sign in sign up
<<
Home , Wesleyan Church

TRANSFORMING MINISTRIES IN Upstate CHRISTIAN

TIM ELMORE ON 22 Truths to Embrace at 22

WESLEYAN.Life / WINTER 2017 BY KERRY KIND the Vine Where true love takes root, fruit is multiplied.

hristopher Baldwin was After getting married, they went to resisting a church-planting Asbury Seminary. While there, Tammy C call when God asked, “Why became convinced that a woman could won’t you plant a church?” He be a minister. She earned a counseling prayed and had to admit, “I can’t plant a degree and completed her ministerial church because I don’t love people like training. Today they are both serving as you love people.” He wept realizing he ordained Wesleyan pastors at The Vine, could not do this unless he really loved in Depew, N.Y., a Buffalo suburb. broken people. But he prayed, “OK, I will While a student, Christopher built do it.” Since then the Spirit has filled his a strong relationship with Eastern Hills heart with the love he knew he needed. Wesleyan Church that included a great Christopher and Tammy Baldwin mentoring experience with Senior Pastor had met at a home study led Karl Eastlack. Christopher joined the by coach and mentor Skip Lord of staff after graduating from seminary. . Tammy knew right He was also senior pastor at Levant away they should be together, but didn’t Wesleyan Church in Jamestown, N.Y., tell Christopher she was called to be a before being called to church plant. pastor’s wife. She was not surprised when he switched to a Bible major.

2 WINTER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life Eastern Hills Wesleyan Church was Christopher is a visionary and planting The Vine as a daughter church Tammy is an organizer. She oversees in 2005 and the Baldwins were appointed and supports lay people who are leading to lead. Starting with 120 people from women’s ministries, children’s ministries, Eastern Hills as a launch team, The Vine first-impressions ministries (Sundays), averaged 277 in attendance the first adult discipleship, outreach ministries, year, and grew to 350. But opposition and especially prayer ministries. and threatened lawsuits about meeting in public schools forced them to seek Tammy and Christopher, gifted church planters, a more permanent location. Three still find that prayer is the key for it is God who Multiplication is makes people new. difficult attempts to purchase property fell through, and so many people became part of their organic discouraged that their attendance dropped culture, with disciples to 80 after five years. Now, six years after the “restart,” they have gradually grown until they making disciples, and The Baldwins strongly are averaging 345 with high days of 400. Prayer is still the core. Christopher has leaders reproducing considered closing the led prayer conferences for a network of leaders. churches of all denominations in the Buffalo area. The prayer network has also church. In the hard years, they felt they were developed into a church-planting network, constantly hitting a brick wall. But with But God used a prayer supporter to bring which is expecting to plant 8-10 churches the foundation of prayer, they now see the them hope with a vision from God. That in the Buffalo area each year. Lord multiplying amazing opportunities coincided with great encouragement The signature ministries of The and trusting them with people and that came from the Wesleyan pastors’ Vine are prayer, outreach, and discipling. ministry partnerships that they could only “Gathering” in Orlando in January 2011. If people do not get linked into good dream of before. They returned changed and quietly moved relationships, they can easily drift away. forward. Their prayer life and the prayer The two big ways that new people get life of the church became totally different strongly connected are in small groups that spring, and everyone sensed the Spirit and having a role in serving others. The former Catholic Church, an Augustinian moving. The Vine comes into contact with people Chapel built in 1956, They ceased all programs (except in numerous community events. Also, was renovated in Sunday worship) for a time, to just come their hearts were broken for people who 2011 by The Vine, a Wesleyan church. together and pray. They paired newer struggle with addictions, and they are believers with established members in serving alongside Christian addiction groups of 2-3 in discipling relationships programs that have a 70-75 percent for one year. There was a sense of success rate. The Vine’s reputation in the expectancy. Then the current facility, a community has blossomed. former Catholic church, became available in May, 2011. Wesleyan Investment Foundation believed in them, and helped them invest in the church.

www.wesleyan.life / WINTER 2017 3 Transforming lives, churches, and communities through the hope and holiness of Christ. ShED Vol. 11, No. 1 UnleaDISCIPLES

Founders Orange Scott (1843), Seth Rees (1897)

Executive Editor Janelle Vernon he mission of the church is Those who others are not “holier Editor Kerry Kind T nothing more and nothing less than thou.” We are the broken ones who Creative Director Kory Pence than a mission of discipleship. are coming to know wholeness in Jesus Assistant Editor Tricia Rife Almost everything we could talk about (Ps. 51:17, 147:3; 2 Cor. 4:7). Designer Julia Sprow passionately in regards to the church Cover Photo Jeremy Cooper could be covered under the heading To make another disciple is the “discipleship.” When we talk about Contributors discipleship, we are not talking about most real and obvious obedience Anita Eastlack Dan Irvine some sub-set of ministries in the church; in the Christian life. Tim Elmore Ron McClung we are not talking about an office in the Colleen Derr Wayne Schmidt Kim Gladden Jeremy Cooper (photo pp. 3, 6-7) Wesleyan headquarters building. No, It’s about another person’s personal walk instead, we are talking about everything with God, hearing his voice through the we do in an intentional way to become Word and in the heart. more like Christ, and everything we do in DIGITAL MAGAZINE ONLINE AT WESLEYAN.LIFE obedience to Matthew 28:18-20: “. . . go • Discipleship is that most radical and make disciples of all nations.” I want hospitality that doesn’t just tolerate Unless otherwise noted, all Bible quotations are taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, to invite you, as you read these pages in people, but invites them into 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All Wesleyan Life, to join the movement of fellowship. rights reserved worldwide. Scripture quotations marked (KJV) are disciple-making. taken from the Holy Bible, King James Version. • Discipleship is the most radical Contents of this magazine are not to be reproduced without reconciliation, for the Spirit makes written permission. Signed articles present the views of the This is why we make a big deal about a way for diverse people to reach a writers and are the property of the writers. celebrating every time a disciple makes unity that is unattainable by other a disciple and a church multiplies means. ISSN 2327-414X (print) ISSN 2327-4158 (online) itself. As former East • Discipleship is the most radical Wesleyan Life is published quarterly, free to The District Superintendent Dan Leroy has Wesleyan Church constituency. Home delivery is worship, one that sings from the soul. available for a minimum donation of $15 per year U.S./ said, “You’re either a missionary or you Canadian (overseas $20 U.S. funds, overseas airmail need one.” We engage in this work of $50 U.S. funds). Discipleship is Christianity. multiplying disciples until The Wesleyan Correspondence Church has a transforming presence in All of it. For change of address give both old and new addresses. Address all editorial and advertising correspondence, every zip code or town around you. subscriptions, and change of address to: Through the joyful obedience of The making of disciples is not superficial discipling others, the Spirit will be at Mailing Address Physical Address or consumeristic. Rather, it taps into the Wesleyan Life The Wesleyan Church work and he will truly transform lives, P.O. Box 50434 13300 Olio Road deep love of Jesus (Eph. 3:18) and we churches, and communities with the hope Indianapolis, IN Fishers, IN 46037 reproduce followers of Christ without and holiness of Jesus Christ. 46250-0434 Tel: 317.774.7907 forcing it; his love is naturally contagious. Fax: 317.774.3924

www.wesleyan.org [email protected]

DR. WAYNE SCHMIDT General Superintendent Published by Wesleyan Publishing House The Wesleyan Church P.O. Box 50434, Indianapolis, IN 46250-0434 Member:

4 WINTER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life CHRISTIAN

IN THIS ISSUE

STORY ON THE COVER 02 The Vine in Depew, N.Y. 06 New life in 16 Making all things new: person to person

VISION 04 Unleashed disciples WESLEYAN.LIFE TEACHING 12 Avoiding artificial maturity Discover and share 14 22 Truths: Tim Elmore more transformational 22 Directions for spiritual growth stories of lives being made new in Christ. NEWS 24 Movement over model 26 College and university 27 International 30 Remembered

@WESLEYANCHURCH Look for these icons for bonus digital media FACEBOOK.COM/THEWESLEYANCHURCH

INSTAGRAM.COM/WESLEYANCHURCH WESLEYAN.LIFE Wild Wednesday in Cuba Cuba, New York, population 1,575, is in passionate about children’s ministry. She a very rural area of Western New York became an ordained minister and now District. Rev. Jon and Ashley Ward were serves as children’s pastor. Since 2010 called to North Park Wesleyan Church there have been over 200 more than a decade ago, and when they decisions in children’s and youth arrived, it felt like coming home. ministry, and the number of children Jon received ministerial preparation at on their rolls has tripled. Ignite youth Wesleyan University and Asbury ministry also meets on Wednesdays, led Seminary, and had previous ministry by homegrown youth pastor, Rob Grimes. experience with Rev. Mike Hilson, a friend During that time the overall attendance and mentor in . But this call on Sunday morning has gradually grown and this town seemed to introduce him to from 110 to 170, which is over 50 percent himself. growth. Scores of unchurched parents North Park is known every Labor think of North Park as “my church.” They Day weekend for calling off church and say they love the church even though working to beautify the town. Instead of they might only come for weddings and having a worship service, they worship funerals. by serving, and they call it “Love Cuba.” They have weeded Main Street and filled two truckloads with weeds, painted fire Rev. Jon Ward, senior pastor of North Park, is trusted throughout the Cuba community. hydrants, fenced the ball park, etc. Rev. Megan Cusumano has helped lead Senior Pastor Jon has come to believe Recently, the leadership team hundreds of children to Christ. that the best way to make new disciples envisioned a new ministry for the there is to invest in children’s ministries. non-attenders, called “Test Drive.” On On “Wild Wednesday” each week in the Wednesday evenings, adults who might Watch video of kids afternoon, the church is now filled with want to test drive church, but may have on Wild Wednesday bus and van loads of children coming hurdles about coming to the church wesleyan.life/upstate from school. Their parents have agreed building, are invited to The Perfect Blend, for their kids to participate in a “released a local coffee shop that is a popular time” program for Christian teaching. hangout. Jon is hopeful the coffee shop Pastor Megan Cusumano was will create the needed bridge for the a layperson in the church who was adults.

6 WINTER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life Historic Lockport

A vital congregation in the Wesleyan staff beginning in 2003. From 2008- Methodist Church in the early days of 2015, Matthew and his wife, Katie, made the denomination, Lockport Wesleyan the trip to Lockport early each Sunday Church is located about 20 miles from morning, but not a great deal happened. Niagara Falls. The 19th century stone After seven years, there were still only 16- church is scenic, but by 2008, attendance 20 older adults attending. Matthew told had dwindled to about 12 people. Rev. himself that there was no way to grow Matthew Rose, an assistant pastor at Hess anyway. The building was neglected with Road Wesleyan Church ten miles away, a leaky roof, piles of accumulated wet was asked if he would preach there early junk, and all spaces unusable except for on Sunday mornings before returning to the small sanctuary where the services Matthew knew he his Hess Road ministry. His senior pastor were held. Joe Payne was pleased to give him that The turning point was early 2015. had to grow in opportunity. A member offered $30,000 to help fund After attending Kingswood a renovation project. Other members University, Matthew returned to his contributed as well. Now there was space home church, Hess Road, to serve on for children’s ministries, meals, etc. The renovations created momentum, and Matthew knew he had to grow his vision. He and Katie began to dream. They thought about a Sunday evening service that would reach a broader demographic. Soon they opened an evening service called “The Refinery.” Friends from Hess Road helped form a band and also lead the children’s ministry, and the sanctuary was redecorated with artistic, contemporary themes. They also offered an evening meal, usually pizza. Today the early Sunday morning service is much the same, but Sunday night sees 30 for supper and fellowship, and 50 people for the worship hour. About 15 of those are children. People have gotten saved, and the church has new life.

Matthew shares how, a few years ago he happened to attend a retreat alongside Dr. Wayne Schmidt. Wayne encouraged him to believe that so much more could be done at the Lockport church and Matthew has not forgotten.

Rev. Matthew Rose accepted the challenge of transforming a church that appeared to be ending its life cycle.

www.wesleyan.life / WINTER 2017 7

Hornell: “I don’t have a church"

Rev. Doug and Terrah Jones planted New Hope Wesleyan Church in Hornell, N.Y., a town of 8,000, just five years ago. Doug grew up in the area. He was discipled and mentored by Rev. Jim Bence, former

pastor and district superintendent for Rev. Doug Jones is passionate Central New York District. Doug attended about meeting and talking to Houghton College, then served in the people who don't yet know Christ. military. When he returned, he went on the staff at rural Buena Vista Wesleyan Church for 13 years. When Buena Vista decided to plant a daughter church in have children’s programs, but other Hornell, 11 miles away, Doug and Terrah than that, they don’t want to run a lot of were ready. programs in the church. They have gifted people, but Doug wants them to use ministry time to build relationships and invite people who need Jesus Christ into their lives. They began with a launch team of The church is known for serving the 70 people (35 adults) from Buena Vista. city in practical ways. They repair unsafe Since then, they have bought a 1930’s structures, do cleanups, and repair cars Catholic Church building and remodeled for people who need help. These services building is like it. In the fourth year, they averaged 248 in contribute to their mission of reaching attendance. people. They also open their facility for the locker room Folks ask him, “How is your church community groups to use: Taekwondo where the team doing?” He answers, “I don’t have a Club, Bone Builders Club, etc. The idea church. This is a God-thing. God has a is to knock down barriers and build trains. great church here, and together our people relationships that God can use. partner with God in eternal work.” Some church planters might be An important ministry tool for the satisfied to reach 250 in attendance. But church is Discipleship Essentials: A Guide for Doug, his first thought is: “Are there to Building Your Life in Christ, by Greg unsaved people in Hornell? The mission Ogden. Doug said, “It’s a great catechism. has just begun. Each person needs an It’s foundational for us.” opportunity to respond to the good news.” Doug feels that the church building is like the locker room where the team trains. But the real work goes on outside the walls where they meet people. They

www.wesleyan.life / WINTER 2017 9 The key to everything is sharing Christ's

Rev. Paul Piraino, senior pastor of Victory Highway, is making a massive impact for Christ in Painted Post, N.Y.

Victory Highway

Imagine, in the town of Painted Post in Besides missions, some of Victory • Serving. Their goal is that every Central New York District, an evangelical Highway’s signature ministries include: member have a serving role. Right church that averages 1,600 in attendance. now, 55 percent of all adult and teen That church is Victory Highway Wesleyan. • Small groups called community attenders serve, and the number is And their vision goes far beyond the groups. There are over 60 groups and growing. Painted Post/Corning area. They have a so many wonderful stories of changed ¼ million dollar missions budget, send lives there. As in all healthy churches, Victory 10 mission teams overseas every year, and • Sunday morning services, especially Highway is deeply involved in serving 10 percent of their capital campaigns go high Sundays, are the front door of the their community. They even cancelled straight into missions projects. church. They go all out for Easter and Sunday morning church (moved it to Rev. Paul Piraino (with wife Christmas. Over 2,400 attended Easter. Saturday night) to support a major city Christine) leads a staff of a dozen pastors Last Christmas, 4,700 attended seven event, a marathon race, and contributed in a community that is mostly made up services over four days. hundreds of volunteers for the event. of Catholic, de-churched, or unchurched • Discipleship influenced by The And there are a dozen other projects people. He gives credit to former pastors: Purpose-Driven Church model. like helping build a home for women great men with great vision. But Paul is Training each member in knowing who have been rescued from trafficking, clearly loved and highly respected deeply Christ, growing through spiritual renovating distressed properties, and by his staff and lay leaders. disciplines, serving, and sharing faith. filling backpacks with hats and gloves and • Children’s ministries. Many of their supplies for school kids. best lay leaders work in the area of As one pastor said, “The key to children’s ministries. Children of everything is sharing the love of Christ, visiting are often heard saying, and the joy of seeing people saved.” "We have to go back!"

10 WINTER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life

had a most intriguing I conversation with a recent college graduate.

Aubrey told me she’d come to faith during her sophomore year but felt she’d plateaued in her growth since finishing school. In her words:

“I did great spiritually when I had my friends around all the time, when I could stay up late talking about God and life and faith—but now, it’s hard. I got V O I D I N G totally stressed out trying to find • A • an apartment and looking for a job that I actually liked. Now, I can’t find a church that fits who I am. Is it supposed to be this hard? I still believe in God, but I don’t feel as close to him as I did last year. What’s wrong with me?”

Actually, there may • M Y • be nothing wrong A T U R I T with Aubrey. She’s quite normal.

I meet graduates all the time who are attempting to navigate life after college. Things don’t fall into place like imagined or promised. God seems distant. Passion has evaporated. Your sense of mission has been BY TIM ELMORE eclipsed by the reality of paying off debt and making life work. Sometimes, you even question your own maturity.

12 WINTER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life Facto r s at Play

The fact is, we live in a culture that fosters what I call I’m concerned The reasons for the rising anxiety “artificial maturity.” It’s not anyone’s fault. It’s happened that we didn’t get vary. Dr. Jean Twenge, professor as an unintended consequence due to two realities that have of psychology at San Diego State surfaced since the dawn of the 21st century: you ready for life. University, says in Generation Me [2014] it’s mostly due to the We are over-exposed to information In my book, Generation expansion of materialism and the 1 far earlier than we’re ready. iY, I relayed the results of a decline of quality relationships. landmark 2007 American I agree, but believe there’s We are under-exposed to real life College Health Association another reason–too much 2 experiences far later than we’re ready. study. The conclusions were information and not enough sobering: application. We know more than Consider how society has evolved. Everyone has access • 94 percent of students we do. to information from pre-school days onward. In a recent reported feeling Whatever the reason, however, publication of the journal, Pediatrics, researchers found “overwhelmed” by their it’s time we find a solution. “almost universal exposure” to tablets and the use of lifestyles. smartphones (mobile devices) among young children as early • 44 percent said they were as one year old. so overwhelmed it was The Fork At the same time, adults have shifted their parenting difficult to function. styles. You are likely aware of it. Parents give trophies to kids • Almost 10 percent had just for participating. They decided to keep their kids safe considered suicide in the IN the by preventing risks, hovering over them like a helicopter, last year. and encouraged more activities instead of taking a job while Road in school. In short, school years do not emulate what real A decade later, I wondered if life looks like after graduation. Parents have done a much the young adult situation had If you are a young adult in this better job protecting than preparing. Far too frequently, we’ve improved. Had they learned situation, there are two glaring prepared the path for the child and not the child for the path. to cope with a world filled options. First, you can walk away with technology, materialism, from faith. A 2015 Pew Research So, what’s the result for and demands on their time? Center survey found that, as I was hopeful, but alas, the time goes on, the large share of young professionals after reality has become more religiously unaffiliated Millennials graduation? challenging. There are now is increasing measurably. A high greater levels of anxiety than percentage of younger members— ever before. From a spiritual There are high levels of anxiety. Consuming lots of those I call Generation iY, who perspective, it’s caused many information (a thousand messages a day) but with little real- were born since 1990—are young adults to get “stuck.” life experience can create a false sense of confidence while religious “nones” (saying they’re in school. Consuming content without context is dangerous. atheists or agnostics, or their Information without application stunts growth. As twenty- religion is “nothing in particular”). somethings encounter adulthood, it’s a reality check. Maturity They just gave up. Sadly, I know might have been artificial. I spoke to a psychologist recently a young woman who planned to who’s diagnosed three young clients this way: “High arrogance, become a nun but instead became low self-esteem.” Too many university deans have said to me, a “none.” “Twenty-six is the new eighteen.” The other option is to walk toward deeper faith, instead of walk away.

www.wesleyan.life / WINTER 2017 13 Generation iY Buy the book http://amzn.to/2fQvcxG This is the road less traveled, but it is the road most rewarding. When young believers embrace the hardship that comes with following Jesus, when you run to the roar and face your fears, doubts, and confusion—you end up stronger and more resilient in the long run. You stop looking outward for others The other option is to to blame, and instead look inward and own your walk toward deeper faith, growth. You toss your illusions aside that life should be easy, that things should always go your way. You instead of walk away. avoid becoming an emotionally brittle young adult and become a vibrant, obedient, spiritual person who can serve as a compass for others.

Authentic 10. Maturity demands that you get 17. You must find your identity over yourself. in Jesus, not in anything that can be taken away. m at u rity: 11. Your EQ (emotional intelligence) is more important 18. Spiritual brokenness leads to TRUTHS I wish I had than your IQ. growth; surrender actually enables you to win. 22 embraced when I was 22 12. You will sabotage yourself if you cannot delay gratification. 19. Growth and success will If you’ve plateaued in your spiritual journey, ask likely take longer than you 13. yourself: Is there a gap between what I know and what I Life is not fair and not think it will. do? Your answer will impact your intimacy with God. everyone wins. 20. The first person you must So, may I be a temporary mentor as you walk toward 14. Healthy self-esteem requires learn to lead . . . is yourself. faith? I’d like to offer you 22 simple truths that I have achievement not just found foster authentic maturity, rather than artificial affirmation. 21. Relationships with God and maturity, in my life: people are priority one and 15. Be willing to serve the coffee two. 1. You should learn to fail early. (small tasks) in order to get 22. 2. Your knowledge of Jesus should not surpass your ahead. The practice is the reward. Learn to enjoy the journey. obedience to Jesus. 16. Making progress will always 3. No one owes you anything. mean taking risks.

4. Work ethic is the most important skill to take into your career. Not long ago, Danny came to me seeking some advice on his spiritual 5. Every decision has a benefit or a consequence. life and career. He was stuck. I loved his humility and transparency as we conversed. When I asked Danny if he knew the Lord, he reflected for a 6. God draws near to you when you draw near to him. moment, then said, “Well, I met him once. But now . . . I’d like to really 7. You should view happiness as a by-product not a get to know him.” pursuit. May that be our perspective from this day forward.

8. Taking responsibility for yourself is actually liberating. DR. TIM ELMORE International speaker, president of Growing Leaders 9. You will never grow without a struggle. (GrowingLeaders.com), and best-selling author of more than 30 books, including his latest, Generation iY: Secrets to Connecting With Teens & Young Adults in the Digital Age.

14 WINTER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life

N PERSO TO N PERSO

COLLEEN DERR

esleyans hold a wonderfully W broad view of salvation. We understand salvation is not just a move in eternal destination but the full work of the in our lives, transforming and restoring. described it as “the entire work of God, from the first dawning of grace in the soul, till it is consummated in glory” (sermon: “The Scripture Way of Salvation”).

16 WINTER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life John Wesley spoke of the movements of God’s grace. Not that God’s grace changes, but our spiritual location does.

God calls us to holiness of heart and life, a holiness that is only possible through grace and our response by faith. The Holy Spirit comes to us where we are to do a work in us through grace. The full work of God’s grace and our response by faith is the process of being “made new.” How does this transformation of heart and life occur? How are people made new? Through the miraculous work of the Holy Spirit, our faith response launches us on a journey of discipleship. Learning to be a disciple, a follower of Jesus, is made possible by the work of the Holy Spirit, our faithful obedience, and the community of believers. The following are Wesley Seminary students and alumni testimonials of how they have witnessed the power of grace and the response by faith, making disciples.

DISCIPLESHIP through prayer and reading the Bible. He showed me what it looked like to live THROUGH with Christ at the center of my life and then invited me into the things that would RELATIONSHIP help me live a fruitful Christian life. I read the Bible. I jumped into a small group and The first time I was discipled I had Christian fellowship. Then Mike invited didn’t even know it was happening. me to be part of the student ministry worship I placed my faith in Christ on team, and I began to serve and invite my a high school mission trip. friends. Years later I realized Mike had discipled My youth pastor, Mike, then me without my full knowledge, and it had been began to disciple me. It started life-changing and life-giving. with relationship–we simply hung out. He began to talk • Dan Vander Wal, campus pastor at about how he pursued God 12Stone Church, Lawrenceville, Ga.

The first time I was discipled I didn’t even know it was happening.

www.wesleyan.life / WINTER 2017 17 THE KINGDOM OF GOD BELONGS TO SUCH AS THESE

Danielle was a painfully shy ten-year-old girl. “How many If you tried to hug her, she would shrink away and cringe. Her mom was a recovering heroin do not feel addict, and Danielle had been abused and was like you fit in scared of men. The first three months I could or feel you not get Danielle to talk or even look at me, so are not loved I tried to just get her to give me a high five, which she agreed to most of the time. When at school or she attended her first vacation Bible school, she home?” was in my class. I asked, “How many do not feel like you fit in or feel you are not loved at school or home?” Three children raised their hands, including Danielle. I explained that I would teach them about the One who loved them dearly. Over the next The next year at VBS, I asked if year my wife and I ministered to any child wanted to receive Jesus these three. We spent a lot of as Savior and Lord. Danielle gave time with them, teaching her life to Christ. The following week them about Christ’s love Danielle’s mom and boyfriend gave their and standing with livest h e to m Christ. Danielle became totally different through their trials. and embodies 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” She smiles with eyes lit, greets people with a joyful heart, has friends, and attends church every week.

• Mark Benedict, pastor at Peace River Wesleyan Church, Port Charlotte, Fla.

18 WINTER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life CHILD INVITES OTHERS TO BE MADE NEW

We don’t always get to hear that she wanted to be the “Super whether our ministry is U that God created her to be.” making an impact. I remember She planned to work at Walmart one teaching unit entitled so she had money to buy food and “Becoming the super U God clothes for the homeless, and she created you to be!” I was would read to old people who were excited to share this teaching alone. Rachel’s mom showed me her because it held several take- paper. As I read this child’s sincere home elements involving love for God and wanting to be all prayer time, Bible reading, she could for him, I was humbled by application, and follow-up. my selfish plans for my life. Imagine Many kids were excited and my surprise when I was introduced engaged. One Sunday, several to Rachel’s teacher, who came to kids wanted to share how God church because Rachel invited her. was helping them “become the How amazing that God was able super U He created them to be.” to use Rachel’s faith in such a Rachel, a second grader, stood up dramatic way! Rachel was being and told how she had to write a “made new” and inviting others school paper that described what to be as well. she wanted to be when she grew up. Rachel very seriously declared • Pastor Nancy Buckingham, children’s pastor at Greeley Wesleyan Church, Greeley, Colo.

As I read this child’s sincere love for God and wanting to be all she could for him, I was humbled by my selfish plans for my life.

www.wesleyan.life / WINTER 2017 19 PRAYER PARTNERS AND DISCIPLESHIP

The goal of discipleship is to be made new! Whatever finding ways his truth applies in life and who also practices and disciplines comprise discipleship, cares so much for the people around her. I've each should be geared toward transformation into especially appreciated Christlikeness in our relationships with God and her views and Whatever practices and one another. discovering insights disciplines comprise The practice of intergenerational prayer from the sermons that I discipleship, each partnerships is having an impact in our completely missed!” should be geared toward congregation. These are relationships in which Allison shared how Jan transformation into each person is mutually praying for and with the “is a kindred spirit and other person. The more we establish effective lives her life seeking after Christlikeness in our relationships like this, the more we grow in our God the way I want to. relationships with God understanding that our older adults are the Every time we meet, I walk and one another. heroes in our faith communities and the next away feeling closer to the generation is the hope! Lord. Her perspective on life and her experiences One example is the prayer partnership with God's faithfulness help put whatever I'm going between Jan and Allison. Jan is retired and through into the right context. I grew up in the church, Allison is a young, new mom. but have been looking for a mentor and friend like Jan Jan explained, “I had anticipated the for years now. She is an answer to prayer.” pleasure of sharing prayer requests with a sister in Christ, but I didn't realize I would find a new • Rev. Alex Mandura, pastor of congregational friend–one who loves exploring God's Word and care, College Wesleyan Church, Marion, Ind.

the holy city, the new Jerusalem, And the one who was seated on the AND THEY WILL coming down out of from throne said, "See, I am making all BE MY CHILDREN God, prepared as a bride adorned things new." (Rev. 21:1-5, NRSV). for her husband. And I heard a loud We are blessed to receive wonderful voice from the throne saying, “See, glimpses of the work of Christ as lives the home of God is among mortals. are transformed through the power He will dwell with them; they will REV. COLLEEN DERR of the Holy Spirit. The completed be his peoples, and God himself will Associate professor of congregational vision is revealed in Revelation 21: be with them; he will wipe every spiritual formation and assistant Then I saw a new heaven and a new tear from their eyes. Death will be dean at Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University. earth; for the first heaven and the no more; mourning and crying and first earth had passed away, and pain will be no more, for the first the sea was no more. And I saw things have passed away.”

20 WINTER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life

Directions for Spiritual Growth

KIM GLADDEN was given directions to go from I my office to a location some miles away. The directions were thorough, but led through winding back "I want roads. Being directionally challenged, I to grow got lost. There was nothing wrong with the directions, but I needed a more direct in Christ. route (read one turn). That experience Now caused me to reflect on how we approach growing spiritually. Here are some ideas what?" to explore if you're thinking,

Daily devotions & prayer This one is essential for me, my day's anchor. I set aside time first thing in the morning to read the Scriptures My day's and a devotional thought followed by prayer. My mind and heart are then ready for whatever the day holds. anchor. The Word of God is so powerful! I used to do my devotions at night, but that didn’t work as well. I had already made too many blunders during the day, so it wasn’t as effective.

22 WINTER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life Small groups Mentoring relationship Being part of a caring community of Seek out a friendship with someone that you people who are all interested in growing also admire spiritually. It may be someone can bring life-transforming results. In the older. Find out the lessons they’ve learned loving security of a small group, I’ve seen along the way. Set regular times to meet, people work through many issues, and pray, and encourage each other, and also ask there is the comfort of not having to do questions you only feel safe asking a friend. life alone. A healthy small group is there for you in all life’s moments, happy and sad, and friendships Being intentional The key is your relationship with Jesus A healthy can be formed that are Christ. Progress comes by being intentional. small group deeper than a casual Pray for the help of the Holy Spirit. is there for “Good to see you this Remember the adage: “A journey of a you in all life’s morning” flung out on thousand miles begins with one step?” moments. the way into or out of Why not start walking? the worship service. Retreats Take a class Valuable soul work Unplugging In some churches, organized small groups can be done by going from social are not an available option. But almost away for a short time. media, daily all churches have growth classes in either Find your space and responsibilities, a Sunday school, Bible study, or special type of retreat: large and a to-do list series format. Classes are a wonderful group, small group, or allows the inner way to learn in community. You might camping in the woods. you to breathe. consider also auditing a class from a local Personally, cruises seminary or Bible school if you want to are restorative for me. Definitely unplugging delve deeper. The point is to be a lifelong from social media, daily responsibilities, and learner in faith matters. a to-do list allows the inner you to breathe, regroup, and focus on spiritual matters. Mission Trips Challenge your life, discover a new culture Conferences and new things about yourself. As a former Gather with others and experience the impact missions pastor, I can’t tell you the number of learning in a group setting on a topic of of times I’ve seen people come home from interest. I try to attend one conference a year a mission trip changed. What better way to be in fellowship with Christians outside of to learn about the value of being content my immediate community, and to hear what’s than to sit with a man in Zambia living with happening in the larger church world. AIDS who has only two I can’t tell you shirts to his name? When the number of we prayed with him to Social holiness times I’ve seen receive Christ, and later Serving people in need, being Jesus’ hands people come asked what would make and feet in ministry, is right and good and home from a his life better, he only helps you grow spiritually. Service discipleship mission trip wanted a blanket to keep breathes life into individuals and through changed. him warm at night. It’s a individuals into the church. Pray for God to joy to be a blessing, and give you eyes to see and a heart to serve. God uses such experiences also to humble and teach us many things. REV. KIM GLADDEN Director of discipleship for Church Multiplication and Discipleship with The Wesleyan Church.

www.wesleyan.life / WINTER 2017 23 ANITA EASTLACK

primary role of are constantly being Building connections will be more important The Wesleyan created in a number than creating programs. Of course, the focus A will be to champion effective discipleship and Church Division of local churches church multiplication. But it is believed that the of Church Multiplication where they are born best methods for doing so are being birthed out and Discipleship (CMAD) out of real needs of development in local contexts. Healthy chemistry, authentic teamwork, is resourcing. Most of and tested in actual and real joy describe team culture as the new the best resources and ministry situations. executive director, Rev. Anita Eastlack, and practices for ministry mostly-new staff rally around the CMAD mission to serve local churches. CMAD is casting a vision for movement over model, encouraging decisions for the specific discipleship and multiplication ministry models to be made at the local level. CMAD One of CMAD's main approaches leaders are seeking to be connectors over creators. They will reference discipleship models will be to connect pastors and in a variety of avenues, identifying training churches to resources being and resourcing “hubs” where effective models of discipleship, multiplication, and social developed by others. holiness already exist. Digital conversations and online resourcing will be a major way in which connections are facilitated.

24 WINTER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life Please pray for the CMAD team. Call or email them for your first conversation and commit to keep the conversations going as we stay in touch with you in the local church where peoples’ lives are being Made New.

One new avenue Director of Director of will be through Discipleship Multiplication Rev. Kim Gladden Dr. Ed Love is a a free resource- brings 25 years prolific author, of experience of church multiplier, sharing website ministry in both urban and suburban and was a district catalyst for church designed to settings as a church planter, lead multiplication. He created and pastor, and in staff roles such as teaches the Certificate in Church provide access director of discipleship and missions. Planting and Multiplication program to a full range of at Wesley Seminary. church-related Director of Director of needs. Next Gen Multiethnic Discipleship Ministries Rev. Zach Coffin Rev. Santes brings ten years Beatty has served of experience in leading Next Gen in CMAD for over two years and ministries, earned degrees in Christian is passionate about building teams ministry and Christian education, and that pursue unity, while facilitating The release goal is summer of 2017, but was on the leadership team for the connections and developing the strength of the site will continue Follow 2015 Youth Convention. resourcing. to grow over time. Also, the Belonging membership booklet has been updated in English and Spanish, along with a video Director of (in English and Spanish) that can be used Read Anita's Article Operations in membership classes as an introduction from Fall Issue wesleyan.life/leadinglikejesus Jessie Sears’ to what it means to be a member in a passion is Wesleyan church. organization and The CMAD team is committed to events planning. She has served at the vision of transforming lives, churches, headquarters for nine years. and communities through the hope and holiness of Jesus Christ, celebrating every time a disciple makes a disciple and a church multiplies itself until The Wesleyan Church has a transforming presence in every zip code. NOW AVAILABLE BELONGING ANITA EASTLACK MEMBERSHIP GUIDE for leaders Executive director of Church Multiplication and Discipleship and participants for The Wesleyan Church.

WPHONLINE.COM

www.wesleyan.life / WINTER 2017 25 Kingswood dedicates new athletic complex

A new 15-acre riverfront athletic complex with outdoor sports fields was dedicated by Kingswood University students, staff, board The Full Rankings members, and donors. Benson Athletic www.christianuniversitiesonline.org Complex is named in honor of Pete and Ginnie Benson. A two-level clubhouse is currently under construction. Full story Houghton College’s wesleyan.org/ 5637 School of Music ranked #2 among Christian colleges

Houghton College has been named by Christian Universities Online as one of the top two Christian college music programs in the nation. Each institution in the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities was considered. Houghton offers ten music degree programs—five IWU football stadium Full story undergraduate and five graduate. plans revealed wesleyan.org/5409 Full story wesleyan.org/5536 Indiana Wesleyan University broke ground for the new Wildcat football stadium adjacent to the track and field facility. It will have 2,500 seats plus berm seating around the field boosting total capacity to about 4,000. The playing surface will be artificial turf. OKWU welcomes new Play is expected to begin in fall of 2018. addition to campus

The campus of Wesleyan Southern Wesleyan University University is now graced by a massive eagle statue with an 11-foot wingspan, breaks ground on living and crafted by Scott Stearman, the - learning community based sculptor. More than a mascot, the

eagle is representative of the mission and culture of OKWU, as Southern Wesleyan University exemplified by Isaiah officials broke ground on a 40:31: “Those who four-story, 67,000-square-foot hope in the Lord will residence. In addition to single, renew their strength. dual, and triple occupancy suites They will soar on for 243 students, 25 percent of the wings like eagles.” space will be dedicated to a large lobby with a bistro and gathering space, a classroom, fitness rooms, Full story a theatre, and a conference room. wesleyan.org/5719 SWU expects to welcome student Full story residents into this facility in wesleyan.org/5469 August, 2017.

26 WINTER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life HAITIANS REELING from Hurricane Matthew

Wesleyans were praying that cholera would not kill more thousands in locations where suddenly there was no clean water. The church’s first response was to join in addressing the water supply and hygiene. Praise God, the Hurricane Matthew feared spike in the cholera epidemic has been limited, so far. was a category 4-5 Through a Wesleyan Emergency storm and, on October Relief Fund (WERF) appeal, the church partnered with World Hope 4, became the worst International and supplied 1,000 water filters, 2,500 hygiene kits, and 400 hurricane to strike temporary canvas shelters. These were Haiti since 1964. distributed in several hard-hit areas where we have churches and schools. The death toll rose These include the areas around Torbeck, to 1,600 and 1.4 Cote de Fer, Pitite Rivierre de Nippe, and Grande Vide, La Gonave. million people need assistance, including A second response is many with lost homes, already beginning. gardens, and animals. This includes food and support of the restart of local agriculture, including garden tools like hoes and machetes, seeds, and goats. Finally, the North American church would like to invest $80,000-$100,000 in helping re-roof and repair damaged churches, schools, and parsonages, an amount which will go far in Haiti. Mission teams, repair crews, can also make a big difference. One of the very significant needs is for 500-1,000 goats. The loss of many thousands of goats will have long-term effects on the economic survivability and health of many communities where our churches are. For $75 per goat, healthy breeding stock can be replaced, and these make a huge difference for a . The WERF fund is still actively seeking more support for this compassionate project: Wesleyan Emergency Relief Fund for Haiti.

Give to Wesleyan Emergency Relief Fund for Haiti www.wesleyan.org/relief www.wesleyan.life / WINTER 2017 27 Medical team reaches Albanians with gospel

Missionaries Matt and Caryl Aukerman report that the Lord has powerfully used a medical team to reach Albanians with the Nepal health clinic an gospel. Seven hundred people showed up on the first day of a clinic, and 224 people inspiring ministry responded to the gospel message during that week. Matt and Caryl also praise God Drs. Romy and Linda Caringal, missionaries with Global that 16 students attended Bible Kids Club, Partners (Romy is Asia Area director), recently traveled to many of whom heard the gospel for the Nepal to lead the mobile health clinic in Japha and Palpa first time. villages (eastern and western Nepal), which have limited health care facilities and providers. Full story The couple saw 339 patients between the two camps. wesleyan.org/5421 Church volunteers, three Nepalese doctors, a medical assistant, and four nurses assisted in the clinics. Many come to Christ via the healing ministry.

Full story wesleyan.org/5595 Walking for water Wesleyan Church of One of the core programs at World Egypt granted free land Hope International (WHI) is Clean Water Atif Sedhom Kilf reports, “The Egyptian Formal Wells & Sanitation. Journal recently published the government agreement This program provides clean water to some of to give The Standard Wesleyan Church of Egypt free the world's most impoverished communities to land (almost a square mile) to improve their health and standard of living. North build a church legally. Carolina resident Larry McAlpine began taking “Thank the Lord Jesus for a very long walk on his birthday to support clean this development. We have water and he convinces others to pledge donations. prayed for the allocation of Since 2009, the “Hoover Walk,” named in land to build a church in Badr honor of Larry's friend, Pastor Hoover Smith, has City. This was approved by raised over $216,000 for WHI's clean water and the ministerial committee and wells program. This has funded 54 wells in five the news was published in the countries, providing clean water for 38,526 people. official leading newspapers.”

Full story Full story wesleyan.org/5467 wesleyan.org/5605

28 WINTER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life Led each step Bolivia welcomed of the way to The Wesleyan Church Ajay is part of a Hindu family in Nepal. His mother has suffered for years from severe illness. They visited A ministry in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, South America, many witch doctors, but to no effect. One day a has officially been welcomed into The Wesleyan Christian man came to their village and preached. Church. Over 160 participants attended a five-day Desperate, Ajay’s father invited this man into their event in August. Presenters spoke on and home. He told Ajay’s parents that if they believed family, the history of The Wesleyan Church, and in Christ, they could pray to be released from the gave powerful evangelistic messages, after which 18 sickness. His mother placed her faith in Jesus, and was indeed cured. people placed their faith in Jesus. That day, the whole family chose to follow Jesus. At the close of the five-hour Sunday service, Villagers learned they had become Christians, came Rev. Carlos Martinez presented a certificate and the to their home, beat them, and exiled them. Although right hand of fellowship into The Wesleyan Church they faced many problems, to Rev. and Mrs. Arnoldo Becerra, leaders of the Ajay says, “God has led me ministry in Bolivia. each step of the way.” He was trained to show the JESUS Full story film in rural villages and also wesleyan.org/5509 preaches. Through the JESUS film, many hear the gospel and are saved. Full story DIGITAL MAGAZINE + BONUS MEDIA @ WWW.WESLEYAN.LIFE wesleyan.org/5412

www.wesleyan.life / WINTER 2017 29 Wesleyan Church at several Canadian churches EMERY, RUTHANNE (89) Obituaries for 32 years. He was preceded in death by Ruthanne Emery died August 23 in High Point, four sisters and one brother. Survivors include N.C. She was the wife of Dr. O. Dale Emery, Ethel, his wife of 60 years, one daughter, former General Superintendent, who preceded ALEXANDER, DR. EDWIN (82) one son, two grandchildren, and one great- her in death. The couple served more than 65 Dr. Edwin Alexander passed away August grandson. years within The Wesleyan Church. Survivors 24 in Stillwell, Kans. He pastored Wesleyan include six children, 19 grandchildren, 44 churches in , Indiana, , CAPPS, REV. BARABRA (73) great-grandchildren, and two brothers. and . In addition, he worked for Rev. Barabra Capps died September 9 in Full story: wesleyan.org/5432 the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. Land O’ Lakes, Fla. She planted the former Survivors include his wife, Shirley, three Lighthouse Community Church in Land ENGLE, REV. MICHAEL “MIKE” (68) daughters, two sons, nine grandchildren, and O’ Lakes. At age 62, she received her high Rev. Michael “Mike” Engle passed away one great-grandchild. school diploma, then went on to complete October 7 in Flat Rock, N.C. He pastored requirements for ordination. Her husband Wesleyan churches in North Carolina, most BAUER, REV. PAUL (89) of 28 years, Spencer W. Capps, preceded recently serving at First Wesleyan Church in Rev. Paul Bauer passed her in death. Barabra is survived by two Hendersonville for 41 years. He is survived away September 14 in daughters, four grandchildren, and five great- by Patti, his wife of 46 years, one son, one Whitehall, Pa. He and grandchildren. daughter, two grandsons, two brothers, and his first wife, Betty, one sister. served as missionaries COY, REV. RALPH (85) with Wesleyan World Rev. Ralph Coy passed away June 5 in Dewey, ENGLE, REV. WILLIAM (68) Missions (now Global Okla. The Wesleyan pastor was preceded in Rev. William Engle passed away October 23 Partners) in southern Africa from 1957- death by two wives, Caroline and Mona, one in Bartlesville, Okla. He planted a church 1983. He also served several churches in son, one stepson, a grandson, a sister, and a while a student in Bartlesville. He also served Bangor and Orefield, Pa., as well as a church brother. Survivors include two daughters, one with Wesleyan World Missions for 15 years in in Roanoke, Va. Betty preceded him in stepdaughter, seven grandchildren, four step- both South Africa and Zimbabwe. Rev. Engle death. Survivors include his wife, Joan, one grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and also pastored Wesleyan churches in Kansas. son, two sisters, two stepdaughters, eight five step-great-grandchildren. Survivors include Connie, his wife of 44 years, grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, one son, two daughters, two grandchildren, five step-grandchildren, five step-great- CRAIN, REV. JERRY (72) and one sister. grandchildren, and one brother. Rev. Jerry Crain passed away November 16 in Seneca, S.C. He served in both the Southern ERRASTI, REV. CLAUDIO (59) BISHOP, REV. GENE (68) Methodist Church and The Wesleyan Church, Rev. Claudio Errasti passed away October 2 Rev. Gene Bishop died September 16 in serving churches in Colorado, , in Mount Airy, N.C. He pastored Wesleyan Garden City, Mo. He pastored Wesleyan , , and . churches in North Carolina. His wife, Nora, churches in . He was preceded in Survivors include his wife, Joan, two sons, five preceded him in death. He is survived by two death by two sons. Survivors include his grandchildren, and one sister. daughters. wife, Alice, four daughters, two sons, 15 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, two CRUSE, REV. JOHN (85) GEARHART, REV. FORREST brothers, and one sister. Rev. John Cruse died April 10 in Gold Hill, (94) N.C. He pastored churches in the North Rev. Forrest Gearhart BOYLE, REV. HOWARD (90) Carolina East District of The Wesleyan Church. passed away November 11 Rev. Howard Boyle passed away October 6 He is survived by his wife, Carol, four children, in Fern Park, Fla. He and in South Bend, Ind. He and his wife, Leah, six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, his wife, Ann, founded served as missionaries among the Lakota one sister, and one brother. Sturgis Wesleyan Church people in for more than 40 in Michigan and Wheaton years. They were married 66 years, and she DODGE, BEATRICE (105) Wesleyan Church in . He served as preceded him in death, as did three brothers. Beatrice Dodge passed away October 23 district superintendent of the Northern Illinois Survivors include one son, three daughters, in Hillcrest, N.Y. She served with Pilgrim District of The Wesleyan Church and on nine grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, Holiness Missions (now Global Partners) several boards, including the General Board two great-great-grandchildren, one sister, from 1936-1959 in Barbados, East Indies, and of the denomination. The couple also served and one brother. Guyana, South America, as well as pastored in as missionaries with Global Partners in Puerto Port Jervis, N.Y. Her siblings preceded her in Rico. His wife of 67 years, Ann, preceded him CAMERON, REV. STILLMAN (83) death. Survivors include nieces and nephews, in death, as did a son, granddaughter, and Rev. Stillman Cameron passed away July great-nieces and nephews, and great-great- two brothers. Survivors include one daughter, 9, 2016, in Fredericton, , nieces and nephews. two sons, eight grandchildren, four great- . He served as a pastor in The grandchildren, and one sister.

30 WINTER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life GILREATH, REV. FRANCES (91) MORRIS, REV. J. REED (96) STEPHENS, REV. ROBERT, SR. (73) Rev. Frances Gilreath died July 4 in Belton, S.C. Rev. Joseph Reed Morris passed away July Rev. Robert Stephens, Sr., died July 26 She and her husband, Rev. V. E. Gilreath, who 5 in . He was a U.S. Army veteran in Salisbury, Md. He pastored Wesleyan preceded her in death, were ordained together in and served as pastor at several Wesleyan churches in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and 1975, and served as pastors in the South Carolina churches in Maryland and Delaware. His Delaware. Survivors include Rebecca, his District for 33 years. The Reverends Gilreath had wife, Ruth, preceded him in death, as did one wife of 53 years, two daughters, one son, four children. brother and a daughter. Survivors include two seven grandchildren, one great-grandson, grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and and three brothers. HUFFMAN, REV. PAUL (89) five great-great-grandchildren. Rev. Paul Huffman died August 21 in Waterloo, SYPOLT, REV. A.L. (92) . He served with the U.S. Army in World MORRIS, REV. KENNETH (82) Rev. A.L. Sypolt passed War II and later as a pastor at Wesleyan churches Rev. Kenneth Morris died September 4 in away December 5 in in the Iowa- District. He also was a Marion, Ind. A U.S. Navy veteran, Rev. Morris Lexington, Ky. He chaplain in the Minneapolis Police Department. served as a Wesleyan pastor for years. Survivors served The Wesleyan Rev. Huffman was preceded in death by a brother include his wife, Joyce, three daughters, one Church as a pastor in and two sisters. Survivors include his wife, Amy, son, seven grandchildren, two sisters, and one both West and one son, two daughters, nine grandchildren, brother. from 1954- 15 great-grandchildren, and one great-great- 1975. He served as an assistant district grandchild. PHARR, REV. WILLIAM “BILL” superintendent 1970-1975 and a district Rev. William Pharr passed away November superintendent of the Kentucky District of LONG, REV. RUBY (88) 15 in North Carolina. He served at various The Wesleyan Church from 1975-1990. He Rev. Ruby Long passed away August 20 in Wesleyan churches throughout North Carolina also served in various roles within Wesleyan Imperial, Neb. She served The Wesleyan Church for 47 years. Four brothers and two sisters higher education. as a pastor, missionary, and teacher for 54 years. preceded him in death. Survivors include He was preceded in death by his She was preceded in death by her husband, Barbara, his wife of 63 years, one daughter, one wife, Etta Mae, two brothers, and one Richard, two infant children, three brothers, granddaughter, two great-grandchildren, and sister. Survivors include two sons, two two sisters, and four great-grandchildren. one sister. daughters, seven grandchildren, six Survivors include one son, two daughters, 13 great-grandchildren, and one great-great- grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, one SHOOK, REV. ELVIS (91) granddaughter. Full story: wesleyan. brother, and two sisters. Rev. Elvis Shook passed away November 10 org/5844 in Sheridan, Mich. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, MATTOON, REV. ROYAL (74) Rev. Shook served as a Wesleyan and a Free WINTER, FRANCES (72) Rev. Royal Mattoon died September 13 in Methodist pastor for 35 years. His wife of 62 Frances Winter passed away October 23 Sykesville, Md. He served as a pastor of Wesleyan years, Erma Mae, preceded him in death, as in Salt Springs, New Brunswick, Canada. churches in the Chesapeake District. He is did one brother. Survivors include three sons, She and her husband, Howard, served survived by Patricia, his wife of 50 years, three two daughters, 30 grandchildren, 28 great- with Global Partners in Mozambique daughters, six grandchildren, one sister, and one grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. from 2001-2005. Survivors include her brother. husband, two sons, one daughter, and seven SMITH, ROBERT “BOB” (79) grandchildren. MORGAN, REV. WILLIAM Robert “Bob” Smith ZAMARRON, REV. JOSUE (88) “BILL” (91) died September 17 in Rev. William “Bill” Morgan Brooksville, Fla. Bob and Rev. Josue Zamarron passed away October passed away December 5 in his wife, Julia, served in the 20 in Lyford, Tex. A Wesleyan pastor, he was Fredericton, New Brunswick, Philippines with Wesleyan preceded in death by a daughter, grandson, Canada. He served as an World Missions from 1960- brother, and sister. Survivors include his ordained pastor for 65 years 1975. From 1975-1988, wife, Debora, three sons, two daughters, 13 with The Wesleyan Church. they helped establish The Wesleyan Church in grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren. He spent 33 years in South Africa as a missionary Indonesia. Bob then became assistant General with Wesleyan World Missions (now Global Director of Wesleyan World Missions from Partners), including serving as mission director 1988-1992. Then for 12 years he was district for the field. Upon his return to New Brunswick, superintendent of the South Carolina District. he served more years there in the pastorate. In retirement, he was president of the Wesleyan Rev. Morgan was preceded in death by his Missionary Alumni Fellowship. Survivors wife Elsie (Shaw) Morgan. Survivors include one include Julia, his wife of 61 years, one daughter, daughter, one son, many grandchildren, great one son, one brother, two sisters, and seven grandchildren, one brother, and one sister. Full grandchildren. Full story: wesleyan.org/5482 story: wesleyan.org/5843

www.wesleyan.life / WINTER 2017 31 THE WESLEYAN CHURCH CORPORATION PO BOX 50434, INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46250-0434 WESLEYAN.ORG WESLEYAN.Life / SPRING 2017 The magnitude of our pain was met with intense love and calculated acts of kindness.

The journey of carrying my son Elijah lasted another fourteen weeks. And during this time God showed up—in big and small ways. In everyday activities. In the love of his people. Elijah’s earthly journey ended in From the very day of that fateful the early hours of a blustery Leap Day diagnosis, the Lord and his church morning. In that quiet hospital room, surrounded and carried us. Some with my husband and best friend, Elijah days getting out of bed seemed an was intensely loved in his seventy-three LOVING insurmountable feat. Some days the minutes with us. He was dedicated over tears hardly stopped flowing. But the the phone by Pastor Steve DeNeff, who magnitude of our pain was met was out of state, and in person by Pastor AND LOSING Read similar stories of spiritual transparency and with intense love and calculated acts Judy Crossman. We would later learn that at the same moment Elijah left us, BY BRITTANI SCHMIDT genuine transformation in of kindness. MY CHILD the book Faith Made Real A dear friend, who at the time was Pastor Steve was prompted to again wphstore.com/product/BKC701 more of an acquaintance, brought us consecrate our baby to the Lord. What dinner every Monday. She wanted a a beautiful welcome home he must tangible weekly reminder to pray for have received! By sharing her tragic story with such us and love on us. Friends, family, and transparency and spiritual awareness, church members called often. Many sent flowers, prayed for us “without Elijah was intensely Brittani reveals how God’s presence ceasing,” and watched our children loved in his seventy- and love met her in her greatest hours on short notice. They allowed us to of need. have some times alone to process our three minutes with us. situation, basically, to survive. Their actions regularly reminded us that we I sit now, rocking my six-month-old few years ago, my world turned upside down. What were not alone. daughter, a surprise blessing from God. A should have been a joyful time was far from it. My Though the time was heartbreaking, I listen to her tiny breaths and daily husband and I were expecting our third child with I am so thankful for it. I would never thank God for his continued faithfulness bated breath. We were going to have three small children trade away the months, the moments I in all the seen and unseen moments of under the age of five. For the most part, life was bliss and carried Elijah. I would have missed the my life. I praise him for never leaving getting better. palpable presence of God that covered my side, in the sorrow and in the joy. We suppose most couples fear one of those alarming us. I would never trade who I am now I praise him for real, authentic friends phone calls about an endangered child or the doctor sitting for who I was before. who so beautifully “do life” with us at them down for a talk of tragic proportions. Such a moment The ripple effect from Elijah’s College Wesleyan Church. And I praise came for us when I was at eighteen weeks’ gestation. Highly abbreviated life continues to amaze me. him for his relentless love, a small taste abnormal test results indicated a problem with our baby. We never could have anticipated the of which I get to lavish on my children, Thanksgiving (2011) was only two days away, and we found depth of learning and range of blessings the ones I can hold in my arms here, and ourselves at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Indianapolis. The that followed. By fully trusting God, we my Elijah, whom I will always hold in specialized ultrasound produced results that stopped our hopefully allowed his work to be done. my heart. world. We suspected Down Syndrome based on previous We continue to experience growth; consultations with doctors, but the scan revealed a much our lives’ changes are certainly still in worse diagnosis. Our son did not develop kidneys. I would never motion. All praise to the One who is able to do this! Originally “Carrying Elijah: The trade who I am Transformative Journey of Loving and Losing My Child,” edited by Jerry Pattengale He would not be able to live outside now for who I with Steve DeNeff and Emily Vermilya, was before. excerpted from Faith Made Real: Everyday my womb. Nearly paralyzing grief Experiences of God’s Power (Wesleyan overtook us. Publishing House, 2017).

2 SPRING 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SPRING 2017 3 Transforming lives, churches, and communities through the hope and holiness of Jesus Christ.

Vol. 11, No. 2

��ilyLUKE 9:23 IN THIS ISSUE

Founders Orange Scott (1843), Seth Rees (1897)

Executive Editor Janelle Vernon Editor Kerry Kind STORY Creative Director Kory Pence 02 Loving and losing my child iscipleship is so daily. us). If my maturity is a plus for him, his Assistant Editor Tricia Rife It’s not something I am or do intensity and intentionality in following Designer Julia Sprow 14 Amplifying leaders in Uganda D Digital Storyteller Aaron Fussner just once in a while. Instead, it’s Jesus are an inspiration to me. 22 Multiplicación de iglesias living out the Great Commission And I’m prayerfully seeking a person Cover Photo Wesleyan Design Studio Hispanas en (Matthew 28:19-20) and the Greatest I can disciple toward a relationship with Contributors Commandment (Matthew 22:37-39) God or someone who is brand new in Ron McClung 23 Hispanic church constantly. It’s a lifelong process of their relationship with Jesus Christ. I’m Johanna Chacón Rugh multiplication in Florida seeking to overcome obstacles like an Brittani Schmidt learning to obey all that God calls us to. Wayne Schmidt This past January marked 32 years irregular schedule due to travel, because Jon Wiest that my accountability partner Paul I take seriously the command to go and VISION Anthes and I have met every other week. make disciples. DIGITAL MAGAZINE ONLINE AT WESLEYAN.LIFE 04 Daily He lives out his calling in the marketplace At one point the church I served, and I live out mine in vocational ministry, Kentwood Community, scheduled its Unless otherwise noted, all Bible quotations are taken from The 10 Rediscovering discipleship but our mutual discipleship relationship first service at 9:23 a.m. We’d often get Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All 16 Disciples making disciples encourages us both to live out what we the question, “Why not 9:15 a.m., or rights reserved worldwide. Scripture quotations marked (KJV) are taken from the Holy Bible, King James Version. ON THE COVER say is important to us. 9:30 a.m.?” It was just the question we Contents of this magazine are not to be reproduced without loved to answer, because this service written permission. Signed articles present the views of the was particularly shaped for discipleship, writers and are the property of the writers. This “iron-sharpens-iron” TEACHING based on the words of Jesus in Luke 9:23: 06 La razón de tu esperanza relationship has not made us “Whoever wants to be my disciple must ISSN 2327-414X (print) ISSN 2327-4158 (online) deny themselves and take up their cross Wesleyan Life is published quarterly, free to The (The reason for your hope) perfect, but it has “raised our Wesleyan Church constituency. Home delivery is daily and follow me.” available for a minimum donation of $15 per year U.S./ batting average” in daily living Canadian (overseas $20 U.S. funds, overseas airmail 24 Fables and facts about $50 U.S. funds). out our priorities. In The Wesleyan Church we celebrate discipleship Correspondence every time a disciple makes a disciple. For change of address give both old and new addresses. Address all editorial and advertising correspondence, I’m also blessed to disciple a How are you living this out daily? subscriptions, and change of address to: NEWS younger man. He says he benefits from Mailing Address Physical Address 26 Church and college news my seasoned perspective (a polite way Wesleyan Life The Wesleyan Church of pointing out the 25+ years between P.O. Box 50434 13300 Olio Road 30 Remembered Indianapolis, IN Fishers, IN 46037 46250-0434 Tel: 317.774.7907 Fax: 317.774.3924

www.wesleyan.org [email protected]

DR. WAYNE SCHMIDT Published by Wesleyan Publishing House @WESLEYANCHURCH Look for these icons General Superintendent P.O. Box 50434, Indianapolis, IN 46250-0434 for bonus digital media The Wesleyan Church Member: FACEBOOK.COM/THEWESLEYANCHURCH

INSTAGRAM.COM/WESLEYANCHURCH WESLEYAN.LIFE 4 SPRING 2017 / www.wesleyan.life Jesucristo es el dueno de tu vida, “ él es jefe de tus decisiones y, por lo tanto, deben ser guiadas por Él... Español Esta es una invitación que haces en tu muerte, el pecado, y, sobre todo, Al principio, estos cuatro La Razón propia decisión, y lo hacemos sabiendo que antes venciendo al diablo quien desea hábitos no van a ser fáciles de estábamos permitiéndole al diablo que fuese el que vayas en contra de la voluntad llevar a cabo, por lo que yo quisiera señor de nuestras vidas. Pero ahora Jesucristo es de Dios. Es por eso que es muy ayudarte en este proceso en tu nueva el dueño de tu vida, él es jefe de tus decisiones importante que siempre recuerdes vida en Cristo. Lo que quisiera es de tu y, por lo tanto, deben ser guiadas por Él, debes que ahora estás en Cristo, que eres pedirte que me regales una hora de pedirle Su ayuda en cada oportunidad que tengas. una nueva criatura (2 Cor. 5:17) y tu tiempo a la semana. De esa forma Esperanza Pídele que cada palabra que salga de tu boca que todo es hecho nuevo podremos ir aprendiendo, paso a venga impregnada con Su esencia. Si miramos en Él. paso, sobre tu nueva vida en Cristo. en la Biblia, vemos que Dios es amor (1 Juan Después de invitar a Jesucristo En las primeras semanas, te guiaré 4:8) y ahora que venimos a ser sus hijos, nos a ser tu Señor, necesitas crear una sobre la importancia de los cuatro convertimos, prácticamente, en “amorcitos”. Es relación de amistad con Él. Necesitas hábitos que mencioné anteriormente. por ello que debemos representar a Cristo en cada conocer Su corazón, depender de Él, Recuerda que puedes contar con mi momento de nuestras vidas. hablar de Él, compartir con otros de ayuda en cualquier momento que Él. Esto solo se logra con 4 hábitos me necesites. Apunta todo lo que que tienes que fomentar de ahora en quieres que hablemos y cuando nos BY JOHANNA CHACÓN RUGH adelante: volvemos a ver, hablaremos de ellas. En el momento cuando aceptamos Pero, lo más importante de todo, es “ 1. Necesitas sacar de tu tiempo que recuerdes que ahora eres una a Jesucristo como nuestro único y para dedicárselos a Dios en nueva criatura, tu viejo “yo” quedó oración, hablando con Él. en el pasado y ahora tu futuro está n nuestro peregrinar que una persona se nos acerque y suficiente Salvador, 2. Necesitas reunirte con la familia en las manos de Dios. E cristiano, tendremos un nos pregunte: “¿Me puedes decir de Dios. Al recibir a Jesús como sinfín de oportunidades, qué es y cómo se obtiene?”. He aquí, El viene a ser nuestra tu Señor y salvador, vienes a ser ¿Estás listo para hacer esta oración parte de Su familia. La iglesia no solo de predicar acerca de mi respuesta a tal pregunta: que cambiará tu vida de ahora en es el mejor lugar donde puedes Cristo desde una plataforma, sino guia nuestra paz adelante? encontrar ese calor de familia. que, en nuestro diario vivir, en “Lo único diferente en mí nuestro gozo 3. Así como lo viste en mí, también debes reflejar a Cristo. nuestro peregrinar cristiano, es que Jesucristo es el Señor Debes hablarles a otros acerca podremos predicar de de mi vida…” Para que Cristo En el momento cuando aceptamos a Jesucristo del cambio que Él ha tenido o como nuestro único y suficiente Salvador, Él viene Cristo con nuestro ejemplo, sea el Señor de tu vida, necesitas que Él ha hecho en tu vida. a ser nuestra guía, nuestra paz, nuestro gozo… con nuestras actitudes y con reconocer todas tus malas actitudes, 4. Además, necesitas conocerle siempre y cuando tú y yo se lo permitamos. Él leyendo la Biblia. En ella, nuestras conversaciones. Desde todas tus malas decisiones, todas vendrá a ser tu fuerza y tu guía por medio de podrás entender Su corazón y Él el momento cuando le decimos al tus malas palabras. En fin, todo Su Espíritu. Habrá momentos en los cuales vas hablará a tu vida. Señor que venga a ser el dueño de lo malo que hemos hecho, a eso a querer hacer lo que te dé la gana, tomar tus nuestras vidas, nos convertimos en le llamamos pecado, y debemos propias decisiones e, inclusive, ir en contra del deseo de Dios para tu vida. Eso es normal puesto embajadores de reflejar el cambio pedirle a Jesucristo que nos perdone que el diablo no está nada contento con la decisión que ocurrió en nuestras vidas por todo eso. Pedirle que, de ahora que has tomado y eso nos hace un blanco fácil de ahora eres una desde que hicimos esa decisión. en adelante, sea Él tu ayuda para sus falsas ideas, de sus mentiras. Por tal razón, Por tal motivo, no es de extrañar hacer las cosas conforme a Su deseo. necesitas reconocer que ya no eres tú quien toma las decisiones, sino que Cristo vive en ti (Gal. nueva criatura 2:20). La Biblia dice que Jesucristo vino a morir por toda la humanidad pero que al tercer día se levantó de entre los muertos, venciendo así la

6 SPRING 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SPRING 2017 7 The Reason

for your English Hope

e should be showing Christ After inviting Jesus Christ to be your W daily by our example and our Lord, you need to know his heart, depend conversation. So you should be on him, share with others about him. ready if someone asks, "What is it that This can be achieved with four habits. Read Full you have? How can I have it too?” Here English Article is how I would answer: 1. You need to dedicate time with God wesleyan.life/the-reason in prayer, talking to him. "The only thing different in 2. By receiving Jesus as your Lord, you me is that Jesus Christ is the Lord become a part of his family. The of my life ..." For Christ to be the Lord church is the best place where you of your life, you first need to recognize the can find that warmth of family. bad attitudes, decisions, words, all the 3. As you saw Christ in me, you must bad things that you have done, that we also reflect him and speak to others Are you ready call . Then ask Jesus Christ to forgive about the change in your life. you for all these and tell him that 4. You need to get to know him by you want him to be your help to do things reading the Bible. There you will to pray this according to his way. understand more and he will speak The moment you accept Jesus into your life. Christ as your only Savior, he prayer that will becomes your guide, your peace, During the first weeks you need a your joy. There will be times when mentor to guide you in the importance change your you will want to go against God's desire of these four habits.Write down anything for your life. This is natural, because you want to talk about. But most of all ? the devil makes you a target of his false remember that now you will be a life forever ideas. But it must no longer be you new creature. who makes the decisions, but Christ who lives in you (Gal 2:20). Jesus Christ came to die for all mankind, but on the third day rose from the dead, overcoming death, sin, and the devil. REV. JOHANNA CHACÓN RUGH Superintendente adjunto de Distrito Hispano del Suroeste (Assistant superintendent of the Hispanic Southwest District)

8 SPRING 2017 / www.wesleyan.life BY JON WIEST

a blueprint for making disciples

the entire church. Anything less is to live While God was dealing with me on the in disobedience. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, priority of making disciples, he was also author of The Cost of Discipleship, wrote, speaking to the leadership of “Christianity without discipleship is Church in Indianapolis about becoming always Christianity without Christ.” I a multiplying church that would impact couldn’t agree more. more and more of the city with new DiscipleShip It’s time to rediscover discipleship. A churches. Mike Colaw is the lead pastor at disciple is a follower of Christ, is obedient Trinity. He invited me to join the team and to Christ, and part of that is allowing we started the process of re-engineering a was ready to throw in the towel. ourselves to be used by the Holy Spirit to 90-year-old church around discipleship as I After planting two churches in the make other disciples. the primary engine for multiplication. span of ten years, something was I use the word “rediscover” because Trinity had experienced rapid growth clearly “off” in my approach to ministry. I Christianity in our context, genuine discipleship had the previous five years, but addition and felt like a circus performer spinning plates without unintentionally been left in the margins of multiplication are different. I’ve heard it for a thrilled audience every Sunday. As the church. We had small groups. We had said, “You can’t get multiplication by the crowds grew larger, the pressure to add discipleship classes. We offered ten-week studies on hitting the plus (+) sign on a calculator, more plates grew. I wanted to continue specific topics or books of the Bible. But no matter how fast you push it.” The growing and launching new ministries, is always these were producing few disciples and growth of the congregation at Trinity but in spite of my apostolic drive, the quite frankly, our ministries functioned was positive, but it was addition. We grind had brought me to a halt. It took a Christianity more as a way to assimilate people into the needed a new ministry principle if we three-month sabbatical and a few trusted without life of the church rather than as a way to wanted to multiply. The outcome of those mentors to help me deconstruct what had release them into ministry. conversations was a small booklet called happened. Christ It’s time to think differently. A Blueprint for Making Disciples. The To put it simply, in my zeal to win Dietrich Bonhoeffer Discipleship is not just another program of goal was to make discipleship accessible converts and grow the church, I had the church. It ought to be a core value and to everyone. People are often told to lost my focus on discipleship. Do you function. If we are not making disciples go and make disciples but rarely given remember the words of Christ in Matthew who are discipling others, then the instructions on how it can be done. 28:19? “Therefore, go and gather as many worship gatherings and ministry programs people together as possible and build are all falling short. A rediscovery the entire ministry around one or two of discipleship is a necessary step in leaders.” Wait! That’s not it. His actual generating a multiplication movement. We words were: “Therefore, go and make need a revival . . . of discipleship. disciples. . .” and it’s a command given to

10 SPRING 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SPRING 2017 11 here are the The primary vehicle we use is the The churches that have taken to a “discipleship group,” a gender-specific farming mentality don’t lack for spiritual five things group of 2-4 people that is centered on fruit or leaders. They raise up their own. we have prioritized Bible reading, journaling, prayer for the I believe that the future of our churches lost, and accountability. By the grace won’t rest on the discovery of something in our blueprint: of God, what began with a four-week new, but in the rediscovery of the core training of 20 discipleship group leaders DNA of the church. The last words of • The process is simple. If it’s not, it soon multiplied to 75 people and now Christ are clear: “Go and make disciples …” won’t be reproducible. People read one well over 200 that are involved in a weekly Allow me to ask: Are you making chapter of the Bible a day, journal how discipleship relationship. disciples? What are their names? If you are God is speaking, answer accountability drawing a blank, it might be time to ask questions, and pray for the lost. By whether you take the commands of Christ doing this daily, and meeting weekly in seriously. What would happen if we all a small discipleship group, they receive Stop recruiting and took discipleship seriously? It could be the the modeling needed to make disciples start farming beginning of a movement! of others. I wish I had a dollar for every time I’ve • The curriculum is the Bible. We link heard the question, “Where can we recruit discipleship directly to the only book more church planters?” But outside that is fully inspired by God. The recruitment is not the solution for a curriculum never runs out and never multiplication movement. The answer is runs dry. local church discipleship and leadership development. In the article "Recruiting: • The teacher is the Holy Spirit. The Final Act of a Dying Church," Neil If this process can only be led by Cole wrote that recruiting new people professionals, it will never result in a and leaders is a consumer-oriented idea movement. The focus is helping others and is a symptom of one of our most learn how to hear the voice of God and serious afflictions. Recruitment is much then trust in the power of the Holy like picking out produce at the grocery. Spirit. Someone else did the work of cultivating the soil, planting seeds, growing and • The priority is obedience. The harvesting the fruit, and then others late Dallas Willard wrote, “We are conveniently pick it up and take it home educated beyond our obedience.” for consumption. When it comes to Our discipleship process focuses disciple-making, if we only focus on on application and obedience over recruiting and never invest in farming, the just adding more information and pool of disciples and leaders will run dry expertise. until we are all left with nothing.

• The result is multiplication. As people grow in their love for God and his Word, the natural outcome should be a growing love for the lost and a passion to step out in obedience to disciple others.

JON WIEST is multiplication and discipleship pastor for Trinity Church in Indianapolis. He also serves as multiplication director of the Crossroads District.

Have questions? Looking for resources? Email Jon Wiest at [email protected].

12 SPRING 2017 / www.wesleyan.life VISION Amplifying leaders in 100 new leaders in 4 years

Kenya

BY KERRY KIND

ganda is a beautiful country of 38 million moved from Swaziland to Uganda in 2015 to start It is significant thatthree of the faculty Rwanda U people—people who have a great need a pastor training institute. at the new Wesleyan Bible Institute for the peace and hope that only comes In 2016, nine pastors completed their through Jesus Christ. The story of The Wesleyan academic training, with eight of them of Uganda are Ugandans. Church of Uganda is one of vision, perseverance, immediately ready for ordination. Wesleyan Bible and partnership that is expanding God’s kingdom Institute (WBI) opened that September under The Uganda Wesleyan Church. WBI and the through leadership development. Fred’s leadership. largest church within The Wesleyan Church In 2009, when the Ugandan church joined Three of the recent nine Ugandan graduates of Uganda are located in the town of Busia, the Wesleyan movement, there were no ordained were hired to serve as WBI faculty. Fred’s which is east of the capital city of Kampala and Ugandan pastors. Zambian Wesleyan leaders, North recognition and development of their leadership a few miles from Lake Victoria. Many of the American pastors, and veteran missionary Fred abilities equipped them for immediate service. Wesleyan churches are located in rural areas, Cromer began making repeated short-term trips They had been prepared to identify and equip the but there is a strategic plan focusing on more Africa to Uganda to provide pastoral training. In 2013 next class of leaders. It was a year of celebration; church planting in urban centers. Additional National Superintendent Bishop Lucas Hamirie was momentum was growing. places of ministry include several schools, one the first Ugandan to be ordained. His graduation With the assistance of Global Partners and with over 300 students, and an orphanage run was a tangible example of a leadership vision Fred, The Wesleyan Church of Uganda seeks by the national church. becoming reality. to make leadership development a core church Wesleyan Bible Institute exists through the strength. Its goal, attainable with God’s help, is to support of Global Partners. Dr. Dennis Jackson, The Uganda Wesleyan Church train 100 new ministerial leaders over the next executive director of Global Partners, said, four years. WBI will continue training at its main “This model of training and the ‘training of includes 70 churches in Uganda, campus, but also plans to open classes in church trainers’ is exactly what the Amplified Leaders Photo gallery wesleyan.life/uganda 6 in Rwanda, and 4 in Kenya. locations around the country. WBI wants to offer initiative is all about. These multiplying leaders training closer to the students, making their are creating a movement that is poised to education more easily accessible while allowing impact the region like never before.” Significant growth and multiplication within them to remain in their local area and ministry The Wesleyan Church of Uganda created an urgent settings. need for more comprehensive pastoral training. There are seventy Wesleyan churches in Responding to that need, Fred and his wife, Carol, Uganda, six in Rwanda, and four in Kenya under

14 SPRING 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SPRING 2017 15 Walking in

Relationship In small groups, where

With a mission statement that says, “We make disciples who make people can be known disciples,” it’s clear that multiplying disciples is a core value for Trinity Bible Church, a Wesleyan congregation in Cedar Falls, Iowa. and build trust, they can “Discipleship is fixed in the culture of our church,” Pastor Peter be real about who they Salmon said. “Our people learn that walking in relationship with one another helps everyone walk with Jesus.” In small groups, where are and what they are people can be known and build trust, they can be real about who they are and what they are going through. Deeper relationships going through. combined with a focus on spiritual growth help bring genuine BY RON MCCLUNG transformation in the lives of members.

Fulfilling the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) and the Greatest Our small group leaders Commandment raise up co-leaders. (Matthew 22:37-38) is about making disciples, Partly because of the church’s had “coasted” for many years and had not just being disciples. long-time relationship with Navigators, become distant from God. He joined a Following are churches which has a strong chapter at nearby Trinity small group and experienced a University of Northern Iowa, relational revival of faith. Now he invites others to in the U.S. and Canada discipleship has been a meaningful part the group and has begun to minister to that in different, but of congregational life at Trinity for a the people around him. long time. But in recent years, church Trinity has found that people like effective ways, are truly leaders have become more intentional James and others are experiencing focused on making about multiplying leaders. spiritual traction and growth because “Our small group leaders help of their involvement in the right kind disciples. Discipleship is people walk with Christ, and they also of small groups. This has resulted in part of a healthy church. raise up co-leaders,” Pastor Peter said. the church not being a revolving door There is a strong expectation that as the where people come and go, but rather group grows, after a year or two it will a place where people come and are branch into one, two, or even three new transformed, find community, stay for groups, when the leaders are there. the long haul, and become disciples who James began attending church two make disciples. years ago. He had been a believer, but

16 SPRING 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SPRING 2017 17 An Outpost A Lifeline in for New Life the Community “We are a lifeline in the community. Loyd. Parents in Celebrate Recovery to build healthy relationships with “When you always do what you’ve always What we are doing is a matter of life have testified that if it weren’t for the their children. done, you get less and less results.” That and death.” This statement reflects positive impact of Celebration Place The church’s spiritual formation message grabbed the attention of Pastor the passion of Greensburg Wesleyan on their children, they might not emphasis is led by Assistant Pastor Darrell Lamos at Fremont Wesleyan Church (Indiana South District) to have stayed with it. Phil Bogear. Those who attend the Church (North Michigan District). The bring people to Christ and disciple Pastor Pam has also developed Celebrate Recovery meetings, yet want leaders pondered how to be more open to them through Celebrate Recovery. a mentoring process for parenting. to go deeper, may join “life groups” people who had no church background. The church began using Celebrate Over eight weeks, parents can learn that meet in homes during the week. The church had plateaued in the mid- Recovery four years ago and a how to have family devotions, prayer Life groups may involve all the people 400s in worship attendance. They were not growing number of transformed at meals, share Bible stories, and how in their faith community. Along with reaching new people in the community families now make up over a fifth of a series of classes, they help equip in any significant way. The congregation Enjoying a meal together the congregation, according to Senior believers to develop more fully in viewed the film When God Left the +as they gather at tables Pastor Doug Preston. Christ. Building. Its message challenged them to Because of Celebrate Recovery, People in the Greensburg Wesleyan has also come to grips with their lack of growth. for discussion the church often receives referrals. reached out within the Hispanic People in the community know community community and has become a They first surveyed their community, Greensburg Wesleyan will love know certified Immigration Connection asking questions like, “If you were to go hurting people. The Friday evening Center, ready to advise immigrants to a church, what would you like to see?” Celebrate Recovery service is a two- Greensburg with legal and other needs. The They prayed. They did research about what hour ministry featuring worship, church’s attendance is growing more successful ministries in the community teaching or testimony, food at their Wesleyan will multicultural, with people from were doing. Solid Rock Café, and small-group love hurting Panama, Honduras, Puerto Rico, They first Since their church contained many sharing time. Mexico, and India. mature disciples, how would they give back The church also provides people. Speaking of their calling to help surveyed their and make more disciples? They launched Celebration Place for children, 4-14, hurting people, the pastors said, “It what they call “Outpost” in September 2016 with age-appropriate recovery help, can be messy, but it is ministry right in community, and this has so far involved 150 workers. directed by Assistant Pastor Pam the middle of where Jesus would be.” On Sunday evening Outpost meets, asking including workers and unreached people from the community who have been invited questions like, to attend. A worship band plays, outreach Another Outpost ministry is called “If you were pastor Tori Raquet shares a 15-minute “Jobs for Life.” Using a faith-based message, and all enjoy a meal together as curriculum, they work with people who to go to a they gather at tables for discussion. Table are seeking to find a job or improve leaders use discussion guides based on their employment. Such people are church, what the message. often looking at their spiritual lives in One young woman with a difficult new ways, and this ministry is making would you like home life came to Outpost, almost hugging an impact. to see?” the wall in her shyness. She has received Fremont Wesleyan has been Christ and her confidence is building. She invigorated by reaching out and making The church began using Celebrate Recovery four years brought her mother, who has also accepted disciples who are making disciples. Christ. Her sister, who had vowed never to ago and a growing number of transformed families now come to church, is now attending Outpost. + make up over a fifth of the congregation. 18 SPRING 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SPRING 2017 19 discipleship is not just an accumulation People of Bible knowledge, but involves growth A Post-Christian in love for God and other people. He emphasizes intimacy with God, having Dying for community with “insiders,” and growing Community influence with “outsiders.” Their concern Friendship is for the 96,000 people in the state capital Discipleship is not just “When people come to Jesus, there’s a relational around their homes. Gradually, skepticism has who are unchurched or de-churched. an accumulation of Bible cost,” said Rev. Ben Last, senior pastor of Southgate faded. In six years, the church has grown from an “People are dying for friendship here.” Grace Point develops group leaders Community Church, Kemptville, Ontario. “Many attendance of 158 to 510. That statement could be made about who are shepherds and facilitators more knowledge, but involves will be criticized by family or at work. This is a Seeking God’s direction, Pastor Ben had many places, but discipleship pastor Josh than teachers. Often, groups develop growth in love for God post-Christian culture and there is skepticism.” felt drawn to Ezekiel 47, which describes a river Cooper of Grace Point Church, a Wesleyan a tight fellowship, but growth requires Pastor Ben came to Southgate in 2010. He and flowing from the temple, transforming the wesleyan.life/making-disciples congregation in Topeka, Kansas, affirmed it more groups and leaders. Groups have and other people. his wife, Emily, saw needs that weren’t being met in landscape and bringing life. was certainly true there. apprentice leaders with the expectation TOP DISCIPLESHIP their community of 15,000, about 35 miles south of Every river has a source, a course, and a force. CHURCHES The church grew in attendance from that, after 18-24 months, an apprentice Ottawa. There was no outdoor skating rink, so they The source for Southgate is Jesus and his bride, 290 to 566 in four years. How do leaders will be leading a new group. Grace Point, he was broken, but his life was built one. Then they founded “Soul Runners,” a so they want to unite people with Christ and his Find inspiration from Wesleyan grapple with the challenge of providing Dozens of people are involved in a transformed through Christ. Today, Randy churches across North America that running club, followed by “strollercize” for mothers church. Its course is to make disciples who become have been nominated by district discipleship and friendship opportunities ministry called “life transformation.” The works at a halfway house. Quiet and tender- with babies. They also founded a ministry that involved in LifeGroups for all ages. superintendents as "role models" for for 275 new people as well as encouraging focus is on mentoring, discipleship, and hearted, he has a great love for people. cuts and delivers firewood to families that cannot Each group promotes discipleship but also disciples making disciples. established Christians to grow? accountability. Very small groups of 2-3 Through his own transformation, many have afford to heat their homes and a ministry that does projects, Last fall, the groups adopted ten One strength of Grace Point is their individuals form, but when the group come to the Lord and to the church. assists widows and single mothers by helping them schools, providing hot lunches for all employees. small group ministry. Seventy percent of the numbers four, a new group is created. Disciples are making disciples through adults are meeting in homes, including four One of the participants, Randy, was friendship and especially through small Spanish-speaking groups. addicted to alcohol from high school groups at Grace Point Church. Lead pastor Tim Hughes says into his mid-30s. When he came to

Ezekiel 47 describes a river flowing from the temple, transforming the landscape, and bringing life. + They blessed and prayed for the teachers and staff. Similar projects have reached out to police, fire department, and government offices. The river’s force is to inspire and equip the church to serve others. Southgate is expanding facilities to include a conference venue, including large indoor play structures. And they are partnering with the city and others to build a large year-round outdoor ice rink. Serving their community demonstrates the love of God and his church. In the sanctuary, a sign saying UNITE appears on the back wall. It contains 70 light bulbs, each representing a new believer. As more people come to Christ, more lights appear and the congregation celebrates. People are being transformed as they unite with Jesus and become involved with the river of life at Southgate.

20 SPRING 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SPRING 2017 21 Hispanic Church n la actualidad existen ocho mientras ellos viajaban por Multiplication E Iglesias Hispanas Wesleyanas en Florida. La mayoría de ellas son un área poco familiar, sus in Florida (English) iglesias en desarrollo y algunas de ellas corazones se llenaron de gozo There are eight Wesleyan Hispanic churches in son congregaciones con varios ministros NATIONAL Florida. Most of them are developing churches, but a a tiempo completo. de una forma misteriosa CHURCH few are multi-staff congregations. La multiplicación de Iglesias MULTIPLICATION Hispanic church multiplication in the Florida Hispanas en el Distrito de Florida inició Dios no había terminado de llamar S UNDAY District began with Revs. Edwin and Gloria Cortes, con los Revs. Edwin y Gloria Cortés, a Edwin y Gloria hacia nuevos inicios. co-pastors from Puerto Rico. In 1994, they went co-pastores de Puerto Rico. En 1994, En el 2010, mientras ellos viajaban por to Clearwater to plant the first Hispanic Wesleyan ellos llegaron a Clearwater a plantar la una área poco familiar, sus corazones church. The mother church is Iglesia El Sembrador primera Iglesia Hispana Wesleyana. La se llenaron de gozo de una forma Wesleyano (The Wesleyan Sower) and it now has iglesia madre es Iglesia El Sembrador misteriosa. Ellos reconocieron el daughter and granddaughter churches in the area. Wesleyano y ahora tiene una iglesia hija llamado del Señor. Les tomó dos años Foto del primer servicio Edwin y Gloria Cortes Edwin and Gloria attempted to plant the first y una iglesia nieta en esta área. de planeación, pero Dios les ayudó a daughter church in St. Petersburg in 1999, but after Edwin y Gloria trataron de plantar plantar la Iglesia La Casa de Dios en pouring all their love and efforts into the challenge, it la primeria iglesia hija en St. Petersburg Land O’Lakes en el 2012. Hispana bajo la Universidad Wesleyana did not survive. But they also learned much about the JOIN US ON en 1999, pero después de dar todo Eventualmente, Dios llamó a los Georgetown de las Américas, dirigida realities of church planting. PENTECOST SUNDAY su amor y esfuerzos al reto, ésta no pastores Cortés de regreso a su iglesia por el Dr. Shelton Wood. En ese They recovered, and in 2002 planted a new sobrevivió. Su ministerio cambió anterior Iglesia Renacer en Spring programa de entrenamiento, Edwin y church with joy in Spring Hill called Iglesia Renacer algunas vidas, y ellos aprendieron Hill, donde continúan hasta el día de Gloria han ayudado a preparar docenas (The Born-Again Church). The daughter of Iglesia mucho acerca de las realidades de JUNE 4 hoy. Pero ellos siguen multiplicando de pastores hispano-hablantes, muchos El Sembrador Wesleyano, it met for six years at plantar Iglesias. discípulos, líderes e iglesias de otra de los cuales han recibido Spring Hill Wesleyan Church (currently, Fellowship Ellos se recuperaron, y en el 2002 forma. Por varios años han estado su ordenación. Community Church), thanks to the kindness of that plantaron una nueva iglesia con gozo enseñando en la Academia Ministerial Los padres de los ministerios congregation. Then in 2008, God provided a temple en Spring Hill llamada Iglesia Renacer. Hispanos en el Distrito de Florida, of their own in the Shady Hills area of Spring Hill. La hija de la Iglesia El Sembrador Edwin y Gloria están agradecidos con Edwin y Gloria God was not done calling Edwin and Gloria Wesleyano, que gracias a la bondad los pasados y actuales superintendentes On the day of to new beginnings. In 2010, as they were driving de la Iglesia Wesleyana Spring Hill distritales, la ya fallecida Rev. Sarah han ayudado a through an unfamiliar area, their hearts were filled Pentecost, the Holy (actualmente conocida como Fellowship Perez-González, el Dr. Jerry Rott y el with joy in a mysterious way. They recognized the Spirit united a body Community Church), se estuvieron preparar docenas Rev. Patrick Styers por su apoyo, pero Lord’s call. It took two years of planning, but God of believers to go reuniendo allí por seis años. Luego en el más que todo por la dirección y el de pastores helped them plant Iglesia La Casa de Dios (The House 2008, Dios proveyó un templo propio en poder del Espíritu Santo en ¡tantas vidas out and multiply of God) in Land O’Lakes in 2012. el área de Shady Hills de Spring Hill. hispano-hablantes transformadas en Cristo! disciples. Today, we Eventually, God called the Cortes’ back to Iglesia continue to engage Renacer in Spring Hill, where they continue today. But they are still multiplying disciples, leaders, and in God’s movement churches in another way. For years they have been through the Church teaching in the Hispanic Ministerial Academy under by our generosity Georgetown Wesleyan University of the Americas, and prayers. Multiplicación led by Dr. Shelton Wood. In that training program, Edwin and Gloria have helped prepare dozens of other Spanish-speaking pastors, many of whom have been ordained. de Iglesias Hispanas The parents of Hispanic ministries in the Florida JOIN THE MOVEMENT District, Edwin and Gloria are grateful to former WESLEYAN.ORG/NCMS and current district superintendents: the late Rev. [email protected] Sarah Pérez-González, Dr. Jerry Rott, and Rev. 317.774.3888 en Florida Patrick Styers for their support. They all have sought the power of the Holy Spirit in seeing so many lives transformed in Christ!

22 SPRING 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SPRING 2017 23 BY KERRY KIND 4 Tell us FABLE: Helping make What do we get right in discipleship? disciples is fine GO TO: facebook.com/thewesleyanchurch Go 12 were ordinary, unschooled if you find it people. You just have to fulfilling. be following Jesus in your own life and be willing to Our culture says it is all about 8 help someone else do the self-fulfillment. But Jesus said, 1 same. Discipling others is “Whoever wants to be my FABLE: actually not so complicated. 8 disciple must deny themselves 7 Isn’t discipling Fishermen and tax collectors FABLE: and take up their cross daily Fables and who had no formal theology pretty much the and follow me” (Luke 9:23). FABLE: Discipleship is training did it. While it will Our lives are no longer our same thing as not always be done perfectly Discipling facts about something I can own—they are his. When I get or even with a lot of maturity, mentoring? do by myself— “me” out of the way and step 6 others can be it was a risk Jesus took, out obediently trusting God, I just Jesus and entrusting the church to his accomplished Similar, but with mentoring discipleship am free to love, lead, enjoy, and FABLE: me. disciples, young and old. almost in the secular world, it’s your pray for those I disciple. To be a discipler experience and wisdom that automatically Nope. While discipleship of others, I’m you are passing on. With through discipling, it’s the presence is all about Jesus, it’s going to have not a solitary endeavor. 3 5 Christian and wisdom of Jesus you are Discipleship is relational, and to become their connecting them to. The real FABLE: fellowship. mentor is the Holy Spirit, and to be obedient to the Great FABLE: “best friend The Great Commission, we need to Discipleship is a you are just introducing them It actually has to be intentional be disciples who are making Seriously, I’m so forever.” to the way you follow Jesus. program of the and prayerful. In order to Commission disciples of Jesus. This means busy, I don’t see Discipleship won’t work if It would be exhausting and build a strong disciple, you we need to spend intentional, church. your private life doesn’t match any way to add unrealistic to think you have must intentionally invest time “Therefore, go and make consistent time with others. your public life. You don’t While the church must more into my to become a best friend or thinking and praying about have to be perfect, but are you disciples of all nations, where the person is on the encourage every Christian life. even a close friend with every the same person at home that baptizing them in the to be a discipler of others, person you have a discipling path to spiritual maturity. you are in public? Also, the 2 discipleship is not just a relationship with. Jesus knew Ask questions seeking results are in God’s hands, so name of the Father and Let’s face it. In our culture, program where believers can he could leave his disciples, understanding about where the foundation is prayer. As FABLE: busyness is a badge of honor. of the Son and of the Holy “opt in” or “opt out.” It is a knowing that they would be they are. Be faithful to find Oswald Chambers wrote: "It Discipleship may be taking major mistake to think of guided by the Holy Spirit. A and share content based on is impossible to live the life Spirit, and teaching them Discipling a back seat because we run discipleship as a program. It’s healthy discipling relationship the Scriptures. Discipleship is of a disciple without definite others is too ourselves ragged with too to obey everything I have a lifestyle. Every Christian involves releasing those we intentional. It’s time invested in times of secret prayer. . . in the many other activities, errands, commanded you . . .” complicated— should live a lifestyle of help to go, live their walk with a few people, on purpose. This ordinary ways of life, when no social events, hobbies, causes, discipleship–all the time. Jesus, and disciple others. is how Jesus did it. one dreams you are praying, (Matthew 28:19-20). let the leisure preferences. If we totally The only thing required is a and the reward comes openly, a buy in to our cultural value of professionals willing spirit with a lifetime revival here, a blessing there." “busyness,” discipleship and do it. commitment to Christ, and discipling others will not take to intentionally share how place. As Christians, we must Whoa! You don’t need a you follow Jesus with others. be counter-cultural. If we value seminary degree to disciple Make the things of God, we must someone else. The original make choices and make room.

24 SPRING 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SPRING 2017 25 FUEL touches youth North Michigan church’s workers’ lives generosity over the top

The annual FUEL event, meeting at Fremont Wesleyan Church in Fremont, Mich., in partnership Wesleyan Church Headquarters on with a community donor, raised $20,600 toward a matching grant February 2-3, turned out not to be business with World Hope International (WHI). The money is funding the as usual. About 250 youth workers installation of a clean water well in West Africa. attended, as expected, to participate in Their “Advent Conspiracy Project” encourages Christians to a great opportunity for networking and celebrate Christmas upside down, investing resources where the resourcing. But God's Spirit moved in greatest needs can be met. an extraordinary way. Rev. Zach Coffin, Also part of the project: Rain in the desert director of next-generation ministries for $5,000 to Casa Hogar Orphanage the Division of Church Multiplication and in Honduras; 182 gift boxes to Ten family practice residents recently Discipleship, said, “They found they could children through Samaritan's traveled to Cambodia from another Asian step back from their daily routine and just Purse; and sponsorship of 15 country to share their medical skills, and seek God. A hunger for God swelled up children through World Hope much more, with needy people. A 24-year- powerfully and the Lord answered and International. old farmer, after treatment, was asked by renewed our souls.” the long-term North American doctor Full story wesleyan.org/5893 whether he had the hope they had all been speaking of. There was a joyful conclusion Full story wesleyan.org/5965 after he listened carefully to everything heard through the translator. That one week, the team saw 1,600 patients, and 506 made the choice to receive new life! Please remember them as they follow up with local groups and have changed lives. (Names and the Asian country of origin are withheld for security reasons.) Southern Wesleyan and Full story Kingswood sign wesleyan.org/6006 agreement

Southern Wesleyan University (SWU) and Kingswood IWU online counseling University signed an agreement opening doors programs ranked top for enhanced transfer opportunities. The agreement 10 in nation Full story will assist transferability wesleyan.org/5848 into the core curriculum Three online graduate counseling programs at Southern Wesleyan for at Indiana Wesleyan University have been graduates of the Associate of ranked in the top 10 of the nation's best Arts degree at Kingswood, online counseling schools. GoGrad ranked as well as help students who IWU ninth. Best Choice Schools ranked did not complete a degree at IWU tenth. IWU's Division of Graduate Kingswood, but wish to have Counseling offers a Master of Arts degree their courses evaluated for with a major in counseling with six online transfer credit at SWU. and onsite specializations. Full story wesleyan.org/5936

26 SPRING 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SPRING 2017 27 DIGITAL MAGAZINE + BONUS MEDIA WWW.WESLEYAN.LIFE Church Experience celebrating Multiethnic churches a Canadian church two years of healthy movement building bought for miracles one dollar North American culture is steadily moving toward parity Church Experience in Palm Harbor, Fla.,

between majority and minority ethnic groups, providing new celebrated its second anniversary. What opportunities for discipleship and church multiplication. The Maritime District of the Pentecostal began as a bold vision and a few people The Wesleyan Church also reflects those changes. The Assemblies of Canada (PAOC) has huddled in an apartment is now a strong percentage of minority or multiethnic churches has grown generously “sold” a church, parsonage, church with over 300 adults who’ve attended from 6.7 percent in 1994 to 20 percent. Multiethnic is defined and nearby parcel of land in Tiddville, "First Class," 138 baptized, a thriving as a mixed congregation that is composed of at least 20 percent Nova Scotia, Canada, to the Atlantic children’s ministry, and life groups all over minorities and includes multiethnic leaders and methods. District of The Wesleyan Church. For the community. Full story and resources There are about 140 Hispanic, 60 African-American and how much? Only $1 each. This kingdom- Rev. Brandon Bruce reports: “We're wesleyan.org/5964 Black, 40 Asian, 10 Native, and 75 multiethnic churches in the honoring matter reflects the Great striving to reach thousands of lost people North American General Conference. Commission commitment of Rev. Kevin around the high school where we meet. God Johnson, district superintendent of the is growing new believers, raising up leaders. PAOC, his board, and the congregation We are working tirelessly at setting up and at Tiddville, which voted unanimously in breaking down each Sunday, starting groups, approval. and serving this community through the week. The best is yet to come and I can't wait Full story Full story to see what God will do next!” wesleyan.org/5867 OKWU holds Josh McDowell wesleyan.org/5854 apologetics conference

Oklahoma Wesleyan University held the fourth annual Josh McDowell Institute Collision Conference, February 3 and 4. The February 4th event was open to the public. Believers in Christ were encouraged to think and act biblically, boldly, and lovingly in a "whatever" goes world. The conference featured three nationally-known apologists: Sean McDowell (son of Josh McDowell), Jo Vitale of the Zacharias Institute, Full story and Abdu Murray of Ravi Zacharias International wesleyan.org/5938 Ministries. Houghton College hosts national championship Discipleship among SWU Houghton College hosted the National student-athletes Christian Collegiate Athletic Association (NCCAA) championship for track and Student-athletes at Southern Wesleyan University field, February 17 and 18, at the Kerr- are experiencing changed lives through the Campus Pegula Field House, where 350 athletes Outreach organization. More than 80 athletes were competed. Athletes also participated in a impacted at a New Year's Conference: 40+ have local service project, a regular ministry in engaged in life-on-life discipleship, 30+ have been each NCCAA national championship. The part of a leadership project, and 10+ have placed college paired with Houghton Wesleyan their faith in Christ. Athletes and other students are Church food pantry in the effort. involved in weekly discipleship groups and prayer Full story meetings. SWU students are growing in their faith Full story wesleyan.org/5856 and learning how to disciple others. wesleyan.org/6011

28 SPRING 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SPRING 2017 29 COWART, REV. THOMAS (95) the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. MATTOON, REV. ROYAL (74) led mission trips to many different countries Remembered Rev. Thomas Cowart died December 20 in He also served on the board of the Wesleyan Rev. Royal Mattoon died September 13 in and Native reservations. His wife of 62 years, Irmo, S.C. An Army Air Corps veteran who Bible Conference Association. Rev. Janssen was Sykesville, Md. He served as a pastor of Wesleyan Mildred, preceded him in death in 2001. He served in World War II, he and his wife, preceded in death by Ouida, his wife of 53 years, churches in the Champlain District (now Eastern is survived by two sons, five daughters, 38 Loney Mae, served in India as Wesleyan one son, and one grandson. He is survived by New York/New England) for more than 30 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, one BANKER, REV. E. STANLEY World Missions missionaries for 13 years. his wife, Eunice, one son, one daughter, five years, with 24 of those years spent at Southside adopted daughter, one brother, and one sister. (98) He was both a Wesleyan pastor and high grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Wesleyan Church in Oneonta, N.Y., which he Full story: wesleyan.org/5872 Rev. E. Stanley Banker died school science teacher until retirement. His helped build. He also served as Wesleyan Youth December 24 in Marion, wife of 64 years, Loney Mae, preceded him in KARGES, REV. PAUL (69) president and on the Houghton College Board of TRAVIS, REV. DALE, SR. (75) Ind. His career was devoted death, along with one granddaughter and one Rev. Paul Karges died October 29 in Rapid City, Trustees. He is survived by Patricia, his wife of Rev. Dale Travis, Sr., passed away August 23 in to Christian education great-granddaughter. Survivors include two Mich. He was a minister of the Central New York 50 years, three daughters, six grandchildren, one Ocala, Fla. He served as a Wesleyan pastor for and pastoral ministry. daughters, six grandchildren, and 11 great- District, pastored Wesleyan churches in Michigan sister, and one brother. 50 years at churches in , Florida, He served at Miltonvale grandchildren. and Pennsylvania, and in other denominations. and . Survivors include Anna, his wife Wesleyan College, Central He is survived by his wife, Paula, two daughters, MILLER, REV. ROBERT (91) of 55 years, three sons, one daughter, nine Wesleyan College (now Southern Wesleyan DAY, REV. CLAIR (100) seven grandchildren, two sisters, and two Rev. Robert Miller died December 31 in grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, one University), and Taylor University. He also Rev. Clair Day passed away January 21 in brothers. Houghton, N.Y. A U.S. Navy veteran who served brother, and two sisters. served in pastoral and music ministries in Central Square, N.Y. He pastored in the in World War II, Rev. Miller is a former employee Indiana and North Carolina. His wife of 73 Wesleyan Methodist Church in Michigan and KENSELL, REV. RAYMOND (89) of Houghton College. He also served as pastor at VOSHELL, REV. CLARENCE (89) years, Evelyn, preceded him in death. He is New York. He organized Salvation Camp in Rev. Raymond Kensell died several churches in New York and Pennsylvania. Rev. Clarence Voshell passed away February survived by two daughters, one son, eight Waldron, Mich. He was preceded in death December 14 in Brooksville, Survivors include his wife, Ruth, two sons, one 8 in Felton, Del. A Wesleyan pastor, he and grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. by his first wife, Olive, and second wife, Lora Fla. A veteran of the U.S. daughter, eight grandchildren, and 11 great- his wife, Rose, started four churches on the “Sunny,” two daughters, one granddaughter, Army in World War II, he grandchildren. Delmarva Peninsula along the East Coast. BLACK, REV. THOMAS (84) and 10 siblings. Survivors include one son, began pastoring Wesleyan He spent the last 30 years serving as pastor Rev. Thomas Black passed away January 15 one daughter, seven grandchildren, 17 great- churches in 1954 and pastored MOORE, REV. WILLIAM (76) of Aldersgate Wesleyan Church in Milford, in Kenmore, N.Y. He and his wife, Autho, grandchildren, eight great-great-grandchildren, numerous churches throughout Rev. William Moore died February 15 in Del. Rose preceded him in death, as did five pastored Big Tree Wesleyan Church in and one stepsister. the South. He served as district superintendent Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada. He brothers. Survivors include four daughters, Blasdell, N.Y., for 29 years. Previously they of the Florida District from 1983 to 1992. He served 12 years with Wesleyan World Missions three sons, 12 grandchildren, 12 great- ministered at Oakland Wesleyan in Nunda, GILLES, REV. FRANÇOIS (82) returned to the pastorate and served as a trustee at Choma Secondary School in Zambia, Africa. grandchildren, two brothers, and one sister. N.Y., for four years. Survivors include Autho, Rev. François Gilles died January 5 in with Southern Wesleyan University. His wife, After returning, he served as a Wesleyan pastor his wife of 64 years, one daughter, two Anderson, S.C. He served as a Wesleyan Marcella, preceded him in death. He is survived for 24 years in several churches in the Atlantic WILLIAMS, REV. LOIS (94) granddaughters, four great-grandchildren, pastor and was a graduate of Wesley Seminary by his wife, Faith, two sons, seven grandchildren, District. Survivors include his wife, Joyce, two Rev. Lois Williams died and one brother. in Fauche, Port-Margot, Haiti. Survivors and six great-grandchildren. sons, one chosen son (informally adopted), five December 6 in Oskaloosa, include his wife, Cecile, five children, eight Full story: wesleyan.org/5866 grandchildren, and three siblings. Iowa. Ordained by the BOZAK, MARTIN (81) grandchildren, and three siblings. Iowa-Minnesota District, Martin Bozak died November 30 in Long LONG, REV. DONALD (74) SHERWOOD, REV. PAUL (93) she ministered 75 years. She Lake, N.Y. A veteran of the Korean War, HECKMAN, REV. EARL (92) Rev. Donald Long died June 3 in Denton, . Rev. Paul Sherwood passed away December 10 was preceded in death by he was field engineer for Wesleyan World Rev. Earl Heckman died January 28 in A veteran of the U.S. Army, he also served in Georgetown, Del. He served with the U.S. her husband, Wayne, and Missions (now Global Partners) in Sierra Wiconisco, Pa. A U.S. Army veteran, he served as a financial director for the Boy Scouts of Army during World War II. He was a minister in one son. She is survived by three daughters, Leone from 1969-1972. Later he served in World War II. He founded Mountain View America for 24 years and was a minister in the and The Wesleyan two sons, 16 grandchildren, and 13 great- in Hot Springs, S.D., coordinating work Wesleyan Church in Bath, Pa. He was preceded the Shenandoah District. He is survived by his Church for more than 40 years and served in grandchildren. She and her husband also raised projects for “vacation with a purpose” for in death by two brothers. Survivors include wife, Beverly, three sons, one daughter, three Texas, Louisiana, Virginia, Delaware, and New 32 foster children. Wesleyan Native American Ministries. He his wife, Grace, two sons, two daughters, 11 grandchildren, and one brother. York. He was preceded in death by Marion, Full story: wesleyan.org/5852 is survived by his wife of 60 years, Joyce, grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, 10 his wife of 60 years, two brothers, and one two sons, four grandchildren, six great- great-great-grandchildren, one sister, and four MATT, REV. DAVID (72) grandson. Survivors include his wife, Norma, WOOTEN, REV. D.J. (82) grandchildren, one brother, and one sister. stepbrothers. Rev. David Matt died on February 10, in three sons, two daughters, five step-children, 12 Rev. D.J. Wooten passed away January 15 Fishers, Ind. He pastored for 35 years in The grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. in Cambridge, Md. He served in ministry BROOKS, REV. HARRY (84) JANSSEN, REV. DUANE (93) Wesleyan Church. While in the U.S. Army, he for more than 63 years, including Wesleyan Rev. Harry Brooks passed away December Rev. Duane Janssen died was chaplain’s assistant at Walter Reed Medical SMITH, REV. LEWIS (91) churches in Pennsylvania and Maryland, and as 18 in Hanover, Ind. He pastored Wesleyan January 19 in Columbia City, Center. David also worked at Oklahoma Rev. Lewis Smith died December an evangelist. He was preceded in death by his churches in Indiana and was also a U.S. Ind. He pastored Wesleyan Wesleyan University, served as a missionary in 7 in Frankfort, Ind. He fought wife, Jean, one granddaughter, and one sister. Army veteran who served in the Korean War. churches in South Dakota, Papua New Guinea, planted the Wesleyan in World War II under Gen. Survivors include his wife, Lily, four sons, 11 He was preceded in death by his wife, Ola. Minnesota, Iowa, and New Church in Sheridan, Wyo., and pastored at Crane Douglas MacArthur in the South grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. Survivors include one son, two daughters, York. He served as director Chapel in Austin, Minn. Later in life, he worked Pacific, earning seven campaign six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, of student recruitment as activity director in nursing homes in Indiana medals, two bronze stars, and and one brother. and public relations at Oklahoma Wesleyan and in children’s ministries in churches. Survivors the Purple Heart. He founded University, executive director of advancement include his wife, Nancy, two daughters, four Victory Chapel in Frankfort, Ind., in 1946, and at Southern Wesleyan University, and in grandchildren, his mother, and one sister. pastored that same church for 50 years. He also

30 SPRING 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SPRING 2017 31 THE WESLEYAN CHURCH CORPORATION PO BOX 50434, INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46250-0434 WESLEYAN.ORG WESLEYAN.Life / SUMMER 2017 SERVING IS ONE OF THE MOST One example is nine-year-old James. He IMPORTANT ASPECTS OF A is in high demand as a “Real Kidz” helper in little preschool ministry. According to Harrison, GROWING DISCIPLE. “Everyone loves to have James serve in their room and the preschoolers love him. It may How intentionally are you giving kids opportunities seem that he is doing simple things. He to discover their God-given gifts and grow in reads stories, plays with the children, sings discipleship? Is your church unleashing its full leaders and dances with them during worship time, kingdom force? Here are a few starting points to hands out snacks, and helps them with their consider, based partly on Kentwood’s experience: crafts. But James’ love for others seems to BY ZACH COFFIN grow every week. He always shows up with AND TARA HARRISON a servant’s heart willing to do whatever it takes to help each child have a wonderful experience. Even at nine years old, James understands that he is helping create an 01 opportunity for the Holy Spirit to speak to each child. The fruit of the Spirit (Galatians Make a list of the places in 5:22-23) is growing in him rapidly.” your church a kid truly “can’t” “James and other young workers don’t serve. That list will be much “I can’t wait to tell you about these kids. 03 just attend our church, they are actually shorter than you think. Begin God is doing some amazing things,” Tara helping create our church,” Harrison to plug kids in wherever they Thousands of serving kids Harrison exclaimed. Harrison works continued. “We hold our young volunteers to can serve. Be sure that you are growing in their love in children’s ministries at Kentwood the same standards as our adults. Seriously, are thinking about far more for God and others and also Community Church in Kentwood, Mich. some of our best examples of volunteer than just making copies or finding their places in the At Kentwood, they are super- ministry are children! Some of our kids are setting up chairs. Look for key church. They know they intentional about inviting kids to serve in helping teach our adults how to serve with places where you can give real belong and that it is their almost all places of ministry, and then see a commitment that challenges everyone responsibilities, not just tasks. church too. Say goodbye them grow. Instead of asking, “Where can to deeper levels of discipleship. Adults are And then as they launch, come to the days that we only do a kid serve?” they begin with a different blessed and inspired when they see these alongside them enough to make ministry for kids. Instead, question: “Where can’t a kid serve?” What kids hungry for more of Jesus and with the sure they have some successes move to doing ministry they have found is that the list of places desire to help others know Jesus’ love.” in the early stages. with kids. Kids who are where kids cannot serve is a very short list. Another special young person at serving inspire their peers They have children serving in most areas Kentwood is ten-year-old Eliana. Eliana has and adults to a deeper of ministry throughout the church. a passion for Guatemala. She has been doing walk with God. It’s time research on the culture and people, and has 02 to unleash the fullness of decided that she wants to go to Guatemala God’s kingdom and that and help babies in orphanages. She is raising “There is no junior Holy includes our children! money and prays every day for them. Spirit!” said Bill Johnson of “Whenever you talk to Eliana, you can’t Bethel Church. Far too often THE LIST OF PLACES help but be overwhelmed by her love for we hear excuses why kids are the people in this region of the world," said REV. ZACH COFFIN WHERE KIDS CANNOT “not ready” to serve. What is the director of Next Harrison. "She understands that God calls if we actually believed that Generation Ministries for SERVE IS A VERY us to serve not only here at home, but to the the same Holy Spirit who The Wesleyan Church. SHORT LIST. whole world.” The church is encouraging empowers adults to serve that calling and helping Eliana raise the last will also empower our kids? TARA HARRISON bit of money she needs so she can be sent as serves as children’s What is holding us back from pastor at Kentwood a young missionary to Guatemala. unleashing kids to serve? If Community Church in you struggle with this, reflect Kentwood, Mich. and pray about it and have a conversation with a kids' pastor.

2 SUMMER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SUMMER 2017 3 Teaching

THE Transforming lives, churches, and Grace OF communities through the hope Serving and holiness of Jesus Christ.

Vol. 11, No. 3

t’s important to me to know family did not have a church home. I saw IN THIS ISSUE what Jesus stated as the core how the service of many in organizing Founders Orange Scott (1843), Seth Rees (1897) I commitments of discipleship. I’m the event, and the hospitality extended convinced one evidence of being to her family, made it natural for her to Executive Editor Janelle Vernon Editor Kerry Kind STORY a disciple is making another disciple, want to learn more about the church and Creative Director Kory Pence 02 Little leaders because he commissioned his disciples to commit to visiting in the future. Serving Assistant Editor Tricia Rife “go and make disciples.” opens the door to fresh steps of faith. As Designer Julia Sprow 11 Foster faith Designer Lyn Rayn disciples, we are not just spectators. We Jesus asserted that greatness Digital Storyteller Aaron Fussner 12 Beacons of hope are contributors. for his disciples would be found Cover Photo Fountain Springs Church 20 Learning while serving As we see the Holy Spirit using in service. Contributors our humble service in ways Zach Coffin Scott Rhyno Serving is an expression of the Tara Harrison Robin W. Schara VISION spiritual gifts he has entrusted to us, but that sometimes surprise us, Ron McClung Wayne Schmidt Ashley Rayment also it is evidence of the spiritual graces our faith is enlarged and our 10 Go. grow. give. he is developing in us. discipleship deepens. 16 newhope My son, Jordan, and his family attend DIGITAL MAGAZINE ONLINE AT WESLEYAN.LIFE 26 Sowing good seed New Life Church in Wayland, Michigan. Serving is the way of obedience, and it is an expression of love toward others, but PHIL. 2:7 My wife, Jan, and I were recruited to serve Unless otherwise noted, all Bible quotations are taken from The on Easter weekend at a church-sponsored it is also a means of grace to grow as a Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, TEACHING disciple. 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All community event. Jan provided skilled rights reserved worldwide. Scripture quotations marked (KJV) are taken from the Holy Bible, King James Version. 04 The grace of serving labor (face painting) and my son decided I’m learning, and this is a lifelong lesson, that following Jesus means Contents of this magazine are not to be reproduced without to deploy my gift of gab. One of those written permission. Signed articles present the views of the 06 Rise up and go friendly conversations was with Angela, selflessly serving others and becoming writers and are the property of the writers. who lived nearby and walked over with more like Christ in our service. her kids to enjoy the event. She and her DR. WAYNE SCHMIDT ISSN 2327-414X (print) ISSN 2327-4158 (online) NEWS General Superintendent of The Wesleyan Church Wesleyan Life is published quarterly, free to The Wesleyan Church constituency. Home delivery is 27 Museum of the Bible available for a minimum donation of $15 per year U.S./ Canadian (overseas $20 U.S. funds, overseas airmail 28 Church and college news $50 U.S. funds). 30 Remembered Correspondence For change of address give both old and new addresses. Address all editorial and advertising correspondence, subscriptions, and change of address to:

After 42 years of serving The Wesleyan Church as a pastor, Mailing Address Physical Address FROM missionary, educator, general officer, and for the last five Wesleyan Life The Wesleyan Church years as editor of Wesleyan Life, it is time to hand off the P.O. Box 50434 13300 Olio Road Indianapolis, IN Fishers, IN 46037 THE baton. This is my last issue at the helm of Thanks for the 46250-0434 Tel: 317.774.7907 the magazine, but it remains in very good Fax: 317.774.3924 EDITOR wonderful hands! I want to assure my friends that encouragement God has not released me altogether from so many of you www.wesleyan.org [email protected] being his storyteller, but it will change a bit have given. Look for these icons in form. God is blessing and empowering His grace be @WESLEYANCHURCH Published by Wesleyan Publishing House for bonus digital media The Wesleyan Church to bring his love and P.O. Box 50434, Indianapolis, IN 46250-0434 with you! FACEBOOK.COM/THEWESLEYANCHURCH to the world. - DR. KERRY D. KIND Member: INSTAGRAM.COM/WESLEYANCHURCH WESLEYAN.LIFE 4 SUMMER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life BY ROBIN W. SCHARA You will grow more in love with God used Cambodia to change her Jesus as you grow in your trust perspective on his world and on his people. After she returned, God kept of the whispering of the Holy pulling at her soul, “Don’t forget what you learned in Cambodia.” Spirit in your life. she was able to help out, meet new After a visit to China to teach in UP friends, and grow spiritually. She the underground church and distribute RISE , Debbie decided she needed I don’t know exactly why God calls realized God had filled her heart someone to a particular mission trip. and she was wondering what would to do something more with these The advice I have for people is this, come next. Serving had become an cross-cultural experiences. But what? “If God calls you, go!” Otherwise, avenue of deeper discipleship. Married and raising two teenage boys, AND you will be missing out on the plan Since then, Debbie felt she sought out ways to continue her God has for you. It’s possible you strongly led by God to go on a trip cross-cultural love for God’s people in won’t realize God’s full purpose until to Cambodia in southeast Asia. The her own city. She engaged the ladies in after the trip is completed. But he will smells, sounds, faces, and God- her Bible study to help host a dinner equip you for the job and use you, moments of that cross-cultural for some local refugees. In doing so she possibly in a way you least expect. No experience captured her soul as she created an eye-opening experience for matter what the outcome, you will worked with human trafficking and her group. But even then, God had her grow more in love with Jesus as you rape survivors. Her eyes became on a mission to do much more. grow in your trust of the whispering wide open to a world far different Soon she sensed God nudging of the Holy Spirit in your life. than she had ever known. She saw her to make a year-long commitment When we return from a trip, God in the eyes of children, in the to mentor an Iranian refugee in Buffalo sometimes people say they really topography of his creation, and who was having her first child in G knew God wanted them to go but, for she felt his Spirit. Her life, formerly America. As a nurse, Debbie could o whatever reason, they decided not to centered on her comfortable home use her skills to walk with this woman join us. They sadly confess, “I should and surroundings, changed forever. during her pregnancy, labor, and have gone.” Don’t live with regrets! If you sense God calling you to do Now an angel of he story of something, be obedient and do it! Don’t live with regrets! If you T I met Debbie on a mission trip the Lord said to Philip in Acts to the Shunem House in Indiana. sense God calling you to do Philip, “Go south 8:26-40 is an example We traveled there to assist with the upkeep of the mission property. something, be obedient and do it! to the road—the of how God calls us to desert road—that Debbie expressed to me how excited step out in obedience she was to be on her first mission goes down from trip, a long-awaited dream come Jerusalem to Gaza.” to do something that true. We spent the week cleaning and - Acts 8:26 may not make sense organizing, nothing profound, but the impact on Debbie was quite profound. at the time. Philip Her spirit was leaping with joy as wasn’t told what he was going to do. He was obedient and just knew he had to go.

6 SUMMER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SUMMER 2017 7 NOW AVAILABLE!

NATIONAL CHURCH MULTIPLICATION delivery. After months of mentoring and God. Debbie is just one example of many S UNDAY preparing Mom for her child, Debbie who are living out my favorite precept, “It assisted her with two days of difficult is not always what you do on a mission labor. She and Mom were joyful at the trip as much as what you do with your arrival of a healthy baby boy and so were experience when you get home!” all the Bible study women who prayed her What if Philip decided not to take through her difficult labor. that road to Gaza? God could have used Debbie has someone else to now taken on the carry out his plan, leadership role but Philip would JOIN US ON of engaging our have missed that entire church in divine appointment PENTECOST SUNDAY a new ministry He has a specific and blessing. God Sponsorship called Home Again reason he is always accomplishes Giving up always means Refugee Ministry. his will. Sometimes JUNE 4 Household items prompting you we are invited to gaining more when are collected to help participate with him. speaks. you surrender. Read as set up apartments whether you know Don’t live to Wayne Schmidt shares Together, we tell kids with special needs: for refugee families regret not following coming to live in why or not. Trust the voice of God in his personal stories Buffalo. She also your life. He has a of learningOn the today of has recruited people specific reason he You are that God loves you surrenderPentecost, the Holy “ from our church is prompting you Also to be mentors to and has your best whether you know hisSpirit will united to a bodyas an not alone.” refugee families for why or not. Trust followof believers God’s. toeBook! go Your sponsorship provides a compassionate six months, helping interest at heart. that God loves you out and multiply caseworker to your child and their family. them to adjust to and has your best disciples. Today, we “You have their new lives. interest at heart. Be obedient and realize continue to engage Debbie says, “I have found my another opportunity may not come. My in God’s movement purpose in life.” She is filled with the joy of own discipleship continues to deepen as potential.” the Lord as she engages people to minister I serve in his grace and when I hear him throughBuy one book the Churchand Our team of highly quali ed physical and by our generosity to others alongside her for the glory of whisper in my ear, I do my best to follow. receive a FREE copy occupational therapists create a customized and prayers. plan for each child, which includes therapy, You are loved to use for discipleship. “ .” family and community training, and When you invest in a child with disabilities, you All author royalties go to Wesley specialized equipment. demonstrate that they are valued by you and by God. Seminary for church multiplication Your letters of encouragement and faith will be treasured. scholarships. JOIN THE MOVEMENT WESLEYAN.ORG/NCMS$14.99 Sponsor a child with disabilities today. REV. ROBIN W. SCHARA ISBN: [email protected] 9781632571229 is the pastor of global missions and women's ministry at Eastern 317.774.3888 WorldHope.org/special-needs-child-sponsorship Hills Wesleyan Church in or call 703-594-8527 Williamsville, N.Y.

800.493.7539 | wphstore.com 11639 8 SUMMER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life Watch video about Red Cedar foster care vimeo.com/144758595

provides free childcare with activities galore for the children, allowing parents a few hours to do whatever they want. Red Cedar also created a monthly support BY ASHLEY RAYMENT group when they get together to share iscipleship is living out the Great stories, pray, and lean on each other D Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) and in their unique walk. go. Today, Red Cedar Church's the Greatest Commandment (Matthew bout a year and a half ago, bridge with the foster care system 22:37-39). Living out discipleship also A Red Cedar Church (Rice Lake, is a blessing to many, and word means moving out–beyond, beside, and into Wisc.) was praying for God has gotten out. Our neighboring communities to reach the spiritually lost. Our to reveal new areas for ministry in our county's foster care system churches are reaching past their walls and community. God began calling us to wished us to expand our ministry developing plans to extend their impact. Lives partner with our county foster care system. into that county also. Red Cedar is here to serve. What a joy to be able will be saved. Communities will be changed. We had no idea how powerfully God would begin using this relationship. to share God’s redeeming love among grow. these children and families! At the very first meeting with the county's representative, we learned our foster care system had three pressing needs that we could help with: “New Hope’s mission is to ‘go. grow. Their strategy includes teaching give.’ We call it our ‘3G Statement.’” annually on “leadership calling” • raising awareness and helping recruit said Pastor Michael Skor. “Those three with an invitation to respond to more foster families words not only communicate our God’s leadership call in one of eight • initial financial needs of equipping a understanding of God’s call to us as cultural influence areas–developing a home to be foster-ready give. • creating a support system for foster individuals and as a church, they are a “leadership pipeline,” building a church

constant reminder of our responsibility planting financial legacy fund, hosting families in the area and resulting joy of fulfilling that call. four varied types of gatherings through Red Cedar immediately began planning

New Hope Church in Williston, a New Hope Network, and investing in to meet each of these needs. We host Foster , grew 70% between current and future missional leaders via Parent Interest Night meetings throughout 2014 and 2016, from 690 to 1,176 in Global Partners in Croatia and Bosnia, the year. We supply new foster families with " attendance. It is a discipleship-focused adopting them as Partner Regions. all the necessary "start-up" items that are church. Their goals include having “As much I love my family, being needed for their home to be ready to foster Shannon & Craig Severud, foster parents 30 new identified gatherings and 500 outdoors, and Dr. Pepper,” Skor added, children—things like smoke detectors, fire leaders equipped and engaged around “I love Jesus Christ and want to be ladders, and child safety kits. This calling to be foster parents is hard, so having the globe in the next 10 years. Their obedient to honor him by reaching out We hold several events including a a strong support system, including our church, is Regional Reach Vision reads: to the people he created and loves. The Christmas Celebration where we create essential. But when I see a kid overcome challenges days are full. The fields are many and the opportunity for children and families and succeed in places that they may not have We are convinced that we are far-reaching. New Hope is looking up to feel the love of our church community. otherwise, it makes the difficult path worth it. It called to reach our community, our and out with great anticipation of what On Foster Family Date Nights, the church often feels like we are missionaries, but instead of region, and around the Globe with God will do through our obedience.” travelling overseas, the mission field is brought into sacrificial service, stewardship, God began calling us to partner our personal, everyday space. and strategic church planning. with our county foster care - Shannon Severud system. We had no idea how powerfully God would begin ASHLEY RAYMENT using this relationship. serves as the outreach and spiritual growth director at Red Cedar Church in Rice Lake, Wisc.

10 SUMMER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SUMMER 2017 11 wesleyan.org/3532/immigrant-connection-site-map IMMIGRATION SITE MAP See this map of how dozens of Wesleyan churches are transforming their communities by offering low-cost legal services and the love of Jesus Christ to their immigrant neighbors. Beacons In Oklahoma City, Rev. Nathan Hedge of and his May Avenue Wesleyan Church congregation are responding to the changing ethnic landscape in the city and themselves. Rev. Hedge credits the Hope church’s Immigrant Connection site as the “I was not the obvious choice,” to share. Who knows if they are Sharla said. “The only language hearing that from anyone else?” main catalyst. I know [other than English] is As God continues to challenge Department of Justice approval sign language.” Her two daughters and encourage her, Sharla loves for May Avenue began in October 2015, were in college and she planned to digging into God’s Word to and clients arrived for legal services two return to the classroom to teach fully understand his heart for months later. Located on the southwest harla Gottschalk’s initial response elementary-aged students. immigrants. Others’ hearts are being side of Oklahoma’s capital city, May BY TRICIA RIFE S to her pastor’s sermon two years Sharla chose to be obedient. changed in the process too. One Avenue is a small church situated in a ago was, “Oh, no, Lord.” After that initial nudge, she became gentleman approached her with predominantly Hispanic neighborhood. certified to run the Immigrant negativity about her involvement As Rev. Dwight Nash talked about Connection center at Sent Church, with Immigrant Connection. What used to be a immigrants on that Sunday morning at 30 minutes north of downtown She encouraged him to seek God monoethnic church Dallas. Sent Church in Plano, Tex., her chest through Bible reading and prayer. is now multiethnic, became increasingly heavy. A long-time “I am able to leave seeds Ultimately, God revealed to him that of how Jesus tells us to love our his own citizenship was in heaven with English-speaking Christian, Sharla knew God was speaking neighbors as ourselves [in Mark and he felt God telling him, “If you and Spanish-speaking to her and wanted her to get involved. 12:31],” Sharla explains. “It makes can help someone find temporary

But the middle-aged mother of two me happy every time I am able citizenship here, you can point services. that person to eternal, heavenly and former school teacher thought God citizenship. More than 150 clients from 28 had the wrong person. countries have walked through May Avenue’s doors seeking legal services. “I did not expect to Opportunities to communicate the gospel have multiplied. learn a whole new One client said during a consultation field, but it’s fun!” that she did not believe in prayer. she said. “This is However, when Rev. Hedge asked if he could pray for her, God–whatever she said yes. he calls us to, he equips us. When you’re doing just what God asks you to do, you find great joy from it.”

12 SUMMER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SUMMER 2017 13 Another client moved to are aware of what Immigrant the United States on a fiancée Connection is all about. visa. After getting married, she “We’re helping people experienced spousal abuse. Her who need legal help and who husband withdrew support, and can’t afford a lawyer,” said one she is trying desperately to find a daughter. The youngest two way to survive in the U.S. legally. children oversee organizing and Walking with her is May Avenue restocking the toy box that sits My kids share in the Wesleyan Church. in the Immigrant Connection Rev. Hedge knows he office so clients’ children have joy of helping people has a sacred opportunity to something to play with during from so many places,” communicate Christ’s love whether their parents’ consultations. it’s through the client Christmas “My kids share in the joy said Rev. Hedge. “They party, local newspaper interviews, of helping people from so many are developing a heart or participating in a local rally to places,” said Rev. Hedge. “They to help immigrants raise awareness for immigrants. are developing a heart to help He is especially thankful for immigrants know Christ because know Christ..." the impact Immigrant Connection of Immigrant Connection at May is having on his family. His four Avenue.” children, ages 14, 12, 11, and 9,

IMMIGRANT CONNECTION

Immigrant Connection is one way The on behalf of spouses and children. Sometimes we Wesleyan Church (TWC) is transforming lives, help U.S. citizens apply for an immigrant spouse or churches, and communities. National Director their children or other family.” Zach Szmara defines Immigrant Connection as, There are 14 Department of Justice- “a network of Wesleyans envisioning the Spirit of recognized Immigrant Connection offices within God bringing immigrants and churches together TWC and 20 accredited Wesleyan representatives to cultivate relationships, share resources, and working in them. provide legal services.” Szmara also pastors The “Wesleyan sites have served thousands of Bridge Community Church in Logansport, Ind. immigrants from over 70 countries who come “Immigrant Connection serves all categories to a local church to receive help, truth, and of people,” said Szmara. “We don’t have just understanding about a very complicated journey one type of client. We help undocumented that is usually filled with confusion, animosity, and individuals. We also help those with green cards mistruths,” Szmara added. (legal permanent residents) renew them or apply for citizenship. We help refugees adjust status and become green card holders. We help them apply “We become beacons of hope for a restored future in our communities.”

14 SUMMER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life At newhope, their theology of to serve in a certain way. When they discover that, their discipleship causes them to believe, teach, serving will be more effective, joyful, persistent, and fulfilled.” BY KERRY KIND and practice the principle that those who know Christ serve. Pastor Benji’s vision has A few years ago, one of the church families had a always been to reach, teach, and release son named Beau who was born with physical problems people to live out their God-given destiny for and was an intense focus of church prayers. Sadly, serving. He knew he could never grow and he died at 18 months. Out of that experience, Beau’s multiply a great church for God by himself Ministry was created: caregivers who work with special or even with a great staff. Only God could needs children. Trained caregivers from newhope serve grow a movement of people who discover a with a one-to-one ratio on Sunday mornings and at new contagious spirit of service, move from the other times, enabling whole families to worship and hope door to the core, and find that serving is a participate who otherwise would find it too much of a FOURTEEN YEARS AGO, PASTOR BENJI KELLEY HAD A VISION FOR joy-filled overflow of their salvation. struggle. Members of newhope say their church is loving The main newhope campus is in and joy-filled. And ministries like Beau’s Ministry prove A CHURCH. THE RESULT, NEWHOPE CHURCH, HAS GROWN FROM Durham, N.C., with seven sites in that state, that to be true. A GATHERING IN KELLEY’S HOME TO MULTIPLE SITES REACHING one site in Columbia, S.C., and two overseas Many newhope people serve with other local sites in Kenya and Haiti. Their Easter charities like food banks and rescue missions. Others THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE. CORE TO THIS CHURCH’S MINISTRY IS A give leadership to children’s ministries, student KEY IDEA: “WE WANT MORE FOR YOU, THAN FROM YOU.” ministries, worship teams, “Everyone is wired Life-groups, prayer teams, to serve in a certain or global opportunities (especially Kenya and way. When they Haiti). One ministry that has a big impact discover that, in their communities is Adopt-a-Block. A needy their serving will neighborhood is selected Believers discover the joy and be more effective, and a team pours love, fulfillment of serving in their fellowship, friendship, food, areas of passion and effectiveness, joyful, persistent, home renovations, and care and that is the goal for everyone into that area and builds associated with newhope. People and fulfilled.” relationships that become who serve grow more in their redemptive. dependence on God, learn to rely on the Holy Spirit in the tough attendance this year was over 9,000, but moments, and rejoice with God more importantly, there were 379 reported when they see fruit. Serving teams . are close-knit faith communities, Twice a year, newhope has a volunteer and people become stronger fair. Following a sermon series on service, disciples there. multiple booths are set up throughout the foyer. Believers are invited to pray about a ministry to join and then sign up at a booth as they leave. Another service entry point occurs on Vision Days when believers can fill out tear off cards, or text the word “hope” to a four-digit number during service. Pastor Benji’s vision has always been to A monthly leadership training is offered for all newhope volunteer leaders, and the Pastor Benji Kelley: "the reach, teach, and release people to live DISC personality test is used to help find each contagious joy person’s workstyle and gifts. Connections of serving" out their God-given destiny for serving. Pastor Joe Robideaux said, “Everyone is wired

16 SUMMER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SUMMER 2017 17 Pastor Benji has always sought to avoid newhope becoming “a mile wide and an inch deep.” He knows that even a big church can’t try to do too many things and still do them with Even a big effectiveness. The church has identified the church can’t six priorities they feel God has called them to: children’s ministries, student ministries, life- try to do too groups, worship, first contact ministries, and hope missions to the “least of these” (local and many things international). One newhope member said, “Why do I and still do serve in the way I do? Well, it’s all about Jesus Christ. I try to serve in the spirit of Christ. You them with understand, I don’t serve because I feel obligated effectiveness. THANK INDIANA or something. I don’t have to, I get to!” Another member who exemplifies WESLEYAN this attitude is Joe Schmidt, an entrepreneur YOU UNIVERSITY who launched several FOR YOUR successful companies. It IS DEVOTED TO TRAINING came to a point where he GENEROSITY THE FUTURE LEADERS OF felt called to use all his THE WESLEYAN CHURCH skills and resources to engage in a ministry he Founded in 1920, the University’s mission was passionate about. Joe was to provide a faith-based education to embarked on a mission to Wesleyan students, a mission that remains true eradicate modern slavery. today. Visit indwes.edu/called to learn about specific Wesleyan student scholarship/grant Today, he leads opportunities. one of the Because of your world’s largest Academic/Award Scholarship organizations generous giving, Church Matching Scholarship that battles sex more churches will trafficking. The more Joe served and be planted and more Campus Challenge - Wesleyan Bible Bowl partnered with more people, the larger people will hear about Christian Service Team his platform of ministry became. the saving grace of John Wesley Scholarship For several years, newhope Jesus. Thank you for Kern Ministry Program Church was listed by Outreach magazine your gift that will Out of State Wesleyan Grant as one of the fastest growing churches in the nation. Pastor Benji said, “I empower every local Wesleyan Ministerial Loan/Grant would never have predicted that. What church to engage in its Wesleyan Pastor Dependent Grant happened here is God grew a movement multiplication mission Wesleyan Student Grant of people–people who love God and so that The Wesleyan Wesleyan District Student Leadership who discovered how much contagious Church has a faithful Scholarship joy there is serving on the front lines. presence in every And that just naturally became a cyclical zip code. Realizing the importance of financial aid, IWU growth engine.” encourages the establishment of Wesleyan endowments through the generosity of donations from members of The Wesleyan Church.

866.468.6498 INDWES.EDU

#multiplyTWC 18 SUMMER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life Katie Betts, who is preparing to be a �� worship pastor, has found that the more she serves others, the more God blesses her. A student at Kingswood University, she has traveled with worship bands to many youth camps. As a cabin leader, she helped guide the discipleship of young teens. As she frequently counseled and poured herself

IE BE into students, her gift of discernment was awakened, and her relationship with God strengthened. The more she relied on his at wisdom, the more clearly she heard his voice speaking to her. K Kingswood University Kingswood She also has served as a resident assistant on campus for two years. Although enforcing rules is part of the job, God taught her the path of servanthood and how to approach conflict with love. In tough � situations, she relied on God for strength, and she grew in her boldness and grace. INg Last year for a class project, Betts and other students hosted an appreciation banquet for Sussex town leaders: firemen, police chief, principals, teachers, and the town council. Betts said, “At the end, even though it involved a lot of tiring work, we � felt incredible joy," she said. "I suddenly became aware of God’s great love for the people. And it filled my heart with joy to be able to express his love for them.” R � rVIN tudents at all five Wesleyan God taught her the S colleges and universities find joy in serving God and others, whether in the classroom, path of servanthood

� on campus, in churches, or within their communities. These stories ap�roach are a part of the bigger picture and how to

while of how God is changing students’ lives through service. conflict with l�v�. � LE

20 SUMMER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SUMMER 2017 21 Tanner Hoffman’s passion for serving in public CherINItY KISTle�-Bro�ks health was born after a trip to Kingston, Jamaica, in high school. There he witnessed life in the Kingston Southern Wesleyan University slums. “I became drawn to how preventative healthcare can be used to increase the well-being of those living in impoverished conditions.” Hoffman enrolled at Houghton College as a double major in biology and international development. The opportunity to explore Paige Joh�so� those fields in the context of Oklahoma Wesleyan University his Christian faith has been

N enriching. As a sophomore, “NASCAR Paige,” as she is known on the Oklahoma he traveled to Ecuador for Wesleyan campus, grew up attending Celebrate experience in community Community Church in Sioux Falls, S.D. Paige Johnson’s MA development and public health. passion for NASCAR racing began at an early age and in high school she was called to ministry. Her pathway to FF ministry fell into place as she saw opportunities to share He witnessed li�e in the gospel with the NASCAR fan base. One reason Johnson chose to attend OKWU is because of the option provided Cherinity Kistler-Brooks is a student used to help others. Kistler-Brooks HO

in Southern Wesleyan’s Adult and committed her life to God and that the Kingston slums. for business students to work with the Texas Motor Graduate Studies program. She helps was the first step in her healing Speedway in Fort Worth. troubled women get into programs process. The next year he spent three that may save their lives. She knows Since then, God has restored months honing his intercultural NER what many of the women are facing, her family and led her to SWU. She is skills in the Houghton in “NASCAR Paige” is because she has been there. also an admissions coordinator at the Tanzania program. Six years ago, Kistler-Brooks Serenity Place and Phoenix Center in One of Hoffman’s most TAN Houghton College excited how God was at her lowest point, deeply Greenville, South Carolina, helping impactful experiences occurred addicted to methamphetamines, people live free of the damaging the summer after his freshman pain pills, and alcohol. “I had lost effects of alcohol, tobacco, and other year when he volunteered with continues ope�ing d�or� everything that mattered to me, harmful drugs. Her co-workers the Ugandan Water Project failing as a mother, wife, daughter, describe her as grounded spiritually, bringing sanitation and hygiene resources to on the racing platform. sister, and friend. I was homeless mentally, and emotionally, with a Ugandan communities. This opened the door for

and got money by panhandling and strong ethical character and gentle him to work with the Water Project the next two Shortly after becoming an OKWU student, Johnson stealing,” she said. strength. summers and to later intern in Uganda. went with the School of Business on its annual trip to work One night, she stood on the “Each of these has affirmed my passion for at the Texas Motor Speedway. On that trip, her professor top ledge of a parking garage in Las preventative healthcare for underserved people,” connected her with Raceway Ministries. She began serving Vegas. Just before taking the step that Hoffman said. While still enrolled at Houghton, with Texas Alliance Raceway Ministries a year ago, and has would end her life, she said a prayer. Hoffman designs and manages the early stages of since brought several other OKWU students to engage in “Out of nowhere, I heard the calm, Just before taking the step the Water Project’s monitoring programs. ministry alongside her. whispering voice of God.” He told her Hoffman aims to live a life “dedicated to Most recently, Johnson led a ministry team of OKWU that one day all of her pain would be tangible acts of service improving the lives of poor students at a NASCAR service where she preached and that would end her life, and marginalized people.” had the opportunity to witness two people committing their lives to Christ. “NASCAR Paige” is excited how God she �aid � ���y�r. continues opening doors on the racing platform and uses her to tell others about Jesus.

22 SUMMER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SUMMER 2017 23 A PLACE TO BECOME Read more about Arbor Christian Academy arborchristianacademy.org/en/home • Christian Counsellor

KI • Worship Leader • Lead Pastor • Theologian • Church Planter • Youth Pastor • Missionary

jaws Years ago, Ellen Kujawski • Christian School Teacher listened to a visiting • Children’s Pastor missionary's story and • ESL Teacher challenge: “Tonight, God • Humanitarian is calling some of you to be Aid Worker N KU his missionaries, to take his message of salvation and love

le Call or check us out: to the nations. Don’t resist him.” God spoke to her that 888.432.4422

EL Indiana Wesleyan University evening, and she committed www.kingswood.edu to follow wherever he led. Kujawski later attended Indiana Wesleyan University, majoring in elementary education with a double minor in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and music. She did student teaching at St. John’s International School in Belgium. Through serving, she grew immensely and realized this was really her calling. While many God led her to the Dominican Republic after graduation in 2014 where the quality of primary education ranks very low. Kujawski and fellow missionary Jessica Moulding opened details of this San Francisco Christian School (SFCS), the first American- based Christian school in their city. They realized they next year are needed to lay stronger foundations and sought training. God orchestrated a meeting with Doulos Discovery School in Jarabacoa, 90 minutes away. Leaders there offered uncertain to me, to provide training in creating an advisory committee, setting curriculum, securing finances, recruiting students, and they aren '� �o G�d. becoming legally established in the country. They temporarily closed SFCS so they could accept positions at Doulos while receiving training. “While many details of this next year are uncertain to me, they aren’t to God,” said Kujawski. “This school, this dream, is not mine. It’s his.” SFCS, recently renamed Arbor Christian Academy, will reopen this fall.

GO IMPACT CULTURE WITH THE LORDSHIP OF JESUS CHRIST. Visit okwu.edu or connect with us at /okwuniv 24 SUMMER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SUMMER 2017 25 This kind of giving comes from the heart of God. MUSEUM OF THE BIBLE TO OPEN NOVEMBER 2017 Sowing Good Seed BY SCOTT RHYNO

edicated to the history, narrative, and Dr. Jerry Pattengale, Indiana Wesleyan ete and Ginnie Benson provided a lead Pete witnessed tithing and the joy of impact of the Bible, the Museum of the University professor, is the Museum of the Bible overflowing generosity constantly in his home: D P gift that launched Kingswood University’s Bible will open in November 2017, two executive director of education and was one of its capital campaign to build its first ever blocks from the National Mall in , D. C. two founding scholars. He is editor-in-chief of outdoor athletic complex. Pete is a former From the time I was very young, I can picture At 430,000 sq. ft. on eight floors, it will a multi-volume Bible curriculum that required Wesleyan pastor and church planter who be one of the largest museums in Washington, more than 100 contributors and utilizes founded a financial management company every Sunday, Mom or Dad would reach up to this little safe in the top cupboard in our costing over $500 million. In addition to the Bible interactive communication called “augmented that has grown to be a leading firm in the exhibits, the museum will also house libraries, reality.” Pattengale, a prolific author and Nashville, Tenn., area. With a heart for kitchen. They would pull down their tithing box of envelopes. They never, ever failed. research labs, a children’s gallery, a performing arts globally-honored scholar, has worked with some God and a deep desire to see lost people hall, a top floor biblical garden, and a restaurant. 200 other scholars in his museum role, including come to know Christ, Pete and Ginnie And my parents and Ginnie’s parents were voracious givers! They would give to the Over $40 million has been invested to make it the about 15 IWU professors and students. respond to needs, big and small, as the Holy most advanced technological museum in the world Pattengale commented, “It is a real joy to put Spirit leads–most often, anonymously. church and to help people far beyond what would be perceived as ordinary. with interactive audio-visuals and customized into practice so many things I have learned from digital guides. The giant LED screen in the grand my Wesleyan church roots and from college. Today, Generational generosity lobby ceiling will be 140 feet long. I am sometimes almost overwhelmed by the caliber As is so often the case, Pete and Ginnie’s This kind of giving comes from the heart of At the heart of the museum will be the of leaders that God is calling me to work with. generosity didn’t begin with them. It has been a God and he loves to sometimes perform miracles Museum Collections, which contain thousands Then I remember something life-changing that Pete part of their family heritage, expressed through to encourage the faith of his children who “get of donated items, as well as artifacts and rare God once said to me: ‘Jerry, I never called you to be countless acts of selfless giving of time, treasure, it.” And it hasn’t stopped with Pete and Ginny. books under long-term agreement with several the smartest person in the room. But I called you to witnessed and talent as far back as they can remember. The legacy of generosity is being seen lived out in collections, including the 40,000-item Green be in the room.’” tithing and Pete’s grandparents, Bedford and Catherine practical ways through the Bensons' children and Collection assembled by Steve Green, president of Cook, were members of Seal Cove Wesleyan grandchildren as well. “What’s really cool is that Hobby Lobby. He serves as chairman of the board the joy of Church on Grand Manan Island, located off all three of our kids are ‘givers,’” Pete said. “They of Museum of the Bible and is the project’s founder overflowing the coast of New Brunswick, Canada. In the all get immense joy in giving to God and others.” and visionary. The museum has also announced a 1960’s, Bedford spent many days traveling to the long-term alliance with Israel Antiquities Authority Video fly-through museumofthebible.org generosity mainland to volunteer his help pouring concrete to fill gallery space from its collection of two million artifacts. constantly in and lending a hand in the building of Kingwood REV. SCOTT RHYNO University’s campus (Kingswood was formerly serves as chief development his home. Bethany Bible College). director for The Wesleyan Church.

26 SUMMER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SUMMER 2017 27 Houghton ranked in top 50 mission-minded IWU launches colleges Justice Center for

Houghton College was recently included Human Trafficking as one of 50 schools on the Top Mission- Minded Colleges and Universities ranking, Indiana Wesleyan University has as compiled by Christian Universities Online launched a new Justice (CUO). CUO used the Council for Christian Center for Human Trafficking to do Colleges and Universities' (CCCU) publicly battle with the multi-billion dollar available data to find schools that had a high industry that buys, ships, and sells 800 villages number of programs related to missions, people. Human trafficking affects many service and intern opportunities at least 21 million people globally. destroyed in Peru in missions, and the degree to which the The mission of the Center will be Easter at school's website reflects missions. to contribute research, resources, Dr. Schmidt calls for prayer and aid and initiatives toward the abolition 12Stone Church Full story Full story of human trafficking and the wesleyan.org/6191 wesleyan.org/6195 promotion of human flourishing. In 39 services in eight locations at 12Stone Church, a Wesleyan congregation near Atlanta, Georgia, On March 23, General Superintendent the recorded Easter attendance was Dr. Wayne Schmidt announced Dr. Colleen Derr is 32,314. Among that number, there were a Wesleyan Emergency Relief Fund new president of New era announced for 657 salvations reported. 12Stone has a (WERF) Project to collect emergency reputation locally as “the church that aid for the Wesleyan Pilgrim Church of Wesley Seminary SWU Religion Department gives itself away." In the weeks before Peru, South America. Blamed on the Easter they collected and donated worst El Niño effect in decades, the country received an overwhelming Dr. David Wright, president of Southern Wesleyan University's Division of 1,619 bicycles to a local ministry. This deluge. Flash floods and mudslides hit the northern Andean region, Indiana Wesleyan University, Religion is positioning itself to better prepare the ministry, "Bearings," uses the bicycles destroying over 800 villages and 175 bridges. Government sources announced that Dr. Colleen Derr has been next generation. Two new key leaders have been in a shop that mentors young people, reported over 90 deaths, with more missing, and the numbers of named the new President of Wesley Seminary announced. Dr. Mike Tapper, formerly of Sussex, teaching skills and values and changing displaced exceeded 550,000. at Indiana Wesleyan University. On May 1, New Brunswick, has been named the new chair many lives. Wesleyan churches across the region gathered supplies to help people. she succeeded Dr. Jo Anne Lyon, who has of the Division of Religion, bringing a wealth of National Superintendent Rev. Tadeo Jose Blas said, "It is time to show Christ served as interim leader since the departure pastoral ministry and higher education experience. in the streets. We must provide whatever we can to help our neighbors in of Dr. Wayne Schmidt, the founding leader of Rev. Mark Wilson, former long-time pastor in Full story need." General Superintendent Wayne Schmidt invited Wesleyans in North the seminary. Derr has been a part of Wesley Hayward, Wisc., has been named assistant professor wesleyan.org/6290 America to stand with our Peruvian brothers and sisters by praying for Seminary since 2011, serving as a faculty of multiplication, discipleship, and renewal. them and giving. To date, $40,000 has been raised for relief. member and assistant dean. Full story Full story Full story wesleyan.org/6155 wesleyan.org/6182 wesleyan.org/6196

U.S. Attorney General JESUS film miracles 43 Peruvians accepted Christ John Ashcroft at OKWU God continues to use this film of the during Kingswood mission Gospel of Luke, accompanied by The Oklahoma Wesleyan community salvations, miracles of healing, and welcomed former U.S. attorney general, Over spring break, under the leadership of Professor release from sin’s bondage. In 2016, it was former U.S. senator, and former Mike MacNeil, a group of Kingswood University students shown 1,503 times in Global Partners’ Governor John Ashcroft to campus on April ministered in Peru in villages of the Andes Mountains. The ministries. There were over 300,000 viewers and 120,676 documented 12. In addition to speaking in chapel, Ashcroft team engaged in street , led church services, responses. It took 36 full-time JESUS film teams sacrificially working to participated in the gifting of a new painting acted out skits, played games with children, and helped in bring these results in 18 countries. Hundreds of groups of new believers to the university. The painting, "Struggling church construction. Through all this, they witnessed 43 emerged, which have resulted in 96 new church plants and 124 new to Kneel," was inspired by a lesson in people come to faith in Christ. preaching points, just from this one year. humility and prayer recounted in Ashcroft's Full story book, Lessons from a Father to His Son. Full story wesleyan.org/6232 wesleyan.org/6286 Full story wesleyan.org/6224 28 SUMMER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / SUMMER 2017 29 HODGE, REV. RONALD (73) LUPTON, REV. RICHARD (79) PHILLIPPE, JOAN (86) SHOOK, REV. ELVIS (91) Remembered Rev. Ronald Edward Hodge died April 5 in Rev. Richard Lupton died April 17 in Brooksville, Joan Phillippe Rev. Elvis Shook died November 10, in Blacksburg, Va. A minister of the Shenandoah Fla. He pastored churches in the Eastern and died March 23 in Sheridan, Mich. The U.S. Navy veteran served BALL II, REV. DENSEL (58) District, he served as a pastor for nearly 50 Western Districts and the Shenandoah Indianapolis, Ind. in ministry for more than 35 years. He was Rev. Densel Ray Ball II died years. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, District. His 45 years of ministry included service as Early in her career, preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, April 27 in Overland Park, Darlene, one daughter, one son, one adopted an assistant district superintendent. He was active she taught elementary Erma Mae, and one brother. Survivors include Kans. Rev. Ball served as daughter, three grandchildren, two adopted in Chuck Colson's Prison Fellowship, ministering school in Ohio. She three sons, two daughters, 30 grandchildren, senior pastor of Cornerstone grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and to inmates across the country, and he authored was always supportive 28 great-grandchildren, one great-great- Wesleyan Church in Kansas one brother. devotionals for Light from the Word and Vista of of the ministry of her grandchild, one brother, and one sister. City, Mo. Survivors include Wesleyan Publishing House. He is survived by husband, Dr. Thomas his wife, Michele, one son, JAMES, REV. WILLIAM (90) Martha, his wife of 58 years, one daughter, two Phillippe, who served SMITH, REV. HOMER (89) one daughter, his parents, and one brother. Rev. William D. James passed granddaughters, one brother, and one sister. as a pastor, general evangelist, general officer of Rev. Homer Smith passed away March 23 in Full story: wesleyan.org/6293 away April 7 in Pickens, S.C. The Wesleyan Church, and philanthropist. They Easley, S.C. A U.S. Navy World War II veteran, A veteran of the United States MCCALLUM, ROBERTA (90) were generous benefactors for all five Wesleyan he pastored Wesleyan churches in South BAREISS, REV. RICHARD (89) Navy, he served over 60 years Roberta Lois McCallum, age 90, died March 7 in colleges and universities, Global Partners, World Carolina, , and North Carolina for most Rev. Richard E. Bareiss died March 29 in in ministry in South Lyons, Kans. She served faithfully alongside her Hope International, and many other charities. of his 50+ years in ministry. He restored bicycles Bourbonnais, Ill. A minister of the Crossroads Carolina. For 15 years, he was husband, Rev. Charles McCallum, a minister of She is survived by her husband of 63 years, one that were given to underprivileged children District, he served as a chaplain for twenty years superintendent of the South the Tri-State District, as he pastored churches in son, two daughters, ten grandchildren, and every Christmas. Survivors include Montez, his in the U.S. Navy, retired as a commander, and Carolina District. During that time, Table New York, , , Oklahoma, fourteen great-grandchildren. wife of 69 years, two sons, one daughter, seven for many years after, helped guide the Church’s Rock Wesleyan Campground was developed. and Kansas. They also were missionaries at Full story: wesleyan.org/6188 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, one chaplaincy endorsements. He Rev. James served on many governing boards, Brakpan Wesleyan Seminary in South Africa. She great-great granddaughter, and one stepsister. also served twenty years including the General Board of the Church, is survived by Charles, her husband of 71 years, RAMSAY, REV. JAMES (76) He was preceded in death by four brothers. as chaplain at Houghton Southern Wesleyan University, and Hephzibah three sons, two daughters, eleven grandchildren, Rev. James Ramsay died March 19 in Central, College and Indiana Children's Home. Survivors include his wife, 27 great-grandchildren, three sisters, and one S.C. A pastor in The Wesleyan Church for more TRENT, REV. PAUL (70) Wesleyan University. He Clara (Chizum) James, three sons, seven brother. than 50 years, Rev. Ramsay and his wife, Carol, Rev. Paul Trent Passed away May 10 in is survived by Elinore, grandchildren, fifteen great grandchildren, Full story: wesleyan.org/6136 served with Wesleyan World Missions for 38 Chesterfield, Ind. He served as pastor at many his wife of 64 years, one and one sister. years in Swaziland, the Republic of South Africa, churches throughout Indiana, including son, three daughters, five Full story: wesleyan.org/6242 MITCHELL, REV. ERNEST (98) and Albania. They founded and led Bible schools, Parkview Wesleyan Church, where he was still grandchildren, seven great- Rev. Ernest Russell (E.R.) Mitchell died March 31 pastored, and did pioneer evangelism in Africa. ministering when he died. Survivors include grandchildren, one sister, and one brother. JOHNSTON, REV. LONA (81) in Gas City, Ind. A graduate of People’s Bible School, In Albania, they worked as church planters and Patricia, his wife of 46 years, four sons, three Full story: wesleyan.org/6241 Rev. Lona Johnston passed away February Colorado Springs, Colo., he served in pastoral with refugee relief during the Kosovo War. Upon grandchildren, one brother, and two sisters. 26 in Lake Village, Ark. Although she retired ministry for 50 years in churches in Ohio, returning to the U.S., he pastored churches in BECKLEY, REV. KENNETH (85) as full-time pastor in 1993, she continued to Ontario, , Kentucky, and Indiana. His South Carolina. Three brothers preceded him TROYER, LYDIA (100) Rev. Kenneth R. Beckley died February 8 serve as a supply pastor and in visitation and first wife, Leora Belle, preceded him in death in in death. Survivors include Carol, his wife of 54 Lydia Layman Troyer died October 9. Levi, funeral capacities. She also enjoyed engaging in years, two daughters, and two brothers. in Hilliard, Ohio. He was a veteran of the 1988. He is survived by his second wife, Phyllis, her husband of 73 years, preceded her in Stevens is proud to deliver over 110 years of Full story: wesleyan.org/6223 Korean War and a minister of the Greater personal evangelism. one son, three daughters, eight grandchildren, death as did two sisters, two brothers, one family-owned moving expertise and quality Ohio District. He is survived by his wife of 64 19 great-grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, grandchild, and two great-grandchildren. services to the members, clergy, employees and years, Phyllis, two daughters, one son, seven KLASSEN, REV. FRANK (73) and eight step-great-grandchildren. RAMSEY, REV. CLEON (86) From 1949 to 1961 and 1967 to 1975, she and educators of The Wesleyan Church. grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Rev. Frank J. Klassen died March 16 in Full story: wesleyan.org/6212 Rev. Cleon Ramsey passed away February 8 in Levi and their children were missionaries to • Discounted pricing Grayling, Mich. He was a minister of the North Bedford, Ind. He pastored several Wesleyan Haiti with Wesleyan World Missions. From • Top-rated drivers and crews CASE, JUDY (76) Michigan District. His wife of 51 years, Leah OLMSTED, REV. DONALD (91) churches in Illinois and Indiana. The Korean War 1964 to 1967, the Troyers were pastors at the • Customized moving packages ™ Judy Case died March 5 in Jackson, Mich. Carol, preceded him in death in 2014. He is Rev. Donald Olmsted died April 10 in Rochester, veteran also served Bedford North Lawrence Holiness Chapel in Pierrespont Manor, N.Y. • Stevens Home Protection Kit She served as a missionary teacher in Puerto survived by two daughters, one grandson, two Ind. He was a graduate of Miltonvale Wesleyan High School. He was preceded in death by Survivors include two sons, two daughters, 11 • Free no-obligation move estimate • Single point-of-contact Rico with Wesleyan World Missions from great-granddaughters, four brothers, and two College, a veteran of the U.S. Army in World War one sister, one brother, and two siblings in grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, three infancy. Survivors include his wife, Geneva, two 1966 to 1988. sisters. II, and a minister of the Crossroads District. He great-great-grandchildren, one sister, and three Recommended pastored churches in Nebraska, Wisconsin, and daughters, five grandchildren, and seven great- brothers. Mover by The grandchildren. Wesleyan Church COWART, REV. THOMAS (95) LINVILLE, REV. WILLIAM “BILL” (88) Indiana. He was preceded in death by his wife, Rev. Thomas Cowart died December 20 in Rev. William “Bill” Linville died February 8 Lora, in 2008. Survivors include one son, six SHEPPARD II, REV. JOHN (74) Irmo, S.C. An Army Air Corps veteran who in Morristown, Ind. He served as a Wesleyan grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. The way to move served in World War II, he and his wife, pastor in churches in , Illinois, Rev. John Sheppard II died November 26 in Loney Mae, served in India as Wesleyan Indiana, and North Carolina. He was preceded PATTINGTON, REV. GEORGE (84) Yuba City, Calif. He served churches in the World Missions missionaries for 13 years. in death by his wife, Luella, an infant daughter, Rev. George M. Pattington died February 21 in central valley of . He is survived by He was a Wesleyan pastor and high school two brothers, and one sister. Survivors include Camden, N.Y. An alumnus of Houghton College, his wife of 50 years, Jan, as well as two daughters, ONLINE MAGAZINE CALL VICKI BIERLEIN: science teacher until retirement. His three sons, four grandchildren, four great- he was a minister of the Central New York District, one son, and three grandchildren. WESLEYAN.LIFE 800.248.8313 wife of 64 years preceded him in death. grandchildren, one sister, and one brother. where he pastored several churches. He is survived www.stevensworldwide.com/wesleyan He is survived by two daughters, six by his wife, Elaine, two sons, one daughter, eight grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. US DOT 72029

30 SUMMER 2017 / www.wesleyan.life THE WESLEYAN CHURCH CORPORATION PO BOX 50434, INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46250-0434 WESLEYAN.ORG

MARK WILSON, M.A. MIKE TAPPER, PH.D. Assistant Professor of Multiplication, Chair of the Division of Religion Discipleship & Renewal Dr. Mike Tapper is inspired to develop the next Professor Wilson is joining the faculty to serve in generation of church leaders with his deep experience a unique role specifically designed to support the in pastoral ministry at two dynamic churches and his missions of SWU and the Church. A beloved leader, success in the academy, teaching in four universities. author and speaker, Mark is a pastor’s pastor and brings He has also served individuals within the special needs a wealth of ministry experience. community. Mark has an M.A. in Theology and B.A. in Christian Mike has a Ph.D. and Masters in Theology and an Ministries. His unique gifts of communication, additional Masters of Divinity. He is an enthusiastic connection, and encouragement will be used by God to researcher, speaker, community volunteer, and leader, transform and renew the lives of our students, pastors, who has authored numerous publications. leaders, churches and communities.

These are exhilarating days for SWU’s Division of Religion! Inspirational faculty, inventive programs, and a beautiful new Christian Ministry Center dedicated to preparing the next generation of ministry leaders to impact the world for Christ!

www.swu.edu • 877-644-5556 WESLEYAN.Life / FALL 2017 Through prayer about their giving, they are becoming more They were thinking fully devoted followers of Jesus.

about how to be After using a portion of the money to assist with a campaign to build a new were expanding, the church good stewards of sanctuary, the church decided board borrowed money from to establish an endowment the fund, but then paid it back their stewardship to enhance fund with the remainder, still a at a higher interest rate than their discipleship. Through their resources after million dollars. the fund would have earned prayer about their giving, The church voted to do just Jim Rathbun, a from the bank. Each year, the they are becoming more fully that and blessed local agencies professional fundraiser, endowment fund board guards devoted followers of Jesus. in the community. Now the remembers visiting Mae and the principal amount to be sure Ben Capshaw is another church has decided that at the they went to heaven. Nellie when he was quite it never dips below its original person who has been touched end of each year, if they have young. In their home, he cut level. by the endowment fund. He exceeded their budget and all out pieces of cloth for quilt Every year the endowment once served as a children’s expenses are paid, they will Nellie squares and prepared pill fund board receives requests pastor at the church that give away the balance. bottles to send to missionaries. for grants. They meet and administers the fund. In more Through these efforts Even then, he was impressed consider each one. To date, the recent years, he was pastoring a at improving stewardship, RON MCCLUNG with the dedication of these fund has given away nearly a church in Indiana that needed obedient Christians are two women. million dollars, but they still a new roof. He requested becoming stronger disciples. & Mae For a time, as an adult, have the original amount. They are learning to Rathbun served on the Today in Rathbun’s Their faith is pray about how to endowment fund board. fundraising efforts, totally use their resources According to the guidelines unconnected to the becoming stronger " for God. They are they had developed, the endowment fund, he often growing in their money can never go toward meets with wealthy people. each time God answers understanding Nellie, I have set aside some the operating expenses of the They are frequently surprised and practice Nellie, a schoolteacher, had invited local church that controls when he does not try to twist prayer and supplies a need. money for you and it will of generosity. " Mae, a widow, to live with her some the fund. It must go toward their arms to pressure them to And their faith become yours when I die," years earlier. In their late 70s and early outreach endeavors or to new give a certain amount. Instead $3,500 from the endowment is becoming stronger each 80s, they were thinking about how to projects. At one point, when he says, “My job is to help you fund. Remembering Ben’s time God answers prayer and Mae said to her friend. the church was not doing well, get closer to God. So I would be good stewards of their resources service to the church, they gave supplies a need. "Well, Mae, actually I have the board did vote to use some like you to pray about whether his Indiana church $10,000! We should not be after they went to heaven. When they of the money to help fund an set aside some money for God wants you to invest in Ben’s church replaced the roof, surprised. Paul told the did die and their resources came to outreach pastor for the first this project. If he does, great. completed some other projects, Corinthians, “Each of you you and when I die, it will the Wesleyan church of which they year, and then cut back the If not, I will not pressure you.” and still had money left over. should give what you have percentage of assistance over become yours." were members, the total amount was Of course, he hopes they will Rathbun counseled Ben to decided in your heart to the next two years. be generous, but his goal is to give it away on the premise more than a million dollars! give, not reluctantly or under On another occasion, strengthen their walk with the that you can’t outgive God and compulsion, for God loves a when the church facilities Lord. In other words, he wants that God loves a cheerful giver. cheerful giver” (2 Cor. 9:7).

2 FALL 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / FALL 2017 3 Transforming lives, churches, and communities through the hope and holiness of Jesus Christ. TheInseparableTwo Vol. 11, No. 4

MATTHEW 6:21

Founders Orange Scott (1843), Seth Rees (1897)

Executive Editor Janelle Vernon Creative Director Kory Pence Assistant Editor Tricia Rife hile leading Wesley Seminary, I monitor the connection between Designer Julia Sprow Designer Lyn Rayn discipleship and stewardship in my W I was privileged to design and Digital Storyteller Aaron Fussner teach a class titled “Money.” As life. As a pastor, if I avoid or apologize Cover Illustration Julia Sprow students gathered the first day I began for talking about money, do I avoid

the class by saying, “I’m sorry if I misled or apologize for other dimensions Contributors any of you. You may have thought this is of discipleship—reading the Word, Caryl Aukerman Katie Long Pete Benson Ron McClung a financial class. More accurately, it is a praying, loving my neighbor? Or do Edgar Chacón Mark Rennaker discipleship course.” I broaden my view of stewardship to David Drury Wayne Schmidt The very foundation of elude accountability for a specific area Marc LaPointe Ben Ward stewardship is the reality that God’s Spirit may be addressing in my DIGITAL MAGAZINE ONLINE AT WESLEYAN.LIFE “God owns it all.” Everything life? If God convicts me about my

we are and have is his: our time, use of time, do I comfort myself that Unless otherwise noted, all Bible quotations are taken from The gifts, resources, relationships, body. stewardship also involves money or Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All Everything. physical well-being, and if I’m doing fine rights reserved worldwide. Scripture quotations marked (KJV) are taken from the Holy Bible, King James Version. in those areas, I’m okay? Using the example of our bodies, Contents of this magazine are not to be reproduced without Jesus queries his followers, “Do you not Jesus stated, “For where your written permission. Signed articles present the views of the writers and are the property of the writers. know that your bodies are temples of treasure is, there your heart will be also” the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom (Matthew 6:21). Where is your heart? ISSN 2327-414X (print) ISSN 2327-4158 (online) you received from God? You are not So, as you read about Wesleyan Life is published three times annually, free IN THIS ISSUE your own; you were bought at a price. stewardship in the following to The Wesleyan Church schools and churches. Home delivery is available for a minimum donation of $12 Therefore honor God with your bodies” pages, think discipleship! The (U.S. dollars); $15 (USD for Canadian); and $25 USD (I Corinthians 6:19-20). two are inseparable. for all other international addresses. STORY VISION NEWS Correspondence Discipleship is giving ourselves For change of address give both old and new addresses. 02 Nellie & Mae 04 Inseparable 21 2017 marked with fully to God—no holding back. This Address all editorial and advertising correspondence, subscriptions, and change of address to: 08 Head over heels with 12 Time to heal growth and change full surrender is how we recognize his laughter 16 Giving God your all 28 News & information ownership and submit to his lordship. Mailing Address Physical Address Wesleyan Life The Wesleyan Church 10 A lifetime of giving 23 Apples to orchards 29 Wesleyan Emergency Relief P.O. Box 50434 13300 Olio Road Indianapolis, IN Fishers, IN 46037 11 Two became five 24 Building a thriving future Fund 46250-0434 Tel: 317.774.7907 Fax: 317.774.3924 27 Humans of Surrender TEACHING www.wesleyan.org [email protected] 06 Let go, it's God's

DR. WAYNE SCHMIDT Published by Wesleyan Publishing House 14 Llenando una necesidad FACEBOOK.COM/THEWESLEYANCHURCH Look for these icons General Superintendent P.O. Box 50434, Indianapolis, IN 46250-0434 for bonus digital media @WESLEYANCHURCH The Wesleyan Church Member: INSTAGRAM.COM/WESLEYANCHURCH WESLEYAN.LIFE 4 FALL 2017 / www.wesleyan.life Teaching 1 2

We live in a world seemingly obsessed with money, material possessions, status, It’s all God’s We are stewards, careers, entertainment. It is easy to adopt a When we belong to God, everything managers, servants mentality of “holding on tightly” to these we are and have belongs 100 “His servants ... entrusted his things and screaming, “Mine!” percent to him. God is the owner; wealth to them ... ” We need to True biblical stewardship or many in the church, we are the manager, the . In carefully and responsibly manage. (discipleship) is “letting go.” Instead of F stewardship is synonymous Matthew 25, we are reminded that, We are not the owners, but need to screaming, “Mine,” faithful stewards pray, with giving, fundraising or “he entrusted his wealth to them.” manage as if we were. At Beacon “Yours!” capital campaigns. In reality, it’s so Psalm 24:1 says, “The earth is the Capital Management, the company In my third year of college, my wife, much more! Lord’s, and everything in it, the I co-own, we have appointed Ginnie, and I agreed to pastor a small Let’s begin with its definition, world, and all who live in it.” Both several managers over various country church near campus. With two like the following from Webster: “1: seem pretty clear, wouldn’t you departments. The managers realize kids, college expenses, etc., the $100 a the office, duties, and obligations agree? The key to discipleship and the business does not belong to week we were paid was stretched to the of a steward. 2: the conducting, stewardship is constantly reminding them, but also recognize their call, limit. Yet both of us had been taught that supervising, or managing of ourselves that we are his. Therefore, their responsibility on behalf of the the $100 belonged to God, and in full something; especially the careful everything we own and will own is business, to “steward” and “manage” surrender to him, we needed at least to and responsible management of his; every dollar, every hour, every these departments well. The people, give $10 (10 percent) to the church. something entrusted to one's care.” talent, every dream, every gift, our the tasks, the budget – all are That decision was very difficult, Abraham Kuyper defines family, our recreation, everything. entrusted to them. because we could really use the money. stewardship as: “Carefully and But faithfulness was a matter of obedience responsibly managing something and surrender and discipleship. God was, entrusted to one’s care,” adding, of course, faithful to stretch the remaining “there is not a square inch in the $90 to do much more than we could have whole domain of our human 3 4 dreamed. existence over which Christ, who Stewardship When we, 20 is sovereign over all, does not cry: is holding years later, began ‘Mine!’” everything For me, stewardship is discipleship. to experience loosely, totally It’s total surrender to God of We will be held We are to be productive unexpected wealth, surrendering that lesson was a When we everything I am and have been accountable Matthew 25 makes it clear that the given. When we surrender fully it to God and strong reminder. If we surrender fully “After a long time the master of stewards/managers were to put everything we are and have, it serving him hadn’t learned to be those servants returned and settled that which was “entrusted” to them everything we becomes natural to be a good with gladness faithful with a little, accounts with them” (v.19). The to work and to produce results. are and have, steward during seasons of much or of heart. we wouldn’t have been longer the master stays away, To invest their gold, their talents, little. faithful with much. it becomes the easier it becomes to think of their time – not just hold tightly to One of the most popular Stewardship is holding everything natural to be a everything we have as being “ours” it. Not worship or bury it, but use biblical passages relating to loosely, totally surrendering it to God and good steward let go to do with as we choose. Often, it. Put it to work. What resources stewardship is Matthew 25:14- serving him with gladness of heart. that means sitting on or burying has God entrusted to you to use during seasons 30, known as the “Parable of the God’s Word encourages us to steward the entrusted gifts, talents, money. productively? Money, musical of much or little. Talents” or the “Parable of the Bags well what is entrusted to us until the Most of us think of ourselves as the talents, leadership gifts, time, of Gold.” Master’s return. The Master will return. one “bag of gold” (the one “talent”) relationships, a career, a family? The passage begins with, God’s pleasure and blessing await his person anyway, so it’s almost like we “Again, it will be like a man going faithful stewards. think we’re somehow off the hook. on a journey, who called his “God wouldn’t expect much from servants and entrusted his wealth to me.” Well, in Matthew 25, the owner PETE BENSON them” (NIV, 2011, emphasis added). (God) was furious with the servant is founder and co-owner of Beacon because he “buried the gold in the Capital Management, LLC in Franklin, Tennessee. ground.” God calls him a “wicked, lazy servant (steward).”

6 FALL 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / FALL 2017 7 HEAD OVER HEELS WITH LAUGHTER

love to laugh. Whether it’s a brief Did you catch that? “The nations” saw the I chuckle among friends or a full-out, tears hand of God at work in the joy and laughter of streaming down the face belly laugh at a Tim his people. Hopefully they will see the same in us. Hawkins concert, I just love to laugh. I wholeheartedly agree with King Solomon’s The nations saw the hand of observation that “A joyful heart is good medicine” (Proverbs 17:22) and believe it’s a prescription that God at work in the joy and needs to be filled in the church on a regular basis. laughter of his people. When I came to candidate at Sweetwater Community Church, I felt myself falling head over heels in love with this congregation. We were made I live in San Diego, a military town filled for each other. Why? Because they know how to with statues, plaques and memorials honoring laugh. our men and women in uniform. My favorite In Psalm 126, the psalmist describes the people memorial sits in the shadow of the USS Midway of Israel’s joy at a time when things were going well, – a group of life-sized bronze service men and saying: women smiling, laughing and clapping as they look at a bronze statue of Bob Hope standing at When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, a microphone. Hidden speakers play excerpts of we were like those who dream. Hope doing a standup routine at a USO concert Then our mouth was filled with laughter, in Vietnam. The military recognizes the value of and our tongue with shouts of joy; laughter in difficult times. So should we. then they said among the nations, The laughter of God’s people is beautiful. “The LORD has done great things for them.” It can reduce our stress, bind us together and soothe hurting hearts. Laughter is a priceless treasure God has given us. As stewards of that treasure, we need to spend it freely and frequently.

MARC LAPOINTE is lead pastor at Sweetwater Community Church in Bonita, California.

8 FALL 2017 / www.wesleyan.life two BECAME a lifetime of giving five KATIE LONG

dwin Wissbroecker had a big His life-long friend, Don Bray, E view of God. As a cherished describes Wissbroecker as "a principled ompelled by the need, my husband Global Partners missionary until person, taking biblical directives C and I launched into full-time his death at 91 in 2016, Wissbroecker literally. He believed that you could ministry almost 11 years ago, served for more than three decades in not out-give God and this established dragging our two young children along Zambia, Africa, and continued to return a foundational way of viewing his for the ride, with a third to be born two there after he retired with his wife, stewardship." years later. Then reality collided with us. Wilma, to Florida. Wissbroecker chose Our children sometimes found His whole life was about answering not to be defensive over his He believed that it hard to adjust to the new culture, Ministry the call God had given him before he resources because he knew you could not shaped by a former, ruthless communist became out-give God and even knew Christ. After he finished God was his supplier and dictator and years of Muslim rule. As our about our his time in the military, Wissbroecker would provide for all his this established a children's individual passions and talents went to a church service with some needs. Genesis 28:15 repeated foundational way emerged, we realized our son is very whole family friends. He had no idea what the word itself throughout his life and of viewing his musical, our daughter loves ballet and all sharing their missionary even meant, but as he proved true even after his stewardship. of our three children are ardent artists. In giftings and shook the pastor’s hand, the man made retirement from missions. our new neighborhood, we had a lot of giving back to Wissbroecker’s calling clear. “This man is “I am with you and will difficulty finding resources to encourage the community. called to be a missionary.” watch over you wherever you go, and I them in these endeavors and develop Later, when two friends led him will bring you back to this land. I will not their God-given gifts. to Christ, God reminded him of this leave you until I have done what I have promise. Wissbroecker’s response set the promised you.” In fact, we wondered at path to a lifetime of giving, financially Because he had a generous God, he times if we had done right So, we bought pastels, paint and Ministry truly became about our and physically. could be generous too, and that showed by our children in coming markers, and hosted classes in art and whole family sharing their giftings “If God ever wants me, he can have in how and what he gave. Wissbroecker to this poverty-stricken, ballet. We prepared a Women’s Day and giving back to the community. me.” This attitude changed everything. believed the money given to him had a difficult place to minister. recital and saw the side benefit as more Evangelism, discipleship and church Wissbroecker made spreading the gospel purpose and that was the only way to people became interested in the God we planting involves each member of his life. He put all his use it. His wife and family continue his And then a new way of ministry praised and served. our family and include music, ballet resources into discipling legacy of generosity through supporting emerged for us. As we saw God answer Then came the day when our son and art. Our ministry and our family "If God wants me, people, making them missionaries with Global Partners. prayers for us to find ways to fan into hosted weekly worship times where are stronger. he can have me" stronger so they could flames our children’s interest in ballet, participants were encouraged to create disciple others. music and art, we realized that so many songs as well, resulting in Albanian people in our neighborhood were in the worship songs. Ministry stopped being same situation. We could see the sadness only Mom and Dad serving, hoping our CARYL AUKERMAN children would be positive about our serves as a Global Partners in neighbor children’s eyes when they missionary in Albania. asked if they, like our children, could ministry and one day learn to live their learn to do ballet, art or music. own, separate lives in Christian service.

10 FALL 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / FALL 2017 11 Time

When Addison was offered the to Heal role of director of Global Partners Health Network, he saw the convergence of his entrepreneurial In 2013, wiring, his desire to be involved in the global mission and the Dr. Scott Addison opportunity to use his medical was a partner in training. a family practice How does he manage these multiple priorities? Addison admits in Muskegon, it’s an ongoing journey of finding Michigan. He and his wife balance. However, he has worked Sheila were active members of All with colleagues to structure his Shores Wesleyan Church (Spring practice schedule so that he can Lake, Michigan). Their personal devote one full day each week to lives were kept busy with raising Global Partners. three sons: Lewis, Teddy and Addison clearly sensed God Emmett. leading him into this role. This As a busy, successful has helped him to professional, Dr. Addison was not persevere through times when the looking for more ways to spend demands seemed overwhelming. his time. But it was at that time He has been presented with other that Dennis Jackson, executive opportunities for engagement director of Global Partners, asked along the way. Taking time to Addison to consider leading a listen for God’s leading has helped major medical outreach through him filter the God ideas from the The Wesleyan Church. merely good ideas. Global Partners Health Addison challenges other Network (gponline.org/GPHN) professionals from all walks of life brings together healthcare to consider how they may steward professionals and students to share their time for maximum impact. the love of Christ through global “You got one shot on earth,” he medical ministry. GPHN supports says. “You want to do what you can three Wesleyan hospitals—located to advance the kingdom. Whatever in La Gonave, Haiti; Zimba, it costs to get yourself in a position Zambia; and Kamakwie, Sierra where you’re really using your gifts Global Partners Health Leone—and a number of clinics to serve God is well worth it.” Network brings together in places like Papua New Guinea, Myanmar and creative access healthcare professionals and countries. GPHN has pioneered students to share the love of Community Health Evangelism Christ through global medical (CHE) outreaches in Haiti and ministry. Cambodia.

gponline.org/GPHN BEN WARD serves as Asia Area director for Global Partners.

12 FALL 2017 / www.wesleyan.life El ladrón: "Lo que tienes yo lo 1 quiero y te robaré" actúa bajo la premisa de la avaricia y codicia.

El Sacerdote y el levita: 2 “Lo que tengo es mío y no lo comparto,” por su vocación religiosa dada por Dios, se Stewardship has a foundation: Everything is esperaba que fueran sensibles from God (Psalm 24: 1-2, 1 Chronicles 29: 11-12). a la necesidad del herido, sin That is the key. John Maxwell said, "Stewardship is to use embargo decidieron no hacerlo. the skills God has given you, to manage the resources Es decir, fueron egoístas. God has given you to get the results that God has prepared for you." El samaritano: “le pertenezco Understanding and practicing these principles opens 3 a Dios, lo que tengo es de Dios, the door to the dimension of Christ's lordship, true por lo tanto lo utilizo para llenar worship and the practice of a living faith, which at the una necesidad,” con sensibilidad same time produces a full life. misericordiosa, decide usar sus I would like to use the parable of the Good habilidades, su tiempo y recursos Samaritan to examine our motivations and our para socorrer al necesitado, churches. Here Jesus intentionally inserted a Samaritan teniendo una buena actitud de whom the Jews hated. But let's look at the different mayordomía. Con esta actitud, attitudes: el samaritano actuaba como un buen mayordomo, basado en la The thief: "I want what you have, and I will steal yours." obediencia la fe y la adoración, ya 1 He acted under the premise of greed. que todo acto de servicio a Dios es auténtica adoración. The Priest and the Levite: "What I have is mine and 2 I do not share it." Because of their God-given, religious De igual manera, podemos vocation, they were expected to be sensitive to the need reflejar este ejemplo a la luz de of the wounded, but they decided not to do so. They la iglesia de hoy en día. ¿Cómo were selfish. está mostrando tu iglesia una buena mayordomía? ¿Está The Samaritan: "I belong to God, what I have is La mayordomía tiene un fundamento: recordando tu iglesia que TODO 3 from God. Therefore, I use it to fill a need." With Todo es de Dios (Salmo 24:1-2; 1 Crónicas es de Dios? Como al Sacerdote compassionate sensitivity, he decided to use his abilities, 29:11-12), esa es la clave. John Maxwell dice: y Levita, se nos han dado un sin his time and resources to help the needy, having a good "Mayordomía es utilizar las habilidades que Dios fin de recursos para bendecir a attitude of stewardship. With this attitude, the Samaritan te ha dado, para administrar los recursos que otros. Al igual que el Samaritano, acted as a good steward, based on obedience to faith Dios te ha dado, para obtener los resultados que utilicemos todo lo que se nos and worship, since every act of service to God is true Dios te ha preparado." ha dado para ser obedientes worship. Entender y practicar estos principios abren a Él así como para aquellos la puerta a la dimensión del señorío de Cristo, la que no conocen del mensaje In the same way, we can reflect this example in the verdadera adoración y práctica de una fe viva, transformador del Evangelio. light of today's church. How is your church showing que produce vida plena. ¡Seamos fieles mayordomos good stewardship? Is your church remembering that EDGAR CHACÓN Quisiera utilizar la parábola del Buen para que el Señor nos siga everything is from God? As were the Priest and Levite, El Dr. Edgar Chacón es el Superintendente bendiciendo cada vez más! del Distrito Hispano del Suroeste de la Samaritano para así examinar nuestras we have been given endless resources to bless others. Iglesia Wesleyana. motivaciones y las de nuestras iglesias. Aquí, Like the Samaritan, let us use all that God has given Dr. Edgar Chacón is district Jesús inserta en la historia, intencionalmente, to us by being obedient to him as well as by being superintendent of the Southwest Hispanic a un Samaritano a quienes los judíos odiaban. compassionate to those who do not know of the District of The Wesleyan Church. Pero veamos las diferentes actitudes: transforming message of the gospel. Let us be faithful stewards so that the Lord may continue to bless us!

14 FALL 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / FALL 2017 15 Giving God YOUR ALL

I am 3rd The men’s basketball Indiana Wesleyan University team is building a team of 3rd in a culture of 1st.

“IAM3,” or “I am 3rd” is a top pillar Ben Carlson, a senior from Assistant coach, Jeff Clark, said the of the Indiana Wesleyan University Palatine, Illinois, says “I am 3rd” has team is intentional about seeking God’s men’s basketball team. The team’s blog changed his life forever. A former guidance in all they do and is quick Collectively, site describes it as “Building a team of lukewarm Christian, he knows he’s to point out the team is made up of 3rd in a culture of 1st.” Head Coach given God his all this past year– imperfect guys. the five Wesleyan Greg Tonagel and his coaching staff academically, relationally, physically, “I am 3rd to us is not a catchy colleges and universities consistently remind the team that they mentally and spiritually. slogan,” said Clark. “It’s the heart of steward the lives of more are third. The concept is simple: it’s “This is a program that doesn’t what we’re trying to accomplish with than 18,000 students annually. God first, others second, yourself third. just believe in growth, but in our program. We are not perfect, but From the beginning of the transformation,” said Carlson. “I began we learn greater depths of it each year.” Each school is different. Each student recruiting process, coaches tell to pray that I would no longer be seen, While the coaching staff and players is different. Each discipleship opportunity prospective students what the team but God would be seen in everything I want to win, they know they have a is different. But the mission is the same— is about. While many are receptive, d o.” greater purpose. transforming lives through the hope and some are not. And that’s okay. Players know the team is one that will pursue holiness of Jesus Christ. Following is a Jesus and love people. The team spends glimpse of how students are being significant time praying, dreaming and discipled at Wesleyan Church schools. seeking God together–even ministering locally through various avenues and IWUHoops Blog going on regular mission trips to iwuhoops.net/blog communicate the gospel.

16 FALL 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / FALL 2017 17 John Lamos grew up in a family of pastors including his dad, grandfather, aunts and uncles. It seemed obvious he I hesitated about going would follow in their footsteps. However, into a life of ministry Lamos ran from God’s call. “I hesitated about going into a life of because I felt like I Oklahoma Wesleyan ministry because I felt I was doing what was doing what everyone University everyone expected me to do,” Lamos God can said. “I decided out of my own expected me to do. story with God as opposed to About 15 years ago, a group of Oklahoma use anyone Obligation saying ‘yes’ by default. God Wesleyan University students expressed or put [in me] a passion to love a desire to create an entirely student-led worship environment at the university. people with his heart that Houghton College Calling only came from him and Lamos embraces Lead Today, OKWU’s not from following a family Pastor Brent Ingersoll’s Spiritual Life team Jaclyn Algier’s plan when Kingswood calling.” vision to be led by the Holy helps run ALTAR, a she arrived on the Houghton After earning a B.A. in Spirit and to say “yes” to God, Posture student-led chapel University College campus was simple: Algier cried all 10 days of ministry at Kingswood University even when seemingly impossible. service occurring of play volleyball. A generous the trip, her heart moved by that included an internship as creative He has repeatedly witnessed people Sunday nights scholarship motivated her to “people with their hands in arts pastor at Kings Church, Quispamsis, entering the church and experiencing the throughout the school enroll even though she “wanted the air, tears running down New Brunswick, Canada, Lamos joined love of Christ for the first time. year. Typically, ALTAR worship nothing to do with the religious their faces, knees bent on the the staff serving full time in the same One teenager showing interest in the consists of worship, aspects of Houghton College dirt floors, praising God with role. He oversees campus worship, media creative side of Sunday morning services a brief message from a student, prayer, c ampu s .” all their hearts.” These people and productions. was asked by Lamos to help with media. communion and other activities. “had nothing, yet I had “He’s a teenager whose heart has been set ALTAR’s intent is to begin each everything … I lacked on fire for God’s kingdom,” Lamos said. “It new week in worship before returning I thought a person had to be nothing yet they were is seriously a gift to watch him fall deeply in to the busyness of homework, practices all put together nicely before happier than I was.” love with Jesus.” and classes. Students are given a chance to remind themselves of what’s they could be a Christian. From that point on, ultimately important: to be in intentional she was on fire for God, community with God and their peers. “I thought a person had to be all baptized at Houghton Wesleyan “The thing I love about ALTAR put together nicely before they Church. Algier worked at a is that it is all student-led,” said Sam could be a Christian,” Algier said, Christian camp and went to Thomas, Spiritual Life team member who “but when my teammates started Costa Rica with Push the Rock Tangible Examples Learn more worked as an ALTAR worship leaders sharing some personal things to engage in sports ministry at swu.edu/article/swu-involved- coordinator. and we began to pray, seeing dangerous prisons. The men’s soccer and the women’s mentoring in-high-school-and-community- those prayers being answered was Algier followed a call to Southern outreach-at-walhalla/ “The students program teams helped launch a mentoring who are intriguing.” Ecuador with One Mission Wesleyan program between Southern Wesleyan The thing I love The transformational Society after her 2015 speaking ALTAR University University volunteers and Walhalla High know exactly about is that moment came on a team mission graduation and is teaching School students. The program’s goal is to and SWU alumnus. “This tangible example what we're all it is all student-led. trip to Nicaragua. She recalls at an elementary school in provide support, inspiration to gives our athletes confidence that the dream going through going only “because I wanted North Africa through English continue a college education, of college sports is not out of reach with hard as college to play volleyball, visit a new Language Institute/China and witnessing Christ to the work and dedication.” students. It's a great community country, work at the orphanages (ELIC). She is determined to high school students and Opening a community outreach program environment where anyone from campus and just spend time with my impact the students through the Seneca and Walhalla in Walhalla and Seneca involving Welcome can come and have some quality worship teammates.” education and sports ministry. communities. Interactions Wesleyan Church and several other churches time with their peers. It's also a great Although Algier never intended have included a campus visit is also planned. The Latino discipleship platform for anyone who wants to go into to become a disciple and share and soccer clinic. program, “La Ruta,” started by Dr. Raul ministry because they can get experience the gospel, she now embraces “The SWU mentoring Chavez-Negrete, SWU associate professor of speaking or leading worship.” that charge wholeheartedly. program has given our athletes business, and Walhalla High School board a chance to see what it is really like member, will focus on helping the Latino/ to play college-level sports,” said Miguel Hispanic population, young women and Campus Life at OKWU Resendiz, Walhalla High School soccer coach generational poverty. okwu.edu/residential/campus-life/

18 FALL 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / FALL 2017 19 2017 Marked with Growth and Change

District Worship Superintendent Attendance Elections

Rev. Wesley Smith Northwest District

decadal Rev. Peter Moore Atlantic District growth rate of 22.9% Dr. Billy Wilson Mountain Plains District

The following North American districts showed a 5% attendance gain: Eastern New York-New England Chesapeake • Distrito Hispano District changed name to: Suroeste • Greater Ohio • Mountain Plains • North Carolina East Northeast District • Shenandoah • Western New York

Read Full Article wesleyan.life/2017-growth-and-change

2007 7,836

2017 12,287 “These stats – along with stories of transformed lives, churches and communities – give us cause for celebration,” said General Superintendent Dr. Wayne Schmidt. “And we do celebrate Conversions every time a disciple makes a disciple and a church multiplies itself until The 32,141 Wesleyan Church has a transforming presence in every ZIP code.” the fourth largest total on record

www.wesleyan.life / FALL 2017 21 (Sent Ones) for Jesus, whether we have to cross an ocean or an alley or a cubicle to tell someone of his love and It’s our privilege to be missionaries forgiveness.” As Sent Church (Sent Ones) for Jesus, whether we trains up people to be have to cross an ocean or an alley or sent, it has short-term, Apples to mid-term and long- a cubicle to tell someone of his love term goals in mind. and forgiveness.” Orchards Sent Church has been establishing leadership Becoming a giving buy-in, developing and sending church leaders and apprentices takes ministry to for new small groups another level. and churches and helping a steering “As the Father has team determine the sent me, I am sending preferable outcome to you.” This is what Jesus their vision of sending said to his disciples in in the DFW area and John 20:21, and it has beyond. become the inspiration Next year’s goal for a church’s identity is for everyone in and name in Plano, leadership to grow and Texas, where nearly multiply/reproduce. Of this 300,000 souls live. leadership replication, Nash says, Sent Church, as the “The discipleship and leadership congregation renamed training engine of 2 Timothy 2:2 itself, is in the greater are the keys to beginning and Dallas–Fort Worth furthering a movement.” metro area (often Sent Church has planted referred to as DFW). churches before, but this Within this sprawling intentional leadership 13-county area of development opens up all Texas that more than kinds of new possibilities for seven million people multiplication. Sent Church Reflecting on what God is call home, DFW is a envisions a dramatic increase multiplying out from Sent Church, place the people of in small groups, leadership Nash says, “We used to only think Sent Church are not capacity and developing several about apples and trees, but now just home in, but are new church plants and training we envision orchards of churches sent to and sent from. models. Two dozen new church coming from this one, small seed Pastor Dwight plants of all sizes in many called Sent Church!” Nash emphasizes the locations, and just as many missionary calling new small groups that ideally of every believer in will become DAVID DRURY Sent Church saying, seeds of new “It’s our privilege is an author and serves as the chief of church plants staff for the international headquarters to be missionaries themselves are of The Wesleyan Church. long-term goals.

www.wesleyan.life / FALL 2017 23 Growing freedom allowed the church to turn attention from problems toward possibilities. Yaryan acquired a home that Building a might provide rental income, but the house needed renovation. TFI operates through a simple He started making repairs alone, proposition: thriving clergy help Thriving Future but soon had a team of helpers. create thriving congregations, Church members volunteered time Yaryan and Union Street which help support thriving and tools. They networked in the Wesleyan Church took the communities. The economic community to find materials and lead. They built a coalition of challenges pastors face often supplies. Room by room, the house, community churches. They exist at the center of reasons the church and the future took “Not sure how, but I’ve got TFI gave Yaryan hope his organized with the YMCA. They why they fail to thrive. But it’s shape. to get my church involved,” situation might be reversed. networked with local merchants not really about the money. It’s Amazing futures sometimes Randy Yaryan thought. He had He shared the project with to collect donations, materials and not about pastors accumulating emerge from a simple question: just learned about the Thrive the Winchester Union Street volunteer-work schedules. The material wealth. It’s about “What if?” While working on Financial Initiative (TFI), a new Wesleyan Church family, finding youth at Union Street donated removing impediments and Yaryan’s rental home, the pastor program from The Wesleyan them receptive to the idea. $1,000 to the project. creating conditions that help and laity learned that someone Church Education and Clergy “I found a church willing to Yaryan and his team launched pastors function fully in the in the Winchester community Development Division. TFI help its pastor. They just didn’t the work in August 2017, living calling and gifts of God. needed help. A man widely known brings the denomination, know I needed it or where I out the grace and generosity of for serving kids through the local district, local church and pastor needed it,” Yaryan said. When Christ. A church once mired in Through a generous grant from YMCA and youth sports leagues together in collaborative ways he affirmed he had some debt debt and a doubtful future has the Lilly Endowment, God has lived in a home covered in broken to address pastors’ economic concerns, that was enough begun to turn into a kingdom blessed The Wesleyan Church siding, rotted doors and shattered burdens and provide financial information for his church force in its small community— with a pathway to address the windows. “What if . . . ?” management tools for a pastor leaders. one nail, one board, one person at economic challenges faced and congregation. Without knowing all the a time. by our clergy–Thrive Financial Through years of ministry details, laity started brainstorming Initiative. at minimal salaries, Yaryan ideas for raising funds to reduce accumulated sizeable debt from his debt. The pastor and lay A church his and his kids’ education, loans leaders began working together once mired from worn-out vehicles he used to complete financial education for ministry and bills from other projects that helped them become in debt and a wesleyan.org/tfi expenses just to provide a home better stewards. Many took doubtful future learn how you, your pastor and for his family. Working second the opportunity to minimize MARK RENNAKER your church can engage in the and third jobs to make ends meet personal debt. The church also has begun is a pastor, associate professor of Thrive Financial Initiative eroded his outlook for ministry tackled some of the congregation’s leadership and serves as The Wesleyan to turn into a Church denominational director of the and strained relationships with debt. What started as support Thrive Financial Initiative. the people he was called to for the pastor soon grew into kingdom force HOPE FOR PASTORS serve. Yaryan suffered. Ministry a collaborative project freeing in its small You can learn more about the suffered. pastor and people from some of beginnings of TFI by reading Hope the economic shackles limiting for Pastors: A Collaborative Approach community, to Clergy Financial Health available ministry focus and ability. from Wesleyan Publishing House. one nail, one https://magento.finelink.com/ board, one wphstoreretail/bkc730.html person at a time.

24 FALL 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / FALL 2017 25 HUMANS OF SURRENDER

BY TRICIA RIFE

“Nobody cared. I was tossed out like a Each story features examples of the human piece of paper,” said Perry, a homeless condition: pride, fear, ego, doubt, lust, betrayal, man in Manhattan, Kansas. anxiety, bitterness and anger, followed by how the Perry’s story is just one of many told by story subject found hope in Christ. Humans of Surrender (HOS). An initiative of While the stories found at HOS illustrate Brett Awbrey and Herbert, both members redemption, Awbrey, an entrepreneur, and Herbert, of Westview Community Church in Manhattan, Westview youth director, stress that those featured Kansas, HOS shares stories of the brokenness aren’t perfect people. of people who then find hope and redemption “We don’t want to give the illusion that through Jesus Christ. The stories cover the through Jesus we’re perfect,” said Herbert. spectrum of humanity, from homeless people to “Surrender is something I do hundreds of times a company CEOs. day. When we submit ourselves to his grace, we are The idea for Humans of Surrender was born healed – true spiritual transformation takes place.” in 2014 as Brett contemplated what it means to truly surrender one’s will to God. HOS is modeled Everyone has a story and God can use after Humans of New York, a photoblog consisting each one to make his name known. of stories that display humanity in a pure form. The goal of Humans of Surrender is to produce There is one major difference, however. Stories 6,000 stories by 2019. with Humans of Surrender depict the hope found Awbrey and Herbert want to empower others in Jesus. to tell their stories. “There is not a human being on the face of “People are reserved in being transparent and the earth who doesn’t have a story to tell or isn’t sharing their stories,” said Herbert. “It’s okay to be broken,” said Awbrey. “Common ground for all of broken.” us involves sin, brokenness and pain.” Learn more humansofsurrender.com

www.wesleyan.life / FALL 2017 27 LEGACY WESLEYAN CHURCH EMERGENCY PLANTING EBOLA EPIDEMIC Wesleyans Provide RELIEF FUND Hurricane Relief HURRICANES and Recovery Haiti & The United States TWO EARTHUAES Nepal

Read more relief updates wesleyan.org/news

The Wesleyan Church, World Hope International and Poured Out united to provide relief and ongoing recovery WATER CRISIS for victims impacted by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. Flint, Michigan The Wesleyan Could a portion Church stewarded of your estate TSUNAMI $1,720,682 transform a Renuevo: Renewal, Southeast Asia community? Relationships and Relaxation FLOODS MUDSLIDES

TYPHOON Mozambique & Peru More than 500 Hispanic and multiethnic people gathered The Philippines The Wesleyan Church at Indiana Wesleyan University for the Hispanic family camp, Development Office Full story Renuevo 2017, in July. Renuevo wesleyan.org/6571 can help you make a will be held again June 22-24, 2018, at Southern Wesleyan University. legacy gift to church TORNADOES planting efforts in Oklahoma your district. Sierra Leone Ecuadorian Pastors Emergency Make History IT'S MORE THAN NUMBERS. in Oklahoma, floods and mudslides in Each WERF entity worshiped God Each dollar represents a donor, Mozambique and Peru, a water crisis by serving others, assisting with funds, # multiplytwc Response Effort History was made for The Wesleyan a deliverer and a recipient. in Flint, Michigan, hurricanes in Haiti personnel, equipment, supplies, medical Church of Ecuador on May 12 when and the United States, and the Ebola care, construction, communication and World Hope International coordinated Gustavo Viejo, Nino Medina, Diana an emergency response effort with the In the past five years, the Wesleyan epidemic in Sierra Leone. prayer. Because of people’s immediate Development Office Esteves de Cruz and Juancarlos Cruz Emergency Relief Fund has responded Involved in WERF services and generous response to WERF, Sierra Leone Office of National Security became the first ordained Wesleyan to 11 domestic and international were Global Partners, World Hope lives were transformed physically and (ONS) in response to deadly mudslides pastors in the country. and flooding in , Sierra disasters. Prompting calls for International, Poured Out, districts, eternally. 317.774.3931 Leone, on August 14. contributions were two earthquakes in congregations and individuals. Nepal, a tsunami in southeast Asia, a Humanitarian aid networks spanned Full story Full story development@ wesleyan.org/300 wesleyan.org/6574 typhoon in the Philippines, tornadoes communities, countries and continents. wesleyan.org 28 FALL 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / FALL 2017 29 Remembered

EMMETT, DR. STORER Dr. Storer Emmett, 84, died August 25. Emmett served as a missionary with Wesleyan World Missions (now Global Partners) in Haiti, Sierra Leone and Zambia. He also served as director of Wesleyan Medical Celebrating and Fellowship (now Global Partners Health Network). He is survived by Partnering with “Together We Can Do It!” his wife, Wilma. Full story: wesleyan.org/wesleyan-missionary-medical-doctor-passes-away Poland Churches A dream became reality in Bogota, Colombia, when 14 members of the first Wesley Seminary (Bogota) cohort Full story wesleyan.org/6517 Wesleyan churches in Poland are using received master of divinity degrees on July 15. Seven students graduated with undergraduate degrees. CANN, REV. ENOS MARTIN, REV. ERNEST, JR. Facebook Live and auto repair to meet Rev. Enos Cann, 93, died July 25. He Rev. Ernest Martin, Jr., 36, died June 25. He their neighbors and help with real-life pastored in New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, pastored at Gnaw Bone Wesleyan Church in problems like car trouble and inter- , Virginia and Canada. His wife, Erma, Nashville. His wife, Linda, survives. personal conflict. survives. Full story: wesleyan.org/indiana-south-pastor- Full story FARLEY, REV. DALE killed-in-car-accident-6442 wesleyan.org/6575 Rev. Dale Farley, 84, died July 1. He pastored in New York and Michigan. His wife, Helen, OOCUMMA, REV. DINAH General Superintendent survives. Rev. Dinah Oocumma, 90, died August 27. She served as an assistant pastor at Cherokee Responds to Charlottesville FLICK, REV. JAMES Wesleyan Church in North Carolina. Her Rev. James Flick, 88, died June 11. He pastored husband, Woodrow Welch, preceded her in death. Caribbean Wesleyan in Colorado, Kansas and Oklahoma. His On August 12, violence in Charlottesville, Virginia, received national wife, Nina, survives. PARK, JOSEPH College Celebrates attention. White supremacists and counter-protesters clashed during the Joseph Park, 86, died August 24. He served as Dual Accreditation “Unite the Right” rally, organized to protest against removing the Robert HAMEL, REV. MARK a printer for Wesley Press, now Wesleyan Edward Lee sculpture in Emancipation Park. Rev. Mark Hamel, 63, died July 13. He Publishing House. His wife, Edna, survives. Following are excerpts from a response by General Superintendent pastored in Kansas and Nebraska. He was The Caribbean Wesleyan College (CWC) Wayne Schmidt: co-pastoring First Wesleyan Church in RAMPEY, REV. M. PAUL community gathered for a thanksgiving Wichita with his wife, Marcelle, who survives. Rev. M. Paul Rampey, 89, died June 24. He service to celebrate the school’s full “I denounce any behavior couched as Christian that dehumanizes planted Belton Wesleyan Church in Belton, accreditation with the University HINSHAW, REV. E. DWAYNE people and elevates one group over another. South Carolina, and pastored several other churches Council of Jamaica, along with its Rev. E. Dwayne Hinshaw, 69, died July 26. in the state. His first wife, Marian, preceded him in “Our doctrine as Christians and history as Wesleyans in full accreditation with Caribbean He pastored in North Carolina and was death. He is survived by his wife, Martha. particular compels us not to be silent or inactive, but to engage Evangelical Theological Association, serving as an assistant pastor at First in love. I call on all Wesleyan churches to pray for our nation, achieved in 2011. Wesleyan Church in Burlington. He is SHEPHERD, REV. EDWARD Charlottesville, and for pastors and community leaders on the front survived by his wife, Janeice. Rev. Edward Shepherd, 84, died July 15. He Full story lines risking their safety there.” pastored in the Shenandoah District. His wife, wesleyan.org/6515 “I also encourage all Christians to grow in their discipleship by KUEHNER, REV. TOM Gladys, preceded him in death. forming relationships across ethnic lines. Rev. Tom Kuehner, 54, died July 22. He “In my own life, I have found these relationships to grow my own pastored at Victory Highway Wesleyan WILSON, REV. VELMA soul, and also grow my perspective and empathy for how others Church in Painted Post, New York. His wife, Rev. Velma Wilson, 83, died May 6. She pastored experience these matters. God uses these relationships, and our Deb, survives. with her husband, Rev. Ted Wilson, for 60 years. He preceded her in death. discipleship becomes more holistic if we reach across such lines.” LEROY, REV. DAVID Safe Families are a Rev. David LeRoy, age 64, died WITHEROW, REV. DANIEL Full story September 6. An ordained Rev. Daniel Witherow, 41, died May 11. He served Church Priority wesleyan.org/6587 minister with the Atlantic as pastor of Grace Wesleyan Church in Zanesville, The Ransom Church was the first District, he served as district Ohio. His wife, Sara, survives. superintendent of the Dakota in South Dakota to become a Safe District from 1993 to 1997, and YAZZIE, REV. BEN Families church. Eight churches in of the Atlantic District from Rev. Ben Yazzie, 76, died June 27. He pastored Sioux Falls now volunteer with Safe Prayer for Charlottesville 2007 to 2012. He also pastored Dineh Wesleyan Church in Keams Cannon, Families for Children. in the Atlantic and Central New York . His wife, Bettie, survives. On August 13, the first of 21 days of Full story districts. He is survived by his wife, Joanne. previously-scheduled focused prayer was Full story wesleyan.org/6601 EDITOR’S NOTE: Rev. Lona Johnston passed wesleyan.org/6497 held in Cornerstone Community Church, a Full story: wesleyan.org/former-district- Wesleyan congregation in Charlottesville. superintendent-passes-away away in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada. We apologize for the previously-published error.

30 FALL 2017 / www.wesleyan.life www.wesleyan.life / FALL 2017 31 THE WESLEYAN CHURCH CORPORATION PO BOX 50434, INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46250-0434 WESLEYAN.ORG