Real news An international newspaper that honors God for Churches of Christ Vol. 78, No. 8 | August 2021 www.christianchronicle.org Foster care ministries praise ruling SUPREME COURT’S UNANIMOUS decision is a win for religious liberty, agency leaders say.

BY KENNETH PYBUS | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE

immy Moore had been waiting for months for the U.S. Supreme Court to decide Fulton v. Philadelphia. The nation’s high court had heardJ oral arguments in November over whether the City of Philadelphia could refuse to certify a Catholic foster care agency unless the charity agreed to place foster children with same-sex married couples. To Moore, president and CEO of The Children’s Home of Lubbock, and to leaders of dozens of other child services STANLEY MADIKI ministries associated with Churches of Christ, the question was crucial. Preachers shoulder burdens and hope in India “It was about whether With a Bible in one hand and a bag of rice in the other, a minister in India heads home during a deadly wave of the they could contract with COVID-19 delta variant. The virus shut down businesses and suspended church services, so many preachers have no the city and still hold income, said Dr. Stanley Madiki, a physician and preacher for the Agraharam Church of Christ in southern India. The church hosted 150 rural preachers for a socially distanced devotional. Afterward, the ministers received Bags of HOPE Moore on to their closely held religious beliefs,” said (Healing Oppressed People Everywhere), which include a month’s supply of rice and medical kits. Madiki said he Moore, whose organization places as encouraged the ministers “to march ahead, looking unto Christ during these tough times of pandemic.” many as 50 children at a time in foster homes in West Texas. Finally, the Supreme Court ruled unanimously in favor of the Catholic Ministries emerge from pandemic with hope foster care agency. As soon as the recent decision came down, one of the BY CHERYL MANN BACON | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE to be winding down. Businesses are schools and publishers associated Lubbock nonprofit’s directors emailed open again. In most with Churches of Christ walked Moore with the news. ll our plans were wrecked, parts of the country, the pandemic gauntlet of remote “I remember — I was at an eye exam but God still used it.” masks are less work, sick employees and layoffs. that day when I heard,” Moore said. Ryan Lee, director common. Schools But now, most are emerging with “So to see 9-0 in the vote, I’m like, of One Kingdom, was are preparing to renewed, though altered, focus. ‘Wow!’ Talk about eye-opening.” describing how the disaster relief reopen this fall to Let’s Start Talking, which focuses Like Moore, many leaders of faith- ministry he leads responded to a in-person instruc- primarily on international missions, based adoption and foster care agencies global pandemic. But he spoke for tion. Recovery is took big hits, financially and to its had watched the case and were antici- many when he said, “We were on happening. staff. However, LST is in “a really Lee pating the outcome. Several told The our heels a little bit in 2020.” For over a year, good place,” said Craig Altrock, See FULTON, Page 8 The ravages of COVID-19 seem flagship nonprofits, Christian See MINISTRIES, Page 12 2 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AUGUST 2021

Earn your Master of Biblical Studies today! Practical Emphasis Affordable Quality Generous Transfer Policy Professional Development Personal Growth Personal Fulfillment Master’s Degrees in Biblical Studies and Spiritual Leadership and Graduate Certificates in Leadership and Church History Sunset International Bible Institute • 800.658.9553 • www.sunset.bible AUGUST 2021 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 3 The right person to join Assassination can’t stop VBS our news staff IN TROUBLED HAITI, a mission team keeps working with kids after president is killed. BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD AND CHLOÉ FRANKLIN t age 8, Audrey THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE Jackson gained her first reporting efore leaving on a weeklong trip experience. to Haiti, a Tennessee mission She produced a one-page, team prepared for possible emer- handwritten “newspaper” gencies — from road-blocking about Bprotests to an outbreak of COVID-19. Inside Story happenings But a presidential assassination? in her fami- Not so much. ly’s neigh- The 15 teens, college students and borhood. adults from the Clear Creek Church A decade of Christ in the Chattanooga suburb later, when of Hixon were four days into the trip Jackson when they got the news. In the capital PHOTO PROVIDED BY PATRICK RUSSELL enrolled at of Port-au-Prince, 125 miles south of Members of the Clear Creek mission team tell Haitian children stories about Jesus. Harding where they were conducting Vacation Bobby Ross Jr. University Bible School, Haitian President As airports in the Caribbean Haïtien, they continued to host a sum- in Searcy, Jovenel Moïse was killed during a nation shut down and political lead- mer camp and VBS for about 150 kids. Ark., she majored in art. middle-of-the-night attack at his home. ers debated who was in charge, the “It was a blessing for the children But just briefly. “I was shocked,” team member mission team prayerfully decided to who came to the camp,” said Bonnie The pull of storytelling — Patrick Russell told The Christian soldier on. Working with See Him Ray, one of the team’s leaders, “because through words and images — Chronicle. Ministries, a church-supported non- they were able to leave their homes and was too strong. She changed But on his fourth mission trip to profit that operates a medical clinic, an not have to hear their parents talking her major to print journalism. Haiti, the 17-year-old said he had eye center and a microloan program about the assassination.” “The world is full of untold come to expect the unexpected. in the northern Haitian city of Cap- See HAITI, Page 16 stories, and I like to live my life between the written lines,” says Audrey, 22. I’m thrilled to introduce Audrey, who graduated from Harding in May, as The Dedicated to the incarcerated Christian Chronicle’s newest staff member. Starting Aug. LOUISIANA CHURCH MEMBER brings the Gospel and much-needed consistency into the lives of prisoners. 2, she’ll serve as associate editor for print and digital. BY KYLE PEVETO | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE women. Tate committed herself to Besides being a talented the unpaid position for more than 20 writer, Audrey — who was BATON ROUGE, La. years, managing more than 40 groups finishing first grade when ver four decades, the inmates and 500 individuals who volunteer I joined the Chronicle staff of the Louisiana Correctional with the state’s female inmates. in 2005 — brings strong Institute for Women have This fall Tate will leave Baton Rouge photography and newspaper counted on Glenda Tate. and her ministry. Her husband of design skills. OTate, 73, began volunteering with 53 years, Bob Tate, died following a “Audrey is a very skilled, the South Baton Rouge Church of stroke last year, and she has decided versatile journalist and Christ prison ministry more than 42 to move to Oregon and live near her photojournalist. She can years ago, leading Bible studies on two daughters. tackle investigative assign- Tuesday afternoons and worship ser- She cannot be easily replaced, said ments, and she is also gifted vices on Sundays. KYLE PEVETO Gary Sumrall, a senior chaplain in the as a storyteller,” said April “We were always there,” Tate said Glenda Tate reviews one of the Bible Louisiana Department of Public Safety Fatula, Harding’s student of her visits to the prison. “We didn’t lessons she shares with inmates. and Corrections who worked with Tate publications adviser. “She cancel at the last minute. When the at the women’s correctional institute. has a natural curiosity about attendance got down to one inmate on by working in the prison chaplain’s “I still haven’t figured out why God the world around her.” Tuesday afternoon, we still went.” office as the assistant volunteer coor- allowed our paths to cross,” he said, See AUDREY, Page 4 She took her ministry a step further dinator at the state’s only prison for See INCARCERATED, Page 29 4 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE INSIDE STORY AUGUST 2021

Come Join Our Mission!

Houseparents

The Albuquerque Christian Children’s Home is a ministry that is passionately dedicated to fostering at-risk children. We are looking for a faithful married couple who love children, model their faith, and want to serve full time in our ministry as Houseparents. STANLEY MORALES Audrey Jackson is a 2021 graduate of Harding University in Searcy, Ark. AUDREY: New associate editor joins team FROM PAGE 3 Chronicle’s founding editor, the late Noah Darnell, a Harding Olan L. Hicks, in her story. instructor of communication, “Christian Chronicle is to be built praised Audrey’s journalistic talents on character,” Hicks wrote in 1943. and her personal traits. “It means to stand for right and “As a person, she is that friend truth, for fairness and impartiality, that intentionally sets reminders to for zeal according to knowledge. It is call someone she hasn’t talked to in a newspaper and is to be conducted a few weeks just to check on them,” on the principles of news reporting. Darnell said. “She is intentional with We mean to maintain not only the everything she does.” highest ethics of the newspaper The Arkansas native’s parents, profession, but also of Christianity.” Chris and Carol Jackson, are Harding Chronicle President and CEO Erik alumni. The family owned an Ozark Tryggestad has a clipping of that Mountains resort for many years. old column taped to his computer Audrey grew up working hard and monitor. Audrey — a journalist with interacting with a variety of people. an attention to detail — noticed it. In her application, she cited a Erik, advertising manager Tonya desire to work in a Christ-focused Patton, senior administrative assis- “ Spending time with our God-given family atmosphere. tant Lynda Sheehan, administrative is easy when living in God’s beautiful creation. New Mexico She has deep roots in Churches of assistant Melinda Wilson, stew- has so much to offer: nature walks and bike paths right by our Christ. Her late grandmother Macie ardship officer Alan Phillips, staff Jackson was a beloved Oklahoma accountant Louise Beyer and opin- campus, native American historical sites to explore, and much Christian University volunteer. Her ions editor Jeremie Beller all got a more. Come join our family. We’ll leave the door open.” uncle Keith Lape is a domestic chance to spend time with Audrey. missionary who serves the River City I heard nothing but positive reports. Church of Christ, a North Little Rock, “I look forward to the youthful Benefits include: nice housing, relief and vacation time off, medical, Ark., congregation closely tied to a energy and skills she will bring to and more. Interested couples will send their cover letter of interest and homeless ministry. She attended the the Chronicle team,” Lynda said. resume(s) to: Downtown and Cloverdale congrega- Amen. tions while at Harding. We prayed that God would lead During a four-day tryout at our us to the right person to join the Sharon Roberson, Director of Campus Life office on the Oklahoma Christian Chronicle staff. Email: [email protected] campus, Audrey interviewed all of us We believe Audrey is that person. Job description available upon request. — when we weren’t interviewing her — and produced an insightful feature BOBBY ROSS JR. is editor-in-chief of The Christian Look us up on our website: Acch4kids.org story on the Chronicle and its mission. Chronicle. Reach him at bobby.ross@christianchronicle. I liked that she quoted the org. Follow him on Twitter at @bobbyross. AUGUST 2021 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 5

STEVE BYRNE Blue skies and rainbows: Hawaii congregation encouraged by ‘significant uptick’ in visitors A rainbow rises over the A-frame auditorium of the Pearl Harbor Church of Christ in Honolulu. “Nothing like a sunrise rainbow on Oahu!” minister and elder Steve Byrne said on Facebook. The 130-member congregation’s attendance is back to about 90 percent of its pre-pandemic level, Byrne said. “The last few weeks have also seen a significant uptick in visitors, which has been quite encouraging,” he added. Over 65 years, the church has served as the temporary “ohana” (or “family”) for thousands of military personnel and their families.

NEW JERSEY “Dad is the epitome of a leader writing sessions, and during a song- SPOTLIGHT SEWELL — After more than 36 years who can cast a vision, bolster writing session with C.J. Watson, of service with the Pitman Road support and see it through, but he’s Slimp proposed writing about Jesus Church of Christ, Dan Cooper has also the living, breathing example of and Johnny Cash. Cool(ing) faith retired from paid ministry. a servant,” she wrote. The two drew upon their personal But the church’s longtime “Need marriage counseling? Help experiences, fusing their back- As record-breaking temperatures preacher will remain a worker for moving? Need a ride to the airport grounds into a partially fictitious, hit the Pacific Northwest, Churches the Lord, or some biblical counseling? Dad’s partially true narrative about “the of Christ served as cooling centers. serving as your guy — he loves helping and lamb in white and the man in black.” Near Seattle, where the tempera- one of the connecting with you almost as much While much of it is tongue in ture soared to an all-time high of congrega- as he loves the Lord, cows and golf.” cheek, the song resonates with 108, the Bellevue Church of Christ tion’s elders. those who truly were “Raised on stocked up on water and promoted “Katherine TEXAS Jesus and Johnny Cash.” the cooling center on social media. and I love CLEBURNE — Clyde H. Slimp, who “It was nice for us to know that this church preaches for the Westhill Church of we were able to provide that service family,” he Christ, started playing guitar while should it be needed,” said Kelsey said. “She preaching in Tennessee. Klemm, the church’s office manager. has given and Eventually, this led him to write The Newberg Church of Christ sacrificed “Raised on Jesus and Johnny Cash,” outside Portland, Ore., where the PHOTO PROVIDED BY DAN COOPER as much about two influences that shaped his temperature reached a record 118, Dan and Katherine as I have childhood. Slimp inherited his love also offered a break from the heat. Cooper enjoy a treat. or more. of Johnny Cash from his parents, The church spread the word Thanks be to and when he started playing music, through social media, but a sandwich God, and to this church family, for Cash’s songs were crowd favorites. board brought in most of the people. allowing us to make a difference.” While in Tennessee, Slimp PHOTO PROVIDED BY CLYDE SLIMP “It was quite literally the easiest Becky Fortunato, one of the started to write songs, sometimes Clyde Slimp, minister for the Westhill thing we could do to unlock our doors couple’s four children, paid tribute by himself, sometimes with friends. Church of Christ in Cleburne, Texas, enjoys and turn our air conditioner on,” lead to her father on Facebook. He stockpiled song ideas for singing and songwriting. minister Chris Dunning said. 6 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AUGUST 2021

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Turning the Stumbling Block of COVID-19 Into a Stepping Stone of

Studying Through “The Life of Christ” Using the superlative resource books, The Life of Christ, 1 & 2 by David L. Roper 1. through pulpit sermons (over 275 sermon approaches) 2. through adult Bible classes (129 lesson plans) 3. through teenage classes (52 lesson plans and the supplemental book: Being a Teenage Missionary) 4. through fifth and sixth grade classes (52 lesson plans) 5. through building Christian homes (with online encouragement and the supplemental visitation book: “Oh, How I Love You!”) 6. through the “Reaching Out to America” clinic (13 life-changing videos) 7. through Christ-centered fellowship (locally and brotherhood wide) “We are confident that if a congregation puts ‘The 2022 Life of Christ Challenge’ in place, the congregation will be blessed, and people in the community will be reached.” – Eddie Cloer Director, Truth for Today What People Are Saying: World Mission School

“The congregation is very excited about “We, the Byron church of Christ, are the possibilities of our tailoring this into excited to be a part of this important a year-long campaign of studying ‘The endeavor along with many of our Life of Christ,’ particularly the idea of brethren. It is my prayer that this will be being able to go to our community and a time of awakening for the church and say, ‘Look, this is the life that changed encouragement to make more of an effort 2209 Benton, Searcy, AR 72143 the world!’” in reaching the lost.” (501) 268-7588 – Soldier Creek church of Christ – Byron church of Christ [email protected] Piedmont, OK Byron, GA 8 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE ACROSS THE NATION AUGUST 2021 FULTON: High court’s ruling seen as ‘an answer to prayer’ FROM PAGE 1 “These are vulnerable populations Christian Chronicle they were we’re serving,” said Means, whose encouraged both by the protection organization now has nearly 80 of the Philadelphia charity’s reli- children placed with 60 families in gious freedom and by the unanimity Tennessee. “Our fos- of the decision. ter parents and our Chandler Means, executive adoptive parents — director of Agape in Nashville, we see them as part- Tenn., said at least a half-dozen ners in the ministry donors, friends and board members to those vulnerable immediately texted or emailed him populations.” links to news coverage. Statler said she “I was inundated with things like, works to remind Statler ‘Guess you’ve already seen this, but her staff and herself what did you think?’ routinely that the focus of Christian or ‘Did you see this Homes in Abilene is on helping article?’ or ‘Did women and children and families who you hear about the come to the organization for help. decision?’” Means “That’s what we do, and we cover said. “We felt pretty it in prayer all the time,” she said. “I confident ... but I was don’t mean that to sound pollyanna- pretty shocked it was ish, but it’s a reasonable aspiration.” a 9-0 outcome.” Means Sherri Statler, presi- CHANGING NEEDS, CHANGING SERVICES dent of Christian Homes and Family During the two decades after Services in Abilene, Texas, said she World War II, Churches of Christ also heard from several directors. PHOTO PROVIDED BY BECKET FUND FOR RELIGIOUS LIBERTY throughout the U.S. moved into the “One of them contacted me and Attorney Lori Windham, an Abilene Christian University graduate and Church foster care and adoption arena in said, ‘This is good news, right?’” of Christ member, represented the plaintiffs in the Fulton case. earnest. Statler said. “And I said, ‘Absolutely. Some ministries sprang up organi- An answer to prayer.’” exemption to the policy existed, the “The majority of agencies across cally among churches or groups of state was required to show the rule our state are faith-based and have Christians. Others developed from THE LEGAL ISSUES advanced a “compelling government religious ties,” Samuel said. “I existing children’s homes. Some At issue in Fulton v. Philadelphia interest” and that the policy was thought the Supreme Court ruling were overseen by church elders at was the legal interpretation of part “narrowly tailored” to achieve that provided clarification. … It strongly first, though most over time have of the First Amendment to the U.S. interest — a challenging legal bar to stated that they sup- spun out as their own independent Constitution, which reads, “Congress clear. No such compelling interest ported the need — nonprofits. shall make no law respecting an existed, the court held, especially 9-0 — for faith-based Means was raised in Mount Dora, establishment of religion or prohibit- because Catholic Social Services agencies and the Fla., where his father worked at ing the free exercise thereof.” was just one of dozens of agencies need to allow them Christian Home and Bible School, In Pennsylvania, as in most states, that contracted with the state. to do their work in a now called Mount Dora Christian city departments that take custody of Like Catholic Social Services, lead- way that allows them Academy. He said such children’s children who need housing partner ers of Church of Christ-associated to fulfill their mission homes as well as foster care provid- with nonprofits like Catholic Social nonprofits that serve children in and be true to who ers and adoption agencies histori- Samuel Services to conduct home studies need say they do so in response to they are.” cally relied on personal referrals and evaluate and certify foster par- their faith, and they seek to stay One factor in the Fulton case was from members of Churches of ents. Philadelphia had contracted true to those convictions when a lack of evidence that any same-sex Christ. However, referrals now typi- with the Catholic charity for more evaluating homes for the children. couples had even approached the cally come from state agencies. than 50 years. But in 2018, after local And while leaders see a growing nonprofit and been rejected based “When I was a kid, somebody media widely publicized the non- diversity among the organizations on Catholic and historic Christian from a church would call from profit’s position that marriage was regarding just what that church con- teachings. At the same time, Catholic somewhere in Alabama,” Means between only a man and a woman, nection means, the general consen- Social Services’ policy was to refer said. “And they’d say, ‘We’ve got this the city suspended its contract with sus that marriage is between a man any same-sex couples seeking to family here, and Dad’s a drunk; he Catholic Social Services and said it and a woman continues to exist. become foster parents to another got arrested. And Mom can’t take would not renew until the charity Nathan Samuel, president and agency. Foster care and adoption care of the kids. Hey, could we send agreed to certify same-sex couples. CEO of Childplace Inc. in Jefferson, care nonprofits contacted said they these three boys down there? Can That, the Supreme Court decided, Ind., said he sees the court deci- have similar policies of referring you guys take care of them, put was a violation of Catholic Social sion as a recognition of the role potential foster care parents that them in school?’ That doesn’t hap- Services’ free exercise of religion. faith-based organizations historically don’t align with their statements of pen anymore.” Because the possibility of an have played in helping children. faith to other organizations. Over the past half-century, states AUGUST 2021 ACROSS THE NATION THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 9 and local municipalities have moved among Christian adoption and more heavily into providing social foster care agencies, said Samuel, services to children in crisis situations the group’s current president. The and quickly become the primary pipe- members meet annually, hearing line for those in need of care. And, as from experts on a wide range of in Philadelphia, such agencies typi- topics as they share resources and cally contract with the existing non- support one another. profits to find and vet foster parents. “We understand each other, and With that arrangement comes we share a commonness among us, state dollars to help fund the foster yet we’re all from different states,” care, and Moore said that has forced Samuel said. “We’ve kind of diversi- nonprofits like The Children’s fied over the years, but it’s all rooted Home of Lubbock to decide how in and surrounded by the family and much they should cooperate with trying to care for children that need the state. care.” “To me, it’s kind of a catch-22,” Moore said that camaraderie he said. “If you don’t take funding among Network 1:27 members is as from the state, and you want to be a valuable as anything else it provides. viable part of the ministry of taking “I look forward to spending time care of kids, but you’re not getting with the brothers and sisters in money from donors, then something PHOTO PROVIDED BY CHRISTIAN HOMES AND FAMILY SERVICES IN ABILENE, TEXAS Christ,” he said. At a typical state- has to give.” Michael and Erin Easley adopted their baby daughter, Porter, through Christian level conference, “There’s no one At the same time, those organiza- Homes and Family Services in Abilene, Texas. Their sons are Hank and Flint. ‘talking God.’ There’s no one talking tions that arrange foster care or about morality. They’re just talking adoption have also expanded or But Lori Windham, the attorney seems overwhelmingly reluctant to about the dos and don’ts.” altered their services to address who argued the case before the create bright-line rules and is much Stiles said he believes the Fulton other needs. For example, Christian Supreme Court, said she was more likely to decide cases on a case and the resulting decision have Homes in Abilene owns an apart- “thrilled” with the outcome. very narrow case-by-case, fact-inten- highlighted the importance of coop- ment building where pregnant Windham is a senior counsel at sive basis,” Stiles said. “But to me, eration among Christian foster care women live for free while preparing religious liberty law firm Becket in there continues to be this broader, and adoption agencies. for the adoption process. Childplace Washington, D.C. She graduated 35,000-foot takeaway Because of the lack of a denomi- operates a residential treatment from Abilene Christian University that courts tend to national structure, that’s particularly center and counseling clinic focus- in Texas and attends the Fairfax get these things right true for those associated with ing on healing the scars of abuse Church of Christ in Virginia. on First Amendment Churches of Christ, he said. and trauma. And several have begun “I think it’s actually a strong faith-based issues. “These are far-flung and in every offering early adult residential or protection for religious ministries They just have a state. And I think being part of assistance programs for those who and an advancement in the law,” tortured logic in how Network 1:27 is absolutely vital age out of the foster care system. Windham told the Chronicle. “I they get there.” to the long-term sustainability of Those services create new chal- think it shows that the law is going Regardless, he Christian-affiliated foster care. If Stiles lenges for faith-based providers in a great direction.” believes the Court they try to act on their own, I think similar to the questions addressed Windham said she expects the sent a message to cities and it’s just too easy for all of these in Fulton. unanimity of the decision will governments seeking to regulate other entities who are pushing fund- “Almost every year at our annual encourage lower courts to take religiously motivated activities or ing terms and conditions on them to conference, some legal person comes great care to protect religious free- undermine faith-based missions that say, ‘Well, we just don’t make those in to talk about that,” said Samuel, dom when evaluating similar restric- they run the risk of facing headline- kinds of exceptions.’” referring to a national meeting of tions in the future. making litigation — and that there’s As caring for children becomes agencies associated with Churches “This is the first time this issue a good chance they’ll ultimately lose more complicated and organizations of Christ. “So it’s always on our radar has come before the Supreme in court. adapt to changing needs, Agape in because we want to stay informed.” Court,” she said. “I think having Nashville’s Means said he expects all nine justices come together MAINTAINING THE NETWORK significantly more discussion among SENDING A MESSAGE and say, ‘No, Philadelphia. You For several years, in addition to agencies about the recent legal deci- Some religious freedom advo- can’t shut down this agency,’ his work for Baptist- and Methodist- sion and related challenges. cates have responded to the Fulton sends a really powerful message affiliated organizations, Stiles has “This thing that happened in outcome with disappointment, to the lower courts about what the provided training and guidance Fulton — it’s a good decision. It’s especially considering the fact that Supreme Court expects to see going to Network 1:27, an organization an important decision. It’s a helpful three justices generally considered forward.” of nearly 50 agencies in 20 states decision,” he said. “But it’s not the conservatives specifically chose a And Matt Stiles, an Alabama associated with Churches of Christ decision we need ultimately. That’s more narrow ruling that focused on employment law attorney who spe- that provide a mix of services to going to come later.” the potential for discretion in the cializes in serving faith-based orga- children in need — from foster care Philadelphia law, while three other nizations, said he’s heartened by the and adoption to counseling and KENNETH PYBUS is an associate professor and justices argued in favor of a more decision as well and is reassuring medical care. chair of journalism and mass communication at sweeping expansion of free exercise his clients. Network 1:27 has been a crucial Abilene Christian University in Texas and a First of religion. “We live in an era where the Court source of information and support Amendment lawyer. 10 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE ACROSS THE NATION AUGUST 2021 Religious freedom: Putting the ‘exercise’ in free exercise BY KENNETH PYBUS | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE practice as a matter of doctrine. The court there distinguished between n recent years, the Supreme Court belief, which could not be curtailed by has shown a greater willingness to the state, and action that was based protect the First Amendment right on that belief, which was subject to of free exercise of religion from seemingly blanket legal restrictions. Istate and municipal regulation. • Sherbert v. Verner (1963). In Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Reynolds was altered in a case Colorado Civil Rights Commission involving a Seventh-day Adventist in 2018, the court decided Colorado who was fired for refusing to work had shown an animus toward religion on Sundays. The court said the state by punishing a baker for refusing to couldn’t deny unemployment bene- bake a cake for a same-sex wedding. fits to the woman who was acting on And this year, before the Fulton v. her religious beliefs unless it could Philadelphia foster care decision, the show it was advancing a “compelling court overturned two state responses government interest” and that the to the COVID-19 pandemic that regulation was “narrowly tailored” restricted church and synagogue to achieve that interest. That legal gatherings. In cases involving concept is called “strict scrutiny.” California and New York, the court • Employment Division of said 5-4 that the rules violated the Oregon v. Smith (1992). The First Amendment because they did court pared back Sherbert’s pro- not apply equally to secular activities. tections, holding that two Native Lori Windham, the Washington, Americans in Oregon who were fired D.C., attorney who argued the for ingesting peyote weren’t eligible Fulton case before the court, said for unemployment compensation — the decision has given religious min- even though they used the illegal and istries another level of protection. hallucinogenic plant as part of their “We already knew from the membership in a church. Writing for Masterpiece Cakeshop case that if the majority, the late Justice Antonin government is going to discriminate Scalia said religious groups must against you, that violates the free comply with a valid law that applied exercise clause,” said Windham, neutrally to religious and nonreli- who attends the Fairfax Church of gious alike. To do otherwise “would Christ in Virginia. “We now know open the prospect of constitutionally Night Staff: 10:00 PM-6:00 AM, days will vary Sunday-Saturday, fulltime or from the COVID cases that if they’re required exemptions from civic obli- parttime. Duties are to supervise residents during sleep hours. going to just fail to regulate similar gations of ... every conceivable kind.” Teacher Assistant: 8:00 AM-2:30 PM, Monday-Friday. Responsible for assisting secular activity that you’re going to • Religious Freedom the classroom teacher in general supervision and management of students. be protected. Restoration Act (1993). A bipar- This is a salaried position. “And we know from Fulton that if tisan Congress responded to the Teacher: 8:00 AM-2:30 PM. Must be licensed in the State of Tennessee and have they have a lot of discretion to decide Smith decision by passing the RFRA, experience working with at-risk youth. School is in session through the summer. how the law applies that you’re going which now requires any federal This is a salaried position. to be protected,” she said. “Between law that materially infringes on the Residential Counselor (couples) responsible for day-to-day care, guidance, and those three precedents, this has free exercise of religion to meet the training of adolescent males ages 12-18. This is a salaried position. You will really increased the amount of pro- “strict scrutiny” standard. work two weeks on and have one week off. tection for religious freedom.” • Burwell v. Hobby Lobby Those victories cap a series of con- Interpreting the Executive Director: Needed for Pinson, Tennessee, Campus. Stores (2014). founding and often conflicting cases RFRA, the court held a privately Salaried positions are eligible for benefits including pension, that had created a level of ambiguity owned company could not be forced medical/vision/dental, and life insurance. among legal scholars and religious to provide a type of contraception rights advocates: it considered to be abortion in Dana Lawson, MBA, HR/QI Director • Reynolds v. U.S. (1889). The violation of sincerely held religious PO Box 10, Spring Hill, TN 37174 Supreme Court first interpreted the beliefs. But the court later held the First Amendment’s free exercise law protects organizations only from (931) 486-2274, Ext. 225 clause 130 years ago, holding that fed- federal action, leaving open just how [email protected] eral law could proscribe bigamy, even much protection religious nonprofits in Utah, where the Church of Jesus and others have from regulation by Christ of Latter-day Saints saw the state and local governments. AUGUST 2021 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 11

The Gift of Ministry Rethinking Our Approach to Ministry by Dr. Mike W. Ireland “Your ministry is not your gift to God but God’s gift to you.”

I love the way the writer has made the chapters short enough to keep our interest and long enough to lead us somewhere important. I love the way he anchors every message in the timeless words of scripture. I love the way he transparently lets us travel with him through his triumphs and failures without ever making himself the hero of his own stories. I love the way he describes his beautiful partnership with Deborah, celebrating the asset she has been to their ministry and always speaking of her with love and respect. I love the way he is honest and spot-on ac- curate about the special challenges that churches present for a minister and that he does so without even a hint of the arrogance, cynicism or bitterness that can so easily take up residence in a minister’s heart. I love the way that he presents the minister’s walk with God as the central opportunity of a life of ministry. As Dr. Ireland reminds us, ministry is, ultimately, a “gift.” ---Dr. Bruce D. McLarty

Available through Amazon, Barnes and Noble or directly from the author – [email protected]

The Clarion Call for Unity by Ken Wilson, Ph.D.

NEW BOOK SALE! $13.95 $9.95

I am using the book of Ephesians as a backdrop to accentuate the unity the church needed in Paul’s day to face a cultic threat against Christianity. The same unity is needed today as we face the same threat to our faith in America. There is no option but to be spiritually prepared to stand against the evil that is consuming our world! (200 pages)

Order today: agapecounselingcenter.org 12 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE ACROSS THE NATION AUGUST 2021 MINISTRIES: ‘Already felt some strain before the pandemic’

FROM PAGE 1 Once known as a radio and televi- senior director who has been with sion ministry, Herald of Truth had the Hurst, Texas-based ministry long since turned its attention to since 1998. the digital world to Launching LST stimulate evangelism Connect, an online in the U.S. outreach, meant Swindle said Herald hundreds of readers of Truth spends over and workers were $1 million annually meeting online even on ministry, relying though traveling and primarily on content meeting in person shared through social Altrock Swindle was not an option. media, smart phones, “It had been happening anecdot- web and other platforms. It works ally in the past but was not some- with churches in major cities to thing we had given a lot of attention share the Gospel. to,” Altrock said. “There are lots of Based in Abilene, Texas, Herald of ways for people to do international Truth’s U.S. staff of eight is scat- work these days, and we already felt tered across the country. Five others some strain before the pandemic.” work internationally ­— in Cuba, Pre-pandemic, the group sent 300 Africa, Central America and Spain. to 400 people per year on short-term Swindle, who was a missionary missions with a budget of about $1.5 in Zambia before joining Herald million. In 2020, that dropped to of Truth three years ago, lives in about $500,000. Donations declined Columbia, Tenn. No employees were PHOTO PROVIDED BY LET’S START TALKING slightly, but loss of program revenue laid off during the pandemic, he When the pandemic made travel impossible, Let’s Start Talking readers and workers was the biggest hit. said, and the board decided not to began meeting online. The pictured virtual mission project featured a host in Belgium. Layoffs reduced the staff from 14 accept government stimulus funds. to four, although a bookkeeper has “Overall, it was very good for us,” Tatum said the government-funded years by 21st Century Christian was been added back. Swindle said of the pandemic, and Paycheck Protection Program last released in 2018. The survey The board decided to sell a “actually accelerated our plans.” “saved a lot of jobs” as schools strug- preceding the planned 2021 directory building LST owned. Altrock, his gled to deal with other pandemic- had been scheduled for 2020. wife and three children all tested CHRISTIAN SCHOOL NUMBERS JUMPED related expenses, such as smaller “The directory is not going away,” positive for COVID-19 during the Elementary and secondary class sizes, technology for remote McInteer said, “but we made the Christmas holidays. Every member schools associated with Churches learning and enhanced cleaning. decision that with churches not of the remaining staff or someone in of Christ also benefited from the Tatum is optimistic that some meeting and people not being in their family has had it. pandemic’s impact, according to families who moved their children to offices, the numbers would be kind It was a hard year. Brandon Tatum, executive director Christian schools will remain. Among of meaningless. Would people even But Altrock said, “All those deci- of the National Christian School the 52 accredited members, a total know how to respond, what their sions were made so LST would have Association based in Edmond, Okla. enrollment in May 2020 of 22,146 is membership looks like? It wouldn’t a future. We are very stable finan- Many of the expected to increase by about 800 be a great snapshot in time.” cially. We have had good numbers roughly 100 member students in the coming year. Declines in churches and church as things are opening up in the U.S., schools remained memberships inevitably affect a and our work with local churches is open for face-to-face BOOKSTORES ALREADY WERE IN TROUBLE publisher that develops and sells re-starting.” instruction in commu- Perhaps no sector was harder curriculum for Sunday School and Altrock said LST will approach nities where public hit by the pandemic economy than Vacation Bible School. missions more strategically. “We’re schools had to pivot Christian books and publishing. And that impact is not limited to not trying to get back to normal. to remote learning, Matthew McInteer, CEO of publishers closely connected to There isn’t a normal.” Tatum said. Tatum 21st Century Christian, based in Churches of Christ, McInteer said, “In districts where Nashville, Tenn., said the challenges noting that religious retailers such PANDEMIC ‘ACCELERATED OUR PLANS’ public schools stayed in person, we began before COVID-19. as Cokesbury, Family Christian and Herald of Truth also had fewer saw a decline in those Christian school “Even before the pandemic, we Lifeway were closing bookstores donors in 2020, but Greg Swindle, enrollments,” Tatum said. “But in the were seeing declines in sales and years before the pandemic. president and CEO, said, “God made majority of districts who stayed closed in church membership and church Then in March 2020, 21st Century it up in other ways. We had a lot of for a portion or majority of the year, existence,” he said. “The numbers Christian saw sales drop by more estate gifts, and some new churches all those Christian school enrollments of Churches of Christ were fewer in than 75 percent as churches beset came on board. And that’s what increased.” 2019 than in 2015 and 2012.” by COVID-19 and the accompa- we’re trying to do ­— build up more NCSA does not track employment The national directory of Churches nying restrictions went online and relationships with churches.” numbers for member schools, but of Christ published every three cancelled orders. Curriculum sales AUGUST 2021 ACROSS THE NATION THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 13 fell over 80 percent. didn’t go away during the pandemic. Staff was reduced, and the The focus shifted to providing Nashville retail store closed for a resources such as food and medi- while. Although it’s open again, cine that people needed to survive, McInteer expects a smaller pres- Lee said. Great Lakes ence in the future because fewer Besides disaster relief, One Bible College people are buying books in stores. Kingdom ministries include biblical Five miles north of the 21st work and training and cultural Century Christian store, Gospel development. World Radio, Advocate’s bookstore remains formerly a separate entity, College President closed, and its namesake remains a part of the orga- periodical is running nization with about 100 Great Lakes Bible College is seeking applications for a full-time several months behind Christians preaching President. GLBC was founded in 1952 by members of the church of in circulation. the Gospel world- Subscribers wide via radio. Christ and is accredited by the Province of Ontario as an institution to received the “We try to teach grant degrees in religious studies. The president will serve as the December 2020 issue people about Jesus chief executive, directing the operations of the college with special in April of this year, and through everyday life,” emphasis on fundraising and student enrollment in cooperation with no 2021 issues had been Lee explained, “through the Board of Trustees. received by mid-July. No agriculture, through radio one from Gospel Advocate was broadcasts, teaching them the The detailed job description may be found at glbc.ca/presidential- available to be inter- work they do is also search. viewed for this story, Fifth in a series worship.” Interested candidates should submit their application materials to but a customer service He joined One [email protected]. representative said READ THE SERIES at christianchronicle. Kingdom in 2016 and 2021-2022 curricula org/post-pandemic-church/. became director in will be shipped in August. 2020. His wife and some of his six The timeframe for recovery varies staff members got COVID-19, but from ministry to ministry. all have made full recoveries. And Though 21st Century Christian no one was laid off, in part because 470 Glenelm Crescent, Waterloo, ON N2L 5C8, Canada (226) 507-5452 is a business, not a nonprofit, several donors long ago allowed the McInteer said it’s always been a organization to set up trusts to cover ministry. staff and overhead so that more than “We’ve tried to be pretty trans- 90 percent of donations go directly to Post Quarantine Church Forum parent with customers as far mission fields. as what we’ve gone through,” “We had one of our best fund- “Coming Together - Building Unity” McInteer said. “We intend to raising years in our history, which continue to do what we’re doing as was not something we expected,” long as the Lord lets us.” Lee said. “I think everybody was able This online Forum will provide practical, biblical advice on to empathize because we were going how churches can develop unity, direction, and outreach at a time A NEW LEVEL OF FLEXIBILITY through the same struggle together.” when our society and churches are struggling with cultural The pandemic required a new He and the other ministry leaders level of flexibility for One Kingdom, acknowledge their organizations divisiveness, increased tensions and conflicting priorities. Lee’s ministry at the White’s Ferry will look different. They hope to Road Church of Christ in West be more agile, more responsive to Healthcare. Politics. Race. Social Equity. Monroe, La.. circumstances and better prepared One Kingdom shifted its efforts to to achieve their missions. Faith. Worship. These and more have been flash points. disaster relief in 2020. Hurricanes Lee believes it will happen. The pandemic not only accentuated divisions but also made it more difficult to heal. and tornadoes, including twisters “We’re getting back to being on in the ministry’s own community, our toes instead of our heels.” Our panelists have helped their churches be more engaged with their communi- ties and more relevant to the questions being asked by their own members and Chronicle receives blessings in the midst of pandemic by people who decided church was not for them. I braced for the worst and prayed for the best. fill the funding gap and keep this newspaper going. As the pandemic set in, I knew The Christian Longtime supporters and new givers alike told us July 29, 2021 @ 8pm Eastern/5pm Pacific Chronicle would lose revenue since many of our that in the midst of the pandemic, the ministry of Register today at: www.Heritage21.org. advertisers buy space to promote events that had the Chronicle was a tremendous blessing. We recently to be canceled. Our advertising manager, Tonya entered a new fiscal year on solid financial footing. Patton, offered discounts so the ministries that I’m extremely thankful to our hardworking staff, advertise with us could keep their names — and our dedicated board and all of our readers who their needs — in front of our readers. blessed us during these troublesome times. An unexpected and incredible wave of generosity — Erik Tryggestad, president and CEO, Registration is free and additional resources are available. followed. Time and again, our donors stepped up to The Christian Chronicle Spring 2020 / Magnolia Messenger n 19

14 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AUGUST 2021

The Berean Children’s Home Looking for a is funded entirely through donations from individuals and churches but we are now seeking corporate sponsors to Mission-minded Person help us finance this operation. We are a registered 501 c(3) nonprofit organization under the Internal Revenue code BEREAN CHILDREN’S HOME and a registered charity in the state of Mississippi. Therefore, Chiefall donations Executive are tax deductible Officeras allowed by law. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Director: Andrew Redd 601-754-4138 Berean Children’s Home Email: [email protected] Office Phone: 601-823-5776 NEEDED 1180 Berea Tr SE Website: bereanhome.org Office Hours: Monday - Friday CONTACT: ANDREW REDD Bogue Chitto MS 39629 Facebook: Berean Children’s Home 8:30 am-4:30 pm Twitter: @bereanhome Fax: 601-823-5997 [email protected]

OurAre mission you looking at Berean for Children’s a ministry Home to islead to provide where children you can with help a loving nurture home deeply and to assist hurting girls (601) 754-4138 to restoredeach child relationships to mature spiritually, with God, intellectually, family, andemotionally, community? socially andCarpenter physically. Place is seek- “A FAMILY with a HEART” www.bereanhome.org ing a leader who will guide and manage our agency with the heart of a servant and a Christ-centered spirit.

To learn more about the responsibilities and qualifications of this position and our Potter agency, please visit: Children’s Home carpenterplace.org Resumes may be sent to: Bowling Green, Ky. [email protected] Minister of Family Services • Faithful member of the Church of Christ For more information: • Must have a degree in Social Services or a related field. Carpenter Place • Counseling experience preferred. 1501 North Meridian, Wichita, KS 67203 Supervision experience preferred. • Duties include: supervision and training of (316) 942-3221 direct-care staff, oversight of licensing issues, and other administrative duties. For information or job description, contact: Ralph Brewer, (270) 843-3038 or [email protected]

Minister of Annual Giving Assistant • Faithful member of the Church of Christ Immediate opening for: • Travel for up to 8 days at a time out of state on a regular basis Vice President of Development (fundraising experience required) • Physical ability to lift bins of 50-100 lbs. For information or job description, contact: Benefits Include: Salary, Retirement Plan, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, and Byron Henbest, (270) 843-3038 or School Tuition. [email protected] About the Organization: Mount Dora Christian Academy and Children’s Home has been serving children and families since 1945 and is affiliated with the churches of JOB OPENINGS Christ. Our beautiful 70-acre campus is in the heart of Central Florida. We invite qualified candidates to come join our successful ministry and help change young lives Pulpit Minister Youth Minister and give them hope for the future. Farmington Church of Christ, 10055 Church of Christ at East Side, 5701 E State Rt 564 S, Farmington, KY 42040, Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, TX 78721, Send Resume and letter of interest to: (270) 293-6276, [email protected]. (512) 804-6818, [email protected]. Hugoton Church of Christ, 212 West Westside Church of Christ, 524 Sowell Tim Deem 1st, Hugoton, KS 67951, (620) 544-5382, Ln, Texarkana, Texas 75501, (501) Vice President of Development [email protected]. 786-0112, [email protected]. [email protected] House Parents (352) 729-9015 Sunnybrook Children’s Home, 222 Sunnybrook Road, Ridgeland, Miss. 39157, (205) 218-5347, [email protected]. 301 West 13th Avenue, Mount Dora, Florida 32757 See christianchronicle.org/advertise to place your classified ad. 12 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE DECEMBER 2017

AUGUST 2021 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 15 CROATIA SPOTLIGHT CRIKVENICA — Members of Churches of Christ gathered in this coastal city in Central Europe for the 25th Caribbean lectures: Spiritual Renewal Conference. James Nored, director of the a screening success Next Generation for Christ video ministry, presented SANDYS PARISH, Bermuda — More lessons to the than 900 computers, iPads and Croatians and guests phones logged in for the Caribbean from Albania and Lectureship, an annual gathering Serbia — two nations of Churches of Christ that began in whose people fought Jamaica in 1970. This year’s lectures against each other were virtual due to the ongoing during the Kosovo COVID-19 pandemic. Lazar War of the 1990s. Since many families used the same “It was an over- device to watch, whelming experience to listen “attendance” for the to a Serbian person praying for lectureship likely Albanians, and Albanians praying for exceeded 1,000 — a Serbians as well,” Croatian minister greater number than Jura Lazar said. usually attend the in-person gatherings. CUBA “Give Thanks” was HAVANA — From across the Atlantic the theme, based on Bruno Ocean, a Scottish church appealed Colossians 3:15-17. for aid for a growing Church of Organizers “wanted to encourage a Christ in Cuba’s capital city. spirit of gratitude, especially in the “What started as a Bible study aftermath of the pandemic with its group in Havana’s Vedado neigh- massive toll on lives, health, jobs and borhood has grown into a thriving business,” said Thaddeus Bruno, congregation,” said Derek Brown, a interim chairman for the lectureship member of the Castlemilk Church PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK.COM/BAXTERINSTITUTE and minister for the Church of Christ of Christ in Glasgow. A former West End in Bermuda. member of the Cuban church now Joining hands before a shot in the arm Eight speakers shared messages worships with Castlemilk. As Victor Araya Campos waits to get his first dose of COVID-19 vaccine, he uses during the four-day event. The The Cuban church met in a the time to join hands and pray with others waiting for the vaccine. Campos, lectureship’s 50th anniversary cele- home and had to move to multiple a 62-year-old former TV reporter from Costa Rica, and his wife, Aura, are first- bration, originally scheduled for services to accommodate its year students at Baxter Institute. The ministry training school in Tegucigalpa, 2020, was moved to 2022. Organizers growing numbers, Brown said. The Honduras, prepares men and women to plant and serve Churches of Christ plan for an in-person gathering in church has raised $10,000 toward across the Spanish-speaking world. See villalobosyasociados.net. Kingston, Jamaica. the purchase of a building, and the Scottish congregation hopes to raise matching funds. Digital Technology.” The program evangelism,” said Malcolm Parsley, “Rejoice,” written by church For more information, contact focused on equipping African evan- a longtime missionary to this Asian member Jeon Sang-gil. Brown at [email protected]. gelists to use WEI’s online teaching nation. But it can’t stop House to Download the magazine at materials for outreach within Africa. House, Heart to Heart, a church- thechurch.kr/magazines. NIGERIA More than 100 people attended supported publication that Korean URUK OTONG — Evangelist Aniefiok the conference in person at Rhema Christians translate into their Akpan partnered with Christian Academy. A dozen more language and distribute among the World English logged onto Zoom to watch the Churches of Christ. Copies are Institute to host the lectures. Speakers from Nigeria sent “to the local churches, to the inaugural WEI-IDEA and the United States presented, elders and to some individuals who Virtual Nigerian including Tom Langley, president of showed interest,” Parsley said. A Lectureship. IDEA World English Institute. Akpan plans recent issue was dedicated to the stands for “Internet to continue the conference by holding topic of baptism and salvation. Digital Evangelism an online lecture each month. Korean Christians also produce a Africa.” The theme magazine. Christian happiness was Akpan was “Restoring the SOUTH KOREA the theme of a recent issue. THECHURCH.KR/MAGAZINES Evangelism Prowess of the Early SEOUL — The COVID-19 pandemic The issue features an original The lyrics to “Rejoice” by Jeon Sang- Christians Using the 21st Century “is blocking house-to-house visiting Korean-language worship song, gil include color-coded shape notes. 16 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AROUND THE WORLD AUGUST 2021 HAITI: ‘It spoke volumes to the neighborhood that we weren’t leaving’ FROM PAGE 3 In Chattanooga, Dr. Luckson Previl was in regular contact with team members — and their nervous parents back home. Previl, an optometrist who grew up in Cap-Haïtien, is mission director for the See Him Ministries. Previl said he was encouraged by the parents’ sense of peace and their confidence that God would take care of their kids. He was equally impressed by the team members who continued their mission work. So were the Haitians who worked with the team, Ray said. “They said that it spoke volumes to the neighborhood that we weren’t leaving,” she said, “that we were going right on with camp and that we weren’t afraid.”

DEATH, DISEASE AND DESIRE FOR PEACE Closer to Port-au-Prince, workers with Live Beyond, a church-sup- ported, nongovernmental organiza- tion that provides healthcare and nutrition, are safe but wary after the assassination, said Dr. David PHOTO PROVIDED BY PATRICK RUSSELL Vanderpool, a Nashville, Tenn., From the roof of the See Him Minisistries facility near Cap-Haïtien, the Tennessee mission team watches the sun set. trauma surgeon and founder of the ministry. Live Beyond’s facility is in said Ken Bever, founder and president a missed connecting flight in Fort trating,” team member Lauren Van Thomazeau, about 20 miles east of of Hope for Haiti’s Children, an Ohio- Lauderdale, Fla., Luckson said. Eaton wrote in a report posted just the capital — a journey that takes based, church-supported nonprofit For that, he rejoices. Yet he feels before she returned to the U.S. “There more than an hour on Haiti’s roads. that operates orphanages and 10 a pervasive sense of sadness as he is still so much need in Haiti — spiritu- “Many churches and organiza- Christian schools in southern Haiti. considers this latest act of political ally, physically and emotionally. tions have struggled to care for The ministry plans, funds permit- violence in his homeland — one more “It is hard to hope that things will their people in these trying times,” ting, to provide meals for 3,000 at-risk chapter in a long history of turmoil one day be different or better for Vanderpool said. “In children this summer, and cyclical poverty. these kids and their families and the past three years, Bever said, and is “Frankly, I am these communities. It is disheart- our organization has continuing with plans frustrated and tired of ening to yet again see corrup- had our base manager to host 288 teens for praying for the same tion, fear and political instability murdered outside our Christian Leadership thing over and over discourage my Haitian friends.” gates, a second base Camps at its Hope with no real answers Nonetheless, the U.S. Christians manager and business Center in Thomazeau. for Haiti,” Previl said. said they were overwhelmed by the manager kidnapped “We are praying for a “This probably is not love and support they saw in the and tortured for Vanderpool Bever peaceful resolution to the most Christian Previl lives of those they came to serve. five days, dozens of all the political turmoil thing to say, but it is “The older ones are always looking robberies, several staff members’ and gang violence that has permeated the state that I am in right now.” out for the young kids,” wrote team children kidnapped and the assault of the country this past year,” Bever said. As he speaks with the Haitian member Emery Gravitt. “Their bond one of our American team members. “We pray that the new government workers at See Him Ministries, “I can is so strong, and they are always “Death and disease seem to stand that emerges can re-establish law and sense that their hearts are broken,” happy, even with their circumstances. on every corner, and violence order, that peace can prevail and our Previl said, “but they are not about to We play a ton of soccer and the kids keeps everyone on edge. But as teens can safely attend camp.” give up. … My bold prayer is for God love it; that’s all they want to do. I Christians, we fear only one thing. to raise among the Haitian people have never seen this kind of happi- We fear God Almighty. With him on ‘PRAYING THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER’ a group of leaders that will lead the ness before, and it’s an unbelievable our side, what can man do to us?” Back in Cap-Haïtien, Clear Creek country toward restoration.” thing to witness.” Protests in the capital have shut team members finished their summer For the mission team, the week down street markets and businesses. camp and returned to the U.S. safely, was filled with “beauty and answered FIND LINKS to contribute to Haiti ministries at Food and fuel are becoming scarce, with no disruptions — except for prayer,” but it also “felt heavy and frus- christianchronicle.org/haiti2021. AUGUST 2021 AROUND THE WORLD THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 17 ‘Bless us through our enemies’ IN TROUBLED WEST AFRICA, the Bible’s words of comfort for captives are alarmingly relevant.

ABA, Nigeria e pray that you will bless us through our enemies, as we see you doing so often in Scripture.” ‘WHearing this prayer stirred my heart, especially considering the context. First, this prayer was offered in Nigeria, a country plagued by increasing violence in general and religious persecution in particular. Second, this prayer was offered during a church service in Nigeria, immediately following announce- ments — announcements that were unlike anything I’ve heard at the close of church services back home. A young man stood up and reported that a brother in Christ at a nearby congregation had been snatched from his home by the Nigerian army, accused of being part of the Biafran insurgency, which is growing in the southeast of Nigeria — more than 50 years after KEVIN LINDERMAN the terrible Biafran War. A Church of Christ worships in southeastern Nigeria while an armed guard stands at the back of the auditorium. Church leaders went to the army commander, attempting to vouch for Children were dressed in their most 70,000 Christians have been killed inspiring and necessary. Christ has their brother’s nonviolent character, beautiful clothing. Smiles were the in Nigeria in the last decade, and come to set us free from all of life’s but they were dismissed, unable to default facial expression. the inaction of the government and struggles! Praise be to him! see him, hear from him or No one seemed in a rush the inability of the army and police But for many of our brothers and even confirm that he was Voices to leave the stifling-hot to respond promptly to attacks sisters around the world, there is still alive. room, even though the inter- threaten the stability of Africa’s no interpretive leap necessary when In his prayer, the young mittent electricity caused the most populous country, home to 201 they read these Scriptures. They are man moved on to the nine fans to cut off repeatedly. million souls. literally facing bondage. Captivity. girls from Churches of At the back door stood a You would not sense it during the And they are living in the presence Christ in northern Nigeria Nigerian army special forces joy-filled assembly of the saints, but of their enemies. They are even who were kidnapped by officer. He was assigned by our brothers and sisters in Nigeria so bold, in the presence of their the militant Muslim group the local army commander are despairing unlike anywhere else enemies, to pray that God will bless called Boko Haram six for my protection in these in the world. them through these very enemies. years ago. They are still Kevin Linderman unstable times. I think about my recent study of The situation in Nigeria seems to captives and likely were I wondered how protected the Old Testament prophet Isaiah. be getting worse, but this simple forced into marriages to these the rest of the congregation felt The language of captivity and release prayer illustrates that faith in Christ terrorists, or worse. I got the sense with his presence. The local army permeates his prophecies, many of is not shackled here. It will continue that this congregation (and many regiment, which has somehow fully which foretell the life and ministry to set people free — friend and others) pray for these girls each displaced the local police force, is of Christ. So many of our modern enemy alike. week. That’s more than 300 worship just a mile down the road. Its leader worship songs talk about release, services, 300 prayers. is an officer from northern Nigeria, about freedom, about chains being KEVIN LINDERMAN is executive director of They haven’t forgotten. where Christians endure violence broken, about being set free. African Christian Hospitals/International Health And they pray for God to “bless us and persecution from militant These Scriptures and these songs Care Foundation, a nonprofit associated with through our enemies.” groups, including Boko Haram. have blessed me greatly. The meta- Churches of Christ that works with Christian We worshiped in a simple church International Christian Concern phorical application to the struggles hospitals and health outreach programs in Nigeria, building, full of vibrant song. estimates that between 50,000 and that we face in life are beautiful, Ghana and Tanzania. See ihcf.net. 18 AUGUST 2021 AUGUST 2021 Currents THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 19 Searching teens find spiritual depth CAMPERS ARE ENCOURAGED and challenged in their faith as they return to summer camp in Oregon. YAMHILL, Ore. friends. And after a year with limited should know the way by now. opportunities for socialization, I’ve been going to Camp Yamhill campers were eager to spend time since third grade. Still, I managed together. to miss a turn as I drove out to Much of that fellowship took place Iserve as a counselor. I wish I could during games like “Smash,” which blame it on the winding roads or involves forcefully spiking a volley- distraction by the scenery. Alas, I’m ball at your friends. Perfect for a just directionally summer afternoon! Features challenged. More importantly, campers used The route wends free time to grow in their faith. through rolling hills “We had teenagers who were and sloping farmland continuing their discussions on the before bringing you lessons during free time,” Haney to a gravel road that said. “It was cool to watch the spiri- leads to the camp, 45 tual aspect of camp carry into the miles southwest of ‘fun times’ of camp. Portland. “It went surprisingly well,” he Makyra Williamson The camp sits on added. “You’re always expecting 240 acres of wood- to get pushback when you change land on the Yamhill River, and it has Two campers share a Bible as they follow along with a daily lesson. things that have been set in stone operated as a youth camp since 1957. for 20 years, but we didn’t get any It is under the oversight of a board “I have noticed a trend of kids campers attend morning praise, pushback at all.” made up of members of Churches of wanting more depth,” Mears said, followed by the lesson. Instead, small groups had deeper Christ in the Pacific Northwest. referring to their yearning for spiri- Under normal circumstances, discussions, and teens studied the Camp Yamhill is an oasis of sorts, tual knowledge. “We have them for worship and other group events Bible during free time. I heard a place where you can experience a week, so we can teach them a lot would be indoors, but because of campers having good conversations the beauty of creation without and give them direction for when COVID-19 restrictions, they were and encouraging each other in their distraction. And after a year without they leave camp as well.” moved outdoors so walks with Christ. summer camp, teens were ready for The camp theme was “The Race everyone could be One camper told that reprieve, buzzing with excite- of Your Life.” (Mears wanted to together. me that her favorite ment as they checked in for the call it “Run for Your Life,” but that My sister Evania, part of the day was recent high school session. was vetoed, much to the disap- 15, attended camp quiet time — she Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, pointment of the teens.) Lessons this year, and she could sit and study Camp Yamhill did not hold summer centered on Christian living and later told me she for hours. sessions last year. That forced pause, running the race of faith. appreciated that “They gave up combined with a Camp starts each the lessons were free time to talk change in leadership, morning with quiet appropriate for about deep spiritual gave the opportunity time. Teens spread people in different questions they had, for a fresh start. out in complete stages of their PHOTOS BY SAM MEARS or to read their The new high silence, finding an walk with Christ. A camper takes notes during early Bible or to pray, and school camp direc- isolated place to I agree with her. morning quiet time at Yamhill. we’ve never seen tors are Sam Mears, sit and spend time I’m nine years that before,” Mears youth minister for the with God. There are older than she is, but we were both said. “They really responded well to Southwest Church plenty of options — challenged and encouraged by the changing the direction of camp and Mears Haney of Christ in Tigard, the field, at the base conversations and lessons at camp. to making it deeper.” Ore., and Steve Haney, associate of a tree or by the river banks. The Praise time, lectures and small As for me, I can’t wait to take a minister for the Oregon City Church air is still cool, dew is on the grass, groups were held in the mornings wrong turn on the way to camp of Christ. They took advantage of the and every human sound is hushed. and evenings, and afternoons were next year. off year to change the way that camp All you can hear is the burbling of devoted to structured games and is structured, from the daily schedule the river, the singing of birds and flexible free time. MAKYRA WILLIAMSON is an intern for The to the way lessons are delivered. the turning pages as campers read In between a flour bomb war, the Christian Chronicle. A member of the Southwest The purpose was to infuse a new the Bible. challenge course, water hikes and Church of Christ in Tigard, Ore., she is a 2019 level of depth into the camp. After quiet time and breakfast, more, teens had plenty of time with graduate of Harding University in Searcy, Ark. 20 AUGUST 2021 CURRENTS THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 21

PHOTOS BY TAYLOR DOVE Junior campers, teens and young adults enjoy outdoor activities — including a watermelon toss, capture the flag and scavenger hunts— during Carolina Bible Camp, which resumed summer sessions this year. Over the weeks, campers hear Bible messages, sing during devotionals and study God’s word, resulting in baptisms. A place to grow and learn about Jesus AFTER A YEAR with no camp, North Carolina tradition returns with rock, paper, scissors, devotionals and lots of enthusiasm.

BY CHLOÉ FRANKLIN | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE begin with breakfast in the dining just two campers remained. mother, Ryan Lancaster, and cabin- belong to the American Camp to spend more time than normal with hall, followed by Bible class. In the end, it all came down to a rock, mates — huddled near the pool to Association served close to 26 million each camper. MOCKSVILLE, N.C. On a recent weekday, Abby Dailey, paper, scissors contest. Kids and adults witness her immersion. school-aged children with about All campers are welcome at Carolina long dirt road leads to the a camper-turned-counselor from encircled the pair as several rounds Some wiped tears of joy as she 1.2 million seasonal counselors, the Bible Camp whether they come from heart of Carolina Bible Camp, a Denver, N.C., taught junior campers were played, shouting “Rock, paper, emerged from the water. group’s president and CEO, Tom a Church of Christ background or not. 65-year summer tradition asso- in a small meeting area in the woods. scissors, shoot!” until one finally won. “I decided to get baptized at CBC,” Rosenberg, told National Public In addition to North Carolina, campers ciated with Churches of Christ. Sunlight poked through the trees. After lunch and rest time, kids Tobi said, “because I have been going Radio. But in 2020, only 18 percent come from Virginia, South Carolina AThe blazing North Carolina sun Dailey asked her campers to name enjoyed a few hours of free time at there since I was a little kid and have of overnight camps and 60 percent of and Tennessee. In the past, a group of shines down on the 68 acres where the fruit of the Spirit. the swimming pool, playground and so many amazing friends that are day camps were operational. campers even came all the way from 774 young people will gather for camp “Oranges! Apples!” basketball and volleyball courts. The there and that I wanted to be there for This year, the majority of camps are South Korea. over seven weeks. they replied before she fun included playing gaga ball — me getting baptized.” back but on a reduced scale to func- The first Carolina Bible Camp CHLOÉ FRANKLIN Forced to cancel last year because taught about biblical which is glorified dodgeball in a pit. Later in the week, two more campers tion safely amid the pandemic. campers met in the basement of Campers engage in a spirited round of gaga ball at Carolina Bible Camp. of the COVID-19 pandemic, the camp concepts such as love, Indoors, campers tie-dyed and — Jasmine Paz, 13, who attends Carolina Bible Camp has imple- the Broad Street Church of Christ returned this summer at half capacity, joy and peace. painted in the craft room where the Northview Church of Christ in mented pre-screenings, a form for in Statesville, N.C., in 1956. A year director of Carolina Bible Camp’s At the end of the week, Carlos walked executive director Randal Burton said. Even if their answers hundreds of multi-colored handprints Statesville, N.C., and Leah Kate Holland, adults and parents to sign and initial later, 125 young people gathered for week seven, has seen how camp up to King, crying. Carlos hugged Counselor Taylor Dove, 26, welcomed weren’t always correct, cover the walls. And, during free time, 12, who attends Lifepointe Church in health screenings upon arrival. It’s the first overnight camp at Camp changes kids. He recalled a boy King and said, “I love you, Mr. Andy.” the reunion with old camp friends and Dove campers jumped out of campers made several visits to the Fort Mill, S.C. — were baptized. also encouraging volunteer staff to Thunderbird in Lake Wylie, S.C., just named Carlos, who came to camp King said he’s unsure where Carlos is the chance to make new ones. their wooden seats to canteen where they could buy tasty As the air cooled, the sunset get vaccinated. south of Charlotte, N.C. several years ago with a friend. now, but for one week at Carolina Bible “It’s a place where kids get to expe- answer questions and raced to be the treats and drinks. revealing a night sky, everyone gath- Before the pandemic, Carolina From 1962 to 1991, CBC moved Carlos was worldly, disrespectful, Camp, he was able to feel love. rience God’s love in a very tangible first to find the Bible passages. Dinner and an evening lesson rounded ered on the amphitheater’s wooden Bible Camp drew 1,227 participants six times before purchasing the defiant and didn’t have much of a King said Carolina Bible Camp way,” said Dove, a member of the After Bible class, kids lined up on a out the day, and on this particular rows for the “campers of the day” to its seven weekly sessions in 2019, land it now occupies just outside of family, King said. While at camp, he means everything to him because the nearby Jericho Church of Christ. sand volleyball court for a game they summer evening, there was a baptism. announcement and a devotional. according to Burton. Mocksville. The camp held its first almost purposefully hit King. staff and leaders can share the Gospel “Some kids don’t even know anything call “water balloon battleship.” The Tobi Lancaster, 14, who attends the At the front, the illuminated stage Although disappointed to see the sessions at the new location in 1992. King and Kirk Sams, Carolina Bible with the kids and make lifelong about God. … I think for them to not staff crowded around the perimeter, Kannapolis Church of Christ in North was decorated to reflect the camp numbers drop, Andy King, a longtime Camp’s first-week director for more relationships. just hear about his words but to actu- yelling and cheering as teams threw Carolina, began attending camp as a theme: “Connected.” camp leader and board member, said THE DIFFERENCE THAT CAMP MAKES than 30 years, talked with the boy about “It’s not the place,” King said. “It ally see it played out is so important.” carefully chosen water balloons over pre-camper. She was baptized in the the change did not impact the “overall King, an elder over the youth his behavior. But every time King saw is the opportunity — to shut out the Mornings at the Christian camp, the net, aiming at opponents. Once camp pool by her dad, John Lancaster. AFTER A YEAR WITH NO CAMP, IT’S BACK atmosphere of camp.” In fact, he said, ministry at the Lake Norman Church Carlos that week, he shook the boy’s world, to just focus on serving God. about 60 miles north of Charlotte, struck, players were eliminated until Fellow believers — including Tobi’s Before COVID-19, camps that the lower numbers allowed the staff of Christ in Huntersville, N.C., and hand and told him he loved him. And that’s what camp’s about.” 22 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AUGUST 2021

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learn more at mathetis.org AUGUST 2021 Dialogue THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 23 To affirm or not? That is the question AS SAME-SEX MARRIAGE gains increasing societal acceptance, how should Christians respond?

BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE been fascinated and appalled by preachers and professors who have ifteen years ago, Sally Gary changed their stances started a national ministry because a family called CenterPeace. member of theirs or The goal, as Gary shared at someone they were events and seminars across the close to chose to FU.S., was to help Churches of Christ openly begin prac- show love to the LGBTQ community. ticing homosexu- Gary, who grew up in the Tenth ality. I do not believe and Broad Church of Christ in it is loving to give up Woodell Wichita Falls, Texas, detailed clear, biblical posi- her personal journey in her 2013 tions on issues like homosexual memoir “Loves God, Likes Girls.” practice because we want to make For most of her life, the Abilene the Bible easier to accept for the Christian University graduate did masses, or, in some cases, our own not challenge traditional Christian sons or daughters.” — Wes Woodell, beliefs on marriage. “I just told my lead evangelist for The Crossings, a Church of Christ story of how hard it is to grow up in in Collinsville, Ill. church, wanting to be faithful, when nobody would talk about this differ- VIDEO SCREENSHOT “I think Christians need to teach ence in sexuality,” she said. Sally Gary, founder of the CenterPeace ministry, speaks at the E3 Conference the truth in love. I personally believe But last fall, Gary, 59, revealed in Dallas, where she announced she had become fully affirming. that God created marriage as a place that her understanding of the Bible to form a family that passes faith had changed. During a virtual age 24, Hammond lived an active “This is a challenging one for me. and God’s love and truth from one CenterPeace conference hosted gay lifestyle. Now 58 and married I believe that we should show love generation to the next. I believe he by the Highland Oaks Church of to a woman, he’s disappointed by toward everyone, regardless of their designed the nature of family for chil- Christ, Gary’s home congregation in CenterPeace’s new direction. sexual orientation. dren to have a biological mom and Dallas, she announced that she had Watch the panel at facebook. I personally know dad who love them and protect them moved to a fully affirming position in com/christianchronicle. and love those (in to lead them whenever possible. I support of same-sex marriage. ••• the LGBTQ commu- believe his structure around sexu- She also said she planned to marry In a survey, the Chronicle asked: nity) who seem to ality is to make the act between a her girlfriend, Karen Keen. The two “What should be the Christian be truer to the Word man and woman sacred and some- exchanged vows in December. Gary’s response to the growing acceptance than those who are thing to be shared only between updated memoir, “Affirming,” was of same-sex marriage in society and not. And if we as a a husband and a wife to make it released in February. in some religious communities?” church body continue extraordinary — something shared Johnson To help understand Gary’s These are some of the responses: to overlook racism, with only that person and always that perspective, The Christian adultery, premarital sex, domestic person. ... The brokenness of this Chronicle’s Editorial Board will inter- “We get nowhere by throwing violence and other issues, I’m not world has interrupted God’s design view her in a Facebook Live event at verbal punches or beating people sure this is the issue we need to in many ways. However, I think God 4 p.m. Eastern/3 p.m. over the head with a address first. However, our response wants it to be a reality as often as it Central on Monday, Bible. However, we should be rooted in love and the can be possible and especially for Aug. 2. cannot afford to avoid Word.” — Verlon Johnson, member of the those who follow Jesus. Also featured will discussing the biblical Park Forest Church of Christ in Matteson, Ill. “That being said, I also believe be Guy Hammond, view on this or any that just as it is essential to remain executive director and topic. We need to be “In the Scriptures, disciples are committed to a godly perspective, founder of Strength in sensitive to those who commanded to disassociate with we must also remain dedicated to Weakness Ministries. do not agree with us those who claim to be brothers or a genuine love and care for others That ministry, which while maintaining our sisters yet live in blatantly unre- with opposing viewpoints on the Hammond McCurley is non-affirming, aims conviction for what pentant sin (1 Corinthians 5:9-12). issue. I think it is especially impor- to bridge the gap between Christians God’s word teaches.” — Chris McCurley, I do not believe the Scriptures are tant to listen to the viewpoints of and the LGBTQ community. preaching minister for the Oldham Lane Church of unclear that homosexual prac- those who have given their lives to Until becoming a Christian at Christ in Abilene, Texas tice falls into that category. I have See SAME-SEX, Page 24 24 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE DIALOGUE AUGUST 2021 SAME-SEX: How should Christians respond?

FROM PAGE 23 against God’s will, we need to be Jesus but have had different expe- very loving and gentle in how we riences and see things differently. deal with people who are involved I believe that Christians like Sally in that lifestyle. I am personally on a Gary and others who see a path that “journey” with this subject. I initially We want to express sincere gratitude to these individuals who joins authentic Christianity and same- held to the traditional ‘it’s a sin’ have committed themselves to supporting The Christian sex marriage need to have our atten- thinking, but as I’ve gotten older, my Chronicle’s mission to inform, inspire and connect Churches of tion and respect. Those Christians stance has softened. I am still jour- Christ, using the “Keepers of the Chronicle” pledge program. have wrestled with neying and studying this topic from a this.” — Alvin K. Poole, ALABAMA: Mr. and Mrs. Dewey Barber, Mrs. Peggin M. Holmes, Jueetta S. perspective that those elder of the Bammel Church of Lee,Mr. and Mrs. Ted Norton, C. A. Roley, Thom Scott, Dianne Strickland, Tom of us who have not Christ in Houston and Anita Vajentic, and Mr. John Wakefield. ALASKA: Mr. Allen Houtz and Becky struggled can never Schlosser. ARIZONA: Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Barber, Jr., Elaine Curtis, Mr. and Mrs. imagine. Rather than “With love! If they Donald Huffman, Ms. Jacqueline Morue, and Mr. Billy Spear. ARKANSAS: Mr. and condemn or judge, have committed Mrs. Pat Bell, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Blankenship, Weldon and Lisa Chism, Mr. Edgar we should love them themselves to each and listen to them other and to the Lord Cole, June Cox, Dottie Cullum, Mrs. R. A. Dickson, Mr. Frank Foster, Ms. Eliza- Tripp Poole beth Goyne, Dr. and Mrs. Wesley Hamilton, Mr. Marvin Higginbottom, Mrs. Karan whether we agree and are trying their Hughes, Mr. and Mrs. Jimmie Jones, Mr. and Mrs. Barry Krebs, Mrs. Frances Lamb, or not. Only God will determine the best in this broken world to live like Nancy Marshell, Mr. and Mrs. Ron Phillips, Mr. Greg Revels, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence eternal position of any of us, and Jesus, what more do you want from Richmond, Mr. and Mrs. Kent Rollmann, Mrs. Mary Tippen, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence he instructs us (Romans 14:4) to them?” — Zack Smith, who attends a Church Wilson, and Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Young. CALIFORNIA: Anonymous (1), Mr. and refrain from ‘judging someone else’s of Christ in Colorado Mrs. Ken Ary, Mr. and Mrs. James Clark, Ms. Lucia Dean, Mrs. Mary Louise Fields, servant,’ saying ‘to his own master Mrs. Vivian Greer, Bernice Hadnot, Mr. and Mrs. Gary Hawley, Lemerce Holley, he stands or falls and he will stand, “Speak truth in love. Whenever Ms. Velma Lowe, Mr. and Mrs. Jake Lynch, Elaine Pannell, Dr. and Mrs. Christopher for the Lord is able to make him possible, maintain friendships with Quinn, Mr. and Mrs. Jay Shackelford, Mr. and Mrs. Jene Spivey, Phyllis Tackett, and stand.’ Even where we disagree, we those in the world, serve others, Remedios Tankersley. COLORADO: Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Hendrick and Mr. and must do so from a perspective of love be generous even to enemies, but Mrs. Rod Pringle. CONNECTICUT: Mrs. Kim Depanfilis and Mrs. Ruth Plumb. and unity.” — Tim Tripp, minister for the West do not compromise Scriptural truth DELAWARE: Mr. and Mrs. Talbert Gwynn. FLORIDA: Delores Belle, Mr. Ray Side Church of Christ in Russellville, Ark. for the sake of keeping a relation- Butts, James Franklin, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Johnson, Jacquelyn N. Primus, Ms. Linda ship. Jesus warned us that following Smock, Alfronia Stocker, and Mrs. Helen Thomas. GEORGIA: Anonymous (1), Mr. “Preach Jesus and him crucified. him may even split our families Thomas Arnold, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. James Dobbs, Barbara Hardie, Dr. and Mrs. Alan Same-sex marriage is a product of (Matthew 10:32-39), but it seems Henderson, Mr. Ernest Holsendolph, Mr. and Mrs. Victor Reed, Deloris Sermons, Mr. light preaching on the nature of many Christians are choosing their and Mrs. Lewis Stewart, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Tincher, Argean Vokes, Virgil & Vera Jesus’ work in saving humanity from kids or friends or position or popu- Wilkerson, and Mrs. Gloria Winters. IDAHO: Mr. and Mrs. Larry Johnson. ILLI- sin, death and hell.” — Jay Kelley, larity over biblical morality.” — Scott NOIS: Mr. and Mrs. Alan Bain, Charlean Harris, Mr. and Mrs. James Lankford, Mr. minister for the Austin Street Church of Christ in Franks, preaching minister for the Edgemere and Mrs. Gene Muehring, Mr. and Mrs. Russell Rice, Jr., and Mr. and Mrs. Wendell Levelland, Texas Church of Christ in Wichita Falls, Texas Wardell. INDIANA: Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Bailey, Mary Crooms, Mr. and Mrs. Leland LeMaster, Mr. and Mrs. David Mathews, Mr. Hal Strahm, and Mr. and Mrs. Glenn “The Christian response? It should “Gender and sexual orienta- Wilson. IOWA: West Side Church of Christ. KANSAS: Anonymous (1), Ms. Rosalee be what the Bible teaches. Period. tion are not the same as sexual Armstrong, Mr. and Mrs. Brad Blackburn, Jo Ann Duncan, Charlene Koch, Mr. and Love, not hate. Teaching right from behavior, and too many Christians Mrs. Dean Nelsen, Mr. and Mrs. John Van Winkle, and Ms. Shirley Wunderlich. wrong. Loving a sinner isn’t hating incorrectly equate the two. I want KENTUCKY: Mr. Rob O’Lynn, Mr. and Mrs. Barry Reneau, and Mr. and Mrs. Rich- them.” — Teresa Lewis, member of the every individual to be in a loving, ard Taylor, Jr. LOUISIANA: Ms. Ava Cleveland, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Flowers, Sue Mannford Church of Christ in Oklahoma supportive relationship if they so Kendrick, and Delores Sidders. MAINE: Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Hios and Brian and choose with an ethic of mutual Trudy Winslow. MARYLAND: Alice Gene Meacham and Diane Threat. MICHI- “Listen, listen, listen. We are often respect and concern regardless GAN: Dorothy Jackson, Franklin and Sue Murphy, Evelyn Powell, Tommie Slaugh- way too quick to speak and much of gender or identity. If we abdi- ter, and Dorothy Thomas. MINNESOTA: Mr. and Mrs. David May, Sr. and Mr. too slow to listen. Listening doesn’t cate teaching about respectful and Albert J. Ogren. MISSISSIPPI: Mrs. Anne Bailey, Sarah Carranza, Anthony and Julia necessitate agreeing, but some- ethical romantic relationships for Juliano, Mr. Herman Martin, Mr. and Mrs. Dickie Rayborn, and Mr. and Mrs. Richard body who never listens will never our LGBTQ youth, what choice do Sims. MISSOURI: Mr. and Mrs. Donald Cupps, Lester Dickey, Jr., Mr. Rod Eaton, learn another perspective, not the they have but to seek those answers Kimberling City Church of Christ, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Snowbarger, Mr. and Mrs. full gamut of the conversation. After elsewhere?”— Dara Tinius, member of The Charles Todd, and Mr. and Mrs. Loyd Waite.MONTANA: Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Lair and you listen, lead with relationship and Springs Church of Christ in Edmond, Okla. Joan Lundy. NEBRASKA: Mr. and Mrs. Reed Munsell. NEVADA: Mrs. Debbie grace because that is how you want Bennett. NEW JERSEY: Mrs. Debbie Bennett and Cora Harper. NEW MEXICO: to be treated by others.” — Joshua “This is a sin like any other. Mr. Jimmy Neatherlin and Mr. and Mrs. Claude Schleyer. NEW YORK: Bethpage Parrish, minister for the Lake Merced Church of How do we treat haters, gossipers, Church of Christ, Olivia Butts, Jerrell and Fern Hill, Katie Randle, and Mr. Amos Christ in San Francisco shopaholics, alcoholics, judgers, “Tim” Sanford. NORTH CAROLINA: Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hummel, Mr. and Mrs. meanies?” — Michele Sweeten, member Dave Olson, and Elliott Thompson. NORTH DAKOTA: Mr. and Mrs. Gary Kline. “I feel like we should be loving of the Southern Hills Church of Christ in Buda, Continued on Page 25 to all people. If we see that it is Texas AUGUST 2021 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 25

OHIO: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Amundson, Barbara Colvin, Mr. Robert Hammond, Mr. Henry Lakes, CALENDAR Sandra Lawrence, Carolyn Malone, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Moore, Mrs. Lola Pitney, Mrs. Billie Sandlin, Mrs. Darlene R. Short, and Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Thorne. OKLAHOMA: Ashlyn Ander- son, Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Antwine, Mrs. William Austin, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Baggett, Danny Boyd, July 13-Aug. 5 Crusade for Christ. Dr. and Mrs. George Bridges, Mrs. Betty Bridwell, Marcia Burnett, Mrs. Shirley Cassity, Chandler “That We Might Be One.” Detroit, Road Church of Christ, Ms. Juanita Cheney, Mrs. Shirley Cooley, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Edwards, Mich. See churchofchristcrusade.org. Mrs. Shirlie Ellis, Mr. and Mrs. Gerd Fecht, Mrs. Marcheta Felts, Mrs. Betty Fly, Mr. Connie Fults, Sept. 9-10 New Day Conference. Mr. and Mrs. Royce Gambill, Mrs. Corky Graham, Randy and Jennifer Gray, Mr. and Mrs. Terry Hale, Mr. Dwight Herron, Mr. and Making Disciples. North Boulevard Mrs. Everett Hodges, Mr. and Mrs. Earle Hoover, Mrs. Radell Jean, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Jordan, Mr. and Mrs. Brice Kelley, Mr. and Church of Christ. Murfreesboro, Mrs. John Kerley, LaDanta Kowis, Gordon and Paula Leaman, Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Liticker, Mrs. Wanda Lutz, Mr. and Mrs. Quinton Tenn. Onsite and online. See Martin, Mr. and Mrs. Danny Mason, Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Mitchell, Mr. and Mrs. Booker Murphy, Mr. and Mrs. Burton Parker, Carrie newdayresources.org. Roberson, Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Roberts, Mrs. Billye Mae Sayers, Mr. and Mrs. Pat Sheehan, Mr. and Mrs. William Smith, Mr. and Mrs. Sept. 26-29 Harding Lectureship. Ron Stangeland, Mrs. Betty Lou Stephenson, Carroll Taylor, Charlotte Taylor, Ava Tidwell, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Towers, Ms. Gahla “Invincible! Courageous Faith in Towery, Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Tyler, Ms. Shirley Venable, Lori Walle, Mrs. Fred Ward, Mr. and Mrs. Keith Ward, Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Troubled Times.” Searcy, Ark. See Watson, Mr. and Mrs. Rickey Webb, Karen White, Mr. and Mrs. Don Winklepleck, and Mr. and Mrs. Don Witten. OREGON: Mr. and harding.edu/lectureship. Mrs. Mark Easley, Betty Hollister, Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Housley, Mr. and Mrs. William McCaughan, Mr. and Mrs. Billy Mustin, Ar- Oct. 9 Greater Houston Church leen Norton Barnett, and Judith Outlaw. PENNSYLVANIA: Mrs. Linda Archer, Mr. Jim Bailey, Mr. and Mrs. James Robison, and Mr. Leadership Workshop. Contact and Mrs. David Smith. SOUTH CAROLINA: Alice Goodman, Nell Lindsey, Ms. Margie Lockhart, and Beatrice McGirth. SOUTH [email protected] or call DAKOTA: Mr. and Mrs. Dwayne Vig. TENNESSEE: Anonymous (1), Mr. and Mrs. Charles Baugh, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Carruth, (281) 599-9914. Louise Clites, Mr. and Mrs. Ron Cole, Dennis Crowder, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Flatt, Mr. Tom Fortner, Mr. and Mrs. Jarrell Gibbs, Mrs. Sue Oct. 11-14 Abundant Living Harvill, Mr. Clarence Hibbs, Cheryl Huff, Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Ingold, Jeanette Jackson, Mrs. Pat Jackson, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Johnson, Retreat. Branson, Mo. See Mr. and Mrs. Mott Jones, Mr. and Mrs. James Knight, Mary Nelle Kreidel, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Lambert, Mr. and Mrs. John Law, abundantlivingseniors.com or call Graham McGill, Mr. Larry McKenzie, Mr. and Mrs. Barry Mitchell, Carroll D. Moore, Dr. Al Morris, Mr. and Mrs. James Netherland, (501) 279-4055. Carolyn Ridley, Ed and Anne Ritchie, Mr. Charles Robertson, Dr. and Mrs. Ralph Samples, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Shannon, Mr. and Mrs. Oct. 24 Greater Houston Edward Short, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Simpson, Mr. and Mrs. Yogie Spears, Mr. and Mrs. Donald Taylor, Mrs. Barbara Thrasher, Mr. Jim Sunday evening Campaign for White, Mr. and Mrs. Roy White, and Mrs. Montez Wilson. TEXAS: Mr. and Mrs. Brent Adams, Jeff and Karrie Adams, Mr. and Mrs. Christ service. Contact bbaugh@ Robert Anderson, Dr. and Mrs. John Bailey, Mr. and Mrs. Brett Baker, Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Baker, Ms. Shirley Banner, Lori Bellows, baughengrs.com or call (281) Mr. and Mrs. Ferres Bender, Mr. and Mrs. Jim Boles, Mr. and Mrs. Ray Boyd, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Bradford, Dessie Bradley, Chris 599-9914. Brosey, Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Cady, Dennis and Susan Cady, Sherry Calloway, JoAnn Carter, Betty Colburn, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Nov. 5-7 24th Annual Cold Cole, Mr. and Mrs. Lee Coleman, Mrs. Sandy Colvin, Dr. and Mrs. Kent Comolli, Martha Daniel, Mr. David Daniels, Dr. Jerry Dren- Harbor Lectureship. Mechanicsville, nan, Dr. Eileen Emch, Mr. Wil Engle, Mr. and Mrs. H. L. Farrell, Mrs. Ray C. Fitts, Mr. and Mrs. Jamie Fox, Mr. and Mrs. Don Gar- Va. See coldharborroadcoc.org or call rison, Mr. and Mrs. Ivory Haynes, Mrs. Alice Henry, Mrs. T. A. Hicks, Mr. and Mrs. Alton Hollingsworth, Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Houchin, (804) 746-8224. Mr. and Mrs. Coy Hunt, Mrs. Fleta Hunt, Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Keiser, Tracy and Mary Kemp, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Kiefer, Dianne Lewis, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Massey, Mrs. Mable McAdams, Mickey and Joan McKandles. Dr. and Mrs. FULL CALENDAR: christianchronicle.org Wade McLeod, Mr. and Mrs. Rick Medford, Mr. and Mrs. Vic Mestan, Ms. Nancy Miller, Mr. and Mrs. Dale Monroe, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Monroe, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Moore, Inez Morrison, Bert and Glenda Niccum, Mr. and Mrs. John Norman, Mr. and Mrs. A. C. Oliver, Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Organ, Mr. and Mrs. Perry Pace, Mr. Ted Paddack, Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Pardue, Mrs. Elaine Pate, Mr. Leonard Pat- terson, II, Mr. and Mrs. Mierlan Payne, Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Perry, Mrs. Eloise Pettit, Mr. and Mrs. Don Phillips, Patricia Phipps, Mr. Advertise with us! and Mrs. Ted Poe, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Powell, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Quigley, Jan Rachel, Mrs. LaRue Rainwater, LaWanda Rector, Mr. and Upcoming deadlines are Mrs. Henry Reist, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Robeson, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Rowlands, Mrs. Shirley Sanders, Mr. and Mrs. Mike Sessom, Aug. 6 and Sept. 3 Mr. and Mrs. Barry Shaw, Mr. and Mrs. Jim Smith, Mrs. Shirley Sumrall, Mr. and Mrs. David Swinford, Joyce Thomas, Ken and Ann Contact: Thomas, Mrs. Ruth Thomason, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Trussell, Derrel and Kay Wall, Westbury Church of Christ, Ms. Judy Whitt, and Mr. and Mrs. David Williams. VIRGINIA: Cathy McAdams and Nathan Holland. WASHINGTON: Mr. John Jordan, Mr. and Mrs. [email protected] Ernest Kramar, Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Matz, Peggy Sherrill, Mr. and Mrs. James Voyles, and Conley Wilmoth. WEST VIRGINIA: Mr. John Brakebill and Mr. Vernon Franklin. WYOMING: Mr. and Mrs. Mart Buchanan.

Minister - Lake Havasu City, Ariz. Part-time Associate Minister - El Sobrante, Calif. Full-Time Pulpit Minister Palo Verde Church of Christ is looking for an We are a 30-member congregation located in experienced member of the Lord’s body who The El Portal Church of Christ congregation is currently seeking a part-time associate minister. This role Flint, Texas, near Tyler. Our church is blessed is able to preach sound doctrine, to hold classes would be an ideal fit for someone who is retired or who has another source of income. Duties include: with mature Christians strengthened by an to help spiritually feed the flock, and who has the preaching at the Sunday morning assembly and teaching our Sunday morning adult class and Wednesday extensive knowledge of the Bible. We are desire to reach a community in need of God’s night Bible class. We are currently meeting on Sunday mornings in person and on Wednesday nights via seeking an energetic individual who will continue Word. Small congregation with a parsonage to educate and challenge us by spiritually en- available. Would like to have someone semi- our online platform. Benefits: none, Salary: $40,000, Size of congregation: 80 - 100, Elders: none. hancing our understanding and knowledge of the retired. Dennis Grosser Contact Person: Leonard Ghee scriptures. Interested applicants should provide (928) 486-7370, [email protected] Address: 3450 El Portal Drive, El Sobrante, CA 94803 resume including education and experience to: www.lakehavasucitycoc.com Email: [email protected] or [email protected] Lakeside Church of Christ 20170 SH155 South Willing to fill in? Apply online: https://elportalchurchofchrist.com/job-openings/ Flint, TX 75762 Great vacation spot with furnished home available. Ask for details! Taking applications until position is filled. Email: [email protected] 26 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AUGUST 2021

Preacher Search - Boone, North Carolina Full-time Minister - Los Angeles Full-time Minister Search Boone is home to Appalachian State University and is located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains with The Redondo Beach Church of Christ is Small congregation looking for a minister wonderful weather and great people. The church has about 70 members, three elders, and three deacons. looking for a full-time minister to preach, teach to teach the Bible and minister to the We contribute to missions in Scotland and India as well as sending a group to work in Mexico each year and make disciples for Christ. We are a loving and have an active work with students from ASU. Due to retirement of current preacher after 18 years, we congregation located in the beautiful South needs of the congregation. We are a need a replacement. We prefer a Christian university graduate, since most in the congregation are college Bay Area of Los Angeles with three elders group of individuals who love God and graduates with a few having doctorates. We need a man who believes, lives, and teaches the Bible, prefer- and an average Sunday attendance of 75 love to study His Word. ably with at least 5-10 years of experience. members. Our building has pews, a pulpit, a Please send resume to: projector and hymn books. We are involved Please send resume: in community service and mission work. If Boone Church of Christ, Attn: Elders interested, send a current resume along with Church of Christ 130 Cool Woods Drive, Boone, NC 28607 references, information about yourself and Attn: Richard Ecord your family, and links to two sermons to: 1207 W 15th [email protected] [email protected] Ottawa, KS 66067

Full-time Minister - Stafford, Kan. FULL-TIME MINISTER Pulpit Minister Search - Kalispell Church of Christ - Kalispell, Montana HOWELL, MICHIGAN The elders of the Kalispell Church of Christ are looking for a minister to come work with our congregation. Congregation in rural Kansas is seeking a The church of Christ in Howell, Michigan, is Responsibilities include: preaching, teaching and being part of our church family. The ideal candidate would full-time minister. Our congregation is blessed looking for a pulpit minister who will work with be able to minister to our members regardless of age. with members from multiple generations. the elders to motivate the church both spiritu- Our congregation is located in northwest Montana approximately 70 miles from the Canadian border and We have several young families as well as ally and numerically. We are a close, loving 40 miles west of Glacier National Park. Our attendance is approximately 125 on Sunday. We currently have golden agers. We are seeking an energetic congregation in a soul rich environment. three elders. We have a three-bedroom parsonage on the church property. The compensation package individual / family dedicated to evangelism Salary and benefits are negotiable. Check us would include a salary of 50-70K a year depending on experience. who desires to be involved in our community out at our website, howellchurchofchrist.org. We will be accepting applications until the position is filled. Interested parties should send resume and video and will also instruct and challenge us spiritu- If you are interested, please submit a resume, lessons to the address below. ally. Parsonage provided plus salary. a sermon, and salary/benefits needed to: Stafford Church of Christ Search Committee Kalispell Church of Christ Elders [email protected] PO Box 82, Howell, MI 48844 241 Stillwater Rd, Kalispell, Montana 59901 620-549-6625 or 620-546-5052 [email protected] [email protected]

Full-time Pulpit Minister - Brenham, Texas Full-time Preacher - Virgina Beach, Va. Preacher Search-Powell, Wy. Great full-time preaching opportunity with a Our preacher of 19 years is retiring. Powell The Brenham Church of Christ is approximately a 200-member church with a modern building healthy church of 225 in beautiful Virginia is a faith-filled community and a wonderful located in the small but growing central Texas town of Brenham. We have a great passion for community, outreach, children, youth, families, seniors, missions, and all of God’s people! Beach. We are an elder-led, diverse church, place to raise a family. looking for someone to serve with us as a We have between 50 and 75 members, and For more information, you are welcome to visit our website at brenhamchurchofchrist.com and our light of God’s love in our community. Seeking YouTube channel, which has many of our recent videos, programs, and recorded worship services. a Christ-centered, experienced preacher with we’re located 77 miles east of Yellowstone We are seeking a full-time pulpit minister. We pray that God will guide us through this process and lead strong people-skills. Prefer someone married National Park in a town of 6,300 people in us toward the candidate who will be the best fit to help us achieve the purposes He has in store for our to relate to growing core of young families. NW Wyoming (95 miles south of Billings, Mt.) future! Welcoming applications at: Powell Church of Christ Any interested ministers or future ministers are welcome to email us or send their resume to: Bayside Church of Christ 749 Highway 14A, Powell, WY 82435 (757) 460-4754 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you! www.baysidecoc.org (307) 254-1014

Full-time Minister - N.M. Preaching Minister Search Full-time Minister Search - Enterprise, Alabama The Las Cruces Church of Christ is seeking University Park Church of Christ is Adams Street Church of Christ is seeking a full-time minister who has an in-depth knowledge of God’s Word. The candidate should be willing to minister the needs of the congregation and join our leadership team in a full-time minister who enjoys teaching and searching for a Preaching Minister preaching to both young and old. We are a glorifying God. We are a congregation of 40-60 members (pre-COVID-19) with an established team of three 150-member acapella church shepherded by to serve a highly diverse congregation in members on our leadership team. Enterprise is a truly diverse military community, right outside of Fort Rucker, four elders. Background check is required of Hyattsville, Maryland. Please download the US Army Aviation Center of Excellence. We will consider applicants who have a college degree in Biblical finalists. our vacancy announcement (PDF) from studies and/or prior ministry experience. He must be scripturally sound, socially engaged, and committed to Send a resume or request for additional information to: our website: http://www.upcoc.com; or expanding the borders of the kingdom. Applicants should be experienced, focused, self-directed, and have a [email protected] call our church office (301-927-7277) for passion for evangelism. Duties include community outreach, preaching, teaching, and other traditional ministe- Or mail to: a copy. Applicants should respond to the rial roles as required. Please submit a current resume, references, and three recent multi-media sermon files Las Cruces Church of Christ requirements stated in the vacancy an- or streaming links to: 2025 N Valley Drive nouncement. [email protected] or [email protected] Las Cruces, NM 88007 Position open until filled. Adams Street Church of Christ, 701 W Adams St, Enterprise, AL 36330-2303 AUGUST 2021 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 27 ACU professor illustrates new Forever stamps ABILENE, Texas — Many late nights of work spent obsessing over tiny lines and dots will culminate when the U.S. Postal Service releases four new designs of its Forever stamps, all illustrated by an Abilene Christian University professor. Ryan Feerer serves as an associate professor of design, director of the graphic design program and designer in residence at ACU. He was tasked with illus- trating the four new stamps Fun, fellowship at Pine Springs with the theme of “Western Wear.” The designs he created SACRAMENTO, N.M. — Pine Springs Camp, include a boot, a pearl snap nestled in the Sacramento Mountains, shirt, a belt buckle and a Feerer welcomes young people to 10 weeks of cowboy hat. fun and fellowship each summer. “I cannot explain to you how excited I am to Surrounded by the Lincoln National share the stamps with the world,” said Feerer, Forest, the camp operates year-round as who attends the Highland Church of Christ a retreat center. It is owned by Lubbock in Abilene. “I feel a huge sense of pride and Christian University in Texas. accomplishment.” During the summer, weekly camp After graduating from ACU in 2002, Feerer sessions serve children from elementary earned his Master of Fine Arts from the age to high school graduates. School of Visual Arts in New York City. One of LCU students who serve as counselors his professors there, Gail Anderson, served on “have been carefully vetted for the the postal service’s Citizens’ Stamp Advisory important calling to mentor young people Committee and recommended Feerer for the as they pursue relationship with Jesus,” project. He quickly accepted the task. said Warren McNeill, vice president of “I responded within university relations. seconds,” Feerer Across the U.S., Christian universities said. “Creating stamp sponsor a variety of on-campus and off- art was a dream campus summer camp programs. PHOTOS PROVIDED BY LUBBOCK CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY opportunity I never thought I would be able to do. I was ecstatic but a little nervous that it might fall through because of how significant it was.” Exactly how signif- icant was it? IMAGE PROVIDED BY ACU “The USPS Forever stamps illustrated releases less than 40 by Ryan Feerer. new stamps every year, and I was fortunate enough to designfour of them with a run of 175 million,” he said. “To me, that is mind blowing.” At press time, the stamps were set to be released July 23. By the way, the current price for a first-class stamp is 55 cents. 28 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE PEOPLE AUGUST 2021

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Anniversaries Birthday Texas that spanned four decades. Marty Lynn At age 31, she packed up her Lucy Withrow family of six in 17 55-gallon barrels 1938-2021 Lucy Withrow turned 98 in July. (including Christmas and birthday Martha “Marty” Lynn, age 83, She served as secretary for the presents for the duration) and passed from this life on May 30, Garland Road moved with them to West Africa for 2021. She was married to Mac Lynn Church of the next five years, during which for 65 years. Christ (now she was to bear her fifth child and A native of Indiana, Marty and the Highland endure the death of her mother. Mac once resided in Kentucky, Oaks Church of She completed a bachelor’s degree Florida, Mississippi, New York, Christ in Dallas) in social work at Abilene Christian Arkansas, Oregon and Tennessee for 10 years University in 1976 and spent 10 before settling in Nashville in 1987. before adminis- years as a foster care caseworker She was mother to four: Karen tering Christian with Christian Homes of Abilene. (David) Care Centers in Betty was Wendell’s travel and Morris of Carl and Augustine North Texas. ministry partner on five continents Brentwood, Cheatham Lucy works where they consulted, spoke and Tenn.; Monty in her son Wendel’s law office and taught on topics including anthro- (Libby) Lynn 60 years treasures her seven grandchildren, pology, cross-cultural issues, of Abilene, The Cheathams have four children 13 great-grandchildren and two Christian theology, church growth Texas; Kim and eight grandchildren. They are great-great grandchildren! and missiology. (Matt) of enjoying retirement after decades That travel also included visits Spring, of service to Faulkner University to missionaries to provide support Texas; and Alabama Christian Academy. Memorials and encouragement. In Abilene, her and Richie They are members of the University Betty Broom home was open to friends, students (Buffy) of Church of Christ in Montgomery, Ala. — especially international students Memphis, 1924-2021 — and the countless friends from Tenn.; Betty Madge Billingsley Broom, around the world with whom she grandmother to eight and great- wife, mother, grandmother, hostess, stayed in contact. She was a warm grandmother to even more. missionary and mentor, died June 29, and meticulous hostess. Marty held the Bachelor of 2021, in Plano, Texas. She was 97. Betty was preceded in death Science in medical record admin- Betty was by her husband. She is survived istration from the University of born Feb. by seven children, 11 grandchil- Tennessee Health Science Center 29, 1924, in dren and 16 great-grandchildren. and a Master of Arts in Religion Cowlington, Considering the numerous people from Harding School of Theology in Okla., to Dr. whom she served as surrogate Memphis, Tenn. Clarence mother, mentor and confidant, her During her life she held a variety Burdine and family numbers into the thousands. of work positions including secre- Mary Chloe The family owes a debt of grati- tary to the dean of the Oregon Harbour tude to the staff and administration Health and Science University. Billingsley. at Dayspring Senior Living in Plano, She found the most fulfilling Epsie and Darrell Vaughter She married Texas, where Betty and Wendell activity as a volunteer director 65 years Wendell spent their last years. of student services for Wright Broom Those wishing to honor her life NationsUniversity, an accredited Congratulations to Epsie and on June 22, of service with a memorial gift online school associated with Darrell Vaughter, who celebrated 1945, in Fort are encouraged to support Global Churches of Christ. She worked 65 years of marriage July 13! They Smith, Ark., and for all of their Samaritan Resources, Boy Scouts with international students and with married on a Friday and now 72-year marriage, Betty served of America, African Christian prison inmates in the U.S. celebrate every Friday the 13th. faithfully as a full partner in her Schools Foundation, Pioneer Bible Even though she bore the pains They are members of the Kingsville husband’s career and ministry, Translators, World Wide Youth associated with multiple sclerosis Church of Christ in Texas, where which included preaching full time Camps Inc., World Bible School or the from young adulthood and multiple Darrell is an elder and Epsie is a for about 20 years for churches charitable organization of their choice. myeloma in her closing months, Sunday school teacher. They love in Wilmington, Del., Philadelphia Marty managed to execute research to read about their friends from and Honolulu and for five years into Muslim culture in the interest churches they’ve belonged to, from as a missionary to Nigeria before WITH APPRECIATION: The Christian Chronicle of missions. She was able to travel Puerto Rico and Overland Park, Wendell began a teaching career acknowledges gifts received in honor of the to 38 countries, including 26 visits to Kan., to all over Texas and Florida. at Abilene Christian University in Chronicle staff and in memory of Ray Holmes. Egypt. AUGUST 2021 PEOPLE THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 29 INCARCERATED: Ministry requires deep compassion NEWSMAKERS

FROM PAGE 3 “but I’m eternally grateful he did.” The dedication and consistency Tate has shown are rare, Sumrall said, and consistency is among the most important facets of minis- tering to inmates. “They’ve never had consistency in their lives,” he said. “People are always telling them they are going to do something, but they never do. PHOTO PROVIDED BY BRITT FARMER Seeing that consistency gives them Britt Farmer, pictured with his wife, Lisa, hope in their own lives and inspires is the new preaching minister for the them to dedicate themselves.” Aledo Church of Christ in Texas. He pre- viously served the West Freeway Church FALLING IN LOVE WITH PRISON MINISTRY of Christ in White Settlement, Texas. Growing up in the Birmingham, Ala., area, Tate had no special HIRED: G. Scott Weston, as dean of the connection with prisons or inmates. KYLE PEVETO School of Pharmacy at the University of However, she did have a model of Glenda Tate stands outside one of the facilities where she has conducted Charleston in West Virginia. He previously empathy and care in her mother, countless Bible studies with inmates during the past four decades. taught at Harding University in Searcy, the family’s spiritual leader who Ark., where he attended took the children to church. Their stories weigh on her heart. A flood in the summer of 2016 the Living Way Church of Tate met her husband, Bob, at “A lot of them were at the wrong closed the Louisiana Correctional Christ. Jerry Lawrence, Tarrant Church of Christ near place at the wrong time,” she said. Institute for Women at St. Gabriel as upper school principal Birmingham, and they traveled to “They are paying a hefty price.” south of Baton Rouge, sending for Clarksville Christian Kansas to live with his uncle so he Glenda Tate’s daughter April Tate, women to facilities across the School in Tennessee. could finish college. In his career a fifth-grade teacher, sees her mother state. Tate and other volunteers He previously served at as a certified public accountant, care for inmates the way passionate split their time between a wing of Lubbock Christian School the family moved from Kansas teachers care for their students. a nearby men’s prison that houses in Texas. Aaron Howard, to Florida to Baton Rouge and, “It goes deeper than just empathy,” 200 or so women and a former Weston as assistant professor of briefly, to Chicago and Virginia. April Tate said. “There’s a deeper juvenile detention center in East ethics and reconciliation When her family moved to level of compassion that she has that Baton Rouge Parish where 250 at Lipscomb University Baton Rouge 42 years ago for her I can only hope to attain myself.” female inmates were sent. in Nashville, Tenn. He husband’s job with a chemical Most of the women Glenda Tate will teach graduate manufacturer, Tate wanted to get met in the correctional institute had DECADES OF DEVOTION AND BAPTISMS courses in theology and involved with her new congrega- little Bible knowledge. Since the COVID-19 pandemic undergraduate courses tion and found the prison ministry. “Some of them had no back- began in March 2020, no in-person in Lipscomb’s worship “Someone asked me to join their ground at all,” she said. “We did meetings have been allowed. The arts program. team, and I fell in love with it,” she the basics. We started at the Old Tuesday afternoon Bible studies Howard said. Testament and would go right on have been canceled and may NEW MINISTERS: Right away she put her organi- through.” resume soon. For Sunday morning Doug Kashorek, as zational skills to work, scheduling The South Baton Rouge church’s services, Tate delivers recordings associate minister for teams within the ministry and Tuesday afternoon Bible studies of the South Baton Rouge Church the 36th Street Church typing lessons at her kitchen table. grew to include 30 to 40 women of Christ services on a USB flash of Christ in Vienna, Strict rules for volunteers meant who attended in their free time drive to the prisons, ensuring the W.Va. He previously Tate could not connect with after a day of working on the ministry maintains a connection. served the Plattsburgh inmates by giving them candy or prison grounds. On Sundays, the For her decades of devotion, Church of Christ in New even books. She could not treat attendance rose to 100. Tate has received accolades from York. Robert Prater, one inmate any differently than the About 20 years ago, South Baton state officials. Plaques, awards and Kashorek as pulpit minister for 1,000 others, so she connected with Rouge took on another prison a letter of appreciation from the the Mannford Church the women by being fair, non-judg- ministry, a Bible correspondence state’s secretary of public safety of Christ in Oklahoma. He previously mental and real. They could tell if a course using a Gospel Advocate and corrections adorn her shelf. served the Crosstown Church of Christ in volunteer was less than genuine. curriculum, and Tate began grading Tate does not keep track of Tulsa. Jeffrey Dillinger, as pulpit minister “They can spot you in a heart- worksheets from inmates across the the number of baptisms she has for the Glen Rock Church of Christ in beat,” she said. country, writing them encouraging witnessed. The number of lives she Pennsylvania. He previously served the messages along the way. has changed cannot be counted, Whitehall Church of Christ in Pittsburgh. ‘THEY ARE PAYING A HEFTY PRICE’ In recent years prison ministry Sumrall said. Over the decades Tate has grown in south Louisiana has become “We won’t know until we get to NEW ELDER: Dan Allen, Northwest close to the women she mentors. more difficult. glory,” he said. Church of Christ in Chicago. 30 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AUGUST 2021 EDITORIAL Same-sex marriage JOIN US FOR A LIVE Q&A: The Christian Chronicle’s Editorial Board will discuss same-sex marriage with Sally Gary, executive director of CenterPeace, and Guy Hammond, executive director of Strength in Weakness Ministries, at 4 p.m. Eastern/3 p.m. and gender questions Central on Monday, Aug. 2. Watch at facebook.com/christianchronicle. hristians face pressure to recon- nized “from the beginning.” Without this spiritual framework, agreement with his views. But neither sider our view of sexuality and Challenged by Pharisees on his the Christian view of marriage and was he afraid to label sin as sin. marriage. The pressure comes view of marriage and divorce, Jesus sexuality makes little sense to nonbe- Still, Jesus was a “friend of sinners.” not just from hostile voices pointed to Genesis and the story of lievers. Who could possibly oppose He sincerely loved people, even those Coutside Christianity. It also comes creation as the standard (Matthew two loving and committed individuals with whom he disagreed. Jesus’ from sincere voices among us. The 19). Creation reveals the intentional devoted to each other, regardless harshest words were aimed not at hostile voices have long viewed the design of our male-female identities of gender? Who are we to question people honestly struggling with temp- church as irrelevant and out of touch. and the intimate oneness reserved anyone’s passions and desires? tation or sin but with leaders who The sincere voices hope the church for marriage. Jesus was clear: God It is also easy to understand the used Scripture to justify themselves finds relevance in a changing world. alone “joins together,” and neither the pressure faced by sincere Christians. and distort God’s purpose. If marriage and sexuality were Pharisees nor culture had the right to Isn’t Christianity defined by love of If we ever hold doctrinal convic- merely social arrangements, the redraw the lines. As a result, adultery neighbor and ministry to outcasts? tions in ways that give anyone issue would be of little concern to and fornication violate the deepest How can we possibly stand in the reason to doubt our love and will- followers of Jesus. But Jesus and trust and intimacy reserved exclu- way of love or be the ones casting ingness to minister, we are doing it Scripture have always sively between a man out? And what if my closest family wrong. And if we ever compromise viewed marriage as ‘As the culture around and woman in marriage. and friends see things differently? our convictions to be accepted, then much more. us shifts, we remain As the story of But the choice between doctrinal we have failed just the same. Like the church today, Jesus spread across conviction and love is always a false God created us male and female. Jesus faced pressure committed to the the Roman world, the one. Jesus made his views clear, but He designed marriage as the place to succumb to political spiritual design of church carried his he did not mock or abuse the woman for men and women to help each and cultural tension. He view of marriage and caught in adultery. He simply said, other reflect his image throughout was certainly aware of marriage.’ sexuality with it. Paul “Go your way, and sin no more.” creation in a unique and special way. the conflict within the warned the Corinthians Neither did he refuse to engage the Salvation rests in the mystery of Jewish community. Knowing what not to adopt the sexual ethics of Samaritan woman, fully aware of her oneness reflected in every godly happened to John the Baptist for his surrounding cultures and called the complicated past. Instead, he offered marriage: the oneness of Christ refusal to compromise the bound- church to a higher standard. Peter living water. In neither case did Jesus with his church, and the ultimate aries of marriage, the Pharisees noted the surprise of outsiders who overlook their sin or their dignity. His union between heaven and earth. As wanted Jesus on record in hopes of viewed the Christian way of life as kindness toward the Samaritan did culture shifts around us, we remain serving his head on a platter. strange. Any life modeled after the not mean approval. His mercy for the committed to the design of marriage Yet Jesus remained consistent self-denial of Jesus will invariably adulteress did not signal compromise. “from the beginning” and the story with the same definition and spiri- result in conflict with a culture driven Never was Jesus’ love and desire it continues to tell. — Jeremie tual framework of marriage recog- by self-discovery and self-satisfaction. to minister contingent on anyone’s Beller, for the Editorial Board

Opinions Editor: Jeremie Beller SUBSCRIPTIONS: christianchronicle.org/subscribe- Oklahoma Christian [email protected] to-the-chronicle/ or (405) 425-5070. University. Advertising Manager: Tonya Patton FEEDBACK, LETTERS: [email protected] The Christian Real news that honors God. [email protected] The Christian Chronicle® encourages feedback Chronicle® is Lead Administrative Assistant: Lynda Sheehan that promotes thoughtful and respectful discussion. published monthly A subsidiary of Oklahoma Christian University [email protected] Comments to the print or online editions are and is served by Administrative Assistant: Joy McMillon considered to be letters to the editor and may be a national Board christianchronicle.org [email protected] published. Please include name, city and state of of Trustees that Administrative Assistant: Melinda Wilson residence, as well as home congregation. Feedback is charged with Phone: (405) 425-5070; Fax (405) 425-5076 [email protected] may be edited for length and clarity. the responsibility Mail: P.O. Box 11000, Oklahoma City, OK 73136-1100 Staff Accountant: Louise Beyer The Christian Chronicle® is not a teaching or doctrinal for policy and Delivery: 2501 E. Memorial Road, Edmond, OK 73013 President Emeritus: Lynn McMillon publication but a newspaper with news and opinion governance. All trustees, editors and staff are active Correspondents: Cheryl Mann Bacon, content in sections clearly labeled. Signed columns and members of Churches of Christ. facebook.com/ChristianChronicle Hamil R. Harris reviews reflect the opinions of the authors. twitter.com/CofCnews Interns: Chloé Franklin, Makyra Williamson Advertising contains commercial messages from TRUSTEES: those who purchase the advertising space. News Mike O’Neal (chairman) • Andrew Benton • Ed Biggers President and CEO: Erik Tryggestad Stewardship Officer: Alan Phillips coverage, opinion columns, reviews, letters to the Monte Cox • John deSteiguer • Erin Engelke [email protected] [email protected] editor and advertising do not necessarily represent the Scott Laird • James Moore • Barry Packer • Taneise Perry Editor-in-Chief: Bobby Ross Jr. (for information about giving and estate planning) views of or constitute endorsement by the editors, the Joel Reed • Lana Reynolds • Brian Simmons [email protected] staff, the Board of Trustees of The Christian Chronicle or Milton Sewell • Gary Tabor AUGUST 2021 OPINION THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 31 FROM OUR READERS ‘Brenton’ by Rick Gibson and W. Keith Brenton Stories on ‘rip and sip’ cups, Tulsa massacre draw feedback Re: “‘Rip and sip’ cups for “Rip and sip” communion communion could stick around,” elements? Have we really sunk so Page 1, July. low that we can apply such jargon to The idea that congregations the sacrifice of our Lord? Is BYOB will keep using these cups is (Bring Your Own Body) next? disappointing to me. Over the 110 My concern throughout the years since congregations started pandemic is that we have replaced the using communion trays, how many fear of God with the fear of COVID. illnesses can we attribute to doing The ones who were sick and dying at that, even COVID? Corinth (1 Corinthians 11:30) were If we are going to use these not eating and drinking germs; they single-portion cups because we are were eating and drinking damnation afraid of germs, does that mean (v. 29) because of their selfish, when we meet (if we meet!) that we loveless approach to communion. are going to continue maintaining If the elements cause so much the 6-foot distancing, wearing concern, why not dispense with masks, no hugs or handshakes? them and just go through the verbal Germs are more likely spread that presentation? Isn’t it the message way than through passing the trays. and meaning that counts? I would be We weren’t afraid before! interested to know if there are any See more by following brenton.daily on Facebook and Instagram. Now that COVID numbers are way out there who would accept that as down in the majority of areas across a practice. I think Jesus might prefer the U.S. and many people have had that to our “rip and sip” culture. TO OUR READERS the vaccine, where is this fear coming ARTHUR BARRY | Sayre, Pa. from? Why are we so paranoid? I personally think it is coming from This is a sincere compliment for Satan himself to keep us from the great story on the Tulsa Race Help us spread a little hope worshiping together or to keep us Massacre (Currents, July). from feeling comfortable about it. Your story wrapped it all up in a ou might have noticed that Dialogue on same-sex marriage. Our congregation is small, but we very professional way. “hope” appears twice in But we’ll try harder not to ignore have not let the COVID interfere with I’ve been a subscriber for some headlines on the front page. the “inspire” and “unite” part of our our meeting together and “passing time, and this is certainly one of My first inclination, as an mission. the trays.” We will not be paranoid, your most outstanding efforts. editor who tries to avoid However, we could use your help. even though two of our number GARY MOORE | Simi, Calif. repetition,Y especially on Page 1, was Often, we don’t hear about the did get the COVID (but not from to change one of those headlines. unsung heroes in our fellowship meeting together). We will not let I have received the Chronicle for But then I asked myself: Is there or the little-known disciples and the devil win at keeping us apart! years and enjoy your professional, really such a thing as too much ministries making a huge difference. Thank you for letting me express timely articles. I must compliment hope? If you have story ideas, would my opinion. I know each congregation your staff on the coverage of racial Amid divisive national politics you send us an email at letters@ does not take these things lightly, and unity. I did not grow up in the Deep and the pandemic’s lingering christianchronicle.org or write us each must make the best decision South, but I have witnessed prejudice ramifications, many of you have at the mailing address at the bottom for their congregation. during my lifespan. told us you’d love to read more of Page 30? That’s how we learned LINDA HAMM | Pratt, Kan. Raising awareness and addressing stories that encourage Christians about longtime prison ministry the past history of the Tulsa Race and offer, yes, hope. volunteer Glenda Tate, who is We have returned to freshly baked Massacre is important to the We hear you. featured on Page 3. bread. It was a welcome return from healing process. Thank you. We intend to make such Also, if we publish a story that the wafer in the rip-and-sip. SARA SWISHER | Williamstown, W.Va. coverage a higher priority. you enjoy, would you consider We are still trying to navigate Yes, we’ll still focus on the commenting on it and/or sharing it the cup. We’re trying to find a Thank you for your inclusive and “inform” part of our mission, with your friends via social media? compostable or reusable option as balanced coverage. The church must which means reporting on news Here’s the best news: Christians we hate to think about the thousands encompass all of those who respond and trends that are not always have read the Good Book and know of plastic cups that get thrown away to the message of the Gospel or it happy or hopeful. how the story ends. in the name of convenience. will cease to be relevant. We’ll still engage difficult Spoiler alert: It’s full of hope. — JEFF PALK | Hermitage, Tenn. W.R. WILSON | Austin, Texas conversations, such as this month’s Bobby Ross Jr., editor-in-chief 32 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OPINION AUGUST 2021 Christian Chronicle offers no-cost services to help you leave a legacy

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The Christian Chronicle Crossword BIBLE BOWLING By Myles Mellor | www.ilovecrosswords.com Seek the truth ACROSS PICK THE TRUE STATEMENT from each of the following pairs. Quiz by Steve Whitehead of the 1. Garden where Jesus prayed. British Bible School, britishbibleschool.com. 6. Enemy. 8. Entire. 1. Abel killed Cain. Cain killed 9. His wife was turned to salt, Abel. (Genesis 19:26). 2. The tower of Babel was 10. “May our sons in their youth be built before the great flood. The like plants that grow up strong. tower of Babel was built after the May our daughters be like stately great flood. columns which adorn the ____ of 3. Quirinius was governor of a palace” (Psalm 144:12, Good Syria. Quirinius was proconsul of News Translation). Tyre. 11. Double curve. 4. The letter from James has 13. Long fish. four chapters. The letter from 14. Rest area in a desert. James has five chapters. 16. “The Lord is King! Earth, be 5. Boanerges means “sons of glad! Rejoice, you ____ of the lightning.” Boanerges means seas!” (Psalm 97:1, GNT). “sons of thunder.” 17. Book after Nahum. 6. Matthew was an accountant. 20 “Trust in God at all times, my Matthew was a tax collector. people. Tell him your troubles, for 7. Gehazi was a servant of Elijah. he is our ____” (Psalm 62:8, GNT). Gehazi was a servant of Elisha. 23. “At sunset he came to a holy ANSWERS, crossword solution on Page 34. place and camped there. He lay down to sleep, resting his head on a _____” (Genesis 28:11, GNT). 12. Compass direction, abbr. 25. “So he said to the paralyzed man, 15. Debtor’s note. Get up, pick up your ___ and go 18. She became David’s wife. home” (Matthew 9:6, GNT). 19. David or Solomon, for example. 26. “You ___ chains on my feet; you 21. One of David’s generals. watch every step I take” (Job 39. Hardship. 3. Potato holders. 22. Judas was the ____ of Jesus 13:27, GNT). 40. God formed Eve out of Adam’s 4. Forgiving. 24. Not at home. 29. Show affection. __ (Genesis 2:22). 5. “I repeat: it is much harder for 26. At his __ and call. 31. Hot and cold drink. 41. Some of the food that Jesus a rich person to enter the Kingdom 27 “He has provided for us a mighty 32. Multitude. used to feed the 5,000 of God than for a camel to go Savior, a _____ant of his servant 33. “Moab’s doom ______; its (Matthew 14:18). through the eye of a _____” David” (Luke 1:69, GNT). ruin is coming soon” (Jeremiah 42. Moses led his people out of (Matthew 19:24, GNT). 28. Small church facility. 48:16, GNT). Egypt to the ____ land. 6. Runs away 30. “Go up and spy out the land” 35. “... to ____ the message, to insist 7. “All the people and their leaders (Joshua 7:2, New American upon proclaiming it ...” agreed to free the slaves Standard Bible). (2 Timothy 4:2, GNT). DOWN and never to ____ them again.” 31. British thanks. 37 “The ___ are like a lamp for the 1. “They came to a place called (Jeremiah 34:10, GNT). 34. Area of ground body. If your __ are sound your ____, which means “The Place of 8. “Let us break their bands ____, 36. Belonging to him whole body will be full of light” the Skull” (Matthew 27:33, GNT). and cast away their cords from us” 38. Total. (Matthew 6:22, GNT). 2. New Testament book. (Psalm 2:3, King James Version). 39. Existed. SEPTEMBER 2021 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 35 Word Find: The gospel of Mark By Betty Hollister | The Christian Chronicle

Find the following words from the book of Romans. The unused 34 letters form a statement about the purpose of the book. (Find the answer on Page 38.)

• ADULTEROUS • DECEIVE • HUMAN • POWERFUL • ALARM • DISOWN • IMPARTED • PRAYERFUL • AMAZED • EVERYONE • INSTRUCTED • RAISED • AMAZEMENT • FIFTY • JUSTIFICATION • REFLECTION • ANSWER • GREATER • LOVING • REJOICING • APOSTLES • HAPPENED • NATURE • RESTORATION • ARIMATHEA • HEALTHY • NULLIFY • RIGHTEOUSNESS • BAPTISM • HONORED • OBEDIENCE • SUFFERING • BELIEVERS • HYPOCRITES • OFFERED • UNCLEAN • CHILDREN • INSULTING • PATIENCE • WEARY • COMMOTION • ISAIAH • PEACE • WORSHIPS • COMPASSION • MARVEL • PERSEVERANCE 36 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE REVIEWS AUGUST 2021

The Groton Church of Christ is in search of Plague Worship @ Home Radio & Net The death, and life, of Lazarus a full-time evangelist to work with us to reach the lost. We are a diverse congregation of 770 AM Radio (DFW & North Texas) 45-50 with three elders. We are located in the 11 am-noon & 10 pm ‘speaks to our COVID-19 world’ Groton-New London area which is home to 1340 AM (Abilene, TX) the U.S. Submarine Base, General Dynamics Noon-1 pm s COVID-19 forced lockdowns ultimate cure for the virus of sin. Electric Boat Shipyard, Pfizer Global Research 1300 AM (Nashville, TN) and quarantines, church Though Jesus understood that this and Development, and the U.S. Coast Guard 11:30 & 4 pm leaders searched Scripture would lead to God’s glory, he still Academy--ample opportunities for spreading the 1360 AM (Nashville, TN) to find spiritual guidance felt the hurt of the fallen world he gospel. A 3-bedroom, 2-bath home is included Noon & 6:30 pm through such extraordinary times. came to redeem. in the compensation package. Please submit 1600 AM (Memphis, TN) Ministers and Bible teachers found Through the course of his imagi- 4 pm resume, cover letter and 2 sermons (CD or lessons in Paul’s prison quar- native reconstruction, Sager web link): [email protected] 1640 AD (San Franscisco - Oakland, CA) In Print 4 pm antine. As days turned to also tackles important theo- or Groton Church of Christ, 1018 Route 12, weeks of isolation with family, logical issues: the question Groton, CT 06340. many Christians discov- of suffering, the meaning ered a new appreciation for of resurrection and the Noah and his seven family nature of life after death. Seeking Full-Time Minister - Cortez, Colorado members, trapped in the ark The handling of these issues for more than 100 days. flows well with the narra- Scott Sager found special tive structure of the book, The Cortez church of Christ is located in the beautiful Four Corners area of Col- meaning in the story of helping show the real-life orado. We are a loving congregation of 80+ members who want to grow. We are Lazarus. In “Jesus in Jeremie Beller impact of these concerns. involved in community service, mission work, Leadership Training for Christ, and a Isolation: Lazarus, As with any imaginative local youth camp. We provide a competitive salary and a nice, four-bedroom home. Viruses, and Us,” the vice pres- reconstruction, readers may take ident for church services and issue with Sager’s telling at times. professor of Bible at Lipscomb Challenging interpretive questions University in Nashville, Tenn., sees are sometimes collapsed for the sake “sickness, death, grief and isolation” of the story (the timing of the Last taking center stage. He concludes Supper, for example). that “perhaps no other story in the Such is the nature of storytelling. life of Jesus speaks to our COVID-19 Even when Sager leaves the known world like this one does.” details of Scripture, his imagination Relying on traditional tools of is well-informed and plausible. interpretation along with “sanctified Readers will find “Jesus in imagination” to fill in gaps, Sager Isolation” useful for different settings. provides an engaging The poetry concluding and personal telling of each chapter along with Lazarus’ story along the easy-to-read narra- with the painful sense tive makes the book If interested, send a detailed resume including references and information of loss felt by those useful for personal about yourself and your family to: [email protected]. who loved him. devotion and reflection. What was it like The 13-chapter division The Cortez area is home to scenic mountains, deserts, mesas, rivers, lakes, farm- for Jesus to be away and the helpful discus- land and Mesa Verde National Park. Locals enjoy skiing, hiking, fishing, hunting, from Bethany as his sion guide provide a camping, boating, mountain biking and golfing. best friend, Lazarus, good resource for small lay dying? How did it groups and Bible study feel being absent from settings. the funeral knowing COVID-19 has that Mary and Martha upended lives and undoubtedly expected created countless chal- him to be there? What lenges to people of faith. was life like for the W. Scott Sager. Jesus in Sager’s book presents siblings after hearing Isolation: Lazarus, Viruses, a needed reminder that Jesus shout for Lazarus and Us. Wipf & Stock, 2021. Jesus knows firsthand to come forth? 171 pages. $20.96. the pain of sickness, Jesus, Sager notes, death, grief and isola- was keenly aware of these dynamics tion. He even helps show how God while he waited two days before uses these challenges in preparing his traveling to Bethany. The delay people for the world to come. was a God-imposed isolation for Jesus, who would soon experience JEREMIE BELLER is opinions editor for The another quarantine on the cross and Christian Chronicle. He is congregational minister for in the grave, offering his life as the the Wilshire Church of Christ in Oklahoma City. AUGUST 2021 REVIEWS THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 37 NEW AND NOTEWORTHY

Harrell L. Henton. Know Your Purpose: A Practical Guide to Living Your Life on Purpose. The Henton Group, 2021, $20.00. Available at: www. harrellhenton.com.

Christy Wright. Take Back Your Time: The Guilt-Free Guide to Life Balance. Ramsey Press, 2021, $20.00. Available at: Ramseysolutions.com.

It’s not about productivity. It’s about doing what matters. As a busy mom with three young kids and a career, author Christy Wright knows what it’s like to be stretched too thin. After years of running on empty, she realized she had to do something different. It wasn’t just a matter of saying no to a few things. She had to figure out why she felt overwhelmed, overcommitted, and out of balance. Here’s what she discovered: Life balance doesn’t come from getting more done. It’s about doing the right things at the right time—and it leads to peace, not exhaustion. In “Take Back Your Time,” Christy redefines what balance is and reveals the clear path to actually achieve it. You weren’t created to live busy and burnt out, unhappy and unfulfilled. You shouldn’t be haunted by some elusive idea of balancing it all. There’s more for you right now. Today. And it starts with taking back your time the guilt-free way.

NEW AND NOTEWORTHY submissions are paid advertisements. Contact [email protected]

EDITOR’S NOTE: July’s edition of The Christian Chronicle contained a book review authored by Renée Sproles of John Mark Hicks’ book “Women Serving God: My Journey in Understanding Their Story in the Bible” (Page 32). Normally, once a review has been submitted, it goes through the editing process for clarity and space before being sent back to the author for final approval. Unfortunately, the final edits of Sproles’ review were inadvertently unsent for her approval, resulting in confusion as to her sense Sproles of voice and tone in her review. This was an honest error and oversight on the part of the review’s editor. You can read an updated version of the review, with Sproles’ approved edits (“Theologian’s questions on women’s roles obscure rather than clarify”) at christianchronicle.org. Look for the “Reviews” tab. 38 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OPINION AUGUST 2021

Full-Time Youth Minister Position – Palmetto Church of Christ Palmetto Church of Christ in Irmo, South Carolina, is seeking a Youth Minister to lead a program that is focused on the biblical education and spiritual development of our young men and women. The Youth Minister should work and teach in a manner that is consistent with Palmetto’s desire for its families to develop an intimate relationship with God, build strong loving relationships with each other and other Christians, and love those who do not yet know Jesus by sharing the Gospel. Palmetto is searching for someone with a college degree, and some experience is preferred. We offer a competitive salary, allowance for moving expenses, vacation days, 401K contribution, and continuing education support. Find our full job listing and job responsibilities at:

www.palmettococ.com/youthminister WES BECKNELL To apply, please email your cover letter and resume to: Campers and counselors gather around a fire on the last night of Inside Out. [email protected] After a year without camp, lyrics are Family and Youth Minister Worship Minister Seeking a full-time Family and Youth Minister North Richland Hills, Texas hard to remember. God’s presence isn’t. (FYM). This immediately available position Legacy Church of Christ, a 1,000-member NORMAN, Okla. David North taught them how God provides an opportunity to join a healthy, ac- a cappella-only church, seeks a worship forgot the words to “Days of reveals himself to us through nature. tive, rooted church family and “hit the ground minister. This full-time position includes: Elijah.” A bunch of the kids were first-time running” with a united eldership, deacons, • Overall planning and coordination of “It’s something like ‘these are the campers since we didn’t have camp ministry leaders and involved parents who worship, days of the harvest,’ right?” Insight at all in 2020. It feels like we are interested in sharing the gospel. • Recruitment and involvement of volunteers, Imy brain asked itself as we lost a year of their young lives. Please email resumes to: • The development of a successful and growing worship ministry, as well as approached the chorus. We lost so many lives, some Mark Littleton • Additional responsibilities set forth by the “No! That’s verse two. This is to COVID-19 and some for [email protected] executive minister. ... trials! And though these are other reasons. We lost both of days of great trials, of famine David North’s parents — the acoctn.org/5007-2/ Bob Mullen and darkness and sword, Still legendary Stafford and JoAnn, Athens Church of Christ - Athens, Tenn. [email protected] we are the voice in the desert stalwarts of the faith. We lost crying, ‘Prepare ye the way of our closeness, our connections, YOUTH MINISTRY - Searcy, Ark. the Lord. Behold, he comes ...’” Erik Tryggestad our sense of peace. And I lost Want to grow with little cost? I doubt any of the kids the lyrics to “Days of Elijah.” College Church of Christ is in search of a sitting around the campfire noticed “I never thought I’d forget that Youth-Ministry team: Successful radio evangelist will preach, me stumbling over the lyrics. But I song,” I told the campers, my voice •Youth Minister hold meetings, and help you develop a did. “I’ve led this song so many times,” starting to crack. “It seems like •Assistant Male Youth Minister I mentally scolded myself. “Well, not so much has been taken from us. local radio outreach for a low cost. •Assistant Female Youth Minister recently. Not in the last year.” You’ve probably noticed your moms If you are interested in any of these positions, Our webmaster can develop and expand That’s when I broke down. and dads acting a little crazy.” please submit resume to: your website. Small congregations, too. Maybe it was sleep deprivation. (I got a lot of head nods on that College Church of Christ It was the final night of Inside Out, one, maybe even an “Amen!” or two.) Call Today! the camp that my congregation, the “But God hasn’t forgotten us,” I 712 E Race Ave, Searcy, AR 72143-4421 Memorial Road Church of Christ said. “He’s still here, watching over (501) 268-7156 (214) 552-3206 in Oklahoma City, does for kids in us. We see him in the leaves, the [email protected] grades 1 through 6. Every summer trees and everything we’ve talked I’m blessed with a cabin of noisy about this week. And we know he will Crossword | From Page 34 Bible Bowling | From Page 34 young men for whom the words see us through days of great trials.” 1) Cain killed Abel (Genesis 4:8). “lights out” have no meaning. It’s an OK, that’s what I think I said. It was 2) The tower of Babel was built after the great annual reminder of why I’m OK with a bizarre sensation. The words just flood (flood: Genesis 6-7; Babel: Genesis 11). being a father of daughters only. kind of came out — incoherently, for 3) Quirinius was governor of Syria (Luke 2:2). Honestly, my boys were great this all I know. I wasn’t really in control. 4) The letter from James has five chapters. year — Rhett the Threat, Manny-mal, Maybe that was the point. 5) Boanerges means “sons of thunder” Double G (we all got nicknames). When I finished, it was just crickets, (Mark 3:17). Even when it poured rain, we cicadas and silence. I composed 6) Matthew was a tax collector (Matthew 9:9). found things to do — Uno Attack, myself enough to take another song 7) Gehazi was a servant of Elisha (2 Kings 4:12, four square, muddy, muddy rounds request: “Shout Hallelujah.” 5:20, 8:4). of gaga ball. The boys read Bible Somehow, I remembered all the verses and prayed at one of our words. Word Search | From Page 35 morning devotionals. They did a skit The unused 34 letters read: “THE EMPHASIS for the camp. (They were ninjas.) ERIK TRYGGESTAD is president and CEO of The HERE IS GOD’S RIGHTEOUSNESS.” Camp director Karla Taylor and Christian Chronicle. Contact erik@christianchronicle. teachers including Lance Towers and org, and follow him on Twitter @eriktryggestad. AUGUST 2021 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 39

24th Annual Cold Harbor Rd. Lectureship November 5 - 7, 2021

David: A Man with the Heart of God The Heart is so important. It directs our steps, it can be trained, it could lead us off a cliff. As we examine the heart of David, let us each examine our own.

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