February 2015

$2$2

100 mission man Virginia’s Rev. Sam NeSmith has made more than 100 UMVIM trips Vol. 183 • February 2015 • No. 2

Connecting with the Virginia Advocate The official magazine of the Virginia Conference of The United Methodist Church

FROM THE EDITOR P.O. Box 5606, Glen Allen, VA 23058 Phone: 1-800-768-6040 or You know that old saying about asking forgiveness is better 804-521-1100 Fax: 804-521-1174 than asking permission? Well this issue of the Advocate is a good E-mail: [email protected] example. Although to be totally transparent, I did ask permission and Website: www.vaumc.org was turned down. So I decided to do it anyway. Detailed guidelines for the following I did ask the Rev. Sam NeSmith if we could put his photo on the available upon request. cover and celebrate his 100th mission team trip. Several times. He Subscriptions said no each time. He didn’t want attention directed to him because Print subscriptions are $15/one year; $25/ it’s not about the individual, it’s about the team. It’s about the mis- two years; $36/three years. Special bulk rate for five or more copies going to a single sion. address is $12 each for one year. Subscrip- Neill Caldwell I get that. It is about the mission. But this is too good a story, too tions are $20/year for both printed copy and Editor online access. For online only, cost is $10/ amazing a marker. One hundred mission trips? I’ve been on one and year. Subscribe online at www.vaumc.org, it pretty much wore me out. under “Resources>Publications.” (Actually I think by now he’s up to 102 mission trips… he’s in Deadlines Cambodia right now, as I write this, leading another United Methodist The Advocate is published once a month. The Volunteers In Mission (UMVIM) team. The man certainly does not let deadline to submit news and ad copy for the March 2015 issue is February 2. For more grass grow under his feet…) information on future deadlines, contact the I asked around to see if someone had heard of anyone doing that Advocate office or visit the website. many mission trips. Most people laughed. Advertising/Tributes The one official UMVIM mission trip I went on was in January Rates for advertising and tributes are avail- 2013 to Cambodia, and Rev. NeSmith was one of my travel compan- able upon request. Dear Sam, ions. The trip would have been a lot less entertaining if Sam had not Local Church News been present. His singing, his stories, his over-the-top laugh and his Items should be typed (preferably sent via e-mail) or printed legibly, no more than 100 I apologize. harmonica-playing make the miles on dusty, third world back-roads words, and of conference-wide interest. Com- go by easier. plete names of individuals, churches and districts should be included. Because of space limitations, He visited Africa multiple times in the 1980s. For a while Russia the Local Church section prohibits news items was Sam’s focus, and he went there more than two dozen times, related to church members’ birthdays (of less than 100 years), wedding anniversaries, most often to help the Pyatigorsk School of the Mentally Handi- receptions for moving and/or retiring pastors, capped. Then he looked to Haiti, especially after its devastating photos of traditional Chrismon trees or Easter trees/crosses, and any item over two months earthquake five years ago. Now there’s Cambodia, and trips down to old. Color photos are encouraged. Photos Haiti, and regularly leading work teams to Tangier Island much closer returned only if submitted with a stamped, to home. self-addressed envelope. Photos included on a space available basis. The editor reserves So I won’t mention that he was Harrisonburg District Superinten- the right to edit all copy or refuse publication. dent from 1978-1984, or that he’s a fellow Tar Heel native. I won’t Letters even mention what an amazing wood carver he is. Or the fact that Letters to the Editor are printed on a space- he makes the best peanut brittle on the planet (quite possibly the available basis. Letters should be limited to 150 words for space reasons. The Advocate universe, but not all the data is in yet). will not print letters addressing a topic beyond Because it’s all about the mission. It’s about following Christ’s in- two months of the publication of that issue. struction to “GO” into the world, making disciples, visiting places that The Advocate editor reserves the right to edit all letters. you’ve only read about in books, creating relationships, sampling the food, participating in worship, constantly taking cute kids’ pictures ©2015 Virginia Advocate USPS 660-740 ISSN 0891-5598 with your iPad (all of which Rev. NeSmith does very well, mind you). Published monthly by Virginia United Meth- It’s about getting your hands dirty and your clothes dirty, group odist Communications, Inc., an agency of the Virginia Annual Conference of The United meals and dealing with less-than-American-standard bathroom facili- Methodist Church. Periodical postage paid at ties. Glen Allen, Va., and at additional mailing of- fices. The Virginia United Methodist Advocate The UMVIM program started as a grassroots movement to con- is owned by Virginia United Methodist Com- nect United Methodist volunteers with opportunities to help other munications, Inc. people. It also provides a vehicle for sustainable development efforts. POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to Along with our amazing disaster response arm, it’s one of the key Virginia United Methodist Advocate, P.O. Box reasons I’m proud to be a United Methodist. 5606, Glen Allen, VA 23058. Editorial and business offices are located at 10330 Staples Now… where’s my harmonica? Mill Rd., Glen Allen, Va. Office hours are 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

2 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTIONS FEATURE

4-7 Letters & Commentary 18 The importance of short-term mission trips

8-14 Virginia NEWS 15 Events 8 Shane Claiborne to lead next 5 Talent Academy session 16-17 Local Church News 9 Carol Crawford leaving conference after 40 years 10 Virginia Wesleyan event bringing in Jorge Acevedo 24-27 Nation & World 11 Imagine No Malaria offers Lenten resources

28-29 Equipping for Ministry 12 Patti Russell was one of a kind 30-31 Living the Word 13 New Alex Joyner book looks at Israel-Palestine divide United Methodist schools helping equip clergy 32-33 Clergy & Diaconal 14

34 From the Bishop

35 One Last Word

On the cover: The Rev. Sam NeSmith speaks at the Methodist church in Ta Lom, Cambodia in 2013. Photo by Neill Caldwell. Above, a UMVIM team helps with a building project in Haiti.

The Virginia Advocate Staff Linda S. Rhodes | Virginia Conference Director of Communications Neill M. Caldwell | Editor Cathryn Huff | Graphic Designer Pam Culler | Administrative Secretary Board of Directors of Virginia United Methodist Communications, Inc.: Keri Marston, chair. The Virginia United Scan this code to go Methodist Advocate uses the services of United Methodist Communications and United Methodist News Ser- to the vice. The reporting of news regarding any person or event, or the placement of any advertisement within these conference website: pages, does not constitute endorsement by the Virginia Advocate or any entity of The United Methodist Church. www.vaumc.org Opinions of writers are solely those of the authors and not necessarily those of this publication.

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 3 LETTERS Do we need a new more than 40 millennials Holy Conversation.2? there is not one who would mission statement? know how to go about am a subscriber to the arl Barth said that the making a disciple. In other IAdvocate and was glad Kmission of the church words, they would not be to know about the Day of Headline should be the activity of able to participate in the Holy Conversation, and I God. church’s mission statement, read through the articles. One of our bishops in but it is very possible they At the same time, a the Virginia Conference would give a testimony few nights ago, on the said that the only differ- of where they see God at PBS NewsHour, there was ence between a church work. a story about a young teenage transgender girl person and a non-church -Pete Costello person is that you name it. who committed suicide It seems to me if the church Free Advent resource because she had been so were to take the wisdom bullied and banned from a from these two and put ere at the Hermitage social life at her school. them together, our mission Hin Roanoke, through By comparison, the Holy and purpose would not be these past nine years, I’ve Conversation was pablum “Go and make disciples of volunteered to provide – blah blah blah about how Jesus Christ for the trans- grace at meals in the dining Methodists are going to get formation of the world.” room. Prayers have been along with each other on Instead, the mission and printed in the menu folder. this issue – not too much purpose of The United For the season of new here. It said nothing Methodist Church would Advent through Jan. 3, Dr. about the effect on real be to name the activities Hunter Mabry volunteered LGBT persons. Or maybe I of God in the church and in to provide thoughts and missed something. the world. Since we don’t prayers. The Sundays were I think that continually worship a passive God, given special emphasis on highlighting the disagree- someone could give a testi- the front, while on the back ment among United Meth- mony at every worship ser- side of the half-sheet each odists without proposing vice where he or she sees day of the week carried the solutions about how to God at work in the church theme leading to Christ- treat LGBT persons pro- or in the world. Of course, mas. vides ammunition to the this may include the acts of Dr. Mabry’s treatment LGBT haters who have and God through our present of the Advent season and continue to physically and mission statement, but New Year’s is comprehen- mentally abuse these hu- making disciples of sive and so well done, it man beings. I am not LGBT, Jesus is not the seems to me that other but am disappointed that only thing God pastors might like copies the Virginia Conference’s does. for their Advent file. With Holy Conversation seemed It seems to me his permission I will provide to do little to advance if we don’t change the material. Just send me social justice for those who our present mission a self-addressed, postage- are. Maybe a Holy Conver- statement we are paid envelope and I will sation.2? trying to put God send the material at no -Susie Bachtel, Clarendon UMC, Arlington in a box. My cost. biggest The return envelope concern (with stamp!) is all that’s Harmony revival needed. is that ne recent bitter cold after -The Rev. C. Warner Crumb afternoon I received a 1009 Old Country Club Road O talk- Roanoke, VA 24017 call from a good friend with ing to

4 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 LETTERS the news that his niece had wrote a note and attached Further conferencing had a bad fall while travel- it under Ralph’s collar. ‘We ing through this area of don’t know you,’ she said, hank you for the con- Virginia and was in a local ’but Ralph comes to church Ttinuing excellence of hospital. Due to unusual regularly and has become our conference Advocate. circumstances, no family our friend. We would like For those individuals members could be with for you to come with him, and church groups inter- her, and he asked if I could and become our friend too.’ ested in pursuing further possibly visit her. She was A few months ago Ralph’s “conferencing” or discus- still in the emergency room owner came, and has only sion of sexuality issues in when I arrived, waiting for missed one Sunday since!” our church that seeks to a surgical procedure. Is it any wonder that a be faithful to the Gospel What a pleasant surprise congregation with such an and Christian tradition to find that his niece was inviting, caring spirit in a today, may I be permitted Faye Smith, an active mem- recent year (2012) showed to note the analysis of our ber of Harmony United a membership of 71 and United Methodist position Methodist Church in the an average attendance of in my text, Not Every Spirit: Danville District. I had met 74. And in recent years, A Dogmatics of Christian her while serving as District they have replaced the Disbelief, 2nd. ed., 2009, Superintendent there, when decayed floor joists, built ch. 12, that a number of Harmony was on a two- new classrooms, a kitchen churches have found help- point charge served by a and fellowship hall, paved ful. part-time retired pastor, the parking lot, built and -The Rev. Christopher Morse, retired Virginia Conference elder Rev. Fletcher Hardy. Com- equipped a first-class play- and Dietrich Bonhoeffer Profes- bined average attendance ground, and purchased 10 sor Emeritus of Union Theological in the two churches was surrounding acres for future Seminary living in New York City about 25, and together expansion. And it’s all paid they paid the pastor only for. The church pays 100 Liberal views $7,400. That was 1997. percent of their apportion- have been a Methodist The floor joists in the sanc- ments and contribute gen- and United Method- tuary were rotting and the erously to missions both in I ist for my entire life and floor was sagging and the the local community and read and enjoy the Advo- members’ spirits were low. overseas. They now have a cate. However, I have just Faye and I had a delight- full-time local pastor, the finished reading the letter ful visit. “Let me tell you Rev. Robert Hardy, son of from Richard Hagenston for about our church,” she that retired pastor who first the second time to be sure I said. “We have young fami- took me out to Harmony read it correctly. lies, children and youth!” 16 years ago. The fact that this ex- Just last Sunday three My prayer is that God’s treme liberal opinion comes young people joined. Their healing hand will enable from a United Methodist parents haven’t joined yet, those nuts, bolts, screws “minister” is most disturb- but are attending regularly. and rods in Faye’s legs ing. His reference to Christ’s “And let me tell you to give her strength to body as a “three-day old about Ralph. Ralph is a return to her home and to corpse” is most upsetting, beagle dog that showed up that caring fellowship at and I am offended that at our church. No one knew Harmony. I know that they he calls himself a United who the owner was, but – along with Ralph – are Methodist or a Christian everyone welcomed him. missing her! at all. His views are more He came to Vacation Bible -The Rev. Bob McArden Letters to the Editor are printed on a Roanoke in line with being agnostic School and kept coming to space-available basis. Letters may be church every Sunday. One e-mailed to [email protected] of our youth, a young girl, (Continued on pg. 6) by the first of the month.

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 5

LETTERS (Continued from pg. 5) elected as a bishop in 1972. Sanders had the DS call The Quarterly Conference, a special session of the than Christian. Is it pos- as it was then called, had Quarterly Conference for sible that such attitudes as instructed the trustees to the purpose of removing all his are causing a decline in turn over certain funds on nine trustees and electing not only United Methodist hand from some endow- new ones. The superinten- memberships but others ment left to the church, dent of the old Richmond as well? I trust the Cabinet and the trustees said no, District, who was the will take his liberal position you do not tell us what to immediate past pastor at strongly into consideration do, we tell you what to Centenary, backed out, and when finding an appoint- do, we refuse to turn over I was asked to preside as a ment for Rev. Hagenston, the funds at this time. The recently ordained elder. I as I feel certain such church building was in really did not know what to opinions from the pulpit terrible shape and needed do, so Dr. Sanders presided. could cause great harm to immediate repairs inside Following the motion that a congregation. I fail to see and out. they be removed, a recess where his liberalism could Dr. Sanders reminded was called, and the trustees possibly serve to increase the trustees that the Quar- were asked to go next door membership in The United terly Conference was the and reconsider. Three of Methodist Church of John top group to decide these them repented, six did not, Wesley. matters, they were ac- so the nine trustees were I will pray for Rev. Ha- countable to the Quarterly removed, six new ones genston and hope that he Conference. Furthermore, elected, three re-elected, finds the true meaning to they informed Dr. Sanders and the motion carried by Christianity that faith and that they ran the church, one vote. Dr. Sanders had “believing in things un- and for him not to forget broken the tie. seen” offers. it, and although he, Dr. Sadly, the church split -Carolyn W. Richardson Sanders, had been a DS over this meeting, and Market Street UMC, and a top pastor in the sadly, the former trustees Eastern Shore District Virginia Conference, they began to die, one by one, told the rest of the church and the families would call A true church “fight” what to do, etc. Dr. Sanders and asked that I come be- n June of 1961, just out stormed out of the room cause the senior pastor had Iof Duke Divinity School, and called for me to bring killed their husband. The I was assigned by Bishop him a copy of the Book of new trustees released the Paul Neff Garber as the Discipline, which I did. They funds, many great improve- new associate at Centenary met for another hour, and ments were made and old in downtown Richmond. Dr. then Bishop Garber walked Centenary Church in down- Carl J. Sanders became the in and wanted to know town Richmond is now a senior pastor there, having where they were meet- much stronger and much been the Richmond District ing, and I took him to the better church because of superintendent. It was to room. Another hour went one man’s courage: the late be an eventful, exciting two by, finally the meeting was Bishop Carl Julian Sanders. years at Fifth and Grace over with a request that -The Rev. Henry E. Riley Jr. streets. But I may be about Bishop Garber send a letter Chesterfield the only one left who re- deciding who was right members witnessing a true according to the Discipline. church fight. The letter came, ruling in Early on, the trustees favor of Dr. Sanders and called a meeting with Dr. the Book of Discipline. The Sanders, who was later trustees still would not abide by the ruling. So, Dr.

6 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015

COMMENTARY Movie ‘Selma’ sparks reflections on church, racism By Gilbert H. Caldwell after “Bloody Sunday,” but not a documentary. Thus, ists would be enriched by arrangements had not been whatever squabbles there remembering, not denying eeing the movie completed for police and are about the portrayal of or revising, the debates in “Selma” with my state trooper protection, President Lyndon Baines Methodism over slavery Sfamily and an inter- so marchers walked across Johnson should fade into and the owning of slaves racial group of viewers the Edmund Pettus Bridge, insignificance when placed that resulted in the for- at a theater in Harlem prayed and then returned next to the portrayal of Dr. mation of the Methodist brought back my personal to Selma on what became Martin Luther King Jr. and Episcopal Church South in memories of the Selma to known as “Turnaround the Civil Rights Movement. 1844. Montgomery march. Tuesday.” Every American ought The movie speaks to The film offers all faith- I returned to Boston, to see and then discuss this current events, too. ful United Methodists a then rejoined film! The police violence in chance to reflect on how the march on It would the film reminds us that the denomination of that the day be- be helpful if many blacks view police time – with its structure of fore march- United Meth- violence against blacks segregating African-Amer- ers entered odists and through experience or ican churches into the old Montgomery, others view awareness of history. Some Central Jurisdiction – dealt presenting the film with do not understand why with racism. And it raises money raised open hearts many of us respond to the the question: What can The in Boston to and without killings of Michael Brown United Methodist Church of support the anger, guilt, and Eric Garner as remind- today learn from the film walkers. disbelief, de- ers of a history of lynchings and its own history? Harry nial, or a wish and violence instead of as I was one of many Belafonte to revise our isolated events. clergy and religious lead- had invited own history. Those of us who are ers who responded to well-known In 1963, black should allow the film the “call” to come to entertainers just two to help us imagine what Selma, Alabama, following from Hol- years before it is to be a white ally or “Bloody Sunday,” when lywood and elsewhere to the Selma to Montgom- advocate of blacks and the about 600 marchers were participate in the march ery march, two Method- black justice journey – al- attacked on the Edmund and a rally that night. In his ist bishops were among lies such as Reeb and Viola Pettus Bridge with tear gas autobiography, “My Song: white clergy who posted Liuzzo, a white mother who and billy clubs by state A Memoir of Art, Race a newspaper statement in was killed as she drove and local law enforcement and Defiance,” Belafonte Birmingham that agreed people home from the officials. describes the rain and the that social injustices existed march. One of the clergymen mud of that day and eve- but argued that the battle We have not spent on the plane from Boston ning, and lists the names of against racial segregation enough time in prayer, was the Rev. James Reeb, celebrities present. should be fought solely reflection, study and in- the white Unitarian minis- He failed to write that in the courts, not in the trospection to understand ter who would be beaten Gil Caldwell, a 31-year-old streets. In a veiled refer- why we do and do not do and later die of his injuries. Methodist preacher from ence to King, they criticized in response to race. The In the film, Reeb is called a Boston with no musical, co- “outsiders” who were caus- Apostle Paul’s “good, that “white nigger” for partici- medic or acting ability, but ing trouble in the streets of I do, and do not” might be pating in the march. I took with a deep commitment Birmingham. a helpful text as we discuss part in his memorial service to racial justice, was on the King responded with “Selma.” at Arlington Street Unitar- stage with the entertainers. his famed “Letter from a -The Rev. Gil Caldwell is a ian Church in Boston. I will never forget it. Birmingham Jail.” retired elder and member of the The march was sched- It is important to A discussion of the Rocky Mountain Conference. He lives in Asbury Park, N.J. uled to begin the Tuesday remember that the film is movie by United Method-

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 7 The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA several books including The Claiborne’s community. Next 5 Talent Academy Irresistible Revolution: Living “We share stuff because as an Ordinary Radical and we have community,” he speaker lives a ‘Simple Jesus for President. said. “We don’t have com- Members of The Simple munity because we share Way’ in the inner-city Way community commit stuff.” By Daniel Wallace to alleviating poverty by Praying for social and living among the poor and racial injustice also are “I can’t help but n one of northern Phila- sharing individual resources central to the heartbeat of delphia’s most danger- with them. The Simple Way commu- think it makes Ious neighborhoods, a The Simple Way has nity. Claiborne’s commu- 20-person Christian group birthed and connected nity meets every weekday God smile when thrives, embracing a life- many other radical Chris- morning to pray for the the church style of radical community. tian communities around neighborhood and the Shane Claiborne helped the nation. The New injustices of the world. comes together found The Simple Way in Monasticism movement “I think prayer is a really 1995 as a faith commu- values living among the beautiful thing,” he said. and challenges nity that lives and serves poor in dangerous parts of “For some of us involved in the patterns of among the poor. cities abandoned by the social justice, we forget to “We are not a church affluent. pray.” this world.” plant. We are a community Most Christians want to The Simple Way has plant,” Claiborne, author of help the poor but refuse transformed a formerly to invest in their world, dark and dreary neighbor- Claiborne said — a distinc- hood into a creative display tion he doesn’t consider of the beauty of God, he biblical. The gospel propels said. Creativity has been Christ’s followers toward restored through inspira- people who are hurting, he tional murals and artwork insisted. spread across buildings. “It takes us to the pain, Furthermore, the com- the poverty and those in munity has taken initiative need,” he said. in gardening and land- The community lives scaping projects to care simply and communally. properly for God’s earth, a Members share lawn value essential to the com- mowers, washers and dry- munity. The group also or- ers, cars — and even their ganizes a tutoring program paychecks. Each member for kids and a flag-football of the community gives league. 10 percent of his or her “I can’t help but think it income to a common makes God smile when the emergency fund. A medical church comes together and collaborative can cover up challenges the patterns of to a $150,000 incident for this world,” he said. TALENT ACADEMY 8 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA Shane Claiborne will lead the next 5 Talent Crawford leaving Treasurer’s office Academy teaching ses- sion on Saturday, Feb. after 40 years of conference service 21, at Ebenezer UMC in Stafford and live- arol Crawford, who credit agency. streamed to nine sites currently handles Veteran conference around the conference: Cchurch receipts in the workers talk about condi- Eastern Shore: conference Treasurer’s of- tions in “the old building” Grace UMC (Parksley); fice, will be leaving her job on Broad Street in down- Lynchburg: Park View at the end of January. She town Richmond, before the Community Mission; has served on conference office moved to its much Martinsville: First UMC; staff since 1974. more modern digs in Glen Richmond: Woodlake In her more than 40 Allen. Crawford does have UMC; Roanoke: Thrasher years working for the Vir- a fond memory of the old Memorial UMC; Shenan- ginia Conference, Crawford building, which now houses doah Valley: Bridge- has seen a lot of changes. part of the Virginia Game water UMC; Tidewater: “The churches have and Inland Fisheries offices. Grace Harbor UMC; advanced a lot,” she says. “(My husband) Carl and I Winchester: Macedonia “When I started working were married in that build- UMC; and Yorktown: St. for the conference, some ing,” she said. “(Rev.) Peter Luke’s UMC. churches had outdoor Vaughn did the service.” Claiborne graduated plumbing.” In a statement, con- Carol Crawford from Eastern University So, too, has the office of ference Treasurer David said. “Carol will be greatly and did graduate work the conference Treasurer. In Dommisse explained the her position, Crawford has rationale for Crawford’s missed by all who worked at Princeton Seminary. with her, and we wish her His adventures have processed remittances for departure. apportionments and other “In response to reduced many blessings during this taken him from the transition.” streets of Calcutta, mission funds and served funding in the Conference as the liaison person to Treasurer’s office for 2015, Crawford also worked where he worked with church treasurers. the Council on Finance & with six Virginia Conference Mother Teresa, to the “We didn’t have com- Administration Personnel bishops: Kenneth Goodson, wealthy suburbs of Chi- puters, of course,” Crawford Committee reviewed the Rob Blackburn, Tom Stock- cago, where he served said, “and things were not staffing levels in the Trea- ton, Joe Pennell, Charlene at the mega-church Wil- as involved as they are surer’s office,” Dommisse Kammerer and Young Jin low Creek. His writing now. We sent the informa- said. “It was determined Cho. has appeared in Esquire, tion out on a tape and it that the Church Receipts But working with local Christianity Today and came back as four sets of position would be eliminat- church treasurers and pas- The Wall Street Journal, statements with carbon ed effective Jan. 31, 2015. tors has always been her and he has appeared paper in between. We used All responsibilities of this favorite part of the job. on everything from Fox a machine to separate the position will then be shared “I’ve always enjoyed News to Al Jazeera. He’s statements and remove the among the Treasurer’s of- talking to people across working on a new book, carbon paper before we fice staff.” the conference and helping called Executing Faith, distributed them.” Dommisse also praised them as much as I could,” and hopes to hang out Crawford actually Crawford’s “loyalty and she said. with Pope Francis when started in the office mail- dedication.” If you have questions the pontiff visits Phila- room before moving into “She has worked with about how this affects the delphia in September. the Treasurer’s office after four conference treasurers services provided by the Follow him at Facebook almost 10 years. She came and supported thousands Treasurer’s office, contact TALENT (ShaneClaiborne) or to the conference from a of local church treasur- Dommisse at Twitter (@ShaneClai- position with Equifax, the ers during her tenure,” he (804) 521-1100. ACADEMY borne). -Neill Caldwell VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 9 The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA Wesleyan Tradition in the “God used the Wes- Jorge Acevedo to lead 21st Century” for a two- Virginia Wesleyan clergy day continuing education leys and the early seminar March 16-17 at Methodist move- Virginia Wesleyan College seminar in March in Norfolk. ment to transform The Virginia Wesleyan series offers one continuing not just the church he Rev. Jorge Acevedo, education credit for clergy. lead pastor at Grace but the culture. Acevedo is a graduate of Church, a multi-site T both Asbury College and Their unique ap- United Methodist con- Asbury Theological Semi- gregation in Southwest proach to the Gospel nary. He was ordained dea- Florida (Cape Coral, Fort con in the Florida Confer- have transferable Myers Shores and North ence in 1986 and an elder Fort Myers) with more than principles that if har- in 1990. He was the 2001 2,600 in attendance each recipient of the Denman week, will present on the nessed in the 21st Evangelism Award from the topic “Turbo-Charging the Florida Conference. In 2009, century can once the Foundation for Evange- again transform the lism named Acevedo the The Rev. Jorge Acevedo 2009 Distinguished Evange- church and culture.” list of The United Methodist Church. Acevedo serves on the Southeastern Jurisdic- church and culture.” tion and Florida Conference Using his 19 years as Episcopal Committees and pastor at a single church, has been very involved in Rev. Acevedo will share the Walk to Emmaus. some of these transferable He authored Vital: principles and their unique Churches Changing Com- application and results in munities and the World this setting. (Abingdon Press, 2013). The 2015 Clergy Semi- He co-authored The Heart nar will begin at 8:30 a.m. of Youth Ministry (Bristol on March 16 and conclude House, 1989) with Hule at noon on March 17. Goddard. He has also writ- Lunch will be served on ten for the United Method- March 16. The cost is $75. ist Publishing House, Circuit Registration may be done Rider magazine, Good News online at vwc.edu. For magazine and Our Faith more information, call Jodi Today. Bryant, Church Relations Acevedo explains that coordinator at Virginia “God used the Wesleys and Wesleyan College, at the early Methodist move- (757) 455-3217 or e-mail ment to transform not just [email protected]. the church but the culture. Their unique approach to the Gospel has transferable principles that if harnessed in the 21st century can once again transform the

10 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA Imagine No Malaria resources for Lent available on website

ew Imagine No feature a series of Lent- munication, trained health Malaria resources for focused themes, including workers and facilities, and NLent can be down- “Give Up Indifference,” “Give grassroots education. To loaded from the conference Up Excess,” “Take Up the date, INM has raised 86 per- website. Go to vaumc.org/ Charge,” “Take Up the Chal- cent of its goal with more imaginenomalaria and lenge,”’ “Lift Up the Hurt- than $65 million in gifts click on “Church Resources.” ing,” “Lift Up The Healed” and pledges. United Meth- Scroll through the folders and “Look Up to Overcome.” odists across the world are in the “box” until you find Additional materials include working hard to reach and the folder named “Lent prayers, hymn suggestions, celebrate the initiative’s Resources NEW!” altar decoration ideas and $75 million goal before the That folder includes videos to share in small denomination’s General great PowerPoint back- groups or with the congre- Conference in 2016. grounds, graphics for gation. For more information, Facebook and Twitter, and Imagine No Malaria, an contact Maria Maxwell, worship resources for your initiative from The United Virginia Conference Imagine church to use now. Methodist Church, is com- No Malaria field coordinator, The seven weeks of mitted to ending death at MariaMaxwell@vaumc. materials, which extend and suffering from malaria org or (804) 521-1160. through Easter Sunday, through prevention, com- What makes a neighborhood? The church isn’t just a building, and a neighborhood isn’t just a group of houses. Heart Havens empowers your neighbors with intellectual disabilities to live full and vibrant lives with as much independence as possible in neighborhoods across the Conference.

February is Heart Havens Month. Help us empower our neighbors. Volunteer. Donate. Advocate. 1-877-442-8368 For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: www.hearthavens.org “Love your neighbor as yourself.” www.facebook.com/heart.havens Galatians 5:14 (NIV) @HeartHavens

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 11 The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA she worked to create new the Alexandria/Arlington Russell was one of a kind liturgy for the new de- District office building. nomination. When we use Upon marrying and By Catherine D. Morgan the Service of Word and moving to Richmond in the Table or the Great Thanks- 1970s, Patti established hen Patti B. Rus- giving, we can remember the conference archives in sell died on Dec. with gratitude that Patti’s cramped and inappropriate W2, the Virginia fingerprints are all over our space in the former confer- Conference lost an extraor- liturgy. ence headquarters then on dinary layperson. Patti expanded her Broad Street. She acquired At Patti’s retirement interest in social justice the Northern Virginia archi- in 2007, Bishop Charlene ministries while at Pace val collection when it was Kammerer noted that Patti Memorial UMC on the cam- closed and merged it into had been a part of the pus of Virginia Common- the conference archives. very “bone marrow” of the wealth University, a church She served as the volun- conference. Her remarkable serving both students and teer archivist until 2008, career in worship minis- the homeless poor who a span of more than 30 try, social justice matters called Monroe Park home. years. With her keen sense and the preservation and From organizing a feed- of humor, at her retirement interpretation of Methodist ing program at Pace, Patti Patti remarked that when history spanned more than moved on to spearhead a she found out what the 50 years. feeding program run by conference was consider- Patti began her minis- the churches around Stuart ing paying a new archivist, try at Clarendon Church in Circle. As volunteer director, she was tempted to apply Arlington in the 1950s. Mar- she managed all the work- for the job and ask for riage and various moves ers from city and suburban back pay! brought her to Centenary churches. And when the When the conference in Richmond, Pace Memo- city tried to shut down decided to move its offices rial in Richmond, Wil- the feeding ministry, Patti from West Broad Street to liamsburg UMC and finally refused to surrender to Glen Allen, Patti worked Duncan Memorial UMC in government pressure. She with the architects to Ashland. The Rev. David recruited Constitutional design an archival space. Hindman, officiating at her experts who testified that She was adamant that the funeral, joked that Patti feeding the hungry was floor be reinforced to hold may be the only Methodist part of the free expression the heavy compact shelv- layperson who itinerated! of religion. ing needed in the new Patti was a strong lady, We met in 1980 when archives. In 2002 she super- not intimidated by preach- I became a trustee of the vised the move to the new ers or status. She did not Virginia Conference Histori- facility in Glen Allen, and suffer fools lightly. She cal Society. It was in this later the installation of the mixed with all levels of the arena that we became efficient and space-saving church – serving as del- especially close. Patti be- shelving. egate to Annual, General gan her service in historical A member of the con- and Jurisdictional confer- circles as an early member ference Historical Society ences. and later officer of the first since 1965, Patti is the She had a passion for district historical society in only person to have been excellence in worship, Methodism, the Methodist a founding member of all serving on the Commission Historical Society of North- three of the Society’s foun- on Worship of the General ern Virginia. In 1963 she dations – the Old Stone Board of Discipleship of helped create the Jacob Church Foundation, the the newly formed United Simpson Payton Memorial William Watters Founda- Methodist Church. There Library and Museum in tion, and the Old Brunswick

12 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA Circuit Foundation – where her commitment to the Joyner’s new book takes different view of restoration, preservation, and promotion of historic Israel-Palestinian divide sites was a source of inspi- ration and awe. hat does the in which he notes, Patti capped her service conflict between “The vision that [Rev. to the Virginia Conference WIsraelis and Joyner] presents by editing Virginia United Palestinians look like when does not allow us to Methodist Heritage maga- Christians view it in light of succumb to frustra- zine from 1991-2009. Heri- the crucifixion and resur- tion or ideological tage is the scholarly journal rection? These are the criti- posturing, but chal- published by the Histori- cal questions Eastern Shore lenges us to serve cal Society since 1973. District Superintendent the the work of recon- By seeking out promising Rev. Alex Joyner explores in ciliation that God authors and emphasizing a new book published by has entrusted to excellence in research and The Englewood Review of us through Jesus writing, her work increased Books. A Space for Peace Christ.” the periodical’s reputation in the Holy Land: Listen- A Space for for in-depth treatment of ing to Modern Israel and Peace in the important historic issues. Palestine presents a brief Holy Land is It is no wonder then history of the conflict a resource for Christian that in June 2014 the interwoven with stories churches seeking to Historical Society of The of peacemakers working make a just and faithful Abingdon Press including United Methodist Church in unusual and creative response to the suffering What’s in the Bible About recognized Patti’s excep- ways. The book also offers experienced by the Us? and Hard Times Come tional contributions and a theological reflection on people of the Holy Land Again No More: Suffering service to preserving the the empty tomb of Jesus — Christians, Jews, and and Hope. He has been history of Virginia Method- Christ as an “open space” Muslims. It is suitable for a regular contributor to ism by presenting her with where Christians can pray use by small groups, large FaithLink, a United Method- the Ministry of Memory and work for peace and groups and individuals ist curriculum connecting Award. reconciliation in the Middle studying the region. current events and faith. Patti’s husband, Jack, East. C. Christopher Smith, co- himself a layperson of note A Space for Peace author of Slow Church: Cul- in the Virginia Conference, invites the Christian reader tivating Community in the died just 43 days after her, to bring all of the region’s Patient Way of Jesus, says on Jan. 14 modern history to the “A Space for Peace in the To honor Patti at her empty tomb. Here the Holy Land is a particularly retirement, the Patti B. reader meets people like helpful resource that Russell Archives Endow- a Palestinian Christian sheds light on the conflict ment fund was established family who established between Israel and through the Virginia United an unlikely brewery in the Palestine. This little book Methodist Foundation. Con- West Bank and the Israeli is essential reading for tributions in her memory Jewish and Palestinian any Christian who desires may be sent to the Foun- residents of Wahat al- to understand and to be dation via the United Meth- Salam/Neve Shalom, a vil- engaged in this conflict.” odist Center, P.O. Box 5606, lage where they have been The book is currently Glen Allen, VA 23058. living together in a 30-year available in e-book format -Catherine D. Morgan is a past experiment. on Amazon at the link president of the Virginia Retired United Meth- http://j.mp/ASpaceFor- Conference Historical Society. odist Bishop Tim Whita- Peace. Joyner has five pre- ker provides a foreword vious publications through

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 13 The United Methodist connection in VIRGINIA United Methodist schools We Want To Donate equip clergy in Virginia www.vumcu.org To Your Church he Virginia Conference A recent poll confirms is blessed to have six some rather astonishing When clergy and church members finance your next TUnited Methodist- information. Of our 900 vehicle purchase with us or refinance a vehicle loan related schools within our clergy in the Virginia Con- that you currently have with another lender, borders. ference, 412 have received Our United Methodist their education at one or We’ll Donate churches have a close and more of these six schools. historic relationship with The good news is that our $25 Ferrum College, Randolph schools continue to de- $ College, Randolph Macon velop pastors for ministry To Your Academy, Randolph Macon to serve our local churches. Church* College, Virginia Wesleyan The churches that support College and Shenandoah the Virginia Education Fund 25 University. These institu- apportionment are bearing Our vehicle loan rates start as low as 1.95% APR** and tions of higher learning significant fruit by enabling 100% financing is available. Call 866-657-0004 to apply. were established by our the nurturing and equip- Get pre approved before heading to dealership and reduce ancestors in the faith. ping of our clergy. One your loan rate by .25%**. So many of our local or more of these pastors churches have alumni who trained by one of our Unit- *For Virginia Conference clergy, church members and their churches. **All loans are subject to approval, credit restrictions apply & rates are subject to hail from one of these six ed Methodist schools may change. Not applicable to the refinance of current VUMCU vehicle loans. schools and provide dis- very well be appointed to tinctive leadership in their your congregation. respective congregations. Thank you to all of our These schools continue churches who support to offer numerous oppor- the Virginia Education tunities for students to be Fund and provide a steady engaged in serving their stream of well-trained communities and beyond clergy and laity. thus promoting the Wes- -The Rev. John Peters is direc- leyan tradition of carrying tor of the Association of Educa- out deeds of mercy. tional Institutions.

Homecoming parade at Ferrum College

14 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 EVENTS or [email protected]. For registration questions FEBRUARY contact Cyndi Schnell at (434) 292-5308 or CyndiSchnell@ United Methodist Day at the General Assembly vumac.org. Feb. 5, Bon Air UMC and State Capitol, Richmond This is an annnual opportunity to help faith communities Lord, Teach Me to Pray become empowered to serve as missionaries of justice, Feb. 21, Williamsburg UMC as well as the more traditional missionaries of mercy. By Wendy Miller, who teaches spiritual formation at three joining together and establishing relationships with our seminaries, will lead workshops on prayer. Cost is $20, elected officials, we empower members of our congrega- which includes lunch. For more information or to register, tions to wonder, “How can I make a difference? How can I visit the conference website at www.vaumc.org under be a Good Samaritan in our world to its fullest sense?” This “Events” and the date. event gives congregations a vehicle for reaching beyond themselves and introduces them to the Social Principles of MARCH The United Methodist Church in a meaningful way. The cost is $25, which includes breakfast and lunch. Visit the confer- Clergy Spouses’ Retreat ence website to register, or for more information, contact March 5-7, Blackstone the Rev. Pat Shipley at (804) 353-1387 or at plsrevdoc@ “Is It Well With Your Soul?” is the theme of this year’s aol.com. retreat, organized by the conference’s Clergy Family Enrich- ment Committee. Speakers will include Dr. Dawn Peck, a 5 Talent Academy member of Trinity UMC in Lexington and certified spiritual Feb. 21, Ebenezer UMC, Stafford, and webcast to sites director; Dr. Lisa Rochford, a clinical psychologist and clergy around the conference spouse; and the Rev. Charlie Reynolds, executive director Author and activist Shane Claiborne will talk about min- of Virginia Conference Wellness Ministries. There will again istry with the poor in the next teaching event sponsored be special interest activities, a roundtable discussion of by the 5 Talent Academy, which helps existing churches life as a clergy family, and music will be provided by Josh with resources and education. Claiborne is one of the Wortham. The cost of the entire weekend is $100, but you founders of The Simple Way, a ministry in inner-city can come as a day participant for $30 a session. For more Philadelphia. For more information, visit www.vaumc. information, contact the Center for Clergy Excellence at org/5TalentAcademy. (804) 521-1126 or 1-800-768-6040, ext. 126.

Lay Servant Academy Bishop’s Convocation on Prayer Feb. 21-22, Blackstone March 21, Trinity UMC, Richmond This year’s Lay Servant Academy will offer 11 of the courses The Rev. Sue Nilson-Kibbey, director of Missional Church required for becoming or re-certifying as a Lay Servant. Initiatives for the West Ohio Conference, will be the plenary (One is required every three years from a list of 22.) It will speaker for this event. An ordained elder in The United also offer five of the required courses for Lay Speaker Methodist Church, Nilson-Kibbey was executive pastor at qualification, plus 10 exploratory classes that are two or Ginghamsburg UMC in Ohio for more than 10 years. She four hours in length and are designed for those interested is the author of Ultimately Responsible: When You’re in in a topic and looking for information about the ministry Charge of Igniting a Ministry, Transformation Journal: A One or the full course of study. The theme is “From Members to Year Journey through the Bible, and Starting a Single Adult Disciples.” A brochure on the conference website includes Ministry, and is the creator of the Ministry by Strengths class descriptions, contact and registration information. You program. There will also be 13 workshops for participants. can find the information under “Events” and the dates. For Registration information is on the conference website at more information contact David Bailey at (804) 338-3168, www.vaumc.org under “Events” and the date.

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 15 DISCIPLES HELPING TO TRANSFORM THE WORLD

▲ Reveille UMC, Richmond Dis- ▲ formed a reading group which trict, packed more than 20,000 meals meets five times a year with the goal for Stop Hunger Now in late October to be in synch with the purpose of the as part of the congregation’s special UMW: “to know God – to develop a Sunday focus on community service. creative, supportive fellowship and Members also prepared meals for the expand the concepts of mission.” homeless and worked with members Standardsville UMC is in the Charlot- of the Swansboro neighborhood. tesville District. dren and their families were invited to share in a day that began with morn- ing service featuring an original Christ- mas play performed by the youth of Galloway. Then all transitioned to the Fellowship Hall, which had been transformed into a Christmas won- derland by the “elves” (pictured). The ▲ The Northview UMC United children enjoyed crafts, listened to the Methodist Women’s “Knit-Wits” story of the birth of Jesus and had a ▲ United Methodist Women from have knitted baby hats, baby sweat- kid-friendly lunch of pizza, spaghetti, the Elizabeth River District collected ers and prayer shawls. Northview is in cheesy bread, cookies and cupcakes. $115 for the Imagine No Malaria initia- Hollins, Roanoke District. Santa came to visit and handed out tive during the November District Lun- gifts and candy canes to all of the cheon at Wesley Chapel UMC. Under children. “The love of Christ is not the theme of “Every Life Save a Life” something that we just talk about on they joined the Virginia Conference Sunday morning,” said the Rev. James goal to save at least 100,000 lives. Page Jr., Galloway’s pastor. “We try to The outgoing UMW District President, live it out in our everyday walk with Carolyn Patterson, encouraged all Him. The joy came when we received members to “tell the story to every- letters from the parents who were one at all times” and challenged them incarcerated expressing how grateful to invite others to join their effort to ▲ Fourteen youths from Wesley they were that their children would bless their communities through initia- UMC in Winchester collected and get something for Christmas from tives like Imagine No Malaria. More prepared 61 shoe box gifts for the them. God’s gift to us is Jesus; our gift than 40 women attended this gather- Fauquier County Food Coalition. The to the families in our community is ing. The Rev. Lynda Moore from West gifts were handed out to children at Agape love back to them.” ▲ End UMC was the day’s speaker. the December food distribution. The Evangelism Committee at Standardsville United Meth- Galloway UMC in Falls Church Andrew Chapel in Montross, Fred- odist Women completed the UMW hosted its second Angel Tree Christ- ericksburg District, has initiated a Reading Program with a total of 180 mas Party on Dec. 14. Twenty-six chil- new program where groups of people books read and reported. The women

16 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 DISCIPLES HELPING TO TRANSFORM THE WORLD

who dedicate their lives to serving the citizens of Westmoreland County are

recognized. Under the leadership of Edith Davison and Joyce Hobbs, the ▲ Members at Cherry Hill UMC group recently visited Cople Elemen- in South Boston recently heard a tary School with a basket of home- program on Malawi in Africa, where made cookies to say “thank you” to people lack access to emergency the staff of 63 persons. Pictured are health care in many areas. Members Sheri Almond, Cople’s principal, Pastor responded to raise funds for a small Shayne Estes and Joyce Hobbs. ▲ blood freezer for a local clinic there. There was a BBQ dinner and many to the homeless (things like thermals, individuals, area churches and civic gloves, hats, scarves, etc.). Pictured: organizations donated funds for the (above) Mike Hogan displays his gift; project. While the goal was $3000, (top of page) the Barbosa family, with God allowed more than $9,000 to be members from both Ecuador and Ni- raised! This purchased a larger blood caragua, wanted to give thanks for all freezer, a blood analyzer and the items the opportunities they have received necessary to collect the blood. in this country so they bought, pre- ▲ Mount Pleasant/Lamps UMC pared and served the Christmas meal in Winchester planted a community to all that walked into Rising Hope on garden to help those in need. Every Christmas Day. ▲ Monday the community garden team met to weed and tend the garden. Then on Sunday mornings before wor- ship, a table was set up with free pro- duce available to anyone who passed by the church. Leftover produce was taken to the local food bank. The team hopes to expand the garden project in the coming year.

Hundreds of people in the U.S. 1 corridor in Alexandria did not go without gifts for Christmas thanks to ▲ Many of the Staunton District the members of Rising Hope UMC. churches marched in their local com- The church distributed 375 baskets munities Christmas parades this year, To have your church or church organization featured to families, 2,000 gifts for children, reports district director of Congre- gational Resources Beth Christian. in the “Disciples helping to transform the world” sec- and about 70 homeless were fed on tion, e-mail your story and photos to NeillCaldwell@ Christmas day. The church also gave Sherando UMC (Pastor Sarah Payne) vaumc.org by the first of the month. Stories should out an additional 200 gifts specifically made the front page of their local be approximately 100 words, and photos should be newspaper! 300 dpi jpgs.

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 17 ’ s best UMVIM ambassador 18 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 “I think he is gone again,”

I responded. By Glenn Rowley

he caller was asking about the whereabouts of Rev. Sam Nesmith. She was trying to find out if Tshe could still sign up for a trip Sam was leading to Tangier Island. I gave her Sam’s contact information and told her that he was really good about responding IF he was in the country, but she should not hesitate because he might be “here today and gone tomorrow.” If there is one person in the Virginia Conference (besides the Bishop) who does not need an introduc- tion, it is Sam Nesmith. When I arrived in Virginia five years ago, Sam was one of the first to come to meet me. He didn’t introduce himself as the world’s oldest living United Methodist Volunteers In Mission (UMVIM) leader, but after he began to talk and I learned that he was closing in on 70 trips at that time, that is the first thought that came to my mind. He has let me jokingly introduce him that way a couple of times. As a “career” missionary who started missionary service about the time UMVIM exploded as a hands- on opportunity for many United Methodists, I was like many of my colleagues skeptical of how effective it would be. It didn’t take long before I came to see what a tremendous difference it was making not only in the lives of those who were receiving UMVIM teams but also by transforming the lives of team members. Sam is one of those transformational disciples. From Russia to Virginia and many, many places in between, Sam has made a difference in people’s lives because of his love for God’s people no matter their culture or language. His harmonica and infectious laugh crosses those boundaries, and his energetic faith inspires friendships and partnerships in Christ. If you can get him to stand still long enough, please thank him for being a true mission ambassador and witness to the transformative love of Christ. -The Rev. Glenn Rowley is the director of the conference Center for Justice and Missional Excellence.

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 19 God is in the mission

By Nathan Decker

“Thank you, God, for this good life and forgive us if we do not love it enough.” - Garrison Keillor

he first time I met the Rev. Sam NeSmith, he handed me a bucket filled with a rough mixture of gravel and THaitian concrete mix. “Here you go,” he laughed, “It’s good for you!” By the end of the day we had poured a floor in a class- room one bucket at a time. The mix had slopped up and down my bib overalls so thick that when I took them off what they stood up on their own. they can and we work together. But Sam’s words were truth. Mission work is good for Sure, we’re not professionals – and we may not know the us. Cambodian way of painting a fence post – but we can There was a time I naively thought that spending thou- learn. sands of dollars on airfare and supplies to build something More than that, we can learn from our Christian sisters in another part of the world was the most efficient way and brothers in other lands how they are experiencing God. to do things. Several trips later, I know we are not in the I may have brought a hammer and a saw to give away in 1800s mission movement any longer. Mission today is Haiti, but I learned a lesson from a little boy about shar- less about building schools and churches and more about ing that I’ll never forget. I may have taught lessons on building relationships and discipleship. leadership to pastors in Cambodia, but I’ll never forget the The reality is that we could send the money, hire pro- joy and excitement of a growing young church that they fessionals and get the job done more efficiently. Unfortu- shared with me. nately this style of doing things sets up a relationship of Mission trips are not just about reaching out to make dependency. Instead, we send United Methodist Volunteers disciples in a far-off land. When I go on a mission trip, I’m In Mission (UMVIM) teams to create partnerships where learning how to be a better disciple, too. Whether it is each party provides when Sam shared a Richard Foster devotional book with me or when we had deep conversation about where God is calling us to go next in the mission – the Spirit is at work. Even when in a worship service preached in a tongue I couldn’t understand but in a heart I could discern, I felt moved. We go on missions to encourage young growing churches. We go on missions to develop relationships and partnerships. We go on missions to make and be better disciples. We go on mission trips because God is in the mission. “Here you go, it’s good for you.” “So here’s what I think: The best thing you can do right now is to finish what you started last year and not let those good intentions grow stale. Your heart’s been in the right place all along. You’ve got what it takes to finish it up, so go to it.” - 2 Corinthians 8:10-11 The Message -The Rev. Nathan Decker is leading an UMVIM team of Young Adults to Cambodia in June. If you are interested in going on this trip, please contact him at [email protected].

20 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 “help” is to go home and figure out how to restructure our lives to be more generous. Seeing the needs first Eight reasons I was hand generates a depth of knowledge and empathy that no amount of spreadsheets, emotional videos or wrong about short- glossy photos can generate. People get informed and motivated. And they become smarter and more gener- term mission trips ous with their financial resources. Gaining clarity on our economic status: This is related By Rich Birch to people becoming more generous, but it’s more per- sonal. A well-executed short-term mission trip makes used to think short-term mission trips were a people aware of the fact that they are among the rich complete waste of resources and a distraction from minority in the world. Some people end up experi- I our church’s core mission. They basically amounted encing this as guilt, which can be a good start. But to “petting the poor” or “poverty tourism.” But my ultimately the hope is to move people beyond feeling attitude changed after recently having the privilege bad to the place where they feel thankful that they of leading a short-term trip. It helped me appreciate have the opportunity to steward the resources God the ways short-term mission experiences can be an has given them. important part of a church’s discipleship strategy. Depending on God, maybe for the first time: Our culture Creating awareness of the universal human is structured to be predictable, safe and comfort- experience: Mission trip participants are reminded that able. It often removes the chance for people to be people are people. Whether they are across the street dependent on God because there is little opportunity or around the world, people have the same needs. for stuff to go wrong. Short-term mission trips move They want to know and be known. And they need Je- people out of their comfort zones and force them sus. Participants come home from mission trips more to face the fact that they aren’t in control … maybe mindful of the need to care for the people in their for the first time in their lives. This can give people own communities. greater clarity on their place in the universe and helps to reset their relationship with Jesus. Understanding the challenges of serving in other Getting people out of their seats: A core part of en- cultures: There are unique challenges to serving in gaging the people in our church is to get them out of every community and culture. It’s one thing to talk their seats and engaged in the mission. These trips are about those challenges. It’s entirely different to get a chance for people to serve, to give back and to be up close and see those challenges first hand. Being part of what God is doing. This draws them in closer informed at this level gives trip participants the abil- and helps them get more connected with their church. ity to be more informed advocates when they return home. Seeing with new eyes: While it isn’t always polite or comfortable to name this reality, people traveling on Assuming the roles of learner, servant and helper: short-term mission trips often are a part of wealthy, Often mission trip participants have a job where they dominant cultures. They are traveling to poorer coun- are the expert or teacher or leader. Mission trips are a tries and often being led by incredibly talented people gift to these people because they provide the oppor- who look totally different from them, often people tunity to be in the role of learner or servant or helper. who would be part of the “minority” culture in our Jesus said that we’re called to be the “servant of all,” country. I love the impact this can have on people as and these trips give people the opportunity to actually they see others from various cultures in a different do that. light than is often portrayed by the dominant culture Becoming more generous: Can I be honest for a minute? at home. For those from rich northern countries traveling to de- -The Rev. Rich Birch serves as operations pastor at veloping southern countries, the next best step follow- Liquid Church in New Jersey. ing a short-term mission trip is becoming a donor and advocate. The biggest way we can provide long-term

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 21 Mission Resources:

A Mission Journey: A Handbook for Volunteers from the General Board of “Mission trips” provide the Global Ministries, Discipleship Resources, partnering countries and churches 2013 – in this case, the USA and the church in the USA and Cambodia Boundless Faith: The Global Outreach and the church in Cambodia – the of American Churches by Robert Wuthnow. University of California Press, opportunity to take part together 2009. in God’s plans and movement on both sides of the earth. By Effective Engagement in Short-Term these means, God brings about Missions: Doing It Right! by Robert Priest. William Carey Library Press, 2008. a transformation in the hearts, spirits, minds and lives of God’s peoples beyond their own wildest Going Global with God: Reconciling imaginings. In the case of Sam, Mission in a World of Difference by Titus Leonard Presler. Morehouse Publishing, he has been involved in other 2010. countries besides Cambodia. How could the richness of such

an experience and the impact Helping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert. of such an involvement be Moody Publishers, 2014. possibly measured even by the heart? What wonders can God

bring about through and in God’s Serving with Eyes Wide Open: Doing peoples – among the nations – by Short-Term Missions with Cultural Intelligence by David A. Livermore. such means? Books, 2011. -Romeo del Rosario, GBGM’s country director for the Cambodian Methodist Mission

22 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 SEJ UMVIM Short-term

The Southeastern Jurisdiction maintains a United Method- ist Volunteers In Mission (UMVIM) office in Alabama and an mission program informative website, http://umvim.org. You can sign up for a weekly newsletter, find training events, make a donation Perhaps you have been on a short-term mission experi- to support mission trips or learn about an opportunity to ence which had such an impact on you that you want to organize a team of your own. The website home page cur- do more. Perhaps you are looking for a way to put your rently features a story about Virginia Conference missionar- faith into action through service. The Individual Volunteer ies Nancy and Kip Robinson and how Ebola has kept them Program sponsored by Global Ministries can help you fulfill in the U.S. For information, you can call (205) 453-9480 or both of those needs and more. This program offers oppor- 1-800-659-0609, or e-mail [email protected]. tunities for individuals and couples to serve in mission from two months to two years in a variety of placement settings around the world. The opportunities for service are diverse, including case managers for refugees, teachers, pastors, camp directors and children and youth assistants. To learn more about these placements and other details of the program, please visit website www.individualvolun- teers.info. If you feel you are being called to this important ministry, contact Malcolm Frazier at mfrazier@umcmis- sion.org or call (212) 870-3659.

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 23 Religious news from around the NATION & WORLD to gay and lesbian sisters selves and for the church.” Complaint against Bishop and brothers, and all those The United Methodist involved, through the com- Council of Bishops on Nov. Talbert resolved without trial plaint process.” 15, 2013, requested the Mountain Sky Area complaint be filed against By Heather Hahn Bishop Elaine Stanovsky, Talbert, after he officiated president of the Western Ju- at the union of two United he complaint against risdiction College of Bishops, Methodist men — Joe Open- retired United Meth- announced the complaint’s shaw and Bobby Prince — on Todist Bishop Melvin conclusion. Before his retire- Oct. 25, 2013, near Birming- G. Talbert — who blessed ment, Talbert served in the ham, Ala. the union of two men in Western Jurisdiction, which The Book of Discipline, the violation of church law — has encompasses the eight church’s law book, has stat- ended in what the denomi- westernmost conferences ed since 1972 that all people nation calls a just resolution. in the United States. Church are of sacred worth, but “the The resolution, agreed to law requires that complaints practice of homosexuality is by all parties in this com- against bishops be heard in incompatible with Christian plaint, means that Talbert the jurisdiction where the teaching.” Church law bans will not face a church trial bishop is a member. United Methodist clergy from or possible loss of his clergy “The Just Resolution performing and churches credentials. Agreement achieved by the from hosting “ceremonies Instead, the joint resolu- complainants and Bishop that celebrate homosexual tion agreement calls on all Talbert is a reminder that unions.” parties to follow the Book United Methodists don’t Before the ceremony, of Discipline and urges the have to be divided by their both Birmingham Area Council of Bishops to do differences,” Stanovsky said. Bishop Debra Wallace- more work related to the “The conflicted parties came Padgett and the Executive denomination’s longtime together, prayerfully listened Committee of the Council of Bishop Melvin Talbert (right) poses debate around human to one another, challenged Bishops asked Talbert not to after performing the wedding of Joe Openshaw and Bobby Prince in sexuality. The resolution also one another, and searched officiate. Alabama. Photo by Laura Rossbert. expresses regret “over harm for God’s guidance for them- The Council of Bishops re- quested that Germany Area Bishop Rosemarie Wenner, then the council’s president, and Wallace-Padgett, who leads the North Alabama Conference, submit the com- plaint. They did so in March last year. The complaint accused Talbert of “undermining the ministry of a colleague (¶2702.1f) and conducting a ceremony to celebrate the marriage of a same gender couple (¶2702.1b) within the bounds of the North Alabama Conference.” After the complaint was filed, Stanovsky initiated a supervisory response. ¶413.3b in the Book of Dis-

24 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 Religious news from around the NATION & WORLD cipline, the denomination’s grassroots movement to law book, says a supervisory act as if the stance against Persecution of Christians response is a review of the homosexuality in the Book bishop’s ministry that “shall of Discipline — ¶161F — “does reaches historic levels be directed toward a just not exist.” Talbert calls the rom imprisonment to torture to beheadings, more Christians resolution” of the complaint. movement “biblical obedi- worldwide live in fear for their lives than at any time in the “It is not part of any judicial ence.” modern era. process” that precedes a After the resolution was F That’s the message from Open Doors USA, which released its trial, the law book says. announced, Talbert praised annual World Watch List on Jan. 7. Christian persecution reached A press release from God and expressed his grati- historic levels in 2014, with approximately 100 million Christians Stanovsky said the process tude to Wenner, Wallace- around the world facing possible dire consequences for merely “focused on repairing harm, Padgett and others involved practicing their religion, according to the report. If current trends achieving accountability by “for their openness, honesty persist, many believe 2015 could be even worse. making things right as far as and fairness in the process.” “In regions where Christians are being persecuted as central possible and bringing healing However, he added, “our targets, the trends and issues we track are expanding,” said David to all the parties.” The Disci- primary mission of ‘making Curry, president of Open Doors, a nonprofit that aids persecuted pline also calls church trials disciples…’ is still before us. Christians in the most oppressive countries and ranks nations “an expedient of last resort.” At some point our church based on the severity of persecution. The supervisory team must choose its best pre- North Korea tops Open Doors’ list as the worst oppressor of included Stanovsky and ferred future.” Christians for the 13th consecutive year, but the list is dominated Phoenix Area Bishop Robert “Out of the depth of my by African and Middle Eastern nations. Iraq, which experienced Hoshibata, secretary of the heart, I believe embracing the mass displacement of Christians from its northern region, College of Bishops, and one biblical obedience offers ranked third. Syria was listed fourth, due to the reign of ISIS in clergy and one lay mem- the best way forward for that war-torn region. Nigeria ranked 10th, due in part to the more ber of the jurisdictional maximizing its potential for than 1,000 Christians murdered or kidnapped by terrorist groups committee on episcopacy. growth and full inclusion,” such as Boko Haram. Also included in the top 10 are Somalia, Talbert, Wallace-Padgett and he said. “I pray that we will Afghanistan, Sudan, Iran, Pakistan and Eritrea. Wenner were also part of the remain open to the lead- Even though some Christian-majority nations are experiencing conversations. Under church ing of the Holy Spirit, as we unprecedented levels of discrimination and oppression, Curry said law, those conversations are continue the struggle to be Muslim extremists are the primary drivers of Christian persecution confidential. faithful followers of Jesus worldwide. This is the case in 40 of the 50 nations on this year’s The resulting agreement, Christ.” list. Stanovsky said, “acknowledg- Wallace-Padgett noted Todd Nettleton, a spokesman for Voice of the Martyrs, a global es their differences, allows that the hoped-for outcome ministry serving persecuted Christians in oppressed nations, each their distinctive voice, of any complaint in The agreed with Curry that Muslim extremism is the main source of and creates a framework for United Methodist Church is a Christian oppression. staying in relationship.” just resolution. “Wherever there is growing Islamic radicalism, there is growing Talbert, a veteran of the “Over the course of the persecution of Christians,” he said. “Even where moderate Islamic U.S. civil rights movement, past year Bishop Talbert, states offer peace — and that is rare — they almost never have also has long campaigned to Bishop Wenner and I, along freedom to practice their faith and are often marked for death.” change the church’s stance with support persons each of Nina Shea, director of the Center for Religious Freedom at the on homosexuality and has us invited to the table, have Hudson Institute, said Islamic extremism is not just rampant in been an outspoken advocate worked diligently to find rogue terror groups, but also in the governments of nations such for clergy officiating at same- such a resolution,” she said. as Saudi Arabia (No. 12 on the list) and Egypt (No. 23). This has gender unions. He comes “My hope and prayer is that foreign policy implications, which Shea said has contributed to from a jurisdiction where our reaching this resolution a failure on the part of the Obama administration to address the many United Methodists will be helpful to the church calamity adequately. share his views. at large.” Regardless, Open Doors leaders say the situation is reaching Delegates to the Western -Heather Hahn is a reporter for crisis levels: Christianity faces possible extinction in the Middle Jurisdiction’s meeting in 2012 United Methodist News Service. East and persecution is growing at alarming rates in Asia and asked Talbert to oversee Africa. a Western Jurisdiction -Religion News Service

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 25 Religious news from around the NATION & WORLD Living Fully, Dying Well, in Job’s son-in-law, said the Bishop Job, who helped 2006. Job died at home bishop “was ready to die.” Jan. 3 at 86 after a long Fullerton said the bishop people deal with death, struggle with heart disease. had been under hospice He was a bishop, pastor, care and died peacefully at dead at 86 author and friend who was his Brentwood home, sur- not afraid of death and rounded by his family. He By Kathy Gilbert wanted the church to be is survived by his widow, better prepared to help Beverly Ellerbeck Job, four have no anxiety people deal with the expe- children and seven grand- about my own death. rience of dying. In talking children. His children are “I… I don’t know what about his book, Job offered Debbie, Philip and David that’s going to be like, but the best words of comfort Job, and Ann Job Fullerton. I have some idea that it about his own death. Job leaves behind a leg- will be good because this “I have no fears at all acy of more than 20 books life is good,” said retired about death. I think every- including, Three Simple Bishop Rueben P. Job after one has some apprehen- Rules: A Wesleyan Way of the publication of his book, sion about pain, and in the Living published in 2007 past, perhaps we did not that has sold more than treat pain well. I think now 300,000 copies worldwide. that’s not true anymore. “Thousands of churches And even when we did and hundreds of thousands not, I think the body itself of individuals reclaimed begins to close off the the general rules of Do No functions so that the pain Harm, Do Good and Stay in itself is lessened. Love with God through the “I always felt for a long little brown book. He put time as a pastor that it the most foundational and was more difficult for the profound into 10 words people who watched a that we could understand loved one die than it was and then spent a lifetime for the loved one who was trying to achieve,” said Su- dying. But now I think the san Salley, associate pub- medical profession handles lisher of ministry resources pain so much better than at the United Methodist they did in the past, so that Publishing House. Salley is not so much a big factor. worked with Job on Living “I have no anxiety Fully, Dying Well and Three about my own death. I just Simple Rules in addition to had a stent put in, and for other books published by a person of my age — with Abingdon Press. a third of my heart func- Job’s commitment to tion remaining — it’s a risky spirituality was recognized venture. But I went into by Garrett-Evangelical that operating room with Theological Seminary in the same confidence that Evanston, Illinois, in 2010. I lie down in my bed every The Rueben P. Job Endowed night. Had I awakened Chair in Spiritual Formation in another world, I don’t was one of the first chairs believe I would have been in spiritual formation surprised or afraid.” among Protestant seminar- Dr. Randy Fullerton, ies. Garrett Evangelical is

26 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 Religious news from around the NATION & WORLD to ’62. He was also a district superintendent in The UMC at a Crossroads: South Dakota and pastor of churches in North and A Conversation South Dakota. A Gathering for Laity & Clergy Job was elected to the (sponsored by the Evangelical Fellowship of Virginia) episcopacy and assigned to the Iowa conference in 1984. He was world Saturday, March 7, 2015, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. editor of The Upper Room Woodlake United Methodist Church devotional magazine and 15640 Hampton Park Drive, Chesterfield, VA 23832 a staff member of the United Methodist Board Featured speakers: of Discipleship. He served as president of United Methodist Communications Commission in 1988. one of 13 United Methodist During the 1985-88 schools of theology. quadrennium, he chaired Upon hearing that gifts the Hymnal Revision Com- and commitments for mittee culminating in the the endowed chair had Rev. Tom Rev. Rob adoption of a new hymnal Berlin Renfroe reached the $2 million goal at the denomination’s 1988 Pastor, Floris UMC Woodlands UMC, Texas, and in 2013, Job said, “Because General Conference. Mary President of Good News Christian spirituality has Brooke Casad, former top To register or for more information, go to www. efumcva.org. been at the center of my executive of the denomina- Cost: $25 includes lunch ($30 after February 28) ministry for 60 years, the tion’s Connectional Table, faithful prayers and actions worked on the commit- of many bring great hope The Virginia United Methodist tee with Job and remem- Consider a gift and joy to me today and bers him introducing the will do so for multitudes hymnal to the worldwide subscription in the years to come. conference. to The Virginia My prayers of petition “The image he set Advocate! have turned to prayers of before us was that of an thanksgiving.” icon,” she said. “This hym- Job was born Feb. 7, nal would be a ‘window 1928, in Jamestown, North to God’ reflecting God’s Dakota. He was raised on a glory and goodness. I give farm and worked alongside thanks for his personal wit- For your pastor, staff, lay his father until he received ness to me; he has indeed leaders, neighbors, church a “clear and urgent call” to been a ‘window to God’ for friends, family, Sunday ministry. He was licensed my faith journey and for school teachers...! to preach in 1952, and that I am eternally grate- ordained in the Dakota ful.” Conference of the Evangeli- The United Methodist cal United Brethren Church Hymnal is used by 97 per- vaumc.org/advocate in 1957. The EUB and the cent of United Methodist or call the Methodist Church merged congregations. Advocate office at: in 1968 to form The United -Kathy Gilbert is a reporter for Methodist Church. United Methodist News Service. 1-800-768-6040, ext. 110 Job served as an Air or (804) 521-1110 Force chaplain from 1960

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 27 EQUIPPING FOR MINISTRY my church. Disney is a big organization attempting to More intimate What the church can stay on the cutting edge of experiences: impacting culture. Here are learn from isney a few of their changes that Disney recently finished D jumped out at me: the Magic Kingdom’s largest expansion in its By Rich Birch Personalized history, with a completely redone Fantasyland. In the ver the years, I’ve technology: middle of many great new had the privilege of attractions is Enchanted In 2013, Disney rolled out taking a bunch of Tales with Belle. It’s an O a series of products under family vacations at Disney almost 30-minute small the banner of MyMagic+. World in Orlando. I love it … group experience where This technology personal- partly because it’s such a you are face to face with izes your vacation experi- fun place to visit and partly Belle from Beauty and the ence. You can book your because I find leadership Beast while kids re-enact ride times from home, lessons everywhere I look. the story. Don’t miss this … before you even leave for My family recently spent Disney could have invested vacation. A few of the new- a week there and it got in a new show, ride or er rides create automatic me thinking about how theater experience … but digital souvenirs, which it’s changed over the years they chose to structure an blend music, professional and what those changes incredibly intimate time video and images of you can teach me as I lead at where families interact on the ride. It’s reported directly with the story. that Disney has spent $1 billion to provide this sort Growing churches of personalization to its need to fight the urge to guests. move people into larger and larger crowds. How How are you leverag- can you break your min- ing data to make a better istry into smaller com- experience for people? munities to give intimate What if we celebrated growth experiences? people’s birthdays and Where is the “mid-sized” anniversaries as they community being devel- arrived at our services oped at your church … each week? What if we between the large gath- generated name tags erings and small groups? for people with a scan of their license plates as they pulled into our park- ing lots?

28 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 Global and local Increased expansion: rideability:

I asked a long-time “cast Disney changes some of its member” at Disney World rides so they are different when the slowest time every time you ride them. of the year is now. He The Star Tours ride at commented that Disney Hollywood Studios has 54 has done a lot of global potential variations in the advertising to draw in story line. The Toy Story guests from around the Mania ride is essentially a world, so there really isn’t 3D video game that you a slow time of year due to travel through … begging varying vacation schedules. guests to ride it again to At the same time, Disney increase their scores. The World just opened a mas- new Test Track ride at Ep- sive parking garage called cot allows guests to design Disney Springs as part of their own futuristic car and The experience small sub-experiences help a new expansion project then see how it performs you enjoy the experience targeted at Central Florida … again implicitly inviting before the before the experience … residents and people va- guests to come back and experience: whether that’s a $100 mil- cationing at other Orlando tweak their designs. These lion roller coaster or a $10 attractions. changes are a far cry from Let’s be honest … a big part chicken burger! the “It’s a Small World” of a Disney World vacation generation of rides where How is your church is standing in line and wait- Where do people guests experienced the reaching out to “hard to ing for something to hap- “wait” at your church? same thing for decades. acquire” first-time guests pen. It’s a pretty ingenious How can you add to and more readily avail- business model really! I’ve those experiences to able “low-hanging fruit”? Are you offering noticed that throughout make them great? Can What’s a series of Sunday variety in your experi- the park Disney attempts you get a volunteer to services that you could ences so that people have to make these “waiting” stand with folks as they do to draw in a different a sense of anticipation experiences as elegant and check in their kids … demographic than you when they come to your entertaining as possible. At maybe handing the kids normally reach? (I love church? What is the bal- the classic Haunted Man- treats or stickers? What what The Meeting House ance between offering sion there are a bunch of happens before your is doing with some daring a repeatable experience new interactive elements service as people arrive? new ground in its series that you can do with designed to entertain and Could you do something entitled ISIS, Islam, and excellence and fresh delight guests before they in the foyer to welcome Jesus … a great example experiences that keep enter the ride. The queue people and build anticipa- of trying something people engaged? How are for the brand new Seven tion? new!) Who is the core you adding elements of Dwarfs Mine Train ride in- community your church is surprise and delight into cludes games and all kinds -the Rev. Rich Birch serves as perfectly tuned to reach? what your church does of fun stuff to do while you Operations Pastor at Liquid Church How can you reach more to keep people interested wait for your turn on the in New Jersey and writes at www.unseminary.com. of those folks? and coming back? train. Even the Pinocchio Village Haus restaurant has menus with really cool animations to look like they are built by a cuckoo clock maker! All of these

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 29 Devotions from International Lesson Series LIVING THE WORD Does this resemble any of your past Lenten Feb. 1, 2015 experiences? Have you been so focused on out- Hunger Pangs and Public Displays ward show that you’ve missed an inner move- Matthew 6:16-18 ment? This Lent, may you heed Jesus’ words, ent begins in just over two weeks. For many focusing on what God sees, rather than what Christians, this is a time when we sacrifice others see. And, in doing so, may you see what Lsomething we love in our lives in order to, blessings may come from a season of surrender among other things, deepen our understanding and sacrifice. of Christ’s own sacrifice. For 40 days, we abstain from chocolate, caffeine and hopefully, in my case this year, diaper changing. Feb. 8, 2015 The Rev. Brandon Your Friendly Neighborhood Samaritan Robbins is pastor of What many of us don’t realize, though, is that Luke 10:25-37 IGNITE UMC, a new our Lenten routine is actually a modification of faith community in an ancient practice called fasting. Today, fasting ow do I get to heaven?” Norfolk near Old As a pastor, that is perhaps the root Dominion University. finds itself among some of the least practiced of of almost every question I’m asked. He attended James spiritual disciplines. But in Jesus’ day, it was quite “H Madison University, routine. Fasting was so prevalent, in fact, that Can I drink alcohol? How much money am I sup- where he received a Jesus found it necessary to teach his followers posed to give to the church? What would I do for Bachelor of Arts, and how to faithfully observe this practice. a Klondike bar? All of these questions stem from Duke Divinity School, this fundamental desire to know, “what gets me where he received an During his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says, MDiv. Robbins was “When you fast, brush your hair and wash your into heaven?” ordained as an Elder face. Then you won’t look like you are fasting One day Jesus is asked that question. An ex- in Full Connection to people, but only your Father who is present pert in the Jewish law asks him, “what must I do in 2011. He serves in that secret place” (Matthew 6:17-18, CEB). In to inherit eternal life?” (Luke 10:25, NRSV). Notice on the Board of he doesn’t ask what must I do to earn eternal Ordained Ministry an age when fasting was common, Jesus had to and the Bishop’s remind his disciples that they were doing this life. He asks how he might inherit it. This implies Vital Congregations not for social gains, but spiritual ones. that eternal life is something received by virtue Steering team. He and Unfortunately, I find that I still have to be re- of being part of a family, God’s family. Which his wife, LeeAnn, have minded of this in my own fasting practices. After then begs the question, “how does one get into a three-month-old God’s family?” daughter, Emma. a lifetime of Lents deprived of desserts and soda, a few years ago I decided to spend one day each Jesus responds by asking this expert in the week completely fasting from food and drink. law what the law says. The man responds by es- Now, for those who know me, this was clearly no sentially saying, “love God with everything you’ve small task. I love food. My wife and I spent the got, and love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus majority of our Italian honeymoon scouting out agrees with this response, but the man still isn’t restaurants. Forget the leaning tower of Pisa, we satisfied. He wants to know who his neighbor wanted hot Italian pizza! So an entire day with- his. Eternal life is important business and he out food seemed excruciating. And it was. But wants specific answers. here’s the problem: I let everyone know it. Jesus’ reply, however, is surprising. He tells the Every Monday, I’d find myself telling church story of a man who is beaten within a breath members how difficult the fast was. I’d describe of his life on the side of a road. Two separate my hunger pangs, my dreams of food that would religious leaders notice his condition, but pass by disappear once it passed my lips. Eventually, for fear of being made ritually unclean. A Samari- though, I remembered Jesus’ words and realized tan, however, a man for whom the lawyer would how my act of outward suffering was actually have held great contempt, not only stops to help depriving me of an experience of inner renewal. the man, he also pays for his entire recovery at a I had been given an opportunity each week to nearby inn. glimpse the pain many in our world experience Jesus is showing him that one’s neighbor has each day, to pray about it, ponder it, and respond nothing to do with geographic proximity or so- to it. But I had missed that chance. For I was so cial affinity, as most would assume. To love one’s focused on receiving empathy that I neglected neighbor is to treat all with kindness and com- to give it. passion. This is what it means to be the family of

30 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 God: to love God above all else and to by virtue of being part of she has struggled to resist her old treat all as brothers and sisters. God’s family. In light of that, it habits and patterns. She told me So who is your neighbor? Who would then appear that Jesus is that as much as she wants to live are the people around you that God suggesting that to become part differently now that she is a Chris- is asking you to love? Who has God of God’s family, one must love all tian, in many ways it seems even shown you that is too weak to even of God’s family (especially those Jesus more difficult than before. cry for help? And how are you helping calls his brothers and sisters) as if they Perhaps this is why Paul encour- them? Do you treat them as broth- were one’s own family. In other words, ages us to “put on God’s armor so ers and sisters, an equal part of God’s it is impossible to love Jesus without that you can make a stand against family? Or do you pass them by with loving those in need. In fact, to with- the tricks of the devil” (Eph. 6:11, eyes averted and arms folded? hold such love is to withhold it from CEB). He knows that the hard part Jesus reminds us that we can never Jesus himself, thus abandoning one’s isn’t deciding to follow Jesus as Lord fully love God our Father until we love place and inheritance in the family of The hard part is not giving up. our brothers and sisters. This week, God. The armor to which he is refer- may you extend love to all who you This leads us back to the question I ring is comprised of truth, righ- may pass along your journeys. received from this new Christian. Jesus teousness, faith, and the Word of seems to imply that his judgment is God - items that protect not the Feb. 15, 2015 reserved not for the person who failed body but the spirit. We gain such The Family We Forget to receive Christ into his/her life, but armor though worship, discipleship, Matthew 25:31-46 for the person who failed to offer Him. and spiritual disciplines. They are For in failing to offer Christ and his tools absolutely essential to a devel- s a church planter, I encounter love to one in need, they failed to love oping relationship with Christ. a lot of people who are new Christ himself. Unfortunately, it often seems Ato Christianity. And the other The scary question is, “what if that the older our faith gets, the day, one of them asked me a question this is true?” What if Jesus isn’t being less we feel the need for such tools. troubling them that reminded me of cryptic or symbolic with his words? We become comfortable, compla- my own crisis of faith in college. She What if he is actually suggesting that cent. Our urgency has diminished, said, “why is it that if a person dies his judgment is based not on what we leaving us to believe we have fully without knowing about Jesus, they do but what we fail to do? How would matured, or we are too satisfied to are the ones who are punished by not that change the way we live? care. getting eternal life?” While there was May your eyes be opened to those Yet, it is exactly in this moment no easy answer to give her to such a in need around you. May you recog- that we need God’s armor the most. difficult question, I did find a scripture nize that they are Christ’s presence in It is at this precise moment that we that helped. your midst. And may you never fail to must “pray in the spirit at all times Jesus tells his disciples that at the love them as you would Christ. in every prayer and supplication” end of the age, he will return to judge (6:18). We must seek prayers and the world. Those who care for the Feb. 22, 2015 offer prayers. We must beseech poor, the sick and all others in need Christ’s strength with every breath. will inherit the kingdom and receive Lenten armor Ephesians 6:10-20 For it is in this moment that we are eternal life. Those who neglect to do the most vulnerable, on the cusp of this will be eternally punished. For he Christian life is not easy. And what we learned last week may be Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, just as you it is not always enjoyable. It can one of the sins Jesus despises most: did it to one of the least of these who Tfeel like every step of growth apathy. are members of my family, you did it that we experience in our relationship Has your faith become stale? Do to me… [and] just as you did not do it with Jesus is followed by a doubly you no longer feel the passion and to one of the least of these, you did defeating fall. drive you once did? not do it to me” (Matthew 25:40, 45, I experienced this the other day As we begin this season of Lent, NRSV). with a member of our Launch Team may this be a season of renewal. Notice what Jesus does here: he (the committed group of people May you remember why you began refers to those in need as his family. In who are hoping to get IGNITE off the following Christ, and pursue Him last week’s scripture, we saw Jesus re- ground). We had the joy of leading her with passion. fer to eternal life as a gift that comes to Christ last summer, but since then

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 31 CLERGY & DIACONAL DEATHS and daughters Jamie Morley and Beth Origins to Medieval Period. Their Morlock; nine grandchildren and six practice of opening each class with a The Rev. Rich- great-grandchildren. He was a retired full-throated rendition of ‘Give Me that ard Hilton “Rik” United Methodist minister, having Old Time Religion’ won the hearts of Davis, of North served several churches in the Virginia many a Candler student who otherwise Chesterfield, Conference: Sudley, Aldersgate (Ar- might not have found the intricacies of 55, died Jan. 5, lington), Messiah, Epworth and First early Christian church history anywhere 2015. As a teen, UMC Charlottesville. He also served as near as enticing as they did.” Mallard he developed District Superintendent of the Roanoke is survived by his wife of 53 years, interests in music, District. He retired in 1988, and then Gatra, three adult children and five particularly the served Liberty UMC in Bealton. grandchildren. His life was celebrated guitar, and in science fiction, especially at Glenn UMC in Decatur, where he had “Star Trek,” passions he never lost. The Rev. Dr. been a member since 1963, as well as a While a student at Virginia Tech, Davis William “Bill” frequent preacher and teacher of adult discovered he had talent in television Mallard Jr., 87, Sunday school classes, and a forceful production. Following graduation, he died Dec. 23, presence as song leader at the Christ- remained in Blacksburg for a time and 2014. Mallard was mas Eve service. worked in television production for the professor emeritus university. He moved on to similar work at Candler School Rev. Matthew for the College of William and Mary of Theology in “Matt” Nelson, before settling into a career in the U.S. Atlanta and has of Parksley, died Senate television studio in Washington, been called one of Candler’s best-loved Jan. 3, 2015. He D.C. After a time, he felt God’s call to professors. He was born in New York began his ministry the ministry and resumed his studies at City but moved to Richmond in the in 1976 in the Wesley Theological Seminary in Wash- eighth grade, where he attended Reveil- Western New ington. He entered full-time ministry le UMC and Thomas Jefferson High. He York Conference as an associate at Aldersgate UMC in then attended Randolph-Macon College before coming Alexandria in 1998. He subsequently in Ashland and Duke University in Dur- to the Virginia Conference and serv- served at Enon UMC in Mechanicsville ham, N.C., where he graduated with a ing Round Hill, McGaheysville, Wesley and Forest Grove UMC in Ashland. Ph.D. in Religion in 1956. He began his Chapel in Petersburg, Grace in Parksley, He was serving Huguenot UMC in the teaching career at Sweet Briar College. Monumental, Parrish Court, Essex-King Richmond District when the effects of In 1957 he was ordained elder in the and Queen, and Mount Pleasant. After a brain stem tumor forced him to take Virginia Conference and appointed to his retirement in 2004 he continued medical leave in 2012. Ever the com- teach church history at Candler. When to serve the Eastern Shore District as municator, Rik created a blog to update he retired in 2000 after 43 years, he interim at Melfa UMC, Hallwood UMC concerned friends on his condition and, was the longest serving faculty member and on call to fill pulpits when there at one point during this period, created in the school’s history, a mark that still was a need. He is survived by his wife, and led an online Bible study using stands. He is also the only Candler fac- Donna. Funeral services were held at social media. He is survived by his wife ulty member to win Emory University’s Grace UMC. of 25 years, Ann, and children Graham, Thomas Jefferson Award. Mallard was Conna and Amelia. A memorial service also awarded the Distinguished Teach- The Rev. William was held at Centenary UMC. ing Award and the school’s Centennial G. Price, 93, of Medal. The Bill Mallard Lay Theology Chesterfield, died The Rev. James Institute at Candler is named in his Dec. 17, 2014. He Lytton Duley, honor. “Bill was a formative presence served in the U.S. 88, of Lake of in the lives of thousands of people, Navy in WWII as a the Woods, died spanning several generations,” wrote medic/pharmacist Dec. 19, 2014. his colleague, Dr. David Pacini. “Per- mate at the inva- He is survived by haps his contribution to Candler and its sion on D-Day. He his wife, Bar- students is illustrated most clearly by was minister for more than 60 years, bara, sons Gary, the course he co-taught with Roberta serving United Methodist churches Brian and Jason Bondi, History of Christian Thought: throughout Virginia. Price began his

32 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 ministerial career in 1948 at Fishers- ville. He went on to serve Churchville, White Stone, Grottoes, Villa Heights, Buckroe Beach, Marquis Memorial, Dunn Loring, Culmore and Belmont in Richmond. He retired in 1986. He is sur- vived by two children, Debbie Sweatt and William Price Jr., and two grandchil- dren. A memorial service was held at Mount Pisgah UMC, Midlothian.

Orville Hargis Burton Sr., 82, of At- lantic, died Dec. 10, 2014. He was the 11561 Edmonston Rd, Beltsville, MD 20705 father of the Rev. O.H. Burton Jr., pas- tor of Benns UMC, York River District.

Laurence E. “Larry” Capen, of Rich- mond, father of conference Communi- cations staff member Brenda Capen, died Jan. 5, 2015.

Allie Freeman, 91, died Dec. 19, 2014. She was the mother of the Rev. Bill Freeman, Dunns Chapel UMC, Rich- mond District.

William Howard “Bill” Maddox, 62, of Hallwood, died Jan. 8, 2015. He was the brother of the Rev.​ James​ R. Mad- dox, retired Virginia Conference clergy.

Jean Mahon of Virginia Beach, widow of the Rev. William Mahon, died Dec. 30, 2014.

Mary Elizabeth Payne, mother of our former Bishop Charlene Kammerer, died Jan. 9, 2015, in Winter Garden, Fla.

James Rigg, father of the Rev. Ed Rigg of the Main Street UMC, Farmville Dis- trict, died Jan. 5, 2015.

WANTED Full-time organist /choir director Andrew Chapel UMC in Montross Contact Pastor Shayne Estes 804-493-8516 [email protected]

VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 33 FROM THE BISHOP prayer and thoughtful discernment. I who experienced God’s transforming will be deeply grateful if you will sup- grace through a short-term mission port our task with your prayers. trip. After he retired from work and I will continue to work to spread moved to a suburban area of Wash- the culture of prayer to our churches. ington, D.C., he started coming to the We will have a 2015 Bishop’s Convoca- church I served. At first, he was not tion on Prayer on March 21 at Trinity supportive of short-term mission work. UMC in Richmond. The Rev. Sue Nilson He used to say that he could not un- Kibbey of the West Ohio Conference derstand the reasons for going to for- has been invited to be our speaker for eign countries for short-term mission this convocation. She will speak about work when there are so many needs in “Breakthrough Prayer.” the Washington, D.C., area. Also we have set May 24 as the One year a friend invited him to join date for a conference-wide day of a mission trip to Mexico. He joined the prayer for the renewal and revival of team, but his purpose was different. our churches. I want you to mark these He wanted to uncover the flaws of days on your calendar. short-term mission projects and then I cannot express thanks enough to propose that the church change its the many churches who have joined short-term mission programs. When the Covenant for Spiritual Disciplines. he arrived at the mission site, he was I am also extremely grateful for the given the task of washing the hair of many sisters and brothers who made the people who were the recipients It is more a commitment to dedicate one hour of a hair dressing service. One day his daily to their spiritual disciplines. Your heart was touched by the love of God. prayers are the foundation for our new He could not control the tears stream- blessed to give future, and I believe your prayers will ing from his eyes and he felt God’s love Friends, make a difference in our churches and in his heart. in the world. I deeply appreciate your That mission trip changed his life. May the grace and peace of our commitment to prayer, and I encour- He became a strong supporter of risen Lord be with you. I pray 2015 will age you to continue to pray until we short-term mission work and took part be filled with God’s many blessings see the revival and renewal that God in many mission trips. He went on to and joy throughout the year. will send to our churches. serve as a mid-term lay missionary The theme for the Advocate this when the church started a building his month the Cabinet will begin month is short-term mission work. I project on a mission site in Mexico. making appointments of pastors thank God that the Virginia Conference The seeds of mission work he planted Tto churches. I think this respon- has been strong in short-term mis- are now growing and bearing much sibility is one of the most important sions. Many churches are taking part in fruit in Mexico. tasks given to the bishop and Cabinet. this, and many people in many parts In our mission work, we think we The appointment of pastors makes a of the world have been touched by help people in need, but in many profound impact on the churches, its our mission efforts. Many houses have cases we are helped by the people members, clergy and their families. been built, and many people have living in the mission field. When we The Cabinet has been attempting to experienced God’s love through our share, God blesses us in many ways. be more open and to rely even more short-term mission work. As your Bishop, I commend all of you on the guidance of the Holy Spirit who But one of the most important who are engaged in mission work and leads our churches today. fruits of our short-term mission work is pray the Lord will continue to use you To prepare myself for this important that we too experience God’s love and and the Virginia Conference for God’s work, my practice has been to sched- blessings. We not only help people in Kingdom. ule a personal retreat time before the need, but also we are helped by them. February Cabinet meeting. This year I We truly experience what our Lord With sincere appreciation, am planning to do this again. Many of said: “It is more blessed to give than to our DSs will join me in preparing for receive.” this task by participating in a period of I still remember a person’s story

34 VIRGINIA ADVOCATE | FEBRUARY 2015 ONE LAST WORD St. Luke’s UMC presents check for nearly $28,000 to Imagine No Malaria

Tweets heard ‘round the conference

Larry Davies @sowseeds Since the VT Hok- ies are the only St. Luke pastors Doug and Clara Gestwick present Bishop Cho with a check from the church for $27,742.64 for team to beat Ohio Imagine No Malaria. Also pictured at right are Maria Maxwell, the conference coordinator for Imagine No Ma- laria, and the conference director for the Center of Justice and Missional Excellence, the Rev. Glenn Rowley. State this season... Does that make us t. Luke’s UMC in Yorktown began event raised $1,073.48. Co-Champions? its journey with Imagine No The Rev. Clara Gestwick shared that Just saying!! SMalaria last summer through the not only were her congregation mem- Andrew Hudgins @andrew_hudgins church’s Vacation Bible School pro- bers generous, they were kind: Knowing The worst part about Ohio State win- gram. Led by Josie Turner, director of how much she dislikes being cold, they ning the championship last night is all Children’s Ministries, St. Luke’s kicked filled her dunk tank with warm water! the Hokie fans asking if that makes off its Imagine No Malaria mission by To end the year, St. Luke’s UMC them co-champs. challenging the boys and girls to a little challenged every member and friend of friendly competition. Each day for the the church to bring on Christmas Eve Lauren Lobenhofer @Chafinhofer duration of the week-long VBS, the an amount equal to what they spent on This is the perfect weather for watch- children were tasked to bring in their their family for Christmas. The offer- ing football in the basement and change to help save a life. At the end ing collected was close to $45,000! pretending there’s no such thing as of the day all the change was counted Then that offering was divided in two; weather. and a winner emerged. A summary one-half was set aside for the church’s Lindsey Baynham @LMBaynham of the day’s lesson and a reminder to “Miracle Fund” and will be used to Little girl plugging her ears during bring in their change (also a shout-out help families or individuals in need of a the preschool singing @FairfaxUMC to who was in the lead) was sent home miracle. The other half goes to Imagine #icant at the end of each day. The kids raised No Malaria. Thomas G. James @ThomasGJames $1,000.16 for Imagine No Malaria, sav- St. Luke’s membership will exceed Is it really “commercial free” music ing 100 lives! Kids saving kids… it just 2,000 in 2015, the Gestwicks said. In when @SIRIUSXM plays their own doesn’t get any better than that! Pastor Doug’s words, “In essence, we advertisements every five minutes? Later in the summer, the church held have doubled the size of Christ’s church #Holly #falseadvertisement its annual Community Outreach Carni- here in Yorktown by saving lives else- val, once again highlighting Imagine No where! This is one of the true beauties Megan Harrison @MeganHarrison23 Malaria. The Reverends Doug and Clara of being United Methodist: we are a Somebody go skiing this weekend Gestwick, along with Turner and Youth globally connected church.” with me and hang out in the lodge Director Ike Akagha, each took a turn in In final total, St. Luke’s UMC turned and go tubing and drink cocoa a dunk tank to raise money for Imag- over a check for $27,742.64 to the Hannah Lambert @hannahba- ine No Malaria. Rev. Doug Gestwick Virginia Conference Imagine No Malaria nana004 Me and my warm mist hu- received the largest amount of dunk Initiative. Truly, “Every Life Saved A midifier are about to be bffs #iwillnot- donations and had to sit in the dunk Life!” letthiscoldwin tank for an additional 30 minutes. The -Maria Maxwell

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