Our mission: To inform, An international inspire and unite newspaper Vol. 69, No. 10 | October 2012 for Churches of Christ Churches cross racial divide as they serve In Houston, black, In Detroit, unity white, Hispanic efforts making churches organize steady progress citywide campaign DETROIT — Ongoing efforts to improve racial unity among BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE Detroit-area Churches of Christ are mak- HOUSTON — For months, nearly ing progress, a dozen billboards along busy leaders say. thoroughfares have promoted “I believe the Churches of Christ there is more Campaign for Christ. of a spirit of After more than a year of respect for planning, about 70 Houston-area each other and congregations — black, white a willingness Snow and Hispanic — joined together to cooperate to serve the and participate needy and seek together,” said the lost. James Snow, The recent minister and five-day cam- elder for the paign featured BOBBY ROSS JR. Redford Church the theme Mia Berry and daughter Eboni donate blood during the Houston Campaign for Christ’s “Day of Good Works.” of Christ in “Coming Detroit. Hernandez Together As to the community that we’re R. Brown Convention Center, uted backpacks and school Roger Woods, Woods One.” The one in Jesus Christ,” said just down the street from supplies to 3,000 children and minister and message to residents of Cruz Hernandez, minister for Minute Maid Park, home of families who lined up hours elder for the Walled Lake America’s most ethnically the Hidden Valley Church of baseball’s Astros. before the doors opened. Church of Christ, northwest diverse metropolis: Christians Christ, where he preaches in In a massive “Day of Good “There is no color bound- of Detroit, said: “We are still can break down racial walls. English and Spanish. Works” before the gospel ary in heaven,” said Patricia facing barriers but are seeing “We’re promoting one More than 4,000 people wor- meeting started, hundreds of Berry-Jones, a member of the tangible signs of progress.” church and giving a statement shiped God inside the George campaign volunteers distrib- See HOUSTON, Page 12 See DETROIT, Page 14

box 11000 OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73136-1100 INSIDE CALENDAR...... 29 change service requested NON-PROFIT ORG. CURRENTS...... 17 U.S. POSTAGE DIALOGUE...... 23 PAID INSIGHT...... 34 OKLAHOMA CITY OK INTERNATIONAL...... 8 PERMIT # 276 LETTERS...... 31 NATIONAL...... 5 OPINION...... 30 PARTNERS...... 25 Jolly good news Foxworthy of praise Voting with faith PEOPLE...... 28 Olympics bring together Comedian hosts Bible game F. LaGard Smith reviews new REVIEWS...... 32 new generation of Brits. 17 show that entertains. 32 books on culture, politics. 33 VIEWS...... 31 Church member swims for U.S. in Paralympics, Page 7 | Breaking news, exclusives at www.christianchronicle.org | (405) 425-5070 2 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OCTOBER 2012 EEM Offers Students Nutrition For The Soul.

EEM is completing the placement of Bibles and Biblical literature in all 1,494 Public Schools in the states of Rivne and Poltava, Ukraine.

Who would have believed this? While we have kicked God out of Public Schools in America, Public Schools in Ukraine have asked for the Bible to be placed in their Schools, entire states at a time. Previously, EEM placed the Bible and Biblical literature in five states in Russia and two states in Ukraine. This brings the cumulative total of Public Schools in both countries to 10,730, resulting in about 2.3 million students who are able to study the Bible.

The Bible. We want everyone to get it.

facebook.com/EasternEuropeanMission · twitter.com/@EveryoneGetsIt · 1-800-486-1818 · www.eem.org EEM is overseen by the Prestoncrest church of Christ, Dallas, Texas. OCTOBER 2012 the christian chronicle 3 Digital vs. print: Readers weigh in I’m going to Mission trip on Bible choices hen I stepped to the Disney church! from Mexico pulpit of the Roswell WChurch of Christ A FLORIDA MINISTRY serves vacationing Christians CHRISTIANS TRAVEL north of the in Kansas City, Kan., on a recent Sunday, I made an, with a Sunday assembly at an Orlando-area hotel. border to spread the Gospel among um, embarrassing miscue. BY BOBBY ROSS JR. | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE Spanish speakers in Texas. I left my Bible on the front pew. BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE I owe my personal blooper to two facts: WICHITA FALLS, Texas — Before embarking Inside Story • I’m a on the 600-mile drive to this city on the writer, not Texas-Oklahoma line, a group of Mexican a preacher, Christians raised prayers to heaven, ask- and standing ing for God’s protection. in front of an U.S. immigration officers raised eye- audience to brows in the same direction when the share God’s Christians told them why they were travel- word always ing to Texas — to take the good news of makes me a Jesus to Spanish speakers. bit nervous. Usually, it’s the other way around. Bobby Ross Jr. • I’ve Though their passports converted and notarized invitations in recent years to digital were in order, the Christians Bible reading and study, so were detained at the border I’ve become unaccustomed for three hours — along- to carrying around a thick, side five busloads of their printed version of the countrymen headed for Las Scriptures. Vegas — before the border Much to my relief, the kind guards allowed them to Zavala brothers and sisters of the enter the U.S. Roswell church — where I PHOTO PROVIDED BY CHRIS GALLAGHER Finally, 15 hours after they left their had spent the weekend work- Chris Gallagher, minister for the Mount Pleasant Church of Christ in South Carolina, visits Walt homes in Frontera, Mexico, the group of ing on an upcoming feature Disney World with his family. He’s shown with his wife Carrie and children Emma, Alexis and Caleb. 18 Christians arrived in Wichita Falls. for The Christian Chronicle Why endure the journey? — forgave my lapse. KISSIMMEE, Fla. Maingate Church of Christ starts at 9 a.m. “Because you won’t come to see us any- Three years ago, I wrote a t a hotel a mile west of Walt Disney “It’s nondenominational,” one of the more,” quipped Carlos Zavala, one of three column headlined “Texting World’s main gate on U.S. Highway handful of permanent members tells a elders of the Muzquiz Church of Christ during worship? No, just 192, aspiring prin- tourist from Scotland who in Frontera. In recent years, drug-related reading the text.” I reflected cesses and little inquires about the assembly. violence on the U.S.-Mexico border has on the increasing number boys with Mickey “Come on in.” curtailed mission trips. of Christians using smart- AMouse ears fill up on A 7-year-old ministry of the “So, here we are,” Zavala said. phones and other electronic scrambled eggs and cereal Concord Street Church of See MISSION, Page 15 devices to access the Bible on a Sunday morning. Christ in nearby Orlando, the and take notes during wor- In a banquet room next Maingate church offers vaca- ship assemblies. to the breakfast buffet, chil- tioning Christians a conve- Given my Roswell experi- dren and parents in shorts nient place to sing and pray. ence, I decided to revisit the and tennis shoes gather “We love it,” said repeat subject. I asked readers of to worship God before visitor Norma Pitts, a the Chronicle’s blog: Do you spending the day at Epcot, BOBBY ROSS JR. member of the Fairhope use a printed Bible or digital Magic Kingdom, SeaWorld A sign in the hotel lobby invites Church of Christ in version at church services? or Universal Studios. guests to attend the assembly. Alabama, who was staying The 75 readers who A sign in the lobby of at Disney’s BoardWalk ERIK TRYGGESTAD responded by press time the Baymont Inn & Suites lets guests Villas with her husband Martin and Christians from Mexico sing during a midday See DIGITAL VS. PRINT, Page 4 know that the weekly service of the See DISNEY, Page 21 devotional at the Faith Village Church of Christ. 4 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE INSIDE STORY octoBER 2012 www.christianchronicle.org

Go online to find news updates, an expanded calendar, classifieds and much more. Use the barcode at right to visit our mobile site. • See all the comments from readers on digital vs. print Bibles. Search acu.edu for “printed Bible” at www.christianchronicle.org/blog.

Dr. Robert Rhodes, Provost, ACU Box 29103, Abilene, Texas 79699-9103 • Breaking news: Don’t wait to read all the latest news or check out exclusive online features. Dean, College of Arts and Sciences The College of Arts and Sciences is the largest academic unit in the university and central to its mission, offering undergraduate and graduate majors through four divisions (Behavioral and Social Sciences, Languages and Communication, Visual and Performing Arts, and Sciences and Mathematics) comprising 15 departments. DIGITAL VS. PRINT: Readers split on choices The college plays a primary role in the strong liberal arts education provided for all FROM PAGE 3 translations and make legible notes. undergraduate students in the university. split almost evenly between print and Her husband, Michael, leaves his Dean, College of Biblical Studies digital — with a number of folks saying Kindle Fire at home and takes his The College of Biblical Studies has two graduate programs – the Graduate School they use both. big New King James Version Bible to of Theology and the Department of Marriage and Family Studies – offering several “When I preach, I still carry my print church, his wife said. master’s degrees and the Doctor of Ministry degree. The Department of Bible, Missions Bible to the pulpit, but I have all of the Brown said she’s planning to buy her and Ministry provides undergraduate instruction to help students become intellectually Scriptures on the projector,” said Mike children, Michael, 17, and Hannah, 14, and practically grounded in the Christian faith. Undergraduate majors include Bible and Miles, who preaches for the Westside electronic devices so they can get more ministry, and vocational ministry, with concentrations in biblical text, biblical languages, Church of Christ in Ames, Iowa. “In my out of their Bible studies. “I don’t worry youth and family ministry, missions, children and family ministry, and worship ministry. personal study, I use BibleGateway.com about them getting sidetracked or surfing The Bachelor of Science degree in family studies equips students to serve the needs of children and families in a variety of community settings.Review of applications for this and YouVersion on my smartphone, the net while in services because they position begins Nov. 5, 2012. though I still like flipping through my have been raised to know why we are print Bibles for their handy, convenient at worship,” she said. “Plus, they know Dean, College of Education and Human Services commentaries.” Mama will do a search history if I think The College of Education and Human Services provides nationally accredited Theresa Gill, a member of the they have misused them.” training programs grounded in current research and informed practice related to Nettleton Church of Christ in For some, however, digital Bibles the educational and service needs of children and adults. The college comprises five Jonesboro, Ark., met her future hus- still carry a stigma. “I prefer to have a academic units: the School of Social Work, the Department of Teacher Education, Graduate Studies in Education, the Department of Communication Sciences and band, Tim, on the online social net- printed Bible to use when I am teaching Disorders, and the Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition. The college also houses working site Facebook. class, doing Bible studies with others or two federally funded TRiO programs serving those who are first-generation college But when it comes to Bible study, she just my daily reading,” said Tom Henry, students, students of diverse ethnic backgrounds and students with disabilities. prefers the leather-bound King James a member of the 47th Street Church of Version that Tim gave her when they Christ in Wichita, Kan. Visit acu.edu/academics/provost/positions.html for complete descriptions first met. “I just love the feel of my “I feel it adds reliability to what I of these positions. Successful applicants will have a commitment to the mission, Bible and enjoy turning the delicate say,” Henry added. “My source is the values and goals of the university; have an appreciation and understanding of the pages,” she said. “(There’s) nothing Bible and not an Android website some- nature and role of Christian higher education and the relationship among learning, better to me than an old, marked-up where. When teaching someone, which scholarship and faith; and a 21st-century vision for the role of the college in a Bible that says love.” is more believable: Acts 2:38 read from comprehensive university and in the preparation of students for service and Jon Burnett, a member of the Waldorf a phone or a well-used printed Bible? I leadership in the world. She or he will have an earned doctorate; a record of excellence in teaching and research as a tenured associate or full professor; Church of Christ in Maryland, said he will use the printed page.” serve as an exemplary teacher, mentor and advisor of university students; considers his iPad a wonderful tool for Patrick Odum, minister for the have experience in academic administration including evidence of exceptional Bible study and uses the tablet com- Northwest Church of Christ in leadership in progressively responsible positions; demonstrate ability to work puter almost exclusively for sermon Chicago, uses an iPad when preaching. collaboratively with faculty, staff and administrators within a department, college and Bible class preparation. “I have many different translations, and university; have knowledge of and experience with how the disciplines of In worship assemblies, though, he the Greek and the Hebrew and com- the college are connected with the communities they serve; and have willingness and ability to work effectively with university development in fund raising. fears his iPad could be a distraction. mentaries available at my fingertips, In a letter, applicants should address each element or characteristic in “Otherwise, I have a tendency to and I find it as quick or sometimes the above description of responsibilities and qualifications, and should send go my own way — like following a quicker to flip between passages,” a curriculum vita, including the name, address and telephone number of five personal tangent in the middle of a les- Odum said. “Not to mention the fact references (to be contacted only in the event the applicant is a finalist). Review son,” he said. Moreover, he’s afraid his that I hate wearing my reading glasses of applicants will begin immediately and continue until the positions are filled. Nominations of and applications from qualified women and minorities are 3-year-old, Lizzie, might not understand in the pulpit, and I’m getting to the especially encouraged. All applicants must be professing Christians and be active, why she can’t color or watch videos on point where I need those!” faithful members of a congregation of the Churches of Christ the iPad during the service. The iPad allows him to enlarge the and deeply committed to service in Christian higher education. Angela Brown, a member of the text lettering as much as he likes. ACU is affiliated with the fellowship of the Churches Margaret Street Church of Christ in “I did have a lady say once that she of Christ. The mission of the university is to educate students Milton, Fla., describes herself as a wished I still used the Bible when I for Christian service and leadership throughout the world. ACU does not unlawfully discriminate in employment opportunities. “Bible version jumper.” preached,” Odum said. “I showed her That’s why she enjoys the ability to the app and asked which Bible she 110324-1012 carry her printed New International wanted me to use.” Version of the Bible along with her iPad, which allows her to access other CONTACT [email protected]. OCTOBER 2012 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 5 COLORADO spotlight COLORADO SPRINGS — The Eastside Church of Christ provides rides and support for Air Force Academy cadets. Eastside leaders encourage parents Higher Ground of cadets to make them aware of the church’s ministry. DENVER — Higher Ground Encampment, For more information, see the church a Bible camp for teen girls, recently website at www.eastsidechurch.us. completed its fourth year. Sponsored by the Bear Valley Church ILLINOIS of Christ and directed by Teri Autrey CHICAGO — A group of Christians gathered and Kathy Pollard, Higher Ground recently to kick off the biennial Crusade served 60 campers from several states for Christ evangelistic campaign. and involved a volunteer staff of 11. More than 500 members of Churches The theme was “A Charmed Life.” of Christ attended the one-day event “To charm means to attract or draw that focused on informing members others with one’s personality or char- about the upcoming crusade. The acter,” Pollard said. “So we focused on campaign will be June 23-27, 2013, in how to draw others to Christ by being Montgomery, Ala. The last crusade like him.” occurred in Washington, D.C., in 2011. Campers mixed a focus on Bible Pledges and donations also were study with activities such as a spa night collected at dual seminars at the featuring what organizers dubbed Sheldon Heights Church of Christ and “Emily Post Charm School.” the Chatham-Avalon Church of Christ. The seminars raised more than $42,000, organizers said. Those funds will be used to promote the event through various forms of advertising and to keep costs as low as possible for MONYA SEIBERT those who want to attend the crusade. N.C. church shows God’s love to its community WAUKEGAN — For seven years, Fernando Brittany Brit paints the face of Jasmine Payne during a community outreach event by the Diaz has served as minister for a Hayesville Church of Christ in North Carolina. The 35-member congregation organized a free car Spanish-speaking Church of Christ wash and other activities designed to open doors to sharing the Gospel, minister Robert Seibert in Waukegan. The church shares a said. “We felt it was a great success,” Seibert said. Brit attends the University Church of Christ in KATHY POLLARD building with English-speaking brothers Montgomery, Ala., which sent a group to help with the North Carolina outreach effort. Higher Ground campers study their lessons. and sisters and has about 50 members. Diaz receives support from his local congregation as well as the Southside Two weeks later, the church PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA Church of Christ in Milwaukee and conducted its first Vacation Bible CAMP HILL — Many nursing home resi- CLOVER — Members of Churches of the Mabelvale Church of Christ in School in more than a decade, minister dents never receive a visit from anyone. Christ in Rock Hill and Fort Mill are Arkansas. However, he does not make John Repecko said. The Camp Hill Church of Christ does planting a new church in Clover — one enough to support his family, said Jim “God continues to bless us and its part to remedy that. they hope will grow and flourish. Frost, an elder for the Elkhorn Church surprise us,” Repecko said. Through its Golden Living Ministry, “We’re just excited to get started at of Christ in Wisconsin. the church works to improve the lives this point,” Greg Wanderman, minister “I can attest that Fernando is quali- MISSOURI of residents of a nursing home near of a 60-member congregation that fied and full of zeal for our Lord,” Frost rOLLA — Two Churches of Christ have its building. The church adopted 50 of meets in an elementary school, told the said. “Spanish-speaking congregations merged into one to better serve God the home’s most forgotten residents, Lake Wylie Pilot. “We want to serve the provide fertile grounds of growth for and the community, the Rolla Daily resulting in hundreds of personal visits community — to preach the Word and Churches of Christ in the North or News reported. per month, minister Doug Hamilton said. save souls.” anywhere.” For more information, call The merger occurred between the “We even carried out a makeover The Clover church recently broke Frost at (312) 420-0859. Highway E Church of Christ and the of the Alzheimer’s patio that included ground on a 5,000-square-foot church Highway 63 South Church of Christ. stump-pulling, concreting, construc- building on about five acres. MAINE “We want to be a united body of Christ tion of an arbor, planting and even Jim Hood, an elder with the new CARIBOU — For the first time since the here in Rolla,” Andy Cassidy, an elder (building) a fountain,” Hamilton said. church, told the newspaper that the mid-1990s, the Caribou Church of for the newly named Rolla Church of “There will soon be a live-streamed support of individuals and other area Christ has appointed elders. Christ, told the newspaper. “(We want) worship service to the recreation hall Churches of Christ made the land Keith Book, Dave Craw and Cliff to show the love of Christ in the commu- every Sunday morning that will allow purchase and construction possible. Foster were installed recently as shep- nity through that unity, to show that dozens of residents the opportunity to “This was a planned church planting,” herds for the 32-member congregation. Christ’s love overcomes any adversity.” join the Camp Hill family in worship.” Hood said. “We hope it will grow.” 6 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE ACROSS THE NATION OCTOBER 2012

Maplewood Church of Christ is seeking a minister. We average 75 in attendance on Sunday morning. Send resume to 3530 Falling Springs Rd., Cahokia, IL 62206 or [email protected].

LYNN McMILLON Oklahoma church installs first elders Gary Jones Sr., at left with his wife, Deborah, and Jack Reynolds, at right with his wife, Anita, are installed as elders of the 175-member East Side Church of Christ in Oklahoma City. The two men are the first elders in the congregation’s history of nearly 50 years. Kent Allen, center, an elder of the Memorial Road Church of Christ in Edmond, Okla., speaks during the installation ceremony. The churches have cooperated in “United in Christ,” an effort to encourage unity and fellowship among predominantly black and predominantly white congregations in Oklahoma. The East Side church also installed deacons Gary Jones Jr., Thomas McNeely Sr., Charles Ministry Opportunities Available Greene, Ken Robinson Jr. and associate ministers DeMarcco Owens and Julian Cruz.

Houseparents Generous Salary and Benefit Package Church elder, public relations

Director of Adoptive Homes MSW or other graduate degree in a human services field leader for Chick-fil-A dies at 60 BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE man … a kingdom man,” Hillcrest minister Richard Barclay said. Donor Account Manager Donald A. Perry, a church elder in Perry’s death received national media Detail-oriented and computer literate individual the Atlanta metro and vice president of attention due to the public relations fire- public relations for Chick-fil-A, died July storm surrounding comments by Chick- Call David at (575) 356-5372 or (575) 749-0785 27 of a heart attack. He was 60. fil-A’s president, Dan Cathy. Cathy, the “Don was a member of our Chick- son of the company’s founder, S. Truett Visit our web page www.nmcch.org or fil-A family for nearly Cathy, told a Baptist email [email protected] 29 years,” repre- newspaper that he sentatives of the backs “the biblical Georgia-based restau- definition of a family.” rant chain said in a Gay rights groups news release. “Our called for a boycott of thoughts and prayers Chick-fil-A. are with his family.” “He didn’t bring Perry’s family his work over here,” includes the www.chick-fil-a.com Barclay said of the 900-member Hillcrest Atlanta church elder Donald Perry church elder. In his Church of Christ in worked for Chick-fil-A for 29 years. job, “he didn’t speak Decatur, Ga., where for the kingdom. He he and his wife, Marilyn, worshiped for spoke for Chick-fil-A.” 19 years. For 15 of those years Donald Hillcrest member Janice Little called Motivation - Inspiration Perry served as a church elder. Donald Perry “a living example of Donald Perry shepherded the congre- a Christian man and a pillar in our www.grayhairtalking.com gation’s marriage ministry, ladies’ congregation.” ministry and adult education program. “We have suffered a great loss,” Little “He was a visionary man, a dedicated said, “and he will truly be missed.” OCTOBER 2012 ACROSS THE NATION THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 7 Church member breaks records, swims for U.S. in Paralympics

LONDON — “I’ll be home after I swim like crazy,” Evan Austin said in a recent Twitter post. Austin, a member of the Eastside Church of Christ in Terre Haute, Ind., was one of 14 swimmers competing for the U.S. in the 2012 Paralympics in London. He and his family are dedi- cated members of the Eastside church, friends told The Christian Chronicle. “They are a wonderful example of a Christian family,” church member Kelly Wilkinson said of the Austins. The Paralympics is an international, multi-sport event where athletes with physical disabilities compete. The games take place in the city that hosts the Olympics. During qualifying trials in Bismarck, N.D., Evan Austin won four gold medals, set 11 American records and made 13 personal best times, according to Terre Haute TV station WTWO.

FOLLOW AUSTIN ONLINE. See the “Good Luck Evan” www.wthitv.com page at www.facebook.com/GoodLuckEvanAustin. Evan Austin is all smiles after a qualifying Follow him on Twitter at @E_A_swim. swim for the 2012 Paralympics in London. Bridge in South Carolina named for fallen soldier, church member SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Friends, family and website GoUpstate.com. public officials gathered at the Central “Let’s not forget that,” Nutt said, “Do Church of Christ recently to recognize you hear that laughter? That’s what the sacrifice of U.S. Army Capt. John David would want. He’d say, ‘I’ve got a David Hortman. bridge? That’s pretty cool.’ He probably A bridge on South wanted a space shuttle, but the county’s Carolina’s Highway 296 resources are limited.” over the Middle Tyger Hortman was a 2004 graduate of the River was named in United States Military Academy at West memory of Hortman, Point. who died Aug. 8, During his funeral service, his long- 2011, in a helicopter time friend Stan Fields read a letter training exercise at Fort given to him by Hortman before Hortman Benning, Ga. He was 30. Hortman’s first deployment in 2008. “Tonight, we’re here for a celebra- “I died doing exactly what I wanted tion,” County Councilman Roger Nutt to do, what God put me on this earth to said as he unveiled a sign for the do,” Fields said, quoting the letter. bridge. Nutt also attends the Central The letter listed songs Hortman church with Hortman’s family and wanted played during his service, traveled with Hortman as part of the including “I’ll Fly Away,” “It is Well church’s singing group when Hortman With My Soul” and “Where No One was younger, according to news Stands Alone.” 8 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OCTOBER 2012 CAYMAN ISLANDS spotlight GEORGE TOWN — Three Churches of Christ in this Caribbean territory of Great Britain, west Water for Panama of Jamaica, hosted the 42nd Caribbean Lectures. Attendees IPETI KUNA, Panama — Larry came from congregations across Brady was shocked and the region, including 40 church saddened to learn of the deaths members from the Bahamas, of 15 children in this Central said missionary David Caskey. American village. “The most impressive thing The village is home to the to me is that, 42 years ago, indigenous Kuna people — the audience was 95 percent and a young Church of Christ, Americans,” Caskey said. where Alvereno Ponce serves “This year I noted that perhaps as a minister. the Americans made up 3 The deaths percent of the brethren, with were attrib- almost every Caribbean nation uted to contami- represented.” nated water, said Brady, director GREECE of Alabama- Kechries — The apostle Paul based Panama got a haircut in this ancient Missions. Ponce Corinthian port, once known www.facebook.com/iglesiadecristo.caliautopista “We installed as Cenchrea. (See Acts 18:18.) 50 filters in the village in June Nearly 2,000 years later, 72 Christian women let their lights shine at Colombia retreat and promised to help them deal adults and 23 children gath- Women from South America hold up candles during a retreat and conference hosted by church members in with this tragedy,” Brady said. ered here for the eighth annual Medellin, Colombia. “Woman, Rise Up and Shine in Christ” was the theme of the event, attended by 180 women The cost of water filters is family retreat of the Omonia from across Colombia. Speakers included women from Venezuela and Colombia and Linda Henry, center, director rising, and the ministry seeks Church of Christ in Athens. of Latin team women for Great Cities Missions, a Texas-based ministry that serves missionary teams in Portuguese- additional funds. To contribute, Participants represented and Spanish-speaking regions of the globe. For more information, see www.greatcities.org. see panamamissions.org. nine nationalities — Greek, Bulgarian, Filipino, Moldovan, Nigerian, Romanian, Russian, little clothing, dirty water and a suburb of Mexico City where plants — Zictapec and San religious leaders among the Ukrainian and American. no plumbing, but their situation she and her husband, Barry, Pedro Cholula. In the latter, 44 Ovambo people. Attending this year’s retreat is improving, said Joe Holley, served on a church-planting women attended, only six of About 150 preachers attended was a struggle for many thanks to donations from team more than a decade ago. whom were church members, six seminars conducted by the because of Greece’s ongoing Christians and aid from Healing Galindo and fellow church Denise Galindo said. team. Malvin Kivedo presented financial woes, organizers said. Hands International, a church- members taught Mexican the preachers with “The supported relief ministry. women fun, educational activi- NAMIBIA Teacher’s Bible” and “A Call to Holley led a team of five men ties for children using house- Ovamboland — A “true restora- Restoration.” from the East Colbert Church hold items. They also taught tion movement” of Christ in Muscle Shoals, the women to crochet rugs is taking place OMAN Ala., to Haiti. Alongside Haitian and hot pads using old sheets among the indig- MUSCAT — Edward Rouse, a workers, the men constructed and cloth, how to make no-sew enous people minister in India, traveled to a pavilion at the Lilavois fleece blankets and pillows. of this region this Muslim-dominated, Middle Children’s Home. About 140 The women conducted the in northern Eastern sultanate on the people worshiped under the seminars in Toluca and two Namibia, says Arabian Peninsula, bordering pavilion, Holley said. The towns with recent church Roger Dickson. Yemen and Saudi Arabia. Alabama church seeks addi- Dickson is Kivedo An evangelist working with ELENI Melirrytos tional partners for Haiti work. coordinator of a church of expatriates in the A child shows off her handiwork Africa International Missions, a capital, Muscat, invited Rouse during the Omonia church retreat. MEXICO Cape Town, South Africa-based to speak to his congregation. TOLUCA — “Most churches in ministry that produces litera- “It really surprised me to HAITI Mexico have more women ture and conducts seminars on see more than 250 Telegu (an Lilavois — A children’s home members than men,” said Bible-based Christianity. Indian language) people gath- in this community, near Port- Denise Galindo. Women are “a Dickson, along with ering at one place for worship,” au-Prince, provides shelter and vital part of the church body, yet coworkers Malvin and Hazel Rouse said. food to about 90 children. they are rarely ministered to.” PHOTO PROVIDED BY Denise Galindo Kivedo and Denville Willie, The minister was invited to They once lived in “the Galindo set out to change that Women visit after classes in San traveled 4,000 miles north from return and asked for prayers poorest of poor conditions,” with during a recent trip to Toluca, Pedro Cholula, Mexico. Cape Town at the invitation of for the Muscat church. OCTOBER 2012 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 9

“September in Stillwater, Oklahoma”

th 50 Anniversary Celebration THE ASCENDING VOICE III

AN INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM AND CHORAL FESTIVAL OF SACRED A CAPPELLA MUSIC

May 9-11, 2013 Malibu, California at Duck & McElroy Call for Chor al Participation, September 23, 1962 we moved into our new building. September 22‐23, 2012 we will celebrate the past 50 years. Workshops and Papers The Ascending Voice III is an international symposium and choral Saturday, September 22 festival devoted exclusively to a cappella music in Christian worship. 6‐8 p.m. ‐ Hideaway Pizza Held on one of America’s most beautiful campuses, the symposium Share your Stillwater memories! features presentations by the world’s leading authorities on this rich style of worship. Daily concert lineup includes performances by: Sunday, September 23 9:00 a.m. Bible Classes – Ken Dye speaker • Top collegiate choral groups 10:15 a.m. Worship ‐ Darrell Rickard speaker • Sweet Honey In The Rock • The Los Angeles Master Chorale 2‐4 – Open House • The Festival Chorus conducted by We’ve got a “new look” and want you to see it. Dr. Allen Hightower of Luther College

More information www.stillwatercoc.org or call Deanna at 1‐800‐543‐8588, ext 10 Go to www.pepperdine.edu/ascendingvoice for more information. and to RSVP for Saturday evening

10 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE AROUND THE WORLD OCTOBER 2012 In Kenya, hundreds of high school students sign up to study the Bible

BY Larenda Roberts | FOR THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE in America to handle the workload that could come out of this open door,” In AIDS-ravaged Africa, a church- Clodfelter said. sponsored program teaches morality to John Reese, president of World Bible thousands of high school students — School, was quick to respond. House Parents tackling taboo subjects such as sex and “WBS teachers — thousands of them abstinence. In addition, the program — are all about sharing Jesus with truth- Arms of Hope is seeking a married couple who has a passion has immersed the students in the Bible. seekers,” Reese said. “They’re ready and for today’s youth and a calling to Christian residential care. Workers with Right more are joining them At Arms of Hope we have the unique opportunity to serve Choices, a ministry every day.” youth who come from disadvantaged backgrounds and need based in Nyeri, Kenya, Mentored by the adult leadership to help guide them educationally, emotion- report that hundreds late Berkeley Hackett, ally and spiritually. It is our mission to provide these children of teens signed up Clodfelter has worked with a therapeutic environment in which they can develop for the World Bible in Kenya 19 years and prosper. This mission opportunity offers a very competi- School correspon- and began teaching dence program after biblical morality tive salary in addition to housing, food, health insurance, a a tour of high schools in high schools in retirement plan and generous vacation and leave time. in Mumias, a town in 2008. He has visited western Kenya. more than 100 If interested in these positions, please visit Missionary Greg schools and spoken www.ArmsofHope.org to obtain an application on the Clodfelter led a team to about 40,000 high “About Us” page. You can also contact Allen Williams at of Kenyan Christians school students. The [email protected]. who conducted Andrews Church Right Choices semi- of Christ in Texas nars at five schools supports the work. in Mumias, warning In recent weeks, teens of the dangers Elizabeth Sonia additional schools have of HIV and teaching Students in Mumias, Kenya, take notes contacted Amwayi Bible-based morality. during a Right Choices seminar. and asked for Right 5-YEAR/60,000-MILE Days later, Meshack Choices seminars. Amwayi, an evangelist and member of “This means the church is getting the Mumias Church of Christ, returned into more schools exposing more BODY & CHASSIS WARRANTY to the schools and signed up students students to God’s word,” Clodfelter said. for the correspondence course. At one “Hundreds and hundreds more students STANDARD WITH EVERY NEW BUS PURCHASE school, Amwayi signed up more than potentially will be signed up for WBS.” 100 teens, who completed the lessons Carpenter Bus Sales has gone the and sent them to U.S. church members FOR MORE INFORMATION, e-mail gregnyeri@yahoo. extra mile again in providing a unique to be graded. com or see www.andrewschurch.org. Sign up to teach 5-­‐year/60,000-­‐mile body & chassis “I hope there are enough Christians World Bible School at www.worldbibleschool.net. warranty* with every new bus they sell! An op

ROYCE SARTAIN Participants in Camp Balchyoca, an annual Bible camp in the Eastern European nation of Estonia, pray before a meal. The camp served 180 youths from Estonia, Russia and Finland. Christian camping comes of age in Eastern Europe

BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE For its 14th year, organizers changed the name to Baltic Family Camp and s the Soviet Union fell, Christians invited Eastern Europeans young and rushed into the nations of old from across the region. Attendees Eastern Europe, Bibles in hand. came from Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, From the Baltic Sea to Siberia, Poland, Germany, Canada and the U.S. Churches of Christ hosted The Vilnius Church of Christ orga- summer camps — at campgrounds nized the event with assistance from where young people once were indoc- the Levy Church of Christ in North trinated with communist Little Rock, Ark. ideology. Now, a genera- The camp “brought tion of Eastern European together 70 people who Christians that grew up couldn’t have been more attending the camps is different in heritage, taking the reins. language and person- In Estonia, a small ality and showed them Baltic nation of 1.3 that they are truly one million souls, 180 youths in Christ,” said Krista participated in Camp Cannon, a missions Balchyoca, an annual intern in Chemnitz, event founded by U.S. Germany, who attended. churches in 1995. Just east of Lithuania, This year, church in Belarus, YouthReach members in Estonia’s International launched capital, Tallinn, and blog.youthreach.org a new initiative to help the city of Tartu were A student at the History Makers Christians mentor responsible for plan- Journey in Belarus looks over his orphans. ning, theme choice and notes after a day of classes. Church members preparation, said Royce from the Russia and U.S. Sartain, a U.S. church member and long- offices of the ministry, once known as time supporter of the work in Estonia World Wide Youth Camps, conducted The camp’s directors were Anna a History Makers Journey seminar Vasjutina and Asea Lezina. Both were for young Belorussian leaders. The among the first campers in 1995. Christians worked in partnership with South of Estonia, in the Baltic nation Chick-fil-A’s WinShape Foundation and of Lithuania, Christians hosted Camp the International Leadership Institute. Krista Cannon Ruta, an annual gathering in the woods Lithuanian church member Tomas Dambrauskis, on the grass, plays a game with Arkansas near Lithuania’s capital, Vilnius. EXPANDED COVERAGE at www.christianchronicle.org. minister Danny Dodd, Dodd’s daughter, Jordan, and others at the Baltic Family Camp. 12 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE FROM THE FRONT OCTOBER 2012 OCTOBER 2012 FROM THE FRONT the christian chronicle 13 ‘We’re promoting one church and giving a statement to the community that we’re one in Jesus Christ.’ HOUSTON: About 70 congregations support campaign — Cruz Hernandez, minister for the Hidden Valley Church of Christ in Houston FROM PAGE 1 tributed roughly $350,000 to paign’s lack of racial diversity. who is white, and Evans, who He proceeded to prove that, Highland Heights Church of cover the campaign’s costs. This time, organizers worked is black, praised the diverse repeatedly interrupting the invi- Christ. “The Campaign for Christ is harder to cross racial and eth- nature of the crowd. tation song — “Just As I Am” — Campaign volunteers gave really the best effort we’ve had nic boundaries and involve a Norton said he was happy to to beg the lost to step forward. away English and Spanish of getting churches together wide diversity of church leaders be in a setting where neither That same night, the crowd Bibles and provided free ser- to make a real impact on and members, Smith said. color, language nor nationality sang hymns such as “When We vices such as vision and dental Houston,” said Larry Keele, “The last campaign, some of mattered. All Get to Heaven” and “Sing exams, sports physicals, diabe- minister for the Champions the brothers reached out, but “What matters is Jesus the Wondrous Love of Jesus” tes screenings, immigrant legal Church of Christ. “We’re doing not as much as this campaign,” Christ,” he said. in English and Spanish. advice and family portraits. good works, we’re sharing the said Smith, who served as Evans agreed, saying, “This Andres Trejo, a member of More than 500 church mem- name of Jesus with the city, one of the 2012 campaign’s is what the ‘one body’ ought to the Lawndale Church of Christ, bers signed up to donate blood. and it’s going to be a massive coordinators, along with look like.” voiced amazement at the four- Minister Gary Smith’s voice impact for good.” Duncan and Hernandez. “This But Evans found it difficult to part harmony that echoed off carried over a loudspeaker as campaign, without a doubt, was limit his remarks. the rafters. he welcomed families to the ‘I’D NEVER HEARD OF IT’ groundbreaking because more “I don’t think I’ve ever “We’re like one note the Day of Good Works. Two years ago, the churches were invited up front preached a sermon that fast,” whole time,” he joked about his “Thank you! God bless you! Campaign for Christ involved A new sister in Christ is helped into the baptismal pool during the Houston- to come together and talk about he joked, wiping sweat from his home congregation. “But here, Have a wonderful time!” urged primarily black churches. area Campaign for Christ, which resulted in at least 16 baptisms. what we could do.” brow after removing his jacket they do voices — soprano, alto. Smith, who preaches for the Benton Baugh, a longtime That dialogue sometimes and loosening his tie. “I’m an I like to see that. I’ve never Fifth Ward Church of Christ. “If member of the Memorial Houston metro area has roughly church. “There was a desire to resulted in stressful conversa- hour-long preacher. At 30 min- seen this much energy coming you have any questions, just ask Church of Christ, recalls seeing 200 congregations and 50,000 preach Christ and to help oth- tions as organizers worked utes, I’m just getting started.” from one group.” someone in the white T-shirts.” a sign on the back of a taxicab adherents of Churches of Christ. ers, but it didn’t feel like it was through issues such as who advertising the 2010 campaign. But individual congregations a brotherhood-wide event.” would preach, what style of ‘A MASSIVE IMPACT FOR GOOD’ “I’d never heard of it,” said often fail to reflect the makeup For five years, the predomi- worship would prevail and how Teisha Johnson and her Baugh, who served as co- of Houston — an immigrant nantly white Memorial church long assemblies would last. sons, Gahvyn, 12, and Triston, PHOTOS BY BOBBY ROSS JR. chairman for the 2012 Day of gateway more diverse than and the predominantly black “You have some who want to 9, decided to be baptized as a Two boys shake hands as campaign volunteers welcome needy residents to the George R. Brown Convention Good Works. “The reason is New York, Los Angeles or Fifth Ward church have con- get the program over with real result of the campaign. Center, just down the street from Minute Maid Park, home of baseball’s Houston Astros. because I’m white. The black Miami, according to Rice ducted joint worship assemblies quick,” Smith said, “and some “I’ve always believed in Jesus congregations are much more University researchers. twice a year. They cooperate on who want to stay here all night.” and God, but I’ve struggled makes everything so much ongoing studies, organizers said. cooked meal and everything active in the community in Similarly, area-wide church benevolence projects and mar- The difference in approach with living the Word and clearer to me,” she added. “It Registration materials filled out else,” Brenda Carter, a mem- area-wide cooperation than the events tend to involve a par- riage enrichment programs. was evident as Jack Evans Jr. being faithful,” said the single made me realize, ‘Yes, I need by those helped will allow indi- ber of the Fidelity Church of white congregations are.” ticular racial group and not The two churches’ ministers of Southwestern Christian mother, who began visiting the to obey the Gospel and really vidual churches to follow up. Christ, told a stranger who Houston is the seat of Harris Christians of all colors. swap pulpits and maintain College in Terrell, Texas, fol- Sugar Land Church of Christ make a true commitment to Dozens of congregations set visited her booth. “Just look for County, which has more “That’s one thing we noticed a close friendship — to the lowed Howard Norton of the about six months ago. fully live by the Bible.’” up booths with colorful ban- me. I’ll be there.” Churches of Christ — 124 — at the last Campaign for extent that Duncan felt no hesi- Baxter Institute in Tegucigalpa, “Since I’ve been at the The campaign resulted in at ners and pamphlets. Sponsoring congregations than any other county in the Christ,” said David Duncan, tation in voicing his concern Honduras, to the microphone Church of Christ ... it just least 16 baptisms and many “We’ll give you a home- and individual members con- nation. In all, the 10-county minister for the Memorial to Smith about the 2010 cam- on Sunday night. Both Norton,

A crowd lines up outside the convention center to receive help during the “Day of Good Works” sponsored by Church members from throughout the Houston area gather to sing, pray Gary Smith, minister for the Fifth Ward Church of Christ, gives instructions during the “Day of Good Works.” Free Church members bow in prayer during a worship assembly in which hymns Churches of Christ. Volunteers distributed backpacks and school supplies to 3,000 children and families. and study the Bible during the five-day Campaign for Christ. Bibles were given away, while health screenings, spiritual counseling and immigration legal advice were offered. such as “When We All Get to Heaven” were sung in English and Spanish. 14 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE FROM THE FRONT OCTOBER 2012

Do you have a heart for children? BOBBY ROSS JR. Come join our team! Detroit-area church members pray during a Unity Event for Christ worship assembly in 2008.

The Albuquerque Christian Children’s Home has been DETROIT: Leaders promote racial unity providing a loving, safe home for neglected and at-risk FROM PAGE 1 has never been as strong as the black Snow serves as chairman and Woods churches,” Woods said. “I had a children for over 42 years! ACCH is located on six as co-chairman for United in Christ, a member who just flat out refuses to go beautiful acres by the historic Rio Grande River in group working to break down racial into Detroit at all. barriers and reach Michigan’s diverse “But overall, we are seeing individual Albuquerque, New Mexico. We are looking for a population with the Gospel. suburban and urban churches part- devoted, married couple, faithful members of a church Each year since 2006, United in nering in ministry and a greater sense of Christ has facilitated the distribution of unity, especially among the supporting of Christ, to serve the Lord and care for children, as food and school supplies to about 2,000 churches,” he added. “At Walled Lake, Houseparents. Competitive wages, medical insurance, Detroit-area families. Eight Churches of we are seeing a growing number of Christ serve as the distribution points. African-American members of the church paid vacation and more! Nine other congregations partner in the who had commuted back to Detroit or “Love in Action” benevolence work. Pontiac now worshiping with us regularly Every other year since 2006, the group or even placing membership with us.” Please send a cover letter with your resumes has organized a megaworship assembly Progress on racial unity can be slow, to Everett White, [email protected]. Check out to promote unity and bring together Snow said. However, he said the church black, white and Hispanic church leaders — black, white and Hispanic — our Home on our website acch4kids.org members. The recent fourth Unity Event who have embraced United in Christ for Christ drew 1,200 church members to “have come to know each other on a the Elmwood Park Church of Christ, in much more personal level.” the heart of Detroit’s inner city and near “There has also been some cross- the Eastern Market and Ford Field. fellowship between white and black Jerry Houston, minister for the East congregations,” Snow said. “An example Henrietta Church of Christ in Rochester, of this is the youth from an inner-city N.Y., and Harold Shank, president of congregation got together with the youth Ohio Valley University in Vienna, W.Va., of a predominantly white congregation shared lessons from Romans 12:2 on the for youth fellowship. theme “A Transformative Church.” “I am not sure how God will advance Two groups performed: Grateful Praise this much-needed movement,” he added. from the Gateway Church of Christ in “But I appreciate all of the brethren in suburban Southgate and the Wyoming this area who have embraced the biblical Concert Choir from the Wyoming mandate to be one in Jesus Christ. Our Avenue Church of Christ in Detroit. mission is to demonstrate unity in Christ “Our white turnout was down. It so that the world might believe.” OCTOBER 2012 FROM THE SECOND FRONT the christian chronicle 15 MISSION: Mexicans serve in U.S. FROM PAGE 3 including his in-laws, Rudy and Isabel Zavala and his family got warm greet- Sanchez. The couple drove from ings from the Texans — especially Needville, Texas, near Houston, to look 82-year-old Ken Sandefur, who stayed after their grandchildren and take part with the family in Mexico during a mis- in the campaign. sion trip about seven years ago. The Sanchezes said Sandefur has traveled the globe with they were impressed by World English Institute, a ministry that the Mexicans’ energy — helps people improve their English skills even when temperatures using the Bible. He spent a month in reached 105 degrees Frontera, teaching English and worship- Fahrenheit. ing with the 100-member church. He was “Of course, the impressed by their dedication — young Mexicans door-knock Fernandez and old — to spreading the Gospel. houses with no air- Several Texas church members said conditioning, and it’s already been 115 they never imagined a day when Mexican there,” Rudy Sanchez said. Christians would serve as missionaries to The Spanish speakers they encoun- the U.S. Sandefur wasn’t one of them. tered in Texas were hesitant to listen PHOTOS BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD “I wasn’t surprised, really, that they at first, Rudy Sanchez added, until he Alfonso Sanchez and Mexican youths browse at Mardel, a Christian bookstore. would come,” he said. “If anyone would introduced them to the Mexicans. do something like that, they would.” Then “they opened up,” he said. “You including Kay John, helped out in the school math teacher and a minister for could see their defense shields go down.” kitchen. the Frontera church, preached on the CROSS-CULTURAL DOOR KNOCKING “We learned from them humility and apostle Paul’s letter to the church in Alongside members of the Faith CHALLENGING STEREOTYPES kindness,” she said of the visitors. Rome — a cross-cultural mix of Jewish Village Church of Christ’s Spanish min- After a morning of door-knocking and The Mexican Christians also learned and Gentile Christians. istry, the Mexicans knocked doors and an afternoon of shopping at Mardel, from their hosts, said 22-year-old Alfonso “Even though we are from two distributed flyers advertising a nightly a Christian bookstore, the church Sanchez, who preaches on occasion for separate countries, speak two sepa- gospel meeting at the Texas church. members gathered in Faith Village’s the Frontera church. rate languages, we serve one Christ,” Targeting Spanish speakers wasn’t large fellowship hall. Outside, bathed in “At first, I thought Americans were Alfaro said, as Mike Lechuga, outreach easy, said John Fernandez, Spanish and sweat, Billy Harrington flipped dozens real racist,” he said, speaking through an minister for the Edgemere church, bilingual minister for the Faith Village of hot dogs on a massive barbecue grill. interpreter. “Now, when it comes to the translated for an English-speaking visi- church. Wichita Falls largely is an He doesn’t speak much Spanish, but brothers at church, I don’t see that.” tor. “Regardless, we have a common integrated city, he said, with Anglo and when he heard the campaigners were “I feel that churches here work more language of the Gospel.” Hispanic residents coming, he was the out of love, and churches in Mexico Among the Mexican and U.S. church living side by side. first to say “I’ll cook.” work more out of rules,” he said. members were a handful of visitors Fernadez, a Harrington’s congre- Jennifer Garay, 15, started studying from the community. On a previous native of south gation, the Edgemere the Bible in Frontera in January and night, a couple traveled here all the way Texas, said his Church of Christ in was baptized in April. from Scotland — Texas, roots in the U.S. Wichita Falls, supports Months later, she was a that is, a community date back at least the Frontera church. missionary to the U.S. about 20 miles south of three generations. Harrington and other When asked about her Wichita Falls. When he took the church members have impressions of the U.S., Alfaro’s wife, Olivia, job at Faith Village visited there. she replied, “They feed said she was disap- two years ago, his Members of the us a lot.” pointed that their efforts brother jokingly Frontera church also “It’s been a beautiful yielded few visitors. asked him if he make occasional visits experience,” she added. In Mexico, their Garay Olivia Alfaro even knew how to to Edgemere. Earlier “Everyone is so friendly church has grown speak Spanish. this year, they devised and lovable. Now we have family here.” through “friendship evangelism,” she He did, but he the idea for a “campana said, with members reaching out to acknowledged that evangelistica” (evange- FAMILY AND FRIENDSHIP EVANGELISM their immediate family and neighbors. he had to brush listic campaign). After the fellowship meal, the She hopes that, in years to come, up on his “Bible Leaders of the Christians gathered for Wednesday church members on both sides of the Spanish.” Similar Rudy Sanchez studies Scripture with a Edgemere church, night Bible study — and the final U.S.-Mexico border can build friend- to King James visitor during a fellowship meal. which has no Spanish- evening of the campaign. As the adults ships in the community that lead to English, most language ministry, worshiped and prayed in a Spanish- lifelong devotion to Christ. Spanish Bibles use words not common asked Faith Village to partner in the language service, children joined Faith “The Great Commission to go into all in Spanish vernacular, Fernandez said. effort. Harrington housed seven of the Village’s English Bible classes. nations starts in the family,” she said. Working with the Mexican Christians Mexicans and cooked daily for the entire Though the air-conditioning in the Regardless of how many respond to the was a cross-cultural experience for group during their weeklong visit. auditorium failed, the Mexicans didn’t message, “we shouldn’t be discouraged. Fernandez and other U.S.-born Latinos, Members of the Faith Village church, complain. Silvestre Alfaro, a middle Our job is to go.” 16 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OCTOBER 2012

please join us for the inauguration of L. Timothy Perrin sixth president of lubbock christian university September 23-27, 2012

Judge Dr. gerald Ken Starr Turner President, President, Baylor Southern University Methodist University

President Tim Perrin, JD lubbock christian university

critical thinking. faith development. rigorous scholarship. spiritual formation. The purpose of a Christian university is to equip students to pursue Godly wisdom, discern their calling, and live in service to others. Lubbock Christian University will be hosting a series of conversations and scholarly presentations during the inauguration week of President Perrin. Please join us as we explore Faith and Learning: The Enduring Idea of a Christian University. FaiTh & Learning the enduring idea of a christian university

Monday, septeMber 24: judge ken starr: voices of faith in the public square 7 pm A Conversation with the President of Baylor University • McDonald Moody Auditorium Wednesday, septeMber 26: honors convocation 2:30 pm Discerning Vocation and Pursuing Wisdom: The Adventure of a Christian University • Baker Conference Center Featuring Dr. Robert Benne, Roanoke College / Hosted by LCU Honors Program 4 pm Faith and Learning Panel Discussion: The Enduring Idea of a Christian University • Baker Conference Center Featuring key scholars in dialogue of the Honors Convocation—Dr. Robert Benne, Roanoke College; Dr. Allison Garrett, Abilene Christian University; Dr. Doug Henry, Baylor University; Dr. Richard Hughes, Messiah College thursday, septeMber 27: investiture convocation 2 pm Inaugural Message from Dr. Gerald Turner, President of Southern Methodist University • Rip Griffin Center for a full schedule of events, please visit www.lcu.edu/inauguration

ChristianChronicleAd_August2012.indd 1 8/21/12 3:48 PM OCTOBER 2012 the christian chronicle 17 ‘The British are coming’

IN THE SHADOW OF THE OLYMPICS, a new generation of Londoners dreams of sharing the Gospel with their kingdom — and the world.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE

Fans stream in and out of Olympic Park near London’s Stratford community. The 40-member Stratford Church of Christ worshiped with the New Cross Church of Christ during the games.

LONDON capital, once the throne of an empire on London’s International Church of Christ, Bobie hurriedly unloads supplies for the h dear. I believe I’m in the which the sun never set. Signs for the or ICOC, a booming congregation that assembly. He shakes hands with Prince Olympic lane.” 30th Olympic Games urge the locals to emphasized evangelism Ntim-Adjei, who moved here six Philip Adu-Bobie steers his cheer on “Team GB.” and discipleship. years ago from Ghana to work car out of the far-right lane Despite the traffic jams he expected, Ten years ago, as the as a “wood joiner,” or carpenter. on the M4 motorway, which Adu-Bobie is making “quite good time,” ICOC endured a global Umbrella in hand, Ntim-Adjei bears images of five conjoined rings he says. Perhaps he and his guest can leadership crisis, he and stands outside the college’s with the word “ONLY” painted below. pop by his house for tea before worship? his family began worship- entrance, guiding congregants A light drizzle falls from the overcast The secondary school math teacher ing with the New Cross — and carrying children — to sky on this Sunday morning as Adu- and father of two represents a new gen- Church of Christ, a their classrooms for Bible study. Bobie makes his way from Heathrow eration of British Christians. His parents 75-member congregation. On the M4 motorway, a People of different nationali- airport — where he’s picked up a visi- moved here from a nation that once was Six days ago, his sign designates lanes for ties trickle in, a bit like the open- tor from the U.S. — to the borough of part of the empire — Ghana. Born here, 13-year-old daughter was official Olympic vehicles. ing ceremonies of the London Southwark in southeast London. There, he spent a dozen years in his parents’ baptized. games. A mother and daughter two Churches of Christ will meet in a homeland as a youth, where he first Arriving at Bacon’s College, where the from the Philippines arrive, followed by rented hall for a combined worship. encountered Churches of Christ. New Cross church is joining members an Indian couple with their infant. Most The world has come to this European In 1991 he became a member of of the Stratford Church of Christ, Adu- CONTINUED 18 OCTOBER 2012 CURRENTS THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 19 Londoners long for ‘a church of all nations’

CONTINUED New Cross and said she’s eager “to “celebrating together,” Adesina says. of the 151 people in attendance — 42 exercise what I learned.” Armstrong says he looks forward to men, 65 women and 44 children — hail Malcolm Armstrong, minister for a day when new generations of British from West Africa and the Caribbean. the Stratford church, says that, “here, Christians — the children of Africans, “This is the kind of day the devil Christianity has to be on its own initia- Europeans and people of the Caribbean despises,” says Jeff Abrams, addressing tive — more so than in the Caribbean. — will take their zeal for the Gospel to the congregation. “There must be 25 Otherwise, it won’t survive.” other nations, including the U.S. countries represented here. Truly, this Armstrong, a native of Trinidad and He longs to hear Americans say, once is the United Nations Church of Christ.” Tobago, has ministered in London more, “The British are coming” as a Abrams is minister for the Tuscumbia for 31 years. He longs to return to his wave of young Christians invades their Church of Christ, a 400-member con- homeland and work with churches shores. gregation in northern Alabama. For 14 there but feels beholden to ministry in years, his church has supported New Great Britain. He doesn’t want to see it YEARNING FOR ‘A WORLDWIDE REVIVAL’ Cross minister Stephen Eusell, a native diminish. In the days following the combined of the Caribbean island of Dominica. Emmanuel Boateng came to London Gloria Osei and her daughter, Angela, worship service, the Tuscumbia church Abrams and a small team from from Ghana 12 years ago as a student. traveled two-and-a-half hours for the VBS. members treat the children of London’s Tuscumbia have stopped in London on He met his wife here and teaches at a churches to puppet shows, skits, races their way back from Ukraine, where primary school. Nonetheless, “I’ve been made to feel and refreshments. they just completed their 10th annual “Coming here has widened my very welcome here,” she says. “Champions for Christ” is the theme Camp Amerikraine, a Bible camp for scope,” he says, adding that he now The youths in London’s 11 Churches of the four-day Vacation Bible School, Judy Abrams cheers for a wreathed “champion” during the New Cross Vacation Bible School. children. It’s Abrams’ first visit to the Philip Adu-Bobie poses for a “snap” (photo) thinks of the church in global terms. of Christ have a sense of unity that tran- attended by 52 to 75 people each day. London congregation. with two fellow Brits near Olympic Park. Still, he finds it difficult to share his scends racial lines, says Adam Adesina, The children paint the Olympic rings listening to long lectures,” says Osei, Churches of Christ, including Latinos. “There are many champions among faith with people who aren’t from Ghana a native Brit whose mother is from on canvas visors and decorate “medals” a member of the Edmonton Church of London’s churches need Spanish us today,” Abrams says, referencing the SHARING FAITH ACROSS CULTURES — especially white Europeans. He prays Jamaica and his father from Nigeria. made of leather as they hear Bible Christ. “For the children to come and speakers, he adds. crowds assembling a few kilometers After worship, the Christians dive for courage to do better, to help his Adesina grew up in the Wembley lessons. Their mothers watch and smile. socialize with these Christian brothers, Churches here also need encourage- away at Olympic Park, “but the most into steaming plates of fish, beef and church be “a church of all nations, not Church of Christ, one of the only London “This is quite good for them. Get it doesn’t matter how far you have to ment, he says, to boldly proclaim the important champions are in this room.” sausages as they discuss the challenges just a church for the Ghanaians.” congregations to own its own building. them outside and get them active,” says go. It’s priceless.” Gospel to the world — as the world He reads from Hebrews 12, which of evangelizing their multicultural One of the few white faces in the One day after the Olympics’ opening Mercy Asiamah, a native of Ghana who More such efforts are needed, arrives at their doorsteps. urges believers to “run with persever- metropolis. lunch crowd belongs to Lily Bland, a ceremonies, more than 100 youths was baptized nine years ago in London. Armstrong says. Perhaps Churches of Christ in another ance the race marked out for us.” “People don’t stop and talk,” says university student interning in London gathered for the London Christian Gloria Osei rode on buses and trains The Stratford minister had hoped booming, multicultural city — Rio de The people of London “have got to Thelma McKoy, who moved here for the summer. Her home congrega- Youth Conference, an annual event for two-and-a-half hours to bring her the Olympics would energize church Janeiro — will take up the challenge in see us together,” he says, “loving one in 1988 from Jamaica. She recently tion, the Bristol Church of Christ, has that includes worship, drama, debate 4-year-old daughter, Angela, to the VBS. members worldwide to reach demo- 2016, he adds, and foster “a worldwide another, forgiving one another.” completed an evangelism course at more members of European descent. and lectures. The attendees enjoyed “It’s a good alternative to kids graphics underrepresented in revival for the next Olympics.”

Big Ben, the 316-foot, 153-year-old clock tower at the Palace of Children from Churches of Christ in London watch as Tuscumbia church members Grant One of London’s signature double-decker buses, bearing an advertisement for a Hollywood After a joint worship service of the New Cross and Stratford congregations, church mem- Five-year-old Nneka Nnabugwu shows her Westminster, chimed 40 times to welcome the 2012 Olympics. Wright, Will Harrison and Jennah Abrams perform a skit during Vacation Bible School. movie, transports Brits and visitors near Olympic Park in London’s Stratford community. bers serve steaming plates of sausage, chicken and fish. support for “Team Great Britain” during VBS. 20 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OCTOBER 2012

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Contact: Gary at 404-551-5129 or [email protected]

The 30-year-old AMEN Ministry Seeking Pulpit Minister connects Christians in the United States military with local Commerce Street Church of Christ churches of Christ both overseas and in the U.S. Please send name, contact For more information please call: information and especially e-mail 940-665-1428 or 940-736-0505 addresses to: AMEN Ministry http://amenministry.info Please submit resumes to the Elders: 135 Larchmont Drive P.O. Box 743, Gainesville, TX 76241 Hendersonville, NC 28791 -- or -- Phone: (828) 891-4480 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] OCTOBER 2012 FROM THE SECOND FRONT the christian chronicle 21

BOBBY ROSS JR. BOBBY ROSS JR. Vacationing church members from Alabama, Ohio, Tennessee and elsewhere sing during the Sunday assembly Logan Bethel from the Concord Street Church of Christ in Orlando, Fla., of the Maingate Church of Christ, which meets in a banquet room at a Kissimmee, Fla., hotel. serves as the guest song leader at a Maingate worship assembly. DISNEY: Guest preachers receive a free week at hotel

FROM PAGE 3 enjoyed a Disney vacation at a Church of Christ member and feel perfectly at home at the children Colin and Cori. “The much-reduced price. former owner of the hotel, Maingate church. message is usually real inspir- “You are going to worship arranged to provide the free “The bond that ties fellow ing. The singing is good.” anyway while on vacation. You lodging and make the meeting Christians is a wonderful On any given Sunday, the per- might as well preach,” Morine room available. thing,” Vaughn said. “We manent members have no idea said. “There is not much pres- Concord Street’s six elders generally see some folks more how many churchgoers might sure on the minister — just take turns attending the than one week, mostly retired show up. Typically, attendance do not go long. These families Maingate assembly, joined Christians, and we all go out ranges between 50 and 150. are heading to the park, so be each Sunday by a different for a late breakfast or early “Usually, you go to a church respectful.” deacon and song leader. lunch after services.” of 140 people, and you’ve got Like Morine, Chris Gallagher, “We just make sure that every- Inevitably, most visitors run five visitors,” said Brian Staron, minister for the Mount Pleasant thing is right,” said elder Chuck into somebody they know — or a Maingate member and full- Church of Christ in South Lipford, who recruits visitors at least somebody who knows time comedian and magician Carolina, said he enjoyed meet- to lead prayers and encourages somebody they know. who performs at Disney. “Here, ing church members from all guests to tell their home minis- The service itself has a famil- we’ve got a church of five peo- over the nation and world. ters about Maingate. iar feel as the church sings ple, and we’ve got 100 visitors.” Al Meakes, involvement The opportunity is open to a cappella from “Songs of Faith Even the preacher is a visitor. and outreach minister for the currently employed preach- & Praise” hymnals, partakes of Each week, the Maingate Plymouth Church of Christ in ers and part-time and retired the Lord’s Supper and hears a church invites a different min- BRIANSTARON.com Michigan, has trekked south to ministers. Potential guest sermon by a gospel preacher. ister to deliver the sermon and Comedy and magic performer Maingate five years in a row. preachers must complete an For the permanent mem- teach a 10:15 a.m. Bible class. In Brian Staron is a Maingate member. “I think it is great that fami- online questionnaire that cov- bers, each Sunday affords the exchange, the minister and his lies … are offered this excel- ers doctrinal issues. chance to make new connec- family receive a free week’s stay Matthew Morine, pulpit lent option of a well-timed and James Harold Vaughn and tions and renew old ties with in the hotel. minister for the Castle Rock brief service before enjoying his wife, Carolyn, members of fellow Christian servants. “That savings in itself is Church of Christ in Colorado, the rest of the day at a theme the Arnold Church of Christ in “We never know who we’re worth the trip,” said Horace twice has taken advantage of park,” Meakes said. “It allows Missouri, spend two months a going to see,” Staron said. “But Stroud, assistant minister for the Maingate opportunity. people to attend to ‘first pri- year in central Florida. everybody that’s here obviously the Highland Heights Church Both times, his family — orities first’ while not tying up While enjoying time at their has a true love for the Lord of Christ in Houston, the guest including wife Charity and half of the day or more.” condo, the Vaughns — both because they’re taking time out preacher on this Sunday. children Gabrielle and Noah — Ralph “Kirk” Kirkland, a retired teachers — said they of their vacation to be here.” 22 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OCTOBER 2012

An Unexpected discovery

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SEAVER COLLEGE OF LETTERS, ARTS, AND SCIENCES Italian Accounting New From Political Theory Advertising Practical Theology GOSPEL Business Administration Division Chair To Order Public Relations ADVOCATE 1-800-251-8446 A TRUSTED NAME SINCE 1855 www.gospeladvocate.com Pepperdine University is an equal opportunity employer. For a comprehensive description of the positions available and information on how to apply, please visit: seaver.pepperdine.edu/dean/faculty.

Seeking Full-Time Minister MISSIONS The WestRidge Church of Ramon Gonzalez defines the concept of Heritage Christ located in Pocahontas, Christian University missions. After participat- ing in the HCU campaign program each semester AR, is seeking a full-time pulpit as a part of his curriculum, he knew that he was minister to be involved with a capable of leading his own mission team. And he knew just where to take them. In 2009, he group of believers who strive to organized a team of HCU students to join him in his home country of Peru, where they conducted encourage each other and serve Bible studies and did outreach. Now, as an this northeast Arkansas HCU alumnus and graduate student, he is planning a second trip. From community. We are God being led to leading... that’s the goal of Seekers who believe we are the Christian Service and campaign programs. Ramon plans saved by grace through our to return to Peru after graduation, but he faith. We are an involved group will have left a legacy of members as we believe we of leadership... and a dream in the hearts of all have gifts and talents that other students. That’s we can use as part of the body. the type of missions experience you can Please send a resume with expect from HCU. references, along with audio It’s our focus. copies of three separate sermons to the WestRidge Church of www.hcu.edu w 256.766.6610 w 800.367.3565 3625 Helton Drive w P.O. Box HCU Christ, PO Box 71, Florence, AL 35630 Pocahontas, AR 72455. OCTOBER 2012 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 23 future, and this will bless individuals and A conversation with church families. I believe our church fellowship is good for OC, and OC is good for our church fellowship. We need each other. John deSteiguer What do you see as distinctive about OC? NEW PRESIDENT discusses plans, challenges for Oklahoma Christian. This may seem like a hyperbole, but I truly believe that OC has it all. We’re in a BY LYNN McMILLON | THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE Mike O’Neal invited us to come to OC great location. The Oklahoma City metro because we were able to combine the area is growing and maturing on the ohn deSteiguer became the face of best of both worlds — the higher educa- national and international stage. There Oklahoma Christian University when tion setting we had grown to know and are great job opportunities and church he took on the role as OC’s seventh love and a campus immersed in Christian opportunities here for our students and J faith. What could be better than that? graduates. And OC provides a first-rate president on May 1. By then, he already had I did not come to OC intending to education and a sense of home because given the university a lift through a compre- seek the presidency. In fact, I had a of the personal relationships and hensive fundraising campaign. close colleague and dear friend who I concern people have for each other. During his time as Oklahoma Christian’s chief fully anticipated would become the next At OC, one can grow, learn and take advancement officer, a record $110 million president. I planned to be a happy and risks in a safe, supportive environment. was given to Oklahoma Christian, including loyal right-hand man to him. LYNN McMILLON Students are prepared to go out and Several years ago, he returned to John deSteiguer on the campus of OC. make a living, but more importantly, the successful Higher Learning/Higher Calling private practice. With this important they’re prepared to make a life. Many of campaign, which raised $64.3 million. opening to fill, encouragement from a Most colleges founded on religious our graduates choose to make that life That campaign led to significant improve- number of people, and an awful lot of principles do not remain true to in the OKC metro because it’s a great ments at Oklahoma Christian, including 60 prayer, I concluded this might be the those for even a century. What is place to do that. But whether they’re new or enlarged endowments, development next step of service for me here at Okla- your plan for OC? working in downtown Oklahoma City or homa Christian. Over time, most faith-based colleges serving on a faraway mission field, they of Lawson Commons, the Freede Centennial slide away from their founding purposes. long to return to Oklahoma Christian Tower and the McGraw Pavilion, a $7.5 million Why is Christian education relevant This tendency is demonstrated in books because OC is home. project to build the Noble Science Wing, and today? like James T. Burtchaell’s “The Dying of state-of-the-art chemistry labs in Vose Hall. Darla and I received really fine the Light.” Often, the departure seems to What do you see as the next great A graduate of Northeastern State academic educations at Northeastern occur by accident and inattention. challenge for OC? University in Tahlequah, Okla., he was award- State University, a public institution. At Oklahoma Christian, we are The next great challenge is for us to However, a first-rate Christian univer- committed to preventing this slide. We effectively communicate to students and ed a Rotary scholarship to study international sity like OC is as academically strong will remain true to our spiritual princi- their families that OC is a special place economics at the University of the West Indies as the best public institutions because ples by intentionally integrating Christian where they should come and invest their in Kingston, Jamaica. He served as director of it trains not only the mind but also the faith with learning, having faculty, staff lives. Some think a Christian college is a development for his alma mater and youth heart. But even beyond the high-quality and trustees who are active members of place where you get a second-rate educa- minister of the South College Church of Christ academic experience, Christian colleges Churches of Christ, gathering for daily tion at a higher price. That’s just plain provide opportunities for young people to chapel in a variety of settings, recruiting wrong. You get a better, deeper educa- in Tahlequah before moving to OC. mature spiritually, socially and emotion- students from our fellowship and empha- tion at a Christian college like OC. He married Darla, his college sweetheart, ally in ways that state schools cannot. sizing the spiritual. With OC’s commitment to affordability in 1986. Both earned law degrees, magna At OC, Christian men and women (we recently announced a zero cost cum laude, from Pepperdine University in educate students in the classroom but What relationship to Churches of increase while allowing our students to 1989. The couple has two teenage children. also connect with them outside of it — Christ will OC have under your take even more hours in 2012-13), our John deSteiguer is a deacon and regular at church, across the campus and in leadership? students may pay the same, or even less, their homes. It is through these deeply OC was founded in 1950 by members than they would at other well-known Bible class teacher at the Memorial Road important mentoring relationships that of the Church of Christ, and we will public and private schools. Church of Christ in Edmond, Okla. students are able to explore real faith, not remain close to our fellowship. I was And at OC, students’ lives can be as stagnant text on a page, but as a living, born and raised in this fellowship, and I changed in remarkable ways that What interested you in becoming breathing, world-changing force that’s love it. Scripture is the Word of God, and impact not just them but everyone they Oklahoma Christian’s president? relevant in every facet of their lives. we will honor it in all that we do. come in contact with — their families, I love the world of Christian higher Students leave our campus armed We will aggressively recruit students their friends, their peers, their church education. I love the opportunities it with knowledge but covered in wisdom, from Churches of Christ, and we will and their community. There is a qualita- provides to create relationships and prepared to serve the kingdom in dialogue regularly with church leaders tive and quantitative difference about better futures serving the Lord. I love mighty ways. And that’s the core reason and members. OC’s history is one of their spiritual life and the opportunities to see the enthusiasm and dreams of why a Christian education is not only mission and service around the world by they have here. I don’t think there’s young people in the college setting. relevant but of unparalleled significance members of our university community. another place anywhere like Oklahoma Darla and I were thrilled in 2002 when in today’s society. This history will be our present and Christian University. 24 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OCTOBER 2012

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Congregations all over the world are using eBibleStudy.org for their Bible Classes! Free 13-week teacher lesson plans on various Bible books & topics. keynote speakers Over 60,000 downloads! Monte Cox Phil Thompson Clifton L. Ganus Jr. Nathan Guy Scott Adair Dale Manor Go to Eddie Randolph www.eBibleStudy.org OCTOBER 2012 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 25 BIBLE CAMPS CAROLINA BIBLE CAMP MOCKSVILLE, N.C. — The inaugural Carolina Bible Camp Bluegrass Festival raised nearly $10,000 for the camp’s scholar- ship and capital improvement programs. The recent festival included a disc golf tournament on the camp course designed and donated by international champion Debbie Scott, a member of the Mountain Island Church of Christ in Charlotte. About 300 guests enjoyed their choice of pulled pork barbecue, baby back ribs or hot dogs, said Lisa Brewer, a member of the Wilkesboro Church of Christ. Performers included the Snyder Family Band. Organizers plan a second annual bluegrass festival in 2013.

CAMPUS MINISTRY JESUS FOR LIFE GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — A new group called “J4L” — or “Jesus For Life” — is being launched on the Colorado Mesa University campus. The campus ministry is sponsored by STEVE GOOCH, THE OKLAHOMAN, COPYRIGHT 2012 the Church of Christ of Grand Junction. “Plans are for frequent spiritually Flying high at Oklahoma Christian University oriented social and fellowship activi- Tylor Dunn, right, a kindergartner at an Oklahoma City elementary school, flies a kite at Oklahoma Christian University. The university hosted ties and an ‘adopt a student’ program students from the inner-city Stanley Hupfield Academy at Western Village for Kite Day, an annual event in Oklahoma Christian’s week of new with members of the congregation,” student orientation activities. Volunteer mentors from Oklahoma Christian serve the public school and have helped it improve test scores. outreach minister John Cooper said. “We hope and pray that this will help church members attending the univer- HIGHER EDUCATION university’s commitment to innovative spoRTS sity grow in their faith as well as be a educational technology, said Marci Johns, way to reach out to students with the associate vice president of academics. good news of Jesus.” CROWLEY’S RIDGE COLLEGE “The iPad, based on the research we Going the extra mile PARAGOULD, Ark. — Crowley’s Ridge have done, is going to be one of the tools has completed construction of a new that is most likely to be used in Fortune ORLANDO, Fla. — Kathy Pruitt takes the CHILDREN AND FAMILIES student housing complex. 500 companies and by some of the top biblical commandment of going the The Johnson Honor Housing universities and hospitals,” Johns said. extra mile seriously. POTTER CHILDREN’S HOME Complex, which allows apartment- In fact, Pruitt, a BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — As Potter Children’s style living on the campus, was named LIPSCOMB UNIVERSITY member of the Concord Home prepares to celebrate its 100th in honor of Joe A. and Wanda Hall NASHVILLE, Tenn. — For a dozen years, Street Church of Christ, anniversary in 2014, leaders are Johnson. The Johnsons are longtime Lipscomb has included a citywide ran 100 miles in support collecting historical data and artifacts supporters of Christian higher educa- service day during its first-week orien- of Lads to Leaders/ related to the home. tion and Crowley’s Ridge. tation for new students. Leaderettes’ recent Many historical items burned in a fire More than 400 freshmen and transfer walk-a-thon. that destroyed the main building in the students recently spread out across While most participants FAULKNER UNIVERSITY Pruitt 1940s, director Ralph Brewer said. MONTGOMERY, Ala. — More than 900 the city to volunteer with organizations trekked much shorter “We’re looking for anything related to Faulkner students received Apple iPads such as the Nashville Rescue Mission, distances, the grandmother of two said Potter Bible College or Potter Orphan when they enrolled for fall classes. Healing Hands International, the she decided to run for a cause near and Home,” Brewer said. For the first time, all traditional Ronald McDonald House and Habitat dear to her heart. She finished in 19 days. Items will be returned if requested. students on Faulkner’s main campus for Humanity. Pruitt serves as an assistant cross The mailing address is 2350 Nashville in Montgomery received the tablet QuestWeek Service Day allows country and track and field coach for Road, Bowling Green, KY 42101. E-mail computers during the registration students to earn SALT credit, service- Christian Home and Bible School in Brewer at [email protected]. process. The mobile device is part of the learning hours required to graduate. Mount Dora, northwest of Orlando. 26 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE PARTNERS OCTOBER 2012

TABITHA MORRISH Gander Brook campers enjoy handball game Derek Bird, 16, serves to Jacob Romano, 9, during a game of “four square” at Gander Brook Christian Camp in Raymond, Maine. Bird, who attends the Bennington Church of Christ in Vermont, is from Hoosick Falls, N.Y. Romano is from Biddeford, Maine. York online program accredited YORK, Neb. — Students can earn a full “The addition of online programs degree from York College from the will expand the reach of York College’s convenience of their home. mission to transform lives through The Higher Learning Commission Christ-centered education and to equip has approved accreditation for York to students for lifelong service to God, offer degrees online. Previously, York’s family and society,” Wyatt said. accreditation was limited to degree Online classes are taught by Christian completion for former York students. faculty members, and lessons include In spring 2013, the college will begin spiritual content no matter what the offering a bachelor’s of business with subject, said Lisa Cantrell Menke, an emphasis in health-care information director of online learning. Cantrell management. In summer 2013, a bach- Menke said online classes continue elor’s of science in criminal justice will be to evolve as faculty members strive to added, academic dean Tracey Wyatt said. move the on-campus experience online. ACU plans move to Division 1 athletics aBILENE, Texas — Abilene Christian sity,” ACU President Phil Schubert said. University has accepted an invitation ACU was one of five institutions that from the Southland Conference to tran- formed the Southland Conference in sition into NCAA Division 1 athletics. 1963, and it was a part of the league This will be ACU’s 40th and final year until 1972. as a member of NCAA Division 2 and Founded in 1906 as Childers Classical the Lone Star Conference. Institute (then adopting the name “We are pleased about this decision Abilene Christian College in 1912), and are confident it will better align ACU has grown into one of the largest ACU with the broad academic goals private universities in the Southwest and 21st century vision of our univer- with an enrollment of about 4,600.

OCTOBER 2012 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 27

Ollie’s Kids fills an im- portant gap in America’s collective knowledge of Black families in the rural South. This memoir serves as a blueprint for rearing faith-filled, hard-working, and highly productive 120212-0412 children.

FEATURED GUESTS Dr. Tanya Smith Brice AND ThEmE SpEAkERS Baylor University • Elaine Heath Waco, TX • Walter Brueggemann SEpTEmbER 16 -19, 2012 • Dallas Willard Online pre-registration now open: acu.edu/summit • Mitch Wilburn • Collin Packer Intimacy: Return to God • Chris Goldman Our 106th annual conference invites you to campus • Jeff Christian Send $16.95 plus $4.00 for shipping and handling to: • Jerry Taylor to hear outstanding preaching and instruction, and to experience classes, concerts, performances and Dr. Calvin H. Bowers other art. The evocative story of the prophet Hosea’s 2136 West 82nd Street marriage to an unfaithful woman is a metaphor for God’s steadfast love, as well as this year’s theme. Los Angeles, CA 90047 28 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE PEOPLE OCTOBER 2012 Newsmakers

NEW ELDERS: Jim Bruner and Mark Chapman, Northside Church of Christ, San Antonio, Texas.

NEW MINISTERS: Will Anderson, Bawcomville Church of Christ, West Monroe, La. Lyle Asbill, acu.edu Naples Church of Christ, Florida. ANNIVERSARIES: 75th: LaVerne and Lurline Bucy, San Louis Obispo, Calif. 70th: I.B. and College of Arts and Sciences development and/or research activities. Political science is a dynamic department with a strong pre-law program, Wanda Pence, Las Vegas; Hugh and Betty Dr. Gregory Straughn, Interim Dean Vick, Bixby, Okla. 67th: Ed and Alta Mae Nix, ACU Box 29210, Abilene, Texas 79699-9210 Certificate in International Relations and Comparative Politics, and a peace and social justice minor. It hosts Bixby, Okla. 65th: Chuck and Ruth Cormwell, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences the Jack Pope Fellows Program, oversees the university’s Lubbock, Texas; Bill and Margaret Ferguson, The Department of Agricultural and Environmental criminal justice program and is actively engaged in ACU's Montgomery, Texas. 50th: William and Alma Sciences invites applications for a tenure-track position new interdisciplinary Core courses. Information about the Eastman, Mountain Home, Idaho; Gary and as assistant professor of animal science. It is seeking department is available at acu.edu/politicalscience. Linda Jones, Lake Texoma, Okla. a visionary animal scientist with the earned Ph.D., Ph.D. / D.V.M. or D.V.M. (from an AVMA-accredited School of Social Work BIRTHDAYS: 106th: Mary Niceswanger, Marietta, institution with M.S. in animal sciences or closely related Dr. Stephanie Hamm, Director Ohio. 103rd: Leora Remington, Riverside, Calif. field). A master’s degree is required; a terminal degree ACU Box 27866, Abilene, Texas 79699-7866 100th: Pauline Patrick, Colorado Springs, Colo., or ABD status is preferred. The successful candidate is The ACU School of Social Work invites applications 99th: Bloomie Brown, Pueblo, Colo. 96th: Clifton expected to become an exceptional teacher who values for a tenure-track position as assistant/associate professor “Flash” Gordon, Altus, Okla. 93rd: Elizabeth mentoring and advising students, and is expected to engage of social work. Applicants should have an M.S.W. and an in service and scholarly activity with interest in continued “Ma” Brown, Altus, Okla. 91st: James Patterson, earned doctorate in social work or related field. A Ph.D. or Garland, Texas. 90th: June Fleming, Alva, Okla. growth and enhancement of the department’s participation related doctoral degree is preferred, but applicants who are in ACU’s undergraduate research program. Information ABD will be considered. Responsibilities include teaching PASSAGES: Betty Christian, 84, Aug. 17, about the department is available at acu.edu/agenv. social work courses at both the B.S.S.W. and M.S.S.W. levels, Edmond, Okla., former employee of Oklahoma Journalism and Mass Communication pursuing scholarly research, and performing service for the university, profession and community. Applicants should Christian University. Gaylord Cook, 78, July The Department of Journalism and Mass 2, Dalhart, Texas, Army veteran and preacher Communication invites applicants for a tenure-track have experience in diverse areas of social work practice, be able to teach across the curriculum, and engage the broader in Oklahoma and Texas. Mary “Abbo” Cronin, position as assistant professor of journalism and mass 91, Aug. 6, Wheeling, W.Va., supporter of Ohio communication. The successful candidate will join five community in which the school partners. Information about the school is available at acu.edu/socialwork. Valley University in Vienna, W.Va., founding colleagues of an ACEJMC-accredited program in a member of the Wheeling Chapter of Stepping state-of-the-art facility that serves about 200 JMC majors Stones. Franklin “Don” Goin, 79, Aug. 7, in convergence journalism, multimedia or Ad/PR. All three In a letter to the appropriate dean, applicants Oklahoma City, teacher, programs prepare students to work in rapidly converging should address their qualifications for the position. professional media environments. Technology is incorporated minister, deacon and elder of They should include in the application a statement throughout the curriculum. A converged media newsroom churches in Oklahoma, mem- of how faith informs their teaching and/or provides the physical and pedagogical centerpiece for the ber of the Memorial Road department that also oversees a television production administration; a discussion of their spiritual journey; church in Edmond, Okla. W.C. studio, student-run Ad/PR agency and NPR-affiliated FM a curriculum vita; transcripts of all undergraduate “Carl” Harper, 94, Feb. 22, Tres radio station. The department is a national leader in the and graduate work; and names, addresses and phone Pinos, Calif., founding mem- area of mobile learning and mobile media. The ideal numbers of five references. Review of applicants will ber and elder of the Baldwin begin immediately and continue until the position is candidate will have professional experience in online Park, Calif., church, former Goin news or commercial environments including social media. filled. Nominations of and applications from qualified elder of the Banning and Applicants who can also teach in public relations will women and minorities are especially encouraged. Hollister, Calif., churches. Iva Lee Kennemer, receive particular attention. A terminal degree is strongly ACU is affiliated with the fellowship of 95, July 10, Paris, Texas, member of the Lamar preferred, but applicants who are ABD will be considered. the Churches of Christ. All applicants must be Avenue church in Paris. Owen L. Morrow, 95, Research and service expectations support the university’s professing Christians and be active, faithful members July 12, St. Francis, Kan., longtime minister and status as a premier comprehensive university. Information of a congregation of the Churches of Christ and nursing home administrator. Gene Neill, 75, about the department is available at acu.edu/jmc. deeply committed to service in Christian higher Aug. 2, Edmond, Okla., greatest passion was Political Science education. The mission of ACU is to educate working for the Lord in the church. Elaine W. The Department of Political Science invites applications students for Christian service and leadership Perrin, 83, Aug. 16, Lubbock, Texas, mother for a tenure-track position as assistant professor of political throughout the world. of Lubbock Christian University President Tim science. Applicants should have a Ph.D. (or have completed ACU does not unlawfully Perrin and longtime faculty member. Dale K. the Ph.D. by August 2012). Those from all areas of the discriminate in employment Pettry, 94, June 30, Conroe, Texas, elder, trea- discipline are invited to apply, and the successful candidate opportunities. surer and teacher for the Conroe church. Verle must have a commitment to teaching in an undergraduate Welborn, 90, June 27, Wichita Falls, Texas, Army environment and demonstrated potential for professional Air Corps veteran and member of the Faith Village church. James L. Williams, 85, July 12, 110324-1012 Florence, Ala., served 40 years as teacher and administrator at Mars Hill Bible School. OCTOBER 2012 CALENDAR the christian chronicle 29

Sept. 7-9 Prayer Enrichment Workshop. Calhoun church in Louisiana. Contact Keith Roberts at (318) 644-2216 or www.calhounchurch.org. Sept. 9 50th anniversary, Center Road church in Kokomo, Ind. (formerly Alto Road church). Contact (765) 453-1448 or Experience a new degree of spirituality. [email protected]. Sept. 13-17 Golden Agers Camp. Camp Bandina, Bandera, Texas. Contact Enhance your ministry vision and skills while (361) 992-8251 or [email protected]. better preparing yourself for the issues facing Sept. 14-16 Mid-Atlantic Evangelism Seminar. Brooks Avenue church, Raleigh, today’s church. Lipscomb University’s Doctor of N.C. Contact www.midatlanticseminar.org What I like about the DMin or (919) 821-2400. Ministry in Missional and Spiritual Formation Sept. 15-16 50th anniversary, uniquely integrates experiential learning and program is that I’m not Westside Church of Christ, Elgin, Ill. going through this as an Contact www.westsidecocoelgin.org. scholarly training, helping you to develop the Sept. 16-19 ACU Summit. “Intimacy: individual; it’s not a one- Return to God.” Abilene Christian University, faith, focus and future of your congregation. Abilene, Texas. Contact acu.edu/summit. person effort. We’re all doing Sept. 17-18 41st Annual Ministers this together...sharing the Retreat. “Leviticus in the 21st Century.” Visit our website or call our office to learn more. Pettijohn Springs Christian Camp, Madill, same journey. That enhances Okla. Contact www.pettijohnsprings.com all of our experiences. or (580) 795-5015. Sept. 18-21 National Christian Camping Workshop. “A Camp Planned –Wes for You.” Pettijohn Springs Christian Camp, Stamford, Texas Madill, Okla. Contact www.naccamps.org. Sept. 21-22 Global Leadership Summit and French World Mission Workshop. Laurel, Md., church. Contact [email protected]. Sept. 21-23 Shepherds Network. Harding School of Theology, Memphis, Tenn. Contact Eddie Randolph at (901) 432-7724, [email protected] or www.hst.edu/shepherds. Sept. 22-23 50th Anniversary Stillwater, Okla., church. Contact (800) 543-8588 or www.stillwatercoc.org. Sept. 24-26 Midwest Preachers’ Retreat. Wisconsin Christian Youth Camp, Fallhall Glen, Black River Falls, Wis. Contact [email protected]. Sept. 28 Touch A Life Golf Tournament. Riverchase Golf Club, Coppell, Texas. Contact touchalifekids.org. Sept. 29 An Evening of Spiritual Harmony, featuring Melo-D-Heirs. Northside church, San Antonio, Texas. Contact (210) 659-4233 or (210) 337-2044. Sept. 30-Oct. 3 Harding Lectureship. “Faith for a New Place & Time: Studies in Joshua.” Harding University, Searcy, Ark. Contact (501) 279-5123, Lectureship@ harding.edu or harding.edu/lectureship. Oct. 5-6 Michigan Church of Christ Conference. Brighton, Mich., church. ics.lipscomb.edu Contact (810) 229-7051. 615.966.5352 • [email protected] Complete CALENDAR at www.christianchronicle.org 30 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OCTOBER 2012 editorial Why racial unity matters very now and then, usually after Chronicle’s front-page stories this month we publish a story on a partic- on racial unity efforts among Churches ular racial unity effort among of Christ in Houston and Detroit. In both Churches of Christ, we get an cases, black, white and Hispanic church e-mail or a handwritten letter leaders are joining together to share the Efrom a well-meaning person. Gospel and serve the needy. Praise God The gist of the correspondence typi- for such efforts to foster unity! cally goes something like this: Why does In the August edition, we reported The Christian Chronicle insist on harping on Lipscomb University in Nashville, on black, white and brown? Tenn., honoring civil rights attorney Occasionally, the person will suggest Fred Gray, an elder for the Tuskegee that it’s no big deal if white people or Church of Christ in Alabama who black people or brown people prefer to once challenged the university in stick to themselves and worship only court. Praise God for such efforts to with those just like themselves. Jesus foster reconciliation! can still love all the little Elsewhere, several children (“red and yellow, ‘We at the Chronicle congregations in south- black and white”) even if western Louisiana their paths never cross. are not naive conducted a recent Or so the notion goes. about the challenges racial unity service at Despite such objections, the Riverside Church of BOBBY ROSS JR. we keep reporting on race faced by leaders who Christ in Lafayette, La. Christians greet each other during the Campaign for Christ by Houston-area congregations. for two main reasons: attempt to bring In the Northeast, white • We believe racial and black church leaders Church of Christ, and Micah Otis, who is citywide Campaign for Christ. barriers remain an about racial unity.’ are working together to black and a member of the Scott Avenue In Detroit, one minister had declined impediment to true unity revive the New England Church of Christ — have organized a to join the unity effort until this year. among Churches of Lectureship, planned for series of meetings between ministers of He acknowledged that misconceptions Christ. How can we be one in Christ if May 3-5, 2013, in Taunton, Mass. white and black congregations. Besides about the undertaking caused him to we choose to split along racial lines? “The planning committee is building bridges, they are working to wait so long. May we not delay unity in • We believe our Christian witness composed of black and white members, organize a large unity event next year. Christ based on bad information and demands a focus on the color of the and the speakers on the program will Praise God for such efforts to foster poor communication. blood that Jesus shed on the cross, not be black and white,” said Maurice inclusiveness! Jesus died to save the sins of all on skin color. How can we demonstrate Davis, minister for the Milton Church We at the Chronicle are not naive mankind, regardless of skin color. Let’s Christian unity to the world if we do not of Christ in Massachusetts. about the challenges faced by leaders strive harder to gain mutual under- show oneness in fellowship with our In Nashville, two young church who attempt to bring about racial unity. standing, appreciation and respect. brothers and sisters? leaders — Brent High, who is white In Houston, only about 70 of the area’s When we do, we’ll better realize the By now, you’ve probably read the and a member of the Brentwood Hills 200 congregations participated in the unity found in Christ’s precious blood.

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Fletcher III • Emily Lemley • James Moore International news, features: [email protected] e-mail [email protected] who purchase the advertising space. News coverage, Robert Oglesby Sr. • Mike O’Neal Advertising Manager: Tonya Patton or call (405) 425-5070. opinion columns, reviews, letters to the editor and Barry Packer • Kevin Ramsey • Harold Redd [email protected] advertising do not necessarily represent the views of or Harry Risinger • Milton Sewell • Gary Tabor OCTOBER 2012 opinion the christian chronicle 31 Olbricht a ‘Renaissance man’ for churches letters Readers respond n those days there were giants intellectual prowess to manifest harmful consequences. in the land” quintessentially moments of pride and condescension Olbricht was willing to fight tire- to coverage of ICOC ‘Icaptures the essence of Thomas H. toward those less gifted. However, lessly for colleagues and for important Olbricht’s contribution to Churches of Olbricht is genuinely humble and ideas. Not only did he spend no time Thank you Christian Chronicle for this Christ. respectful of others, even those protecting himself and his own agenda, update article. (See “After crisis, ICOC Few octogenarians remain Views who might have been most crit- he refused to succumb to leadership growing again,” Page 3, September.) as vibrantly engaged in ical of his insights and under- stereotypes he considered less than I hope and pray that the International church life and the academy. standing of God and Scripture. effective. Churches of Christ have changed in Olbricht recently published Regardless of the treat- As a colleague, I repeatedly watched the ways that weren’t aligned with an account of his life, aptly ment Olbricht received, he him work diligently to meet with key Scripture. On the other hand, we of the titled, “Reflections on My has always responded with stakeholders prior to an important mainline Churches of Christ need to Life in the Kingdom and the graciousness and love. This meeting, working through possible be ready to extend mercy and grace, Academy.” is not to say he “suffers fools objections and problems, so that when and not get so caught up in the “they’re The book provides a fasci- gladly.” Perhaps no one is the discussion occurred in a larger wrong and we’re right” mentality. Our nating narrative, not only Rick Marrs better at “speaking the truth in gathering, potential problems and own history condemns us for being just of Olbricht’s life, but also of love” than he. As his colleague attempts to derail important decisions as arrogant in some ways. historic moments in Churches of for several years, I observed him had already been resolved. Donna Heck | Gresham, Ore. Christ and in higher education insti- gently inform colleagues and friends A concluding anecdote captures tutions associated with Churches of whose thinking or behavior was the essence of the person presented I wondered what had happened to Christ. off-track. in “Reflections on My Life.” While this movement. I am really concerned Few individuals merit a book chron- However, even when he has been a graduate student at ACU, I also they are on the rise again. By going into icling their achievements. Olbricht upset with someone, his frustra- attended Minter Lane Church of Christ cities where there are established con- belongs to that meritorious few. He tion never survives the day. Olbricht where Olbricht served as an elder. gregations, they are continuing to sug- has served churches from Maine to extends grace and forgiveness daily. On Saturday mornings I was gest that they are the only ones holding southern California and taught at In 1987, he offered me a faculty posi- blessed to work with him on several to the truth of God’s word. How much numerous institutions. The common tion at Pepperdine University in Malibu, neighborhood service projects. For better it would be if they sought to help thread throughout his professional and Calif. A year earlier, he had left ACU to several months we went door to door and encourage these long-established personal life has been his commitment become chair of the religion throughout the neighborhood congregations to develop. to the Lord and his overriding desire to division at Pepperdine. to engage our neighbors in Pete Hodge | Skelmersdale, England place every aspect of his life in service Serving as a faculty conversation about God, to the church. member with Olbricht Jesus Christ, and the This article accurately tells the I was privileged to first encounter as chair was an incred- church. story. I have seen the change, and it is Olbricht as my undergraduate and ible opportunity to see What remains most refreshing. I have to confess, as a for- graduate professor at Abilene Christian biblical leadership vividly with me to this mer member of ICOC and currently University in Texas. I took every in action. Olbricht’s day is that, during the a mainline, part-time minister, I made course he taught. Any student who sat unique pedagogical week, I would sit at some mistakes myself that may have at Olbricht’s feet will tell you he was and scholarly abilities his’s feet in class and led to a polarization. I could have done a unique professor. Most have a “Dr. also were mirrored in engage in conversa- more to promote unity. Olbricht story,” one that invariably his distinctive leader- tion at the highest levels Don Selvidge | Mattoon, Ill. conveys admiration and devotion for a ship style. imaginable about the professor with both uncanny erudition We are all indebted to nature of God and his Having been a part of the ICOC for and a great sense of humor. his’s visionary courage. relationship to his creation 20 years, I am now more convinced Olbricht chose early in his career We would have neither and his people. than ever before that God desires and to immerse himself in a number of the journal Restoration On Saturday, I would sit is actually calling us all (mainline and subjects and gain expertise in fields as Quarterly nor the PHOTO PROVIDED in living rooms with my ICOC) to unity of spirit and purpose. diverse as rhetoric, biblical theology, Christian Scholars Tom Olbricht recently completed mentor and hear Olbricht He calls us to win over lost souls philosophy and church history. He Conference without an autobiography. talk about God and his around us and rebuild a functional fam- truly has been a “Renaissance man” in Olbricht’s vision or his willingness to relationship with his world, in language ily, a Christian society, in this decaying our movement. work tirelessly and selflessly to make any layperson could understand. world. Can we grab this opportunity? Similarly, Olbricht refused to accept those dreams a reality. He treated this neighborly conversa- Fredrick Odhis | Nairobi, Kenya any dichotomy between excellent class- As an administrator and colleague, tion with the same respect and dignity room pedagogy and rigorous scholar- he was most memorable in that he that he accorded his graduates. Such I’m the rare person who regularly ship. He was superb in the classroom never manifested concern for himself is the mark of one who truly has given serves with both an ICOC and a main- and gave his time freely to students or his own professional wellbeing. his life in service to the Lord. line congregation. I can honestly say outside the classroom. He published Rather, he spent his time solely that I know firsthand what should be extensively, producing work at the defending the rights and concerns of RICK MARRS is dean of Seaver College at Pepperdine obvious to all — neither congregation highest levels of academia, as well as those colleagues who had little voice in University and teaches in the university’s religion divi- is perfect. But I learn from and serve materials for those sitting in the pew. the discussion and were most vulner- sion. He is an elder of the Conejo Valley Church of Christ my brothers and sisters in both. One might expect a person of such able to decisions that might have in Thousand Oaks, Calif. Charles Smith | Long Island, N.Y. 32 the Christian chronicle reviews OCTOBER 2012

URGENT NEED!

gsntv.com Jeff Foxworthy rewards contestants on GSN’s “The American Bible Challenge.” New Bible quiz show may not ‘Challenge’ but does entertain

By KIMBERLY MAUCK | The Christian Chronicle a deputy sheriff and veteran who now ministers to prison inmates, a woman ith the Olympics over, my family who runs a food pantry in Plano, Texas, Sunset has Accepted had almost abandoned the TV. and a retired fire captain and his golf WBut GSN’s “The American Bible buddies. 50+ Challenge” drew us back for some The premiere episode provided some good, clean entertainment. laughs and, toward the end, a few chal- Formerly known as the Game Show lenges. Like many game shows, the Students this Year. Network, GSN launched an eight- first round was confidence-building. episode run of the show recently. (“What bird did Noah send out to look Jeff Foxworthy hosts. His former for dry land?”) game show, “Are You Smarter Than a The second, called “Faithbook,” Fifth-Grader?” was canceled. But in its asked contestants to name Bible char- series premiere, “Challenge” brought in acters most likely to have posted THEY NEED 1.7 million viewers — an all-time record certain status updates or written on for the network. other characters’ walls. (“On whose As he did on “Fifth-Grader,” wall would Isaac have posted this: ‘Dad, Foxworthy keeps the audience chuck- I’m all ready for our camping trip! But YOUR HELP!!! ling. But here, he does something more: where is the sacrificial goat?’”) He shows his faith. On the premiere, It wasn’t until round four that my he says he has traveled to Africa three husband and I finally began to debate Find out more at times — presumably on mission trips, answers, rather than blurt out the as he mentions children opening shoe- correct ones automatically. That was http://www.sibi.cc/50fund boxes filled with donations. also the first round for a contestant to He also shows familiarity with the give a wrong answer. Bible stories that are the background The winning team is awarded $20,000 or 1-800-658-9553 for the questions. Foxworthy transcends for its charity, and winning teams his “You might be a redneck” comedian will compete against each other for persona and becomes the public image $100,000 for their charities in a two- of what today’s “working man” Christian episode winners tournament. looks like — humble, kind and fun. That’s ultimately what saves Foxworthy begins the show by intro- “Challenge” from reeking of the feel- ducing the three teams that will be good Gospel preached in entertain- competing during the hour-long episode. ment-as-worship churches. The faith A montage shows each team in its home- and sincerity of the contestants and town, discussing faith, their relationships host make it worth an hour of family with one another and the charity for time in front of the TV. 1962 - 2012 which they’re playing. The clips provide viewers with profiles of diverse people of WATCH THE SHOW ONLINE at gsntv.com/shows/ faith across the country — among them the-american-bible-challenge. OCTOBER 2012 REVIEWS THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 33 Voting with faith: Books ponder politics and culture

By F. LaGARD SMITH | FOR The Christian Chronicle approach that will serve believers in every political, or members of Churches geographical, temporal and of Christ, the question cultural situation, Carson posits of political involvement that “the great turning points in has largely been ignored redemptive history” (creation, since the days of David fall, incarnation, atonement, FLipscomb. resurrection and final judg- Lipscomb was a classic sepa- ment) must inform our under- ratist, renouncing all participa- standing of the relationship tion in the political process — between Christ and culture. whether holding office, serving Carson’s encyclopedic grasp on juries or voting. of theology, philosophy, history A century on, an increas- and contemporary dialogue ingly pluralist society is forcing will challenge the reader in a slightly different question: every sense of the word. To what extent ought (or can) The richness of his schol- Christians speak their voices in arship is marred only by a public square? the irony of his many refer- In “A Public Faith: How HHHHH HHHHH HHHHH ences to the “new earth.” The Followers of Christ Should Miroslav Volf. A Public Faith: Richard G. Lee. The Coming D.A. Carson. Christ and materialist, carnal essence of Serve the Common Good,” How Followers of Christ Revolution: Signs From Culture Revisited. Grand this view of heaven (gaining Miroslav Volf, director of the Should Serve the Common America’s Past That Signal Rapids, Mich.: William respectability even among our Yale Center for Faith and Good. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Our Nation’s Future. Nashville, B. Eerdmans Publishing fellowship) arguably reflects Culture, urges that members Brazos Press, Baker Publishing Tenn.: Thomas Nelson, 2012. Company, 2008, 2010. 243 Niebuhr’s “Christ of culture” of different religious commu- Group, 2011. 174 pages. $21.99. 203 pages. $24.99. pages. $24. rather than a more biblical nities should argue with one “Christ above culture” or another from their various faith In seven chapters, Volf first destiny and exceptionalism, this ence to one colonial preacher “Christ against culture.” perspectives, then vote. explores what he sees to be book is all red meat. But for any who defiantly explained that Carson’s brand of polit- What religious folks must not “malfunctions of faith,” then progressives within our fellow- “Common tyrants and public ical engagement fills in Volf’s do, says Volf, is retreat from suggests positive ways of ship, it will be hard to swallow. oppressors are not entitled to blanks. In order to “do good the public square, a move guar- having an “engaged faith.” If Lee had his way, every obedience from their subjects, to the city” (Jeremiah 29:1-7), anteed to cede public policy to Disappointingly, he never quite Christ-follower would be as by virtue of anything here laid Carson argues that we must secularists, delivers on the active in politics as in the life of down by the inspired apostle.” “take our obligations toward a who extol ‘Lipscomb was a classic crucial ques- the church. (David Lipscomb The final book charts a third participatory democracy seri- the virtues of tion of how the would be spinning!) way — not a midway, but a ously” — including voting religion-free separatist, renouncing all believer should Lee’s thesis is that America is higher way than either of the and influencing legislation public policy, participation in the political engage with on the verge of a second revo- first two. — but warns against the trap all the while culture. lution — as in the Tea Party In “Christ and Culture of Christians making essen- imposing process ... . A century on, In stark repudiating big government, Revisited,” D.A. Carson, tially secular arguments, both the most contrast to radical environmentalism, professor of New Testament because it risks the charge of totalitarian, an increasingly pluralist Volf’s vague union activism, lax border at Trinity Evangelical Divinity dissembling and affirms the intolerant society is forcing a slightly pleas for security and “Obamacare.” School, cautions against an secularist insistence that faith faux-religion engagement He begins, however, in a undiscriminating applica- ought to be privatized. possible. different question: To and harmony is surprising fashion, painting in tion of Richard Niebuhr’s Carson leaves us with the The what extent ought (or can) the electrifying the first four chapters a succinct, classic five paradigms of how sober reminder that, no matter specific ques- “The Coming credible and enlightening Christians have interacted with how much salt and light tion posed by Christians speak their voices Revolution: history of early America, partic- culture (Christ against culture, Christians might be within our Volf is how in a public square?’ Signs From ularly The Great Awakening Christ of culture, Christ above various cultures, the tension followers America’s and how it contributed to the culture, Christ and culture in between Christ and culture will of Christ Past That American Revolution. paradox and Christ the trans- not be fully stayed until the should serve the common good. Signal Our Nation’s In later chapters, the reader former of culture). Carson consummation of all things. Should they “engage in electoral Future,” by Richard G. Lee. might wish that Lee had more argues that each alone is politics” or, rather, “concen- Lee is founding pastor of First fully explored the implica- reductionist, not unlike the six F. LaGard Smith is a professor of law at trate on transforming the moral Redeemer Church in Atlanta tions of Romans 13:1-7 — in blind men who sense various Faulkner University in Montgomery, Ala. fabric of society through reli- and author of the popular “The which Paul instructs the early parts of the elephant, but fail to He has authored some 30 books on topics gious awakening?” Volf’s much- American Patriot’s Bible.” Christians to obey government understand the whole creature. legal, doctrinal and devotional. His latest is labored answer is both, but For those who thrive on authorities. Lee’s only mention Stressing the need for a “Portrait of an Obama Nanny State — If It with a nod to electoral politics. American patriotism, manifest of the passage comes with refer- more comprehensive biblical Can Happen to the Brits, It Can Happen to Us.” 34 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OPINION OCTOBER 2012 What makes a great marriage? Work, a godly focus and date nights can help he Genesis account of man’s had lunch together often. Sometimes we creation and placement in the had business to work out. Often we just TGarden of Eden concludes with needed time to remind each other how God’s statement that it is not good for much we loved and enjoyed each other. man to be alone. Our youngest has now been married God then creates women from a 21 years, so almost every night is date part of Adam’s side. Their union was night when we still learn blessed by God, making marriage a Insight about each other and central part of human experience for as consider how God wants long as man has inhabited the earth. us to use the time and Marriage, however, has always been energy remaining. in trouble, but more now than ever Another impor- before. It always has been difficult for tant factor in a great mankind to be faithful to one mate. Men marriage is a connection and women always have had wandering with God. Joyce grew eyes, leading to infidelity. In earlier up with a strong deter- times, couples made the marriage work mination that she would even when one or both were unfaithful. Bailey McBride be a spiritual person. Midway through the last century, Her parents were active divorce became common. Eventually, leaders in church. My father became a couples did not get married, but just lived Christian when he was 75, but he did together. I am deeply troubled by the not work against my mother’s faith. My Communication Disorders number of young people in the church mother read the Bible aloud to me, and who live together before they marry. she often shared Bible stories. I always College of Nursing Joyce and I celebrated our 56th anni- wanted to understand more about God. versary in April. Our relationship has Joyce and I had different experiences Premedicine been such a great, life-changing experi- with church, but we had a common faith College of Pharmacy ence that I want others to know the joy in the central place of Jesus in our lives. and challenges we have known. We knew that we wanted our children Physical Therapy We have neither been perfect, but to be strong believers, and we worked Joyce has had an abundance of patience. hard to help them know the Bible and Physician Assistant Program We both agree that the hardest times the nature of God. We were always were when we were raising children. supportive of their spiritual quests. We never developed a parenting style In a marriage where God is central, before we had children, and so our the couple has a strong foundation for Making a difference in the lives of others struggle had to do with being consistent. building a shared life, seeking God’s Fortunately we had good children who help for crises and making decisions. Harding University offers hands-on learning opportunities have made us very proud of their lives. Young couples often have exceedingly for students wanting to make a positive difference in the Commitment is a concept that our high expectations of their new relation- lives of others. Choose from a variety of health-related fields, culture does not foster. And the secret to ship. They expect sex to be an out-of-this- including nursing, physician assistant, pharmacy and others. a good marriage is commitment. Joyce world experience. They believe that prob- and I loved each other, and that love led lems never will occur, and they often lack Join our mission to take compassion — and the healing arts — to our commitment. We both took our skills in working out the problems. They out into the world to improve the health of those we serve. marriage vows seriously. No conflict or expect instant results when they have disagreement has shaken our commit- communicated about a problem. ment, even though my temper and They are better about seeking help Joyce’s silence have created rough spots. than was our generation, but they are Like all relationships marriage requires slow to seek help from trained people. work, and each person has to make that As trite as the idea is, people should relationship a first priority every day. have the maturity to know themselves Faith, Learning and Living Marriage counselors advise a weekly and their needs before they consider date night for couples at every stage of choosing a partner for life. It is equally life. Because we waited several years important for a couple to know each Harding.edu | 800-477-4407 for children, we had built an enduring other that well. Marriage can make Searcy, Arkansas relationship. We hardly ever left our life richer and fuller, and it will where children with someone else, knowing commitment exists. that our time with them was limited. After the children were all in school, we COntact [email protected]. OCTOBER 2012 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE 35

FRIDAY, September 21, 2012 global 1:00 – 9:00 PM LEADERSHIP Hosted by the Laurel, Maryland SUMMIT•2012 Church of Christ

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GENERAL PAUL RANDY YANN GEORGE CHRISTOPHE ED JOHNSON WILLINGHAM OPSITCH AKPABLI CASCALES JONES

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FRENCH WORLD MISSION WORKSHOP SATURDAY, September 22, 2012 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM For more information contact Bren White, [email protected] 36 THE CHRISTIAN CHRONICLE OCTOBER 2012