Convention 2019 Worship Leader Becoming Familiar Face, Voice

Convention 2019 Worship Leader NOVEMBER 2018 • IN THIS ISSUE Becoming Familiar Face, Voice

Convention 2019 Worship Leader By Carl Stagner Becoming Familiar Face, Voice...... 1 Servant Solutions: Seven Decades of Dedication to the Movement...... 3 Pastor Engages the Enemy in Adventure of a Lifetime...... 5 When Ministry Gets Messy: A Washington Church’s Incarnational Approach...... 8 A Sure Bet: West Virginia Pastor’s Kid Reclaims “Wasted Years”...... 10 Black Woman Pastor Takes White Kansas Congregation to New Heights...... 12 Renewed into the New Year: NIYC Gives Believers Wintertime Boost.... 14 New “Jesus is the Subject” Resources for the Local Church...... 16 Navy Chaplain: Don’t Just Thank Me for My Service...... 17 A Visit with the Church of God in Hungary...... 19 From the Archives: Are We Thankful? (by W.E. Monk)...... 21

JOSH EDINGTON LEADING WORSHIP AT CHOG CONVENTION 2015. This is a Season of Thanks at Church of God Ministries! ome may not recognize his there. CHOG Convention 2019 and Learn more at: name, but most are begin- General Assembly won’t be held in jesusisthesubject.org/thanks Sning to recognize the face, the Oklahoma City, but Orlando, Florida, voice, the talent, and the heart of Josh instead. Still, Josh will be there! Yet, SUBSCRIBE Edington. On staff at Crossings Com- as familiar as his excellence in worship To subscribe to this e-newsletter, e-mail munity Church for the past ten years, leadership is becoming in the Church your request to [email protected]. the pastor of contemporary worship of God, many still may not know the YOUR NEWS arts for the largest Church of God young man behind the guitar. To submit news items regarding your church, congregation in North America has Josh is the proud husband of Kiley, district, state/regional assembly, or organization for possible use in CHOGnews, send an e-mail begun to build a reputation outside with whom he leads worship in Okla- to [email protected] along with a short those walls. Beginning in 2015, at the homa, and to whom he will have been summary, including contact information. second Church of God Convention married nine years by next June. For the most up-to-date news, outside Anderson, Indiana, Josh first Together they have three children, go to www.chognews.org. strapped on his guitar and lifted his Camille, age four; Owen, age two; and voice heavenward on behalf of the Lyla, only four months old. The fam- Editorial Designer | Megan DeBruyn Movement. Then, when the traveling ily dog is a golden retriever named Regional Convention made a stop in Aspen, which makes sense when you Oklahoma City this year, Josh was consider Josh’s love for the outdoors.

1 November 2018 Convention 2019 Worship... continued from page 1

“I love everything outdoors,” Josh exclaims. “In the fall, I spend as much time as I can hunting and fish- ing. But I’d say that spending time with my family is still what I love the most. We try to sneak away to the mountains together as often as we can!” Wielding his guitar, Josh leads worship in the Crossings space known as the Venue. Each week, he leads more than three thousand people in worship at the Venue, online, and at Crossings’ newest satellite site. Did you know Crossings JOSH EDINGTON WITH HIS FAMILY. has a new satellite site at a correctional center for men? Indeed, they but acknowledges the tremendous it is such a complete worship song. do, and it’s recently brought about responsibility of it. He challenges It clearly illustrates the gospel and some of Josh’s most meaningful worship leaders, both seasoned who Jesus is. Musically and melodi- ministry moments. and up-and-coming, to ensure their cally, it is written so beautifully and “We recently launched a cam- identities are found in Christ alone. perfectly complements the lyrics.” pus at Joseph Harp Correctional To meet the challenge himself, Josh Josh is delighted to return to lead Center,” Josh explains. “About two has found Psalm 16:5–11 to be very worship for the gathered saints of hundred men gather at the prison helpful: the Church of God at Conven- each week to worship with us. We’ve You, Lord, are all I have, and you tion 2019 and General Assembly heard some incredible stories about give me all I need; my future is in in Orlando, Florida. He sincerely life transformation, families being your hands. How wonderful are your considers the Church of God “pas- reunited, men hearing the gospel gifts to me; how good they are! I sionate worshipers” and is “inspired for the first time and trusting Jesus praise the Lord, because he guides to further seek and know God every with their lives, and so much more. me, and in the night my conscience time we gather.” For the event next I’m proud to be a part of a church warns me. I am always aware of June 27–30, Josh is bringing along that is faithful to whatever God calls the Lord’s presence; he is near, and three of his good friends: Cole us to do—a church that loves the nothing can shake me. And so I am Grubbs, another worship pastor at people that society has written off thankful and glad, and I feel com- Crossings; Aaron Woolsey, Josh’s and forgotten. Our hope was to pletely secure, because you protect bassist for the last ten years; and love and encourage these men, but me from the power of death. I have Leo Flores, worship pastor at The they’ve loved and encouraged us so served you faithfully, and you will Gathering in Muncie, Indiana. much more.” not abandon me to the world of the Hotel rooms are filling up fast! Be Concerning Crossings, Josh dead. You will show me the path sure to register for CHOG Conven- feels exceptionally blessed to be a that leads to life; your presence fills tion 2019 and General Assembly part of the team. He says that the me with joy and brings me pleasure soon, then book your accommoda- common goal is to help people find forever. (GNT) tions. All the information you’ll need and follow Jesus, and that such a Speaking of “in Christ alone,” is available at www.chogconven- vision drives everything they do. that’s a personal favorite. “‘In Christ tion.org. Specific to worship, he reflects on Alone’ has become my favorite wor- #GiveLife2019 the role as “extremely rewarding,” ship song,” Josh reflects. “Lyrically,

2 November 2018 Servant Solutions: Seven Decades of Dedication to the Movement By Carl Stagner

n 1949, what was once strictly a expertise and faithfulness of today’s organization for twenty-six years. retirement program for ministers Servant Solutions. He says that the ministry got off Iof the Church of God came into Layperson, keep reading! You to a rocky start in 1949, without being. Not everyone was ready for may not interact directly with full acceptance and without a lot such a program, however, as a few Servant Solutions, but their work of strategy. Ministers would put questioned the lack of faith in God’s ultimately has an impact on you. away some money with the hope provision that allegedly accompa- Pastors already know this, but that they’d have a monthly lifetime nied enrollment. Received initially vocational ministry is nowhere payment upon retirement. “Those with mistrust, Servant Solutions has close to lucrative. Making matters contributions were pretty modest in since become one of the most worse, the complications and pecu- those days,” Jeff reflects. “Our pio- trusted partners of the Movement. liarities of IRS regulations related neers made some sacrifices and did the best they could. Today we’re so much more robust, and there are a lot better planning techniques, even as we stand on their shoulders.” One thing the pioneers had going for them was a lack of regulations. Today, with so many more regulations, the task of effectively assisting pastors, missionaries, educators, and churches with their finances is much more complex. Servant Solutions has adapted and kept up with the changes, however, ensuring the maximum benefit for those they serve. At the same time, the Movement’s perspective on SERVANT SOLUTIONS STAFF MEETING. money matters has also shifted. “I think the Church of God has real- With time, training, and technology, to churches and ministers can be ized over time that financial planning the former Board of Pensions of the frustrating and confounding, even is encouraged in the Bible,” Jeff Church of God has morphed into for the most seasoned pastor. With explains. “There are over two the holistic ministry of “improving Servant Solutions, pastors and thousand scriptures about money- financial security for servants of the churches, for instance, aren’t alone related issues—that’s heavy-duty! church.” As Servant Solutions nears in the fight. They’ve got someone So, now we have great participation its seventy-year mark in ministry, it’s to walk alongside them, not only through the Church of God.” clear that the endorsed agency of in saving for the future, but also in Today there are about 5,500 the Church of God looks very little dealing with financial matters now. Church of God participants in the like it did at the beginning. But that’s This frees ministers to focus less program, representing 49 of 50 more than okay with our pastors on how they’re going to make ends states. In addition to retirement and their families, our missionaries, meet, and more on loving, teaching, planning, these participants take our local churches, and our educa- and reaching people in the name of advantage of financial counsel tors. They’ve been unleashed to Christ. (up to a $1,500 value!), financial do what God has called them to Jeff Jenness, president of Ser- resources (available in-person and do, more confident than ever in the vant Solutions, has been with the online), guidance on IRS regulations

3 November 2018 Servant Solutions... continued from page 3 and housing allowance, and much more. “In the past seven or eight years, we’ve moved more fully into understanding the needs of a pastoral family, which are, again, very different because of their particular tax situation,” Jeff explains. “Pastors aren’t often overcompensated—in fact, they’re almost always under- compensated. We’re trying to stretch the dollar for them, helping them with financial planning and JEFF JENNESS ADDRESSING A CROWD AT WARNER PACIFIC. budgeting.” The past seven or eight years “The word pension became more their reputable quality of service. have also brought on a more obvi- and more confusing, and we were So, when Church of God Minis- ous change. It was actually in 2013 also being asked to do a variety of tries, Warner Press, and Christian that the agency’s name changed things where the church found we Women Connection relocated from the Board of Pensions to could help,” Jeff continues. “After a offices across town in Anderson in Servant Solutions. “Thank the lot of prayer and careful consider- 2016, it was a no-brainer for Servant Lord, there was great acceptance ation, the board of trustees selected Solutions to go, too. Their previous from Day One,” Jeff recounts. “We the name Servant Solutions to location, a house that had been weren’t sure, as the Board of Pen- frame our new future. We’ve fallen converted for office space on 7th sions had been such a trusted in love with it.” Street, worked well for a time, but name. But we had found in our Servant Solutions is thriving and they were bursting at the seams. conversations with churches across growing today, and it’s no won- More importantly, according to Jeff, the country that the name was a der. The level of service continues Servant Solutions loved the idea of confusing term. The term pension to bless the Church of God—and carrying out their ministry so near had kind of gone by the wayside, beyond. Following a recent approv- these other agencies of the Move- where an individual worked so al to work with theologically and ment. In this new proximity, Servant many years while the employer relationally compatible ecumeni- Solutions and Church of God Min- put money aside, promising to pay cal churches, small denominations, istries have worked together to monthly, based on years of service. and institutions of higher education, bring CARE and ChurchExcel to the That wasn’t practical, and it hasn’t they’ve further demonstrated their Movement, sharing personnel and proved practical in the secular willingness to live out the unity of resources. It’s been a win-win! workforce, either.” Today, Servant Christ, reaching their hands in fel- “I’ve probably never been more Solutions use defined contribution lowship to every blood-washed excited about the Church of God plans that amass money and utilize one. This has not only added to than I am now,” Jeff reflects. “I wish the power of investment strategy. their growth, but also demonstrated everyone could have my job for a day and see the breadth of God’s activity all over the country, as I do. To be a part of that is one of my true joys.” Learn more about Servant Solu- tions at www.servantsolutions.org.

4 November 2018 Pastor Engages the Enemy in Adventure of a Lifetime By Carl Stagner

it was his family that he thought of first when the interview turned to the topic of fear. The question was, “Did you ever feel scared?” Baron’s reply: “Yeah, yeah, I was scared. June 16, 2011, I was scared. That was the day I kissed my wife and kids goodbye for eight months. I was facing the unknown. You’re not so much afraid of dying as you are of getting hurt really, really badly. You contend that you’ll die for the Lord and go to heaven, but I also don’t want to lose my legs or be horribly burned.” What he did not mention first was the time in Afghanistan that he awoke to the sound of gunfire. “I was sleeping outside on the ground,” Baron recalls. “I got up, CHAPLAIN MILLER PRAYS WITH A MARINE CORPS SPECIAL OPERATIONS TEAM PRIOR TO A MISSION IN EAST AFRICA. climbed on a truck to look over the berm at what was happening. You alculated risk. Often used an arsenal of spiritual weapons and could see the tracers, and you could in the financial sense, Baron an array of training options to fully hear the screaming and yelling. CMiller uttered the term in the engage in the fight. Engaging the But it was like a half-mile away, so context of fear. Every time you take enemy—that’s what Baron Miller’s you’re like, well, I guess I’ll go back a drive in the car or catch a flight on life has been about—from the halls to sleep, then.” an airplane, is there a chance you of the Church of God he founded in Baron trusted the team’s equip- might not make it back? Sure, there Bellingham, Washington, ment. He trusted their is. But that doesn’t cancel your to the shores of Guanta- training. He trusted his travel plans. When firefighters have namo Bay. Shield and Defender. to rush inside a burning building, In a recent interview Even so, the experience or law enforcement are called to a with Church of God Min- offered perspective on chaotic scene, they don’t hesitate. istries, Baron opened the topic of fear. “When There’s risk involved, but these com- up about fear, family, I was a Marine res- munity heroes trust their training and faith. The Church cue swimmer,” Baron and their gear to help them stand of God Navy chaplain explains, “our motto strong in the heat of the battle. recollected the numer- was, ‘So others may live.’ The parallel to the Christian experi- ous locations he and What we do may be a ence is inescapable; the soldier of his family have been CHAPLAIN BARON risk, but it’s a calculated MILLER the cross must engage the battle, blessed to live, citing risk.” Similarly, the Navy must reclaim what hell has stolen. the international exposure they’ve Chaplain Corp motto is “Vocati Ad Might it get scary? Possibly. Could enjoyed. Though the journey has Servitium” which means “Called it get dangerous? Certainly. But at been, by far, worth the trouble, it’s to Serve”—pastoral ministry in the the fingertips of every believer is not been a walk in the park. In fact, Navy is a calling toward service.

5 November 2018 Pastor Engages the Enemy... only serve the Navy, but also the As a Navy Chaplain, Baron is Marines and the Coast Guard. responsible for what are known continued from page 5 When Baron was an undergrad, as the “four core competencies.” he took a psychology course and These include providing Protestant From 1995 until 2000, pre-col- learned about the new language Christian worship services, facilitat- lege, Baron Miller served in the and treatments becoming available ing opportunities to worship, even Marine Corps. Though military concerning post-traumatic stress for those not of his faith tradition, service is not required for chap- disorder. Thoughts of the nation’s caring for individuals in the form laincy, it’s certainly gave Baron wounded Vietnam veterans return- of listening and counseling, and useful experience in working with ing to an ill-prepared people wasn’t advising persons on matters of life, our personnel in uniform. Exhibiting comforting. Additionally, Baron service, and faith. While preaching a natural bent at a service on toward helping an aircraft car- people of all rier or offering ages, he earned marriage coun- a degree in sel to a military human services. couple is part- Cornwall Church, and-parcel to a thriving the position, the Church of God extraordinary congregation workings of in Bellingham, the Holy Spirit Washington, in the midst of hired Baron the mundane as their onsite are what really pastor at the put a spring in church’s video his step. Navy venue in the chaplaincy is Roosevelt neigh- not at all what borhood of the is portrayed by city. Roosevelt Father Mulcahy Community on the hit show Church ultimate- CHAPLAIN MILLER PRAYS PRIOR TO A MISSION IN AFGHANISTAN. M.A.S.H.! l y b e c a m e “I think of the freestanding as Baron established learned that Vietnam vets were nineteen-year-old Lance Corporal the congregation. Even during this attending rape-survivor support who was the only guy on the whole time, Baron sensed that God was groups because of the common FOB that came to me, scared for preparing him to one day give back degree of associated trauma. Com- his life, bullets whizzing by,” Baron to the military, which had poured so plicating matters further, an Iraq recounts. “I spoke into his life and much into him, as a chaplain. invasion was looking likely; Baron we prayed together. I think of the Over the course of a few years, knew the need for spiritual and chapel service at Guantanamo Bay, marked by a strategically planned emotional support was going to Cuba, that doubled in size over six transition from Roosevelt and doz- peak. “I thought, well, I could pas- months, where we were not only ens of hours of credentialing and tor a church that would have great baptizing servicemen, but also post-graduate training, Baron Mill- veterans programs, I could get a Cuban political refugees seeking er formally donned the title Navy counseling degree and work for the asylum. I think of those I’ve had Chaplain in 2010. It was a blessing V.A., or I could put a uniform back the opportunity to lead to Christ, for Baron to be back among kin- on and get in the fight as a chap- and I’ve lost track of how many I’ve dred spirits, as Navy Chaplains not lain,” he explains. baptized. I think of the worship ser-

6 November 2018 Pastor Engages the Enemy... continued from page 6 vice I provided in East Africa with a special ops team on Christmas Eve, around a bonfire, with some really tough dudes, playing guitars and having church. These things would not have happened without a chaplain there.” The level of danger varies, but adventure awaits every chaplain. Chaplains come face-to-face with real issues confronting our men and women in uniform. These crucial CHAPLAIN MILLER OFFICIATES FUNERAL AT ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY. servants of God may not be battling an enemy they can see, but they’re say. On that aircraft carrier, there of fascinating stories and informa- certainly battling the spiritual forces might be five chaplains for five thou- tion that Church of God ministers of darkness. All the while, they’re sand people. You’re thinking, How may find valuable. While many min- compelled by the love of Christ. are we going to make the message isters assume they’ve been called “The heart of the pastor, whether relevant to each of them? In chap- the local church, they may not have in the civilian context or military laincy, it’s hard to get into a rut. The considered the career God has context, is that we love people— minute you think you’re getting into for them as a chaplain, offering we love our neighbor as our self,” one, your tour ends and a new tour life-giving ministry to both service Baron reflects. “The military pro- begins. Plus, if you decide to leave members and their families. Espe- vides a unique setting to minister the local church and give us three, cially as more and more women to an audience that may not think six, nine, or twenty years, I can enter the military, female chaplains or believe like you. In the civilian guarantee you’ll come back to the are also needed now more than pastor setting, they by-and-large local church a better pastor.” ever. Baron would love to have a come to your church on Sundays Chaplain Baron Miller has so conversation with anyone even because they agree with what you much more to say. There’s a wealth remotely interested. Send him an e-mail at [email protected]. Review the stories of the early church as recorded in the book of Acts. Is it not apparent that ministry is an adventure, complete with risk and daring steps of faith? Whether or not God is calling you to chaplaincy, Baron’s example reminds the Church of God to be bold, to reclaim what hell has stolen, and to give life—especially in the face of an enemy determined to steal, kill, and destroy. Learn more about Church of God chaplain ministries at https:// www.jesusisthesubject.org/ CHAPLAIN MILLER PRAYS WITH A YOUNG MARINE IN AFGHANISTAN. chaplain-ministries/.

7 November 2018 When Ministry Gets Messy: A Washington Church’s Incarnational Approach By Carl Stagner

n the beginning was the Word, as the Word was with God, and Ithe Word was God” (John 1:1 NIV). Community was whole and pristine, at the beginning, in the Garden of Eden. But the thief, who comes to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10), did exactly that. Community was rup- tured between humanity and God, and between one another. Since the Fall, God has been working to restore that community, to bring people back to himself. Did you know he’s chosen to use you and me to accomplish the task? But we’ve lost our sense of community, down- played the power of presence, and ignored the methods of Jesus. Our neighbors are crying out for hope RCC TEAM AT WORK ON A SERVICE PROJECT SUNDAY. all around us, we hear their voices, but we’d prefer to write a check to the nearest charity. We don’t want kingdom, and how much of the town assuring residents that they were to get our hands dirty. In contrast, knows that Jesus not only exists, determined to “get the thugs off the Roosevelt Community Church, a but also transforms lives. To that street.” To most, especially at first, modest-size Church of God congre- end, they’re striving to make sure as that goal sounds noble. But Kurt had gation in Bellingham, Washington, is many of their next-door neighbors, a different reaction. “Our job, as pas- taking back what hell has stolen and including the homeless that reside tors, isn’t to cheer such a statement. destroyed in their neighborhood. on their parking lot, know, without a Our job is to help those thugs stay They’re boldly giving life where the doubt, that they are loved. on the street in our communities and enemy of our souls has snatched it “If God called us here, and see them transformed into awesome away, simply by being in, for, and we planted a church to be in this members of the community!” with their community. place, then our place matters,” Kurt Roosevelt Community Church The church’s pastor, Kurt Ingram, explains. “We have to know this really cares about their neighbors. wouldn’t have it any other way. The place. We must be for our neigh- They don’t have a lot of money, ministry of Roosevelt Community bors—on their side. We’re not here they’re not growing by leaps and Church is intentionally incarnational. to add to the property values or bounds, and sometimes what they Such a philosophy flies in the face even get crime out of here, but to try doesn’t work. But that’s not their of both a commute-to-church culture love people. To be with them.” concern. “We celebrate even if we and the attractional model. It’s not Kurt recalls an experience he had fail,” Kurt explains. “To do things about their church, how fast it’s fill- once in another setting, where the that are beautiful, even if they’re not ing seats, or how much of the town local police were touting the latest growing the church, are worth cel- knows they exist. For Pastor Kurt efforts to improve the community. ebrating just because they’re good and RCC, it’s about expanding the An officer addressed the crime rate, and beautiful for our neighborhood.”

8 November 2018 When Ministry Gets Messy... we’ve been given, the places where organizations to gather, but they we shop, the places where we eat, also take part in some incredibly continued from page 8 the places where we play. Those are life-giving ministries. For instance, the places the life of Jesus should the annual Candy Walk in the fall When asked to define incarnation- be coming alive in us. That’s the for trick-or-treating children. There’s al ministry, Kurt goes back to John 1 Word being made flesh inside us. the Service Project Sundays, where and the life of Jesus. “If your life as That’s incarnational.” the church periodically dispenses a Christian doesn’t look like Jesus, The church isn’t the subject, with the usual Sunday routine and you’re a liar,” he asserts. “Everything Jesus is, and Pastor Kurt knows tackles projects for their neighbors— about us ought to look and feel like it. He lives it, and leads Roosevelt whether repairing a broken fence, or providing painting services to the local elementary school. One of the most potent initiatives is the Com- munity Toy Store, which collects donations of toys, which are then sold to families at 75 percent off sticker price. This allows purchasers to maintain a sense of pride in buying the item, though at a price they can afford, and allows them the joy and freedom of selecting the item. All the proceeds, usually about $10 thousand, are then distributed to local nonprofits. Roosevelt Community Church has discovered that ministry is messy, but they don’t mind. Cleaning up

PASTOR FRANCIS LEADING WORSHIP WITH THE SINFRA CHURCH AND WORK TEAM. after the homeless in their parking lot, for example, isn’t their idea of Jesus. The Word became flesh, so Community Church to do the same. fun. But what Pastor Kurt has learned we must ask, How do we become Part-time at the church, he makes over years of ministry at home and a word of love, a word of grace, a ends meet by getting involved in abroad—especially abroad—is word of the gospel? For our neigh- a wide variety of community orga- that everyone has a story, and bors and neighborhoods. It’s not just nizations and nonprofits, including everyone’s story is uniquely worth an idea. It’s not just theology. Our a Spanish-speaking congregation. hearing. A “colonial mindset” is not a neighbors need to feel and experi- That’s also how he gets to know kingdom value, as the role of God’s ence Jesus. How do we learn to live the people and the needs of the people isn’t to make others more like this into our community? Our prayer community. Pastor Kurt’s even the us, but to help everyone encounter is that the life of Jesus would come vice president of the neighborhood Jesus in a way that makes all of us alive in us.” association. more like him. “God didn’t give us a church story As a smaller church, and as a “Our desire in all of this is to con- to live,” Kurt continues. “We’re not church not interested in making their tinue to open up to Jesus so we’re called to just do things in the church own name known, they don’t do a lot all growing,” Pastor Kurt concludes. building, or even do things with the of community ministry solely spon- “Whatever relationships we have, it’s church’s name on it. It’s not about sored and led by them. Instead, they about all of us being changed and the branding of our church. God’s partner with the community in just shaped by Jesus Christ.” greatest desire for us is to live the about everything they do. Not only Learn more about the Church of story we’ve been given—the work does the church offer weekly space God at www.JesusIsTheSubject.org. we’ve been given, the neighbors in their building for several different

9 November 2018 A Sure Bet: West Virginia Pastor’s Kid Reclaims “Wasted Years” By Carl Stagner

uane Clarke was raised in a Christian home with loving, Dgodly parents. As a PK— “pastor’s kid”—he heard the gospel preached more times than he could count, whether at Middle Grave Creek Church of God near Mounds- ville, where his father was senior pastor, or at Ash Avenue Church of God, where his father had served as Sunday school superintendent. At age fifteen, while attending youth camp, Duane went to an old-fash- ioned altar and asked Jesus into his heart. Soon after, he followed Jesus’ example in baptism. But when this young sports fan checked into a local bar to purchase Lakers tickets, he was inadvertently introduced to sports betting. It wasn’t long before he was thrust into the world of gambling, and for thirty years, he couldn’t find his way out. Hell stole much from Duane Clarke’s life, but Jesus would have the last word. “I think I knew down deep in my heart that I shouldn’t be doing that,” Duane recounts of his addiction. “I DUANE SINGING “HE’S ALL I NEED.” kept thinking, Why am I here? I grew up in a Christian home. But I loved show gamblers will go without food the racetrack, many times betting sports so much.” and clothes, resorting to theft and with someone else’s money. I once Alcohol only made the problem other illegal activities to get money again had a gambling problem.” worse. Duane says he didn’t even for their gambling habit.” Even to the point of arrest for like the taste of beer, but as he fol- Deep in spiritual darkness, Duane embezzlement, Duane fought lowed the scores of the games, he found himself sleeping only about against the promptings of the Spirit. wanted to fit in with his new friends. three hours a day as he fed his His father Russell Clarke spoke As he would find out, however, a addiction. He tried to quit on several words of encouragement, never gambling addiction can ruin friend- occasions, even finding some suc- wavering in his love for his son. At ships, and the only “friends” that cess for a time. But the root of the one point, Duane recalls being given want to hear from you are from the problem was never addressed, and a copy of the February 6, 1903, issue bank. “Honesty goes out the door Duane returned to his old habits. “I of The Gospel Trumpet. The words when you gamble,” Duane writes in had my wife and three kids living pierce him to this day: his new book, Wasted Years. “You in Newton Falls, Ohio,” he writes. “I But in gambling, the one who will do anything for money…Studies would leave them and go down to loses, even though he may be a

10 November 2018 Site of Warner Auditorium... such as senior living homes and didn’t really grow up until I was forty- continued from page 9 festivals. seven. But if you looked at me then, The couple’s health hasn’t always you’d see a gambler with no hope been the best, but God has worked and no joy. Today I’d hope you’d see good sport, is always harmed. And miracles in each of their lives as in me the joy of the Lord.” the transferee, or the man who they’ve dedicated these years for In the time since his dramatic acquires wealth in this way, while a higher purpose. Through in-per- turnaround, Duane has penned a he may be the son testimony and letter to his father, expressing both gainer materially, through his new penance and assurance of the Lord’s loses spiritually and book, he longs to work in his life. The letter is included morally, and the inform and chal- in Duane’s book, which also features material gain is not lenge people to some of his father’s ministerial writ- to be compared in avoid gambling at ings, and you can get a copy of it any respect to the all costs, and urges through his website, www.duane- moral and spiritual them to get help clarke.com. Duane looks forward loss. if they’re already to the day they can reunite, where T ragically, addicted. When he will thank his father for fighting Duane’s father didn’t considering the rec- on his knees for Duane for three get to see this shat- lamation of life he’s decades. tered life restored, experienced, Duane Duane and his father Russell, but even to the end, reflects, “I can see meeting again, face to face: now his prayers never the Lord working that’s a sure bet. ceased. Five weeks from Day One in In West Virginia, across North after Pastor Russell my life. After giving America, and around the world, died, Duane concluded, “I am sick my life back to Christ, he blessed the Church of God is taking back and tired of being sick and tired.” me with a wife after fourteen years what hell has stolen. Join the move- Even then, only three days later, being single. When the Lord knows ment. Give life. Donate today at Duane found himself buying four lot- you mean business in your heart, give.jesusisthesubject.org. tery tickets. Immediately, he asked there’s nothing like it. I tell people I himself, “What am I doing?” He shut the door to gambling that day and never opened it again. Duane Clarke had begun to take back what hell had stolen. Though Duane’s wasted years were many, he’s not let that keep him from receiving, hearing, and fully embracing the abundant life Christ offers him today. His wife had died, but God blessed him with his precious Linda. Together they have gone on to serve the Lord in a variety of settings, including their home church Ash Avenue Church of God, in Moundsville, and Valley Com- munity Church of God in Phoenix, Arizona, where they spent many win- ters. A voice that once placed bets now lifts musical praises to the Lord at church and in community settings, LINDA AND DUANE CLARKE

11 November 2018 Black Woman Pastor Takes White Kansas Congregation to New Heights By Carl Stagner

iberal, Kansas, never saw it Even the teens had a chance to get tor Jason McClendon of Community coming. The city of only about to know me when we went bowling Church of God in Macon, Georgia, L20,000 people couldn’t have together. That week was wonderful who gave the budding minister imagined the day. Only 3.8 percent and loving, and I never felt any kind specific direction toward a future in of the population is African Ameri- of racial tension while there.” vocational pastoring. At a leadership can, and the new pastor of South Presephoni Fuller began sensing training event in 2014, she got to Church of God is both know him and he helped black and a woman. Pre- her realize the impor- sephoni Fuller is, in fact, tant distinction between the first black pastor in the preaching and pastoring. ninety-year history of the He has continued to be church. Still, Pastor Prese- a role model and mentor, phoni takes it all in stride. also giving her practical She doesn’t have time to experience by schedul- ponder the uniqueness ing opportunities for her of her situation; she’s too to preach and teach. He busy reaching deeper into directed her to enroll in the community and taking Leadership Focus. the Kansas congregation “Investing in myself has to new heights. reaped great benefits from “Many knew I was this program,” Presephoni coming but some look reflects. “From my call surprised when I was intro- to ministry at age fifteen duced as the new pastor up until now, it all makes of South Church of God,” sense in the grand scheme Presephoni recollects of of things. God was work- her arrival in Liberal. ing all the time, and I PASTOR PRESEPHONI WITH HUSBAND WILLIS. The church wasn’t sur- just did not see it. The prised, of course, as they’d gotten the call to ministry under the lead- connectivity portion of Leadership to know her as a pastoral candidate. ership of her first pastor, John O. Focus was the pulse of what makes When the church vote was handed Laster, at what was then known as me who I am.” down, Presephoni learned the Greater Jacksonville Church of God Pastor Jason McClendon also church had voted unanimously to in Jacksonville, Florida. “His guid- directed Presephoni to join the call her there. This confirmed what ance and loving care of the sheep CHOG Ministry Connector online. she’d felt the whole time she spent was a great model for me to follow,” Presephoni applied for five church- with the congregation. “I stayed in Presephoni reflects. “He knew how es, and two responded. She was one of the senior saints’ homes and to love people wherever they are in confident that one of these two she treated me like royalty…Rose, life. would work out, so when she Carolyn, and Sharon carried my Benjamin Reid. Horace Shep- answered a phone call from South luggage and would not let me do pard. Samuel Hines. These were Church of God in Liberal, Kansas, anything. I was there for five days, also key figures in the shaping of she initially turned it down. Upon and they planned each day who Presephoni’s ministry, as they were hearing that the two churches had I would eat lunch and dinner with. for countless others. But it was Pas- decided against Presephoni, the

12 November 2018 Black Woman Pastor... continued from page 12 disappointment that could have lingered was instead eclipsed by what Pastor Jason and Presephoni’s husband perceived could be a “God move.” Looking back, Pastor Prese- phoni sees God bringing all the right pieces together. Presephoni is the only black member of the church until her husband joins her in Liberal in 2019. Until then, he’s remained in Georgia to wrap up a career based there. Meanwhile, some black members of the Liberal community have visited the church, but have not stayed. PRESEPHONI WITH PASTOR RAFAEL (FAR RIGHT), OTHER AREA HISPANIC CHURCH MEMBERS. Instead, seven new white families have made South Church of God “My husband was in the army to partner with Pastor Rafael Ber- their home church since Presepho- for twenty-eight years,” Presephoni mudez and the Spanish-speaking ni’s been at the pulpit. recounts. “We’ve been all over the Church of God in Liberal. “We’re “The Juneteenth celebration is world and have raised our children actually in a predominantly Span- where I was able to meet the 3.8 with a global perspective. We don’t ish-speaking neighborhood. We are percent of the population that is Afri- say, ‘I have a black friend,’ or, ‘I have intentional about showing the love of can American,” Presephoni explains. a white friend.’ We simply say, ‘I have Christ in as many ways as possible. “While there, someone asked me if a friend.’” What an opportunity to bring about anyone had left the church since I With purpose and poise, Prese- unity as D. S. Warner envisioned. I got there. No one had. The church phoni has hit the ground running. get to be a part of that kind of king- was down to thirty-nine people, Leading the church to community dom dynamics!” but at the installation service, there involvement and outreach is one of The church is continually looking were about two hundred. There her chief goals, as she has clearly for ways to bless their community, were black, white, Asian, Hispanic exemplified in a new paradigm. “If including an upcoming Thanksgiving in attendance—only God could do the doors of South Church were turkey drive for the local homeless that!” to close, would anyone care?” she shelter. “My prayer is that God will A documentary film crew from ponders. “Community matters for use South Church to be a lighthouse New York visited Liberal, Kansas, in me, and it means getting outside the in a community where languages July, intrigued by the racial composi- four walls and into the community. It divide us, but smiles can unite us,” tion of the community. Upon hearing means going to the school games, Presephoni reflects. “I am honored about the new black pastor in town city and county government and to serve this amazing group of peo- who came from Georgia to pastor a business meetings, and being in the ple in Liberal, Kansas, where God’s white congregation, the producers know. Staying in the know helps me, grace flows liberally!” made an appointment to film two of as a pastor, pass along information In Kansas, across North Amer- the church’s services. Presephoni that the church might not otherwise ica, and around the world, the could never have imagined all that know—like new jobs, new construc- Church of God is taking back what God would do in Liberal to show tion, new roads, and businesses hell has stolen. Join the move- the love of Christ through unity in coming to the area.” ment. Give life. Donate today at diversity. Racial differences are not South Church of God also envi- give.jesusisthesubject.org. a deterrent. sions more and more opportunities

13 November 2018 Renewed into the New Year: NIYC Gives Believers Wintertime Boost By Carl Stagner

of the evening services. The move turned out to be a bit daring for Dr. Prim, who acknowledged that he’d later received “epistles” expressing disapproval. Kevin recalls that the moment “proved to be a pivotal point” his national ministry. “What began as a comedic expression,” he recounts, “morphed and now continues as a very serious ministry some twenty-four years later.” Jeff and Kevin are also now both in full-time ministry (and both served as featured speakers in the 2018 Regional Conventions of the Church of God!). Like many Christian teenagers, an event like the NIYC offered

WORSHIP AT THE NIYC. Kevin the chance to experience worshiping the Lord in a setting n the Church of God, the sum- Detroit, Michigan, is the president full of other like-minded believers. mer months are known for of NIYC. He says, “The NIYC has “It was great to retreat to an envi- Iconventions and camp meetings. had a substantial impact on my per- ronment where loving Jesus was A variety of retreats and conferenc- sonal and spiritual journey with the cool,” Kevin reflects. Life-changing es often take place in the spring and Lord.” That’s the reason he took on moments such as these embolden the fall. But as the chill of winter sets the leadership role. “I cherished the students to return to their home- in across much of the country, few opportunity to give towns, schools, and spiritual retreats and getaways are back and serve the places of employ- available. In the wake of the com- students of this ment, ready to face monly exhausting Christmas season, generation.” the world and ready in view of the blues caused by all the One of Kevin’s to love their neigh- grays outside, and in response to earliest memories bors, knowing that cabin fever, perhaps winter is when of the NIYC takes they are not alone. retreat is most vital! Thankfully, the him back to his first F rom New Church of God has an answer—the year there as a stu- Orleans to Los National Inspirational Youth Con- dent in 1994, when Angeles, from Dal- vention (NIYC). Between Christmas Dr. Richard Prim las to Baltimore, the and the end of the year, believers was serving as NIYC has taken spanning generations and racial president. Along- STUDENT AND MENTOR SHARE A place all over POWERFUL EMBRACE. lines come together for an annual side friend Jeff the map. That’s experience of worship, community, Whye, the two were quite a humor- a bonus feature for Kevin, who and renewal as the New Year dawns. ous pair. Dr. Prim recognized the compares attending the NIYC to Kevin Earley, senior pastor of talent and encouraged them to per- a vacation—with eternity-altering Metropolitan Church of God in form a comedy routine during one effects, of course! “I do not come

14 November 2018 Renewed into the New Year... continued from page 14 from an affluent family, and rarely took family vacations, but traveling to the NIYC enabled me to see the country,” Kevin reflects. “To this day, there are places I have only been because of the NIYC. With this in mind, during my tenure as president, I have intentionally held the convention in places it has never convened in its seventy-eight-year history. There were delegates who had not been to Covington, Kentucky, or to Little Rock, Arkansas, until I held the convention in these locations.” Unlike the International Youth LIVES ARE CHANGED EVERY YEAR AT THE NIYC. Convention, the National Inspi- rational Youth Convention has, three through eleven. boost! NIYC 2018 is scheduled for from the beginning, welcomed The NIYC really is for everyone, December 27–30 in Virginia, Beach, and encouraged whole families to and those who attend each year Virginia. Visit www.niyc.org for a attend. Sure, the word youth is in the are witnesses to this truth. Perhaps list of speakers and other special event’s name, but a glance across that’s because everyone, not just guests. Register at www.niyc.org by the seats at any given gathering youth, need a wintertime boost for November 30 before rates increase! reveal a multigenerational, multi- their souls. As Diana Swoope, chair Follow the NIYC on Facebook racial demographic. Programming of the General Assembly, wrote in and Instagram (@theniyc) to be one specifically designed for adults, a historical account of the NIYC in of the first to hear an upcoming young adults, children, and youth 1990, “Since 1938, the NIYC has announcement of a special guest leaders are featured in addition to been held between Christmas and worship artist, who has had many that which is intended for students. New Year’s Eve with the express songs on the Gospel Music Billboard KidsQuest, for example, is described purpose to see young people come Top Three this year alone. as a “mini-convention,” consisting of into the new year “on fire for God.” full programming for children, ages Plan ahead for your wintertime

15 November 2018 New “Jesus is the Subject” Resources for the Local Church By Carl Stagner

n the years since Jim Lyon’s vice president of product marketing than the standard brochure. Not only 2013 speech before the General for Warner Press, explains. “What we does the slightly more square book- IAssembly, the phrase “Jesus is found was a good bit of difference let grab the reader’s attention better the subject” has proven to be far between what was important to than the traditional shape, but it also more than a tagline; address in such pam- fits into Bibles, bulletins, burses, and it’s now part of the phlets in years past gift bags perfectly. Filled with color- language that unites and the things that ful pictures and characterized by the Church of God need to be addressed a clean, contemporary design, the as a movement. It’s a today. For example, Jesus is the Subject: Exploring the statement that encap- the old products Church of God booklet starts with sulates and energizes devoted considerable Jesus, includes brief discussions the Christ-centered space to explaining on core doctrines and common focus that’s helping why the name ‘Church practices among Church of God churches from coast of God’ is the most congregations, and now includes a to coast take giant biblical; people today statement about women in ministry. steps to advance the are less concerned For further information and oppor- kingdom. At the same about why a congre- tunities, readers are encouraged to time, the church visitor gation’s name was visit both Church of God Ministries brochures Meet Us at chosen. Conversely, and Warner Press online. the Cross and Who is the Church of the old products didn’t spend much “New people coming into one of God? are in high demand, though time explaining who Jesus is and our local congregations still want to their content is becoming more and how to have a relationship with him; know what the Church of God, as a more outdated. Especially as con- today, we can’t assume that new- whole, is about,” Regina explains. gregations are sensing new wind in comers to a church know who Jesus “We believe the Jesus Is the Subject: the sails of the Movement, a desire is or how to receive Exploring the Church to inform the first-time guests and him as Savior and of God booklets are person-in-the-pew about the Church Lord. Church of God a strong tool to help of God has only increased. On the Ministries has already answer that question. heels of the popular “Jesus is the identified themes and They would be use- subject” word search puzzle books, language describing ful for handing out Warner Press has responded to the the Church of God in in visitors’ packets, need by producing a booklet that ways that resonate making available in churches can buy in bulk for infor- with today’s world the church lobby, or mational displays, guest gift bags, and answer the ques- even distributing and and discipleship classes. tions being asked by discussing as part of a “As we thought about updating today’s world. It was class focused on ori- Meet Us at the Cross and Who is the natural to adopt such enting people to the Church of God?, and perhaps com- language for this Church of God.” bining them into a single product, booklet that helps people under- Then there’s the “Jesus is the Sub- we determined it would make sense stand who the Church of God is.” ject” word search puzzle book. Have to consider the current themes and Today’s iteration of the “Church you seen these yet? The “itty bitty” language coming from Church of of God brochure” is a sixteen-page Jesus is the Subject Word Search God Ministries,” Regina Jackson, booklet, shaped and sized differently book is designed to encourage Bible

16 November 2018 puzzles are very popular, so in try- to actually read the whole portion of New “Jesus is the Subject”... ing to come up with a different idea, Scripture included on each page.” continued from page 14 we felt it was important for kids (and Order your copies of Jesus is some adults who like these puzzles) the Subject: Exploring the Church reading and test the reader’s word- to know the story of Jesus from the of God online or by calling 800-741- finding skills! “We wanted to create a prophecies concerning his coming 7721. Bulk pricing is available! While fun activity book as a tool for church- as a baby, through his childhood, placing your order, don’t forget to es to use with the same message ministry, death, and resurrection. I also order copies of the “itty bitty” of ‘Jesus is the subject’ to coincide prayed that God would use that little Jesus is the Subject Word Search with the message for adults,” Regina word search book to bless and chal- book! explains. “Our itty-bitty word search lenge all who worked those puzzles Navy Chaplain: Don’t Just Thank Me for My Service By Carl Stagner

ovember is known for (retired) USN (formerly the chaplain Thanksgiving. It’s also ministries coordinator for Church of Nknown for Veterans Day. God Ministries), positioned him best This is the time of year that people to apply for Navy chaplaincy. Soon count their blessings and name after being sworn in, Travis was on them one by one; certainly, we con- his way to Japan. sider our men and women in uniform As a Navy chaplain, Travis a tremendous blessing. But accord- Coffey has been blessed with ing to one Church of God chaplain opportunities he never could have to the U.S. Navy, being thankful isn’t expected; opportunities to speak enough. It’s great, but it stops short into the hearts of countless people, of what they need most. Travis Cof- in many different cultures, across the fey gives us a glimpse of life as a country and around the world. He Navy chaplain, how the Lord is work- recalls with excitement the believers ing in the midst of his ministry, and he baptized at Tuman Bay (Guam) how the Movement can best demon- and the Bibles studies he’s led with strate true gratitude for those who both Marines and Sailors. He thinks serve God and country. CHAPLAIN TRAVIS COFFEY often of the chance he had to teach Travis Coffey didn’t start his English in Japan as a part of the mili- ministry in chaplaincy. He began in chaplain. tary’s community relations. His soul youth ministry and was ultimately The Warner University (then War- delights as he considers the soul of responsible for the college-age ner Southern College) alum pursued the Sailor he recently led to the Lord. demographic. A gifted worship lead- higher education through seminary He contemplates the impact of his er, Travis has long found fulfillment and earned the necessary clinical leadership of marriage seminars and and joy in lifting heart and voice to pastoral education unit at a local premarital counseling for our men the Lord, while inspiring others to hospital in North Carolina. While and women in uniform. join him. With such a variety of tal- enrolled there, he became acquaint- All this doesn’t begin to describe ents, he could have taken a variety ed with a Methodist minister who is the amazing adventure he’s had in of paths. But he chose chaplaincy. now a retired Navy chaplain. This preaching the gospel, building nur- More accurately, he accepted God’s experience, combined with chats turing relationships, and being a part call on his life to become a Navy he’d had with Rev. David Erb, CAPT of ceremonies with others in beauti-

17 November 2018 I’m not going to push you away ticular flock. As close as your local Navy Chaplain... from God’s love. I will be there for V.A. (Veterans Affairs), military base continued from page 17 you. Jesus met people’s needs; I’ve or post, or to the far corners of the been able to focus on meeting their world, there is a chaplain to guide ful places, such as the summit of the needs. I can’t tell you how many them through the highest highs and majestic Mt. Fuji and Mt. Suribachi. times this has led people the lowest lows. That’s Travis recalls the faces on the chil- to reconnect with faith in what we’re all about.” dren at Japanese, Korean, and Thai God. That’s the mission As you thank God this orphanages when he and others behind what chaplaincy season and all year long came, bearing gifts. He sees the has been for me.” for our veterans, active- sovereign hand of God on his fam- For those who aren’t duty servicemen and ily’s life as they were led to adopt familiar with the day- women, and our chaplains, children near Tokyo. Can he imagine to-day tasks of a Navy remember to do more than life without these key intersections? chaplain, Travis sums it just say thanks. Travis Cof- He wouldn’t want to. up: “Every service member, warrior, fey isn’t saying that a spoken word of “You get to minister to everyone and family member that wears the gratitude isn’t a kind thing to do. But on your crew, from top to bottom,” cloth of our country should be able he says that prayer—and focused, Travis explains. “You get to minister to be supported spiritually. We have faithful prayer—is what’s needed Christ’s love to those who believe been called, prepared, and sent out most. differently than you. Whoever you to be the hands and feet of Christ to “Don’t just thank me for my ser- are, whatever your background is, shepherd and minister to that par- vice,” Travis explains. “Pray for me and the souls I’m entrusted to care for. Put a chaplain’s face and name on the board in your church lobby to remind everyone to pray for them— kind of like you do for a missionary, as an extension of your church. We are missionaries caring for our servicemen and servicewomen. We’re here to help heal the warriors that come home wounded spiritually, emotionally, and/or relationally; as well as the families, and all others who wear the cloth of our country. And just like missionary work can be like you’re on an island, so can chaplaincy. As they provide ministry to those they serve with and their families, as they advocate for others that have no other voice, as they care for everybody wherever they are in life. Those are really needs that chaplains have. We need your prayer covering, we need your partnership.” Learn more about Church of God chaplain ministries at www.jesusisthesubject.org/ chaplain-ministries. CHAPLAIN COFFEY WITH HIS FAMILY.

18 November 2018 A Visit with the Church of God in Hungary By Carl Stagner

oe Cookston has worn a variety opportunities God is opening up in the fall of the Iron Curtain, the pros- of hats in the Church of God the Eastern European nation. pect was intriguing and the process Jin his lifetime of ministry. Cur- In 2006, while on staff at Salem fascinating for Joe. It was during this rently he’s most well-known across Church of God in Clayton, Ohio, Joe experience that Joe first became the Movement for his leadership of was pursuing a doctoral research acquainted with Church of God CARE—the Clergy Advocacy and project through Trinity Evangeli- Hungary. Resource Effort. But he’s also served cal Divinity School. The research A few years later, Three Worlds, faithfully in a number of important centered on non-formal education our Church of God missionary net- areas, including the local church. approaches for pastoral training in work in Europe and the Middle East, One role may not be as familiar to emerging countries after the fall of invited Greg Wiens of Healthy Grow- many in the Movement, and that is the Iron Curtain. While on a sabbati- ing Churches to go and perform an the position he holds as nonresident cal from Salem, Joe and Merry went assessment with the leadership board member for the Church of God for the first time to Eastern Europe. of Church of God Hungary. At the Hungary. In August and Septem- The plan was to visit six Eastern same time, Greg was also conduct- ber, Joe and his wife Merry visited European ministry training centers ing similar assessments with the Hungary, a place that has become to observe and learn how the Prot- Salem staff, where Joe was execu- quite familiar and beloved by the estant church equipped pastoral tive pastor. After working with Joe at ministry duo. Joe and Merry have leadership with the absence of for- Salem, Greg asked if he and Merry since returned from the encouraging mal training institutions. In a region would walk alongside the board of experience, blessed to report on the where networking was limited after Church of God Hungary, helping

JOE COOKSTON (FAR LEFT) PRAYS AT THE COMMISSIONING OF THE PLANT.

19 November 2018 take it. mitment to church planting,” Joe A Visit with the Church of God... “We preached in the churches, explains. “The past year, it has been continued from page 20 met with the leaders, and continued working with a team of six people to build relationships over meals and to plant a church. The amazing part to build sustaining infrastructure, casual daily conversa- of this is that two of encourage the leadership, and build tion,” Joe recounts. the team members relationships. “We led a three-day were formerly atheist Joe and Merry would spend three family retreat on evan- and into dark magic. months living in the town of Buda- gelism, collaboratively The new church plant kalász, home to a small, but thriving constructed a church pastor really got to Church of God congregation. There planting covenant, know them and built they built relationships with the lead- conducted a one-day friendships. The two ers of the church, held marriage board training and began asking ques- enrichment group sessions, met with visioning session. But tions and now they the newly constructed board, and one of the most excit- are vibrant Christians. generally lived out the principles of ing things we did was While we were there, Romans 12:13—rejoicing with those take part in the com- we attended the who rejoice, weeping with those missioning of a new JOE AND MERRY COOKSTON wedding of one of who weep. Joe refers to this vitally church plant!” the young couples.” important aspect of their walk with Kiss (pronounced Kish) Peter, The week following the com- Church of God Hungary as a “minis- with the family name written first missioning could have taken a try of presence.” in Hungarian style, is the lead pas- slightly more somber tone. After “Visitors from the United States tor of Church of God Hungary. The all, the church had just released six sometimes come, offer helpful church has grown and strength- vibrant and gifted young adults into advice, and then leave,” Joe reflects. ened to the point that it was ready the Lord’s service. But, God had “But the ministry of presence mat- to multiply. Grateful for support from other plans, and it was exactly the ters. Friendship, encouragement, so many partners, including Three kind of affirmation the congrega- walking alongside brothers and Worlds; Healthy Growing Churches; tion and its pastor needed to keep sisters—that’s how transformation Fairfax Community Church; First pressing on. The Sunday after the happens. We Church of God commissioning, three new families were fortunate to in St. Joseph, showed up! have opportunity Michigan; and “I am overjoyed to see the com- to live among Parkgate Com- ing together of a people of vision,” these folks for an munity Church Joe reflects. “May we as the Church extended period in Pasadena, of God in the United States and of time.” Texas; Church of Canada continue to pray for the Joe Cookston God Hungary is work here, for the people here. This has lived out that well-positioned is a relatively unchurched society, principle with for a bright and most pastors of the evangeli- intentionality CHURCH PLANTERS HERCZE LÁSZLÓ AND DÍA. future. Facilities cal churches here are part-time. and consistency are multi-func- That can lead to a lot of stress on as he’s maintained these relation- tional, the congregational makeup their families. Pray for the continued ships. Regular conversation on the spans the spectrum of ages, and development of new leadership. It’s phone, online, and periodically in- the talented worship teams include already begun to happen. May that person, have proved his love for the teens and young adults in their twen- leadership development increase people and the leaders of Church ties. Not only did the church just more and more.” of God Hungary. So, when the commission a new plant, but they’re Learn more about the ministry of opportunity came again this year already looking to do another one! the Church of God around the world for increased investment, he had to “The church has a strong com- at www.chogglobal.org.

20 November 2018 From the Archives: Are We Thankful? By W.E. Monk

Editor’s note—The following arti- the difference might be due to the ing heart stimulus, opportunity, and cle by W. E. Monk was published in fact that when we were first saved, cheer. And we only occasionally The Gospel Trumpet in February much of our time was spent in prais- allow the life that he has given to 1919. The first World War had come ing God, and we were so thankful go back to him in communion and to an end only a few months earlier. for what he had done for us that the thanksgiving. On all sides we can see so much that is good accom- plishing so little because it does not go up alive to God—repentance that sticks fast in the mire, strength that beats the air or builds on sand, sacrifices that are mainly loss, faith that sings no song. And for this great sad fact of wasted goodness and exhausting effort there is but one sufficient explanation—the absence or lack of thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is not a spiritual t has not been so very long since, very act of praising God brought the possibility. “Be ye thankful” is not when in almost every prayer that joy to our souls, while now some of uttered to mock us. Thankfulness Iwas uttered, God was besought us spend little or no time in praise is a spiritual blessing. How rich are to bring the war to a close; in fact, and thanksgiving. they who are thankful! Ingratitude special meetings were called in Let us look at just a few facts in is impoverishment. Thankfulness many communities for the purpose our everyday life. If my heart were glorifies God. Thankfulness is great of beseeching God to bring to an to stop beating for but a few sec- spiritual force. What a check upon end the awful carnage. onds, I should drop lifeless. Who am gloom is gratitude! Thankfulness, as Since the war is over, has our I that this should not happen? I see it destroys the base elements of our thanksgiving been in proportion to an ambulance coming; some poor nature, develops the higher. Saints our petition before it closed? As a person is being hurried to the near- of God, join the writer in resolving rule, when one does us a good turn est hospital. He has met with some to spend more time this year before or is kind to us, we are willing to go accident. Who has preserved me? our Maker in thanksgiving, and this out of our way, if necessary, to do I see people all around me suffer- will be a year of victory and power. something in return. None of us like ing with disease and infirmities of This article was originally pub- to be thought ungrateful, but how various kinds. Who has given me lished in the February 20, 1919, about our attitude toward God, our health? We, all of us, even the poor- issue of The Gospel Trumpet. Father, who loves us, who preserves est, enjoy some of God’s gifts. Who Republished by permission. Across us from harm, danger, accident, ill- are we that God should not take the United States and around the ness, and even loss of life? them away from us and give them world, God is on the move in the Who has not heard expressions to someone else, perhaps more Church of God. Join the move- like this, “I don’t seem to have the deserving than we? ment. Give life! Donate today at joys that I had when I was first God is ceaselessly pouring upon give.jesusisthesubject.org. saved”? I have wondered whether our lives from his open and yearn-

21 November 2018 We Are Thankful For Support From...

ANDERSON UNIVERSITY is seeking comments from the public about the university in preparation for its periodic evaluation by its regional accrediting agency. The university will host a visit on Feb. 25-26, 2019, from a team of peer reviewers representing the Higher Learning Commission. The team will review the institution’s ongoing ability to meet HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation. Anderson University has been accredited by HLC since 1946. Comments must be in writing and must address substantive matters related to the quality of the institution or its academic programs.

SUBMIT COMMENTS: Public Comment on Anderson University to HLC at hlcommission.org/comment Higher Learning Commission or mail them to the address specified. 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500 ALL COMMENTS MUST BE RECEIVED BY JAN. 24, 2019. Chicago, IL 60604-1411

22 November 2018