Around The Region News...Revival in Hela, but Spiritual Battle Intense, Volunteer Impacts Community Through Art, Urgent Prayer Request / Praises and more! of Asia Pacific Region of The Global Church of the Nazarene for Saturday, 20 December 2014
Saturday, December 20, 2014
Volume 2 / Issue Number 45
This is the last issue of the Around The Region News for 2014. See you on January 3, 2015, with Engaging News from the Asia-Pacific Region!
This Christmas, consider giving a gift to a specific 10% Mission Special. The Asia-Pacific Region has many opportunities for you to partner in making a Kingdom impact.
20-Dec-2014 Prayer requested for Rendezvous. In early January, high school students serving cross-culturally with their parents on the Asia-Pacific Region will participate in a special gathering. LINK 20-Dec-2014See the article to the right from Papua New Guinea. Kingdom impact is being made, but the spiritual battle is intense. Your prayers are needed specifically December 22-26 as crusades continue. LINK 16-Dec-2014 Praise! Pastor's newborn daughter was in desperate need of a blood transfusion, non type-specific blood was available in her country. A relative was located who could be a donor. Baby is doing much better. LINK 11-Dec-2014 Praise! Nazarene teacher who was in serious motorcycle accident, and for whom Nazarenes around the globe prayed, has been discharged from the hospital and is recovering well. LINK
Magnets fascinate me. Put a magnet on a table surrounded by metal objects and the objects will quickly move toward it. Put one on the end of metal rod and insert it into a motor housing or a building project and a lost bolt, nut, or screw will grasp for it like it was a lifesaver. Effective leaders are like magnets, put them into a leadership environment and people or groups will gravitate toward them. In fact magnetism is one of the key qualities of a leader. Magnetic leaders make their presence felt in any situation. Most will seek their voice while others seek their nod of approval. They seem to have it together. How would we describe these "magnetic" qualities? 1. Magnetic leaders walk into the room with a determined gait.They don't slouch. Their physical stature suggests alertness and poise. 2. Magnetic leaders look for that first set of eyes with which they can connect.They understand that communication takes focus-on people, one person at a time. 3. Magnetic leaders bring the sunshine with them.They lighten the room with a positive energy and friendliness that often contrasts the attitude of others. 4. Magnetic leaders speak with confidence and encouragement.Need a good word? They have one in mind, and are quick to share it. Need an idea spark? They've been thinking about one, and would gladly give you their opinion. In a word, they're magnetic. But they know that magnetism is one part inherited and two parts developed. They live in an atmosphere that is, to some extent, of their own creation. They have learned that by carrying a gray cloud on a string everywhere they go, the people they encounter will naturally be disheartened. But by letting the sun shine through their demeanor, they can cast a confident aura. Magnetic leaders know they can move people with the power of their presence. They know that when they speak enthusiastically of the future, people will have hope. When they talk of the possibility of success, people will have confidence. When they underscore the positive qualities of an idea, people are motivated. Magnetic leaders probably wouldn't be on a TV news station's "Storm Team." To them, the weather is always sunny![Stan Toler]
December is Compassionate Ministries Month. Join God's work of compassion in our world. Share what it means to live compassion as a lifestyle. Pray for people in need. And support the work of compassion through local congregations around the world. We encourage your church to set aside a Sunday in December to focus on God's call to the church to engage in the ministry of compassion.
As NMI celebrates 100 years on October 8, 2015, we know you're ready to party during the year on your district. NMI has gathered a 100th Anniversary committee that is currently working on resources you can use. Be watching future issues of HeartLine and your inbox. And if you have ideas you'd like to share, contact Ann Baldwin. If you have any question contact the Asia-Pacific Regional NMI Coordinator.
Don't Miss The Action
~ Asia-Pacific Regional Event. October 21-25, 2015 Yogyakarta, Indonesia ~ District Assemblies October 26, 2014 to March 18, 2015 ~
Asia-Pacific Regional Director Dr. Mark Louw and family
From where the day starts in the east to the western most part of the great Asia-Pacific Region, I have this year, seen God at work. His love in action through the transformed lives of those who seek to share in creative ways the peace, hope and joy that we as Christ followers have. Thank you for all that you're doing to be agents of transformation in your place of work and ministry. Faith Hill, a contemporary American Country Music singer, recently made popular a song entitled: A baby changes everything!
This Christmas, Linda and I will be in Frankfurt, Germany, with our new grandson. How we've looked forward to his arrival. How we're celebrating his arrival. As we celebrate the birth of Hayden Samuel Pascal Henger, my thoughts are drawn to the amazing words spoken in hope to a hurting people: "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government is placed upon his shoulders, and his name shall be called The Wonderful One, The Counsellor, The God, The Mighty One, The Eternal Father, The Prince of Peace." Is 9: 6.
This season, let's celebrate the birth of Jesus, The Wonderful One, The Counsellor, The God, The Mighty One, The Eternal Father, The Prince of Peace. Let's celebrate the purpose for which he came, the reason for which we do what we do.
As we conclude this year, my prayer is that we will again have that new excitement of new life in our hearts, lives and families. If you're struggling, be assured that this baby changes everything.
Thank you for your love of Jesus and commitment to His church and mission.
Merry Christmas and Happy 2015.
Your servant for Him, Mark
Mark Louw
More Christmas Greetings
Merry Christmas from Dr. David and Christi Busic
Merry Christmas from Dr. Verne and Natalie Ward
Merry Christmas from the World Mission Communications Team
On December 18th, great news was received out of Papua New Guinea. After four years of prayer and struggle, the church was being officially dedicated at Koroba Government Station, Hela Province. Crusades had been held, 40 new believers committed their lives to Christ, 8 were baptized. Eternal Kingdom impact was being made! But on the evening of December 19th, a very different email was received with shocking news and an urgent call for prayer. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12 (NIV) Our church in Papua New Guinea is in need of your prayers like never before. As territory is taken for the Kingdom, the spiritual battle is intense. Will you take 5 minutes, read this story and commit to pray and ask others to pray this Christmas week?
HOLY SPIRIT BRINGS REVIVAL TO HELA…BUT THE COSTS ARE HIGH!
Hela Province, Papua New Guinea:After nearly four years of struggling to locate land for establishing a Nazarene Church in Hela Province, the dream has finally been fulfilled.
Rev. Nicolas Ipisa and his wife Esther, had the dream of planting a church in the heart of Hela Province. With the help of a layman, Simon Kunini, they began searching for that place where the Lord was leading them.
Please see the end of this story for an urgent update and Request for Prayer!
The land has been located, a church erected, and God is truly at work. Daniel Eka, National Communications Coordinator for Papua New Guinea, sent in the following report on December 18th.
Koroba Government Station
A week of services were held in preparation for the official dedication of the church. We are praising God! During the services, 40 people gave their hearts to the Lord for the first time. Eight people were baptized! These 8 people are pioneer Christians of the new church here at Koroba Government Station.
The newly erected church at Koroba Government Station.
Several people came to participate in the services and the dedication of the new church. Among them were: Missionary Rev. Mike Chapman, Rev. Thomas Enoch (DS of Chimbu/Eastern Highlands), Rev. Peter Degene (DS of Hagen District), Rev. Joseph Yapasi (DS of Southern Highlands District) Rev. Samual Walbe (Chaplain of Melanesia Nazarene Bible College).
We are believing that this is just the beginning! Hela will never be the same! God’s Spirit is moving and impacting lives in marvelous ways. The message of scriptural heart holiness is penetrating and challenging the hearts of those here in the province.
Hela Province is located in the highlands of Papua New Guinea, and is home to more than 250,000 inhabitants.
Please continue to pray for the ministry in Papua New Guinea. Another crusade will be held in the Kagu-Erave District, which is located in the Southern Highlands Province, 22-26 of December.
*** Update ***
The very afternoon after this story was published, an urgent request for prayer was received from the team in Hela Province. At approximately 6:30pm on December 19th, the layman who had been so instrumental in getting the church established, Simon Kunini, died suddenly.
This came as an incredible shock to all of those who were gathered for the dedication of the new church. Please commit to pray for pastor Nicolas, his wife Esther, Simon’s family, and this new family of believers at Koroba Government Station. We are reminded that, “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12 NIV)
As territory is claimed and taken for our Lord’s Kingdom, you can rest assured that the spiritual battle for souls in Hela will be intense!
Feature Photo Credit: A Huli man with a homemade gun, also called “one-shot gun,” in a village nearby Tari, Hela Province. Image by Céline Rouzet. Papua New Guinea, 2012.
The Richmond Street Community Church of the Nazarene in Maryborough, Queensland, makes its home in a former cordial (soft drink) factory and warehouse. See how they have taken this very unique venue, crates and creativity, to impact their community through Vintage Christmas. An opportunity to share with the community, the real reason for celebrating Christmas.
AUSTRALIA CHURCH IMPACTS COMMUNITY THROUGH CELEBRATING VINTAGE CHRISTMAS!
Maryborough, Queensland, Australia:What do you get when you cross a former cordial (soft drink) factory warehouse with large wooden boxes and some Christmas magic? These are the ingredients used by the Richmond Street Community Church of the Nazarene to spread the hope of Christ to the local community at Christmas!
Vintage Christmas is an interactive display. Visitors walk through and experience various scenes of Christmas from past decades. The display is open for 10 nights leading up to Christmas and visitors can also enjoy snacks and drinks with face painting and crafts for the kids.
The event is in its third year and sees a large number of visitors each night. The core creative team starts planning and purchasing months in advance. The vision for Vintage Christmas is not just to be something that is visually appealing and entertaining, but to show the light of Christ in a world that needs His hope.
The whole church takes part in putting it together, from the kids who help decorate trees and make decorations to retirees who help with the displays.
Many families enjoy a Christmas experience, where the real reason for the season is shared.
Prior to any work being started, the Church spent time in prayer together, seeking the Lord and praying that that seeds would be planted, and that God would open up conversations and opportunities to share the true hope of Christmas.
The display opened on Monday, December 15, and the feedback thus far has been very positive, with more visitors than last year. The church has a Facebook page and many of those who have been commenting on the page about their experience, have had no previous contact with the Church.
God has created each individual in His image, with a unique set of gifts and talents. Many times though, we are confused at just how to understand and utilize these strengths for maximum Kingdom impact.
See how the team in Southeast Asia is partnering withNazarene Strengths Instituteto bring much needed training in this area.
Perhaps your ministry could benefit also. See how!
GROWING THE KINGDOM? FIRST GROW YOUR GOD GIVEN TALENTS – SOUTHEAST ASIA IS!
Chiang Mai, Thailand: We all know that God created each person as a unique individual and that each person has been blessed with special talents and gifts. As a Church, are we helping our members understand their talents and gifts, and empowering them to place them into service in His Kingdom?
Sometimes, perhaps even often, it is difficult for people to identify their talents and develop them into strengths. There are those who struggle with trying to be someone other than who God designed them to be. There are others who recognize their gifting, but are challenged in understanding how to develop those gifts.
Although we tend to focus on – What am I to do? We need to give more attention to – How have I been shaped? That’s where your God-given talents come in.
Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Don’t be impressed with yourself. Don’t compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life.- Galatians 6:4-5 (Msg)
Kellerer accepted the invitation and over the course of two days (December 10-11), 12 people from the Southeast Asia Field gathered together in Chiang Mai, Thailand, to learn how to become coaches, and as such, help others in developing their talents into strengths. All but four of those who participated in the seminar are serving in various roles with the Church of the Nazarene in SE Asia.
“It was a common consensus by those in attendance, that this ‘Strengths’ training can be a great tool in discipling people to advance the Kingdom of God, through developing and using their spiritual gifting and talents,” said Kent Pelton, SE Asia Field Team Member.
The Southeast Asia Field would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Kellerer for graciously accepting the invitation, and to the Nazarene Strengths Institute and The Golden Path, who sponsored the event.
Click on image for more pictures and complete story.
One year ago if you had asked Enoch Tee, a Canadian artist with a passion for Christ, where he would be in December of 2014, the Philippines would have been the farthest place from his mind. Today, Enoch can't think of anyplace he would rather be. See how God is using this young man with incredible gifts to impact the Kingdom. Read the Full Story!
WHEN ENOCH ACCEPTED THE CALL TO COME TO THE PHILIPPINES…LITTLE DID HE KNOW WHAT GOD HAD PLANNED.
Manila, Philippines: When Enoch Tee,Mission Corps Volunteerto the Philippines, arrived last September, he was asked how he saw God using his passions and skills for art.
Enoch Tee, teaching art at Rowenas Community Development Project
“Art is capable of reaching people that regular ministries can’t,” said Tee. “Art can easily speak to shy people, cynics and the outsiders. I believe that Matthew 5:3-5, blessed are the poor…those who mourn…the meek, speaks directly to artists who are often found in the margins of society.”
It surely didn’t take Enoch long to find a place where he could live out Matthew 5.
A child on the pathway in the Barangay of Rowenas
For three weeks now, Enoch has been visiting the Rowenas Community Development Project, located just on the outskirts of the campus of Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary.
Packing up his bundles of paper, charcoal sticks, pencils, and paints, Enoch makes his way to a community where children might never have the opportunity to experience the joy of expressing themselves through art.
The children are thrilled to have the opportunity to express themselves through art.
The children are absolutely thrilled by this new experience. While 12 are “officially” signed up for the art classes, there are typically many more on the perimeter, watching and hoping for their chance to join in.
“One of the things that amazes me the most, is how God is using this art class to open doors that might never have been opened before,” explained Tee. “Children in the class are sharing and allowing me to speak truth into their lives, in ways I could not have imagined.”
Doors are being opened as children share their lives through art
Enoch originally applied for a short-term 6 month initial assignment. When asked how he feels that this experience over the past few months has changed him personally, he thoughtfully reflected.
“This is really about relationships,” said Tee. “God is growing me and using me with the team and the kids. I can’t see myself going back to a secular job that doesn’t have a ministry focus. I could do this for a lifetime.”
Could God be calling you to go beyond your walls to enter into ministry in your neighborhood or cross culturally? God is at work doing new things all around each of us. Pray that he will make your heart sensitive to his leading, and then give you the strength to obey.
Magnets fascinate me. Put a magnet on a table surrounded by metal objects and the objects will quickly move toward it. Put one on the end of metal rod and insert it into a motor housing or a building project and a lost bolt, nut, or screw will grasp for it like it was a lifesaver.
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