new pastor

Share a fun fact about your congregation. . . Our fund raiser meals and men’s silent auction; but also the youth harvest party and youth meetings and activities such as train rides, trips. (for example Polar Express)

We are looking forward to hearing about your congregation. Some of you are sending responses from more than one person. That’s a great idea—for each of us may see our congregation differently than the family who sits in the pew in front of or behind us. We’re still interested in hearing from you! WITH DEEP SYMPATHY Ruth Virginia Wilt (January 29,1927- August 7, 2019) we will remember as a Godly woman who lived a life of Gratitude. “She had the love of our Heavenly Father and she made sure to show her thanks by sharing it” were words Pastor Diane used during her Celebration of Life service on Au- gust 17, 2019.

Ruth became a linotype machine operator at the Piedmont Herald the summer after her high school graduation and for 35 years she faithfully carried out those duties.

Ruth was quite a musician, she played the piano, pump organ, guitar, banjo, harmonica, mandolin and flute and loved a variety of music from Chopin to Bluegrass. She found music soothing.

Originally Ruth attended the Dry Run Mennonite church. She was baptized in 1945 into our con- gregation.

She was a long time Sunday school teacher, a Bible Study teacher, VBS leader, and active in our Women’s Fellowship, helping with church dinners and other fundraisers. She enjoyed going to Un- ion Rescue Mission and was our church historian. Also, on the District level she served on the West Marva Historical Committee.

She was secretary of the District Women’s Group for many years, faithfully attended Women’s Camps and Women’s Rally's but also participated in the District work days at the Church World Service Center in New Windsor, .

For many years, Ruth was a regular fixture at Camp Galilee. She served as Junior Camp Bible Study leader for many years. Frequently Ruth spent time with her sister Phyllis when she was serv- ing as Camp Manager. Ruth assisted with cleaning cabins and getting camp ready for the begin- ning of the camping season each year as well as helping in the kitchen.

Ruth will be remembered as “having a way with kids.” She enjoyed singing with them, reading to them, teaching and listening to them—not just to Wendy and Jeremy her niece and nephew. She is survived by her sister, Phyllis March with whom she shared a special sisterly love over the years. Ruth will be remembered for her cards and letters of encouragement that touched countless per- sons. She was a blessing in our midst.

PASTORAL PLACEMENT UPDATE: Our interim District Executive Minister, John Ballinger, officiated at the following services:

Paul Brady was installed as pastor of the Elkins Church of the Brethren on August 4, 2019. Paul was also licensed to the ministry during this ceremony.

Todd Mouser, pastor of the Shiloh Church of the Brethren, was ordained on August 25, 2019.

John Ellifritz, pastor of the Harness Run Church of the Brethren, was ordained on September 1, 2019.

We ask that you keep these individuals, their families and the congregations where they will be serving in your prayers.

Church of the Brethren NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION West Marva District Office U. S. POSTAGE 384 Dennett Road PAID Oakland, MD 21550 OAKLAND, MD September Issue 2019 PERMIT NO. 68

Address Service Requested

IN GOD WE TRUST

UPCOMING EVENTS

September 2 District Office closed—Labor Day 20-21 District Conference—Moorefield COB