Deadly Ebola virus on rise again
Africa Region
Isatu Fullah died this week in Sierre Leone as a result of the Ebola virus, leaving behind five young children and a grieving husband, James Fullah, who pastors the Amazing Grace Church of the Nazarene on the country's western peninsula.
She is at least the fourth Nazarene to pass away from the virus, following Pastor Joe and Hannah Sonkpah and church member Victoria Jlay in Liberia.
"Please continue to join us in prayer as we trust that by the mercies of God, Pastor Fullah, the children, and the other family members will not test positive and that God will stop the spread of this deadly virus in our nation," said Vidal Cole, superintendent of the Sierra Leone District.
Isatu is one of more than 9,000 people who have lost their lives because of this deadly disease in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea.
Although progress was being made against the disease, the World Health Organization reports the number of new cases of Ebola has gone up in the past few weeks. Sierra Leone is now the center of the Ebola outbreak.
Health experts say prevention education is the key to ending the spread of the virus. In response, Nazarene churches in Sierra Leone and Liberia are working to educate their communities about the importance of using disinfectants and how to prevent the transmission of the Ebola virus.
Churches are also working to fight against the stigma created by the disease. Because of the fear associated with the Ebola virus, individuals and families who have been quarantined continue to face prejudice even after they have been shown to be free of the virus.
Clarence Labor, a student at Nazarene Theological Institute in Sierra Leone, was quarantined with his family when a neighbor contracted Ebola. Now, he says, people avoid him and his family.
"Many people are afraid because they thought that after the quarantine we could still spread the virus to them," he said.
Labor said he and his family have found support and acceptance through their Nazarene church in Freetown. During the quarantine, pastors and members of the church would bring his family food and prayed for them. Now, they welcome him to church with open arms.
Cole said the 70 Nazarene churches in Sierra Leone are working to educate people that those who have survived Ebola or have been released from quarantine are no longer a threat.
The Church of the Nazarene is also working to provide emergency food relief for families affected by the disease. The Ebola crisis has caused businesses to close, which has then pushed many families into an economic crisis. Food prices are going up, but incomes are going down. Nazarene churches have distributed food to more than 700 families so far.
"Every local church in this community, they are doing this kind of work and sending a very big message to the community around," Cole said.
The Church of the Nazarene is working to stop the spread of Ebola and caring for the children and families who have been affected through:
Distribution of tap buckets and chlorine disinfectants
Prevention education workshops, brochures, and radio programs
Emergency food supplies for vulnerable families
Anti-stigma education through churches and communitiesFor more information on or to give to the Church of the Nazarene's Ebola relief efforts, visit ncm.org/ebolarelief. --Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, Out of AfricaRelated: "Monrovia District praises God in midst of sorrow"
Southeast Asia Field pastor dies in traffic accident
Isatu Fullah died this week in Sierre Leone as a result of the Ebola virus, leaving behind five young children and a grieving husband, James Fullah, who pastors the Amazing Grace Church of the Nazarene on the country's western peninsula.
She is at least the fourth Nazarene to pass away from the virus, following Pastor Joe and Hannah Sonkpah and church member Victoria Jlay in Liberia.
"Please continue to join us in prayer as we trust that by the mercies of God, Pastor Fullah, the children, and the other family members will not test positive and that God will stop the spread of this deadly virus in our nation," said Vidal Cole, superintendent of the Sierra Leone District.
Isatu is one of more than 9,000 people who have lost their lives because of this deadly disease in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea.
Although progress was being made against the disease, the World Health Organization reports the number of new cases of Ebola has gone up in the past few weeks. Sierra Leone is now the center of the Ebola outbreak.
Health experts say prevention education is the key to ending the spread of the virus. In response, Nazarene churches in Sierra Leone and Liberia are working to educate their communities about the importance of using disinfectants and how to prevent the transmission of the Ebola virus.
Churches are also working to fight against the stigma created by the disease. Because of the fear associated with the Ebola virus, individuals and families who have been quarantined continue to face prejudice even after they have been shown to be free of the virus.
Clarence Labor, a student at Nazarene Theological Institute in Sierra Leone, was quarantined with his family when a neighbor contracted Ebola. Now, he says, people avoid him and his family.
"Many people are afraid because they thought that after the quarantine we could still spread the virus to them," he said.
Labor said he and his family have found support and acceptance through their Nazarene church in Freetown. During the quarantine, pastors and members of the church would bring his family food and prayed for them. Now, they welcome him to church with open arms.
Cole said the 70 Nazarene churches in Sierra Leone are working to educate people that those who have survived Ebola or have been released from quarantine are no longer a threat.
The Church of the Nazarene is also working to provide emergency food relief for families affected by the disease. The Ebola crisis has caused businesses to close, which has then pushed many families into an economic crisis. Food prices are going up, but incomes are going down. Nazarene churches have distributed food to more than 700 families so far.
"Every local church in this community, they are doing this kind of work and sending a very big message to the community around," Cole said.
The Church of the Nazarene is working to stop the spread of Ebola and caring for the children and families who have been affected through:
Distribution of tap buckets and chlorine disinfectants
Prevention education workshops, brochures, and radio programs
Emergency food supplies for vulnerable families
Anti-stigma education through churches and communitiesFor more information on or to give to the Church of the Nazarene's Ebola relief efforts, visit ncm.org/ebolarelief. --Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, Out of AfricaRelated: "Monrovia District praises God in midst of sorrow"
Southeast Asia Field pastor dies in traffic accident
Southeast Asia Field, Asia-Pacific Region
Team members in a country on the Southeast Asia Field requestedprayer for the family and church of Pastor UC, who died in a traffic accident this month:
Pastor UC was with another friend, traveling in the countryside, when they were involved in the accident. The friend was hurt but survived.
Please pray specifically for Pastor UC's wife, Sister Thua, as well as the whole church family and team members in Southeast Asia. Pastor UC was a very prominent part of his local community and district.
The funeral was held on February 7 in the little church they just built.--Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region
Board of General Superintendents publishes Nazarene Essentials
Team members in a country on the Southeast Asia Field requestedprayer for the family and church of Pastor UC, who died in a traffic accident this month:
Pastor UC was with another friend, traveling in the countryside, when they were involved in the accident. The friend was hurt but survived.
Please pray specifically for Pastor UC's wife, Sister Thua, as well as the whole church family and team members in Southeast Asia. Pastor UC was a very prominent part of his local community and district.
The funeral was held on February 7 in the little church they just built.--Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region
Board of General Superintendents publishes Nazarene Essentials
Global Ministry Center
The Board of General Superintendents recently released Nazarene Essentials, a new document explaining the basics of the Church of the Nazarene's teaching, history, theology, mission, funding, and connections.
"Nazarene Essentials is a resource available to all churches to help deepen our people's understanding of who we are and what we believe," said David Graves, Board of General Superintendents chair. "It is one of the most exciting resources that has been developed for the global church."
The document, written in plain language, was created at the request of a new generation of spiritual leaders and an increasing body of believers. Nazarene Essentials explains why the Church of the Nazarene exists as a worldwide Holiness and Great Commission movement in the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition.
For clergy and laity, Nazarene Essentials offers a way to better understand the church's purpose of spreading scriptural holiness and its mission to make Christlike disciples in the nations.
Nazarene Essentials is available online at nazarene.org/essentials. Online resources include the full document, the 12 individual chapters, a leader's guide, and artwork. The full document is currently posted in Spanish and will soon be available in additional languages.
The document was originally released as the March/April 2015 edition of Holiness Today. To order copies of the magazine, send an email togeneraleditor@nazarene.org.
South Africa pastor draws from gang experience to minister in community
The Board of General Superintendents recently released Nazarene Essentials, a new document explaining the basics of the Church of the Nazarene's teaching, history, theology, mission, funding, and connections.
"Nazarene Essentials is a resource available to all churches to help deepen our people's understanding of who we are and what we believe," said David Graves, Board of General Superintendents chair. "It is one of the most exciting resources that has been developed for the global church."
The document, written in plain language, was created at the request of a new generation of spiritual leaders and an increasing body of believers. Nazarene Essentials explains why the Church of the Nazarene exists as a worldwide Holiness and Great Commission movement in the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition.
For clergy and laity, Nazarene Essentials offers a way to better understand the church's purpose of spreading scriptural holiness and its mission to make Christlike disciples in the nations.
Nazarene Essentials is available online at nazarene.org/essentials. Online resources include the full document, the 12 individual chapters, a leader's guide, and artwork. The full document is currently posted in Spanish and will soon be available in additional languages.
The document was originally released as the March/April 2015 edition of Holiness Today. To order copies of the magazine, send an email togeneraleditor@nazarene.org.
South Africa pastor draws from gang experience to minister in community
Johannesburg, South Africa
When Pastor Lloyd Solomons counsels and ministers to the youth in his church, he knows exactly what they're going through.
In this neighborhood of Johannesburg, South Africa, youth gangs are prevalent, and many youth get caught up in drug use, drug sales, violence, and other aberrant behaviors. Solomons used to be one of them.
Solomons was born into a non-Christian household. He never knew hisfather, and his mother died when he was 8, so he moved in with his grandmother, along with seven other siblings. His grandmother was strained in caring for so many children, so he felt a lack of love and support in his home life.
The gang culture presented an alternative family, where all the members look out for and support one another, defending each other and providing for each member’s needs. It also created a sense of identity for Solomons.
"It came with a price because we got involved in criminal activities and imprisonment and drugs," he said. "You knew through those kind of experiences that your life has no direction and sense of purpose."
For the rest of the story, see Engage magazine.
South Korea sends first medical mission team to Myanmar
When Pastor Lloyd Solomons counsels and ministers to the youth in his church, he knows exactly what they're going through.
In this neighborhood of Johannesburg, South Africa, youth gangs are prevalent, and many youth get caught up in drug use, drug sales, violence, and other aberrant behaviors. Solomons used to be one of them.
Solomons was born into a non-Christian household. He never knew hisfather, and his mother died when he was 8, so he moved in with his grandmother, along with seven other siblings. His grandmother was strained in caring for so many children, so he felt a lack of love and support in his home life.
The gang culture presented an alternative family, where all the members look out for and support one another, defending each other and providing for each member’s needs. It also created a sense of identity for Solomons.
"It came with a price because we got involved in criminal activities and imprisonment and drugs," he said. "You knew through those kind of experiences that your life has no direction and sense of purpose."
For the rest of the story, see Engage magazine.
South Korea sends first medical mission team to Myanmar
Yangon, Myanmar
A team of 13 people from Mokjang Church of the Nazarene in Cheonan City, South Korea, traveled to Yangon, Myanmar, last month for a medical mission trip. The team is the first from South Korea to travel to Myanmar.
More than 400 lives were touched as the team held clinics at three Nazarene churches and at Southeast Asia Nazarene Bible College.
The country of Myanmar (formerly Burma) has only been officially opensince 2012 to sharing of the gospel through these types of teams.
The team worshipped one evening with Bible college students, Nazarene pastors, and church members.
"I never imagined Nazarene churches in Myanmar," said Seongryong Seo, pastor of the Mokjang church. "I will go back to Korea and share my experience with the Nazarene churches in Korea, asking for their prayers for Nazarenes in this country."
Myanmar Country Coordinator Bill Kwon asks for continued prayer for the country of Myanmar, for the work of the Holy Spirit, growth of the church, and for more teams to be led by God to minister in Myanmar.
Kwon will be in the U.S. from June 15 to July 30. To schedule a visit,click here.--Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region
Additional NCNNews.com Stories This Week
Malawi churches pool resources to support flood victims
A team of 13 people from Mokjang Church of the Nazarene in Cheonan City, South Korea, traveled to Yangon, Myanmar, last month for a medical mission trip. The team is the first from South Korea to travel to Myanmar.
More than 400 lives were touched as the team held clinics at three Nazarene churches and at Southeast Asia Nazarene Bible College.
The country of Myanmar (formerly Burma) has only been officially opensince 2012 to sharing of the gospel through these types of teams.
The team worshipped one evening with Bible college students, Nazarene pastors, and church members.
"I never imagined Nazarene churches in Myanmar," said Seongryong Seo, pastor of the Mokjang church. "I will go back to Korea and share my experience with the Nazarene churches in Korea, asking for their prayers for Nazarenes in this country."
Myanmar Country Coordinator Bill Kwon asks for continued prayer for the country of Myanmar, for the work of the Holy Spirit, growth of the church, and for more teams to be led by God to minister in Myanmar.
Kwon will be in the U.S. from June 15 to July 30. To schedule a visit,click here.--Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region
Additional NCNNews.com Stories This Week
Regional News
AfricaMalawi churches pool resources to support flood victims
Malawi, Africa Region
In Malawi, where flooding has killed 104 people and displaced more than 230,000 others*, Nazarene churches are pulling together their resources to support members in need.
A Nazarene Compassionate Ministries team recently visited hard-hit areas in southern Malawi to distribute food and supplies and encourage churches.
During their visit, NCM country coordinators Wellington Obotte and Alex Mkandawire urged churches not to wait for international aid, but to take action and use what they had to help each other.
Moved by this message, members of the Nsanje Church of the Nazarene raised 7,000 Malawi Kwacha (roughly $16 U.S. dollars), and about a dozen people donated clothing, Mkandawire said. The church used these collections to support Martha Jeke, a widow and mother of four who lost her crops in the flood, according to Malawi Lower Shire District Superintendent Gershom Kwerakwera.
The church also gave items — such as clothing, plates, cups, and flour — to individuals at the Mota Camp, where more than 2,000 flood victims are living.
"The assistance was not enough, but philosophers once said, 'A piece of bread is better than none!'" Kwerakwera said. "Those who received these items were very happy ... I am very glad that our people [are] able to assist each other during hard times like this in response to the word of God."
The Lizulu Church of the Nazarene also rallied to help, raising 10,000 Malawi Kwacha (about $23 U.S. dollars) and donating a new jacket, Mkandawire said. The funds were used to buy three cartons of soap for pastors and the jacket was given to a district superintendent, all of whom have been severely affected by the flooding.
"We were really thrilled and impressed by the kind gesture," Mkandawire said.
With the help of local pastors, the NCM team identified 500 families in need of aid. During a recent distribution trip, the team was able to reach 418 of those families and give them each a blanket, some cooking oil, some dried fish, and about a week's supply of flour, Mkandawire said in a report.
Another distribution trip is planned to reach the other 82 families, who were on the other side of the River Shire and could not be reached during the first trip.
The food won't last the families long, Mkandawire said, and flour and beans are scarce.
The team traveled to several places in southern Malawi where they saw an immense need for food, shelter, and supplies. Those who received items from NCM lined up peacefully and were extremely grateful, Mkandawire said.
"In all these places, there was peace and jubilation and praises to God and the church," he said. "According to Rev. Kwerakwera, the distribution has revived his churches and the district."
Mkandawire thanked supporters who have prayed for victims and given financially.
"Once again I thank the church for showing oneness and compassion to the needy," he said. "Continue praying for us. We still have many needs. ... The situation is really bad for our friends."
Shelter is the greatest need, he said. Victims also need mosquito nets, as the flooding increases their risk of malaria.
The crisis requires long-term plans for relief work, Mkandawire said. In Nsanje, for example, the farms and crops have been destroyed, which will affect food supplies for months to come.
NCM is also providing aid in Mozambique, where 50,000 people had to flee their homes because of the flooding and 3,600 cases of malaria have been reported at relief centers.*
How to help
Donations can be made online through Nazarene Compassionate Ministries by clicking here.
To send donations by mail, make checks payable to "General Treasurer" and send them to:
Global Treasury Services
Church of the Nazarene
P.O. Box 843116
Kansas City, MO 64184-3116
Be sure to put 124459 in the Memo area.
In Canada, make checks payable to "Church of the Nazarene Canada" and send them to:
Church of the Nazarene Canada
20 Regan Road, Unit 9
Brampton, Ontario L7A 1C3
Be sure to put 124459 in the Memo area.--Church of the Nazarene Africa Region
*Statistics from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
Related (from January): "Deadly floods overwhelm churches, communities in Malawi"
Asia-Pacific
Prayer requested for Nazarenes in Asia-Pacific city
Asia-Pacific Region
The Church of the Nazarene's Asia-Pacific Regional Office shared the following urgent prayer request Wednesday morning, local time:
Please pray for three families that have been brought to Christ through careful discipleship and who have recently been baptized in one of the cities here on the Asia-Pacific Region. Also pray for the Nazarene minister who is discipling them and the leadership team of the Nazarene church.
These families have already been called in to give an explanation to local government officials, the police, and other important social figures who do not agree with their actions and their desire to be a part of a Protestant church.
They are being called in again in the next 24 hours and will be accompanied by the Nazarene minister who has been discipling them and the leadership team of the Nazarene church.
This meeting could have a serious impact on these three families, and also could well have wide ranging implications for the work of the church.
Please pray for wisdom, peace, calmness, and courage for these three families and the Nazarene leaders who are with them, as well a strong sense of God's presence in their homes and in these meetings with government officials. Pray also for the government officials, that they will make decisions that are pleasing to God.
More information will be posted as it is made available.
Philippine Nazarene College begins construction on new training center
La Trinidad, Philippines
The Philippine Nazarene College campus was full of excitement as ground was broken for the new Technology and Vocational Skills Training Center.
Thanks to a partnership with Victoria, British Columbia, First Church of the Nazarene, a 40-foot ocean container was shipped, cleared customs, and arrived on campus with two steel buildings. The container will be followed by a Work & Witness team from the church, which will arrive in March.
Philippine Nazarene College President Stephen Gualberto shared about the school's impact on the community:
This area of the Philippines is known for some of the highest levels of abuse and neglect. The problem arises out of deeply rooted cultural issues and geographic isolation.
PNC is addressing this problem through an holistic approach that starts in kindergarten and continues throughout college. We currently have a student body of 526 students. There are 101 attending the college and 425 who are part of our preschool through 12th grade program.
The new technology and vocational skills training center will bring us into compliance with the new government curriculum standards and allow us to begin providing skills training (2016) not only for our high school students, but for our pastors as well.
If I were to summarize our impact, PNC is reaching into the community, serving to train young men and women to be effective pastors and teachers, to serve the Lord by serving others, and to impact the world for Christ.
PNC was established in 1952. In addition to the K-12 program, the college offers bachelor's degree programs in theology, religious education, elementary education (major in special education), and secondary education.
For more information on applying to PNC, click here. To learn about how your church or Work & Witness team can impact this community, click here.--Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region
Eurasia
Delegates learn servant leadership at Third Wave
Eurasia Region
When several youth from Korea and Japan began practicing Tae Kwon Do under the rain and stars of Costa Rica during free time at Third Wave, Scottish youth leader Amy Warner and several others from the USA joined the group, who taught them Tae Kwon Do moves.
The spontaneous intercultural moment was just one of many that brought together 169 Nazarene youth from 35 countries 6-11 January around the theme of "Be. Do. Go."
Sixteen young people from the Eurasia Region attended Third Wave, hosted by the Mesoamerica Region.
Third Wave is held every four years on a different region and is a global forum connecting leaders of Nazarene Youth International from around the world, developing Christian leaders in a global context.
"There's nothing like it," said Michelle Robinson, NYI coordinator for the Northern Europe Field. "I don't think you can adequately describe the feeling of being in a room with people from around the world and you're just one big family."
The five-day event is packed with worship services, devotionals, trainingactivities, and workshops, as well as blocks of free time for informal interaction and relationship building — all of which are designed to shape young people in different aspects of servant leadership.
High schooler Daniel Berdowski, who serves as an NYI leader in Poland, had previously been taught about servant leadership at a secular youth camp, but at Third Wave "it has been expanded in the Christian perspective of humbleness and Christlikeness, in which it reached its full meaning."
Humble servant leadership was demonstrated through a foot washing service at the conclusion of Third Wave, in which the Eurasia Region's outgoing NYI coordinator, Sabine Wielk, washed the Eurasia delegates' feet. The experience "made the idea alive, authentic, and very touching," Berdowski said.
A global marketplace, where youth from every country sold trinkets and items representing their home culture, raised more than US$2,000 to fund a project of the host region's choosing. This was a record amount for the marketplace, which is a signature feature of each Third Wave.
In small groups, participants went into carefully selected communities to conduct outreach ministries that will help the Mesoamerica Region launch local church planting efforts, except in three sites that already had Nazarene churches.
"It really was a brilliant day to make a difference in a community where they're hoping to start something," said Robinson, who was sent to a community called Tres Marias. "They said, 'You come back in a few years' time; you'll know you helped make a difference in this new church plant.'"
For Eurasia youth, Third Wave helped them "develop an increased awareness of the connection with the global church," Robinson said.
That was also true for Berdowski, who moved several times throughout his growing-up years and always attended small Nazarene churches where he rarely had the opportunity to experience what it means to be part of a youth group.
"I really felt strongly as part of a big global community and it was really beautiful — this feeling that we are all the church, we are the Body of Christ, we are brothers and sisters, and we can pray for each other."
For Warner, Third Wave gave her a new passion for the global church and new enthusiasm to bring a sense of mission to the youth in her local church in Erskine, Scotland. She remembers when her former youth leader attended a previous Third Wave, and that he also returned with an excitement for mission. He then organized a short-term mission trip for the youth group. She hopes to do the same for her youth group.
"[Third Wave] definitely gave me the goal that I want to be involved in advancing God's kingdom on a bigger level," she said. Her thinking was shaped by "the conversations about mission and how it's not on our shoulders, but God just asks you to go and show up and do it and He does the rest."
Berdowski and Warner echoed the idea that in their own culture they can feel their view is limited to their own church or district, and they might even feel isolated. Third Wave gave them a sense of connection to the larger body of which they are a part.
Eurasia NYI leadership transferred from Wielk to Diego Lopez during the conference.
For more information on Third Wave, click here. To view the 2015 highlight video, click here.--Church of the Nazarene Eurasia Region
Flags of the Nations: Italy
Global Ministry Center
Since September 1, 2009, the Church of the Nazarene's Global Ministry Center (GMC) proudly flies a flag each week of one of the many nations in which the denomination is present in ministry. Leaders were invited to send a national flag to be flown at the GMC alongside the flag of the United States*. The national flags rotate weekly, and photos of them raised are sent to the church leaders of that country.
This week: Italy
The Church of the Nazarene officially entered Italy in 1948.
Italy had a population of 61,680,122 in 2014. That same year, Italy reported seven Churches of the Nazarene, all of which have been officially organized. Italy has 268 total members.
Italy is a Phase 1 district on the Eurasia Region. For more information, visit eurasiaregion.org.
Previous flags featured:
Argentina
Aruba
Belize
Benin
Bolivia
Brazil
Burkina Faso
Cameroon
Canada
Cape Verde
Chile
Colombia
Côte d'Ivoire
Cuba
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
Equatorial Guinea
In Malawi, where flooding has killed 104 people and displaced more than 230,000 others*, Nazarene churches are pulling together their resources to support members in need.
A Nazarene Compassionate Ministries team recently visited hard-hit areas in southern Malawi to distribute food and supplies and encourage churches.
During their visit, NCM country coordinators Wellington Obotte and Alex Mkandawire urged churches not to wait for international aid, but to take action and use what they had to help each other.
Moved by this message, members of the Nsanje Church of the Nazarene raised 7,000 Malawi Kwacha (roughly $16 U.S. dollars), and about a dozen people donated clothing, Mkandawire said. The church used these collections to support Martha Jeke, a widow and mother of four who lost her crops in the flood, according to Malawi Lower Shire District Superintendent Gershom Kwerakwera.
The church also gave items — such as clothing, plates, cups, and flour — to individuals at the Mota Camp, where more than 2,000 flood victims are living.
"The assistance was not enough, but philosophers once said, 'A piece of bread is better than none!'" Kwerakwera said. "Those who received these items were very happy ... I am very glad that our people [are] able to assist each other during hard times like this in response to the word of God."
The Lizulu Church of the Nazarene also rallied to help, raising 10,000 Malawi Kwacha (about $23 U.S. dollars) and donating a new jacket, Mkandawire said. The funds were used to buy three cartons of soap for pastors and the jacket was given to a district superintendent, all of whom have been severely affected by the flooding.
"We were really thrilled and impressed by the kind gesture," Mkandawire said.
With the help of local pastors, the NCM team identified 500 families in need of aid. During a recent distribution trip, the team was able to reach 418 of those families and give them each a blanket, some cooking oil, some dried fish, and about a week's supply of flour, Mkandawire said in a report.
Another distribution trip is planned to reach the other 82 families, who were on the other side of the River Shire and could not be reached during the first trip.
The food won't last the families long, Mkandawire said, and flour and beans are scarce.
The team traveled to several places in southern Malawi where they saw an immense need for food, shelter, and supplies. Those who received items from NCM lined up peacefully and were extremely grateful, Mkandawire said.
"In all these places, there was peace and jubilation and praises to God and the church," he said. "According to Rev. Kwerakwera, the distribution has revived his churches and the district."
Mkandawire thanked supporters who have prayed for victims and given financially.
"Once again I thank the church for showing oneness and compassion to the needy," he said. "Continue praying for us. We still have many needs. ... The situation is really bad for our friends."
Shelter is the greatest need, he said. Victims also need mosquito nets, as the flooding increases their risk of malaria.
The crisis requires long-term plans for relief work, Mkandawire said. In Nsanje, for example, the farms and crops have been destroyed, which will affect food supplies for months to come.
NCM is also providing aid in Mozambique, where 50,000 people had to flee their homes because of the flooding and 3,600 cases of malaria have been reported at relief centers.*
How to help
Donations can be made online through Nazarene Compassionate Ministries by clicking here.
To send donations by mail, make checks payable to "General Treasurer" and send them to:
Global Treasury Services
Church of the Nazarene
P.O. Box 843116
Kansas City, MO 64184-3116
Be sure to put 124459 in the Memo area.
In Canada, make checks payable to "Church of the Nazarene Canada" and send them to:
Church of the Nazarene Canada
20 Regan Road, Unit 9
Brampton, Ontario L7A 1C3
Be sure to put 124459 in the Memo area.--Church of the Nazarene Africa Region
*Statistics from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
Related (from January): "Deadly floods overwhelm churches, communities in Malawi"
Asia-Pacific
Prayer requested for Nazarenes in Asia-Pacific city
The Church of the Nazarene's Asia-Pacific Regional Office shared the following urgent prayer request Wednesday morning, local time:
Please pray for three families that have been brought to Christ through careful discipleship and who have recently been baptized in one of the cities here on the Asia-Pacific Region. Also pray for the Nazarene minister who is discipling them and the leadership team of the Nazarene church.
These families have already been called in to give an explanation to local government officials, the police, and other important social figures who do not agree with their actions and their desire to be a part of a Protestant church.
They are being called in again in the next 24 hours and will be accompanied by the Nazarene minister who has been discipling them and the leadership team of the Nazarene church.
This meeting could have a serious impact on these three families, and also could well have wide ranging implications for the work of the church.
Please pray for wisdom, peace, calmness, and courage for these three families and the Nazarene leaders who are with them, as well a strong sense of God's presence in their homes and in these meetings with government officials. Pray also for the government officials, that they will make decisions that are pleasing to God.
More information will be posted as it is made available.
Philippine Nazarene College begins construction on new training center
The Philippine Nazarene College campus was full of excitement as ground was broken for the new Technology and Vocational Skills Training Center.
Thanks to a partnership with Victoria, British Columbia, First Church of the Nazarene, a 40-foot ocean container was shipped, cleared customs, and arrived on campus with two steel buildings. The container will be followed by a Work & Witness team from the church, which will arrive in March.
Philippine Nazarene College President Stephen Gualberto shared about the school's impact on the community:
This area of the Philippines is known for some of the highest levels of abuse and neglect. The problem arises out of deeply rooted cultural issues and geographic isolation.
PNC is addressing this problem through an holistic approach that starts in kindergarten and continues throughout college. We currently have a student body of 526 students. There are 101 attending the college and 425 who are part of our preschool through 12th grade program.
The new technology and vocational skills training center will bring us into compliance with the new government curriculum standards and allow us to begin providing skills training (2016) not only for our high school students, but for our pastors as well.
If I were to summarize our impact, PNC is reaching into the community, serving to train young men and women to be effective pastors and teachers, to serve the Lord by serving others, and to impact the world for Christ.
PNC was established in 1952. In addition to the K-12 program, the college offers bachelor's degree programs in theology, religious education, elementary education (major in special education), and secondary education.
For more information on applying to PNC, click here. To learn about how your church or Work & Witness team can impact this community, click here.--Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region
Eurasia
Delegates learn servant leadership at Third Wave
When several youth from Korea and Japan began practicing Tae Kwon Do under the rain and stars of Costa Rica during free time at Third Wave, Scottish youth leader Amy Warner and several others from the USA joined the group, who taught them Tae Kwon Do moves.
The spontaneous intercultural moment was just one of many that brought together 169 Nazarene youth from 35 countries 6-11 January around the theme of "Be. Do. Go."
Sixteen young people from the Eurasia Region attended Third Wave, hosted by the Mesoamerica Region.
Third Wave is held every four years on a different region and is a global forum connecting leaders of Nazarene Youth International from around the world, developing Christian leaders in a global context.
"There's nothing like it," said Michelle Robinson, NYI coordinator for the Northern Europe Field. "I don't think you can adequately describe the feeling of being in a room with people from around the world and you're just one big family."
The five-day event is packed with worship services, devotionals, trainingactivities, and workshops, as well as blocks of free time for informal interaction and relationship building — all of which are designed to shape young people in different aspects of servant leadership.
High schooler Daniel Berdowski, who serves as an NYI leader in Poland, had previously been taught about servant leadership at a secular youth camp, but at Third Wave "it has been expanded in the Christian perspective of humbleness and Christlikeness, in which it reached its full meaning."
Humble servant leadership was demonstrated through a foot washing service at the conclusion of Third Wave, in which the Eurasia Region's outgoing NYI coordinator, Sabine Wielk, washed the Eurasia delegates' feet. The experience "made the idea alive, authentic, and very touching," Berdowski said.
A global marketplace, where youth from every country sold trinkets and items representing their home culture, raised more than US$2,000 to fund a project of the host region's choosing. This was a record amount for the marketplace, which is a signature feature of each Third Wave.
In small groups, participants went into carefully selected communities to conduct outreach ministries that will help the Mesoamerica Region launch local church planting efforts, except in three sites that already had Nazarene churches.
"It really was a brilliant day to make a difference in a community where they're hoping to start something," said Robinson, who was sent to a community called Tres Marias. "They said, 'You come back in a few years' time; you'll know you helped make a difference in this new church plant.'"
For Eurasia youth, Third Wave helped them "develop an increased awareness of the connection with the global church," Robinson said.
That was also true for Berdowski, who moved several times throughout his growing-up years and always attended small Nazarene churches where he rarely had the opportunity to experience what it means to be part of a youth group.
"I really felt strongly as part of a big global community and it was really beautiful — this feeling that we are all the church, we are the Body of Christ, we are brothers and sisters, and we can pray for each other."
For Warner, Third Wave gave her a new passion for the global church and new enthusiasm to bring a sense of mission to the youth in her local church in Erskine, Scotland. She remembers when her former youth leader attended a previous Third Wave, and that he also returned with an excitement for mission. He then organized a short-term mission trip for the youth group. She hopes to do the same for her youth group.
"[Third Wave] definitely gave me the goal that I want to be involved in advancing God's kingdom on a bigger level," she said. Her thinking was shaped by "the conversations about mission and how it's not on our shoulders, but God just asks you to go and show up and do it and He does the rest."
Berdowski and Warner echoed the idea that in their own culture they can feel their view is limited to their own church or district, and they might even feel isolated. Third Wave gave them a sense of connection to the larger body of which they are a part.
Eurasia NYI leadership transferred from Wielk to Diego Lopez during the conference.
For more information on Third Wave, click here. To view the 2015 highlight video, click here.--Church of the Nazarene Eurasia Region
Flags of the Nations: Italy
Since September 1, 2009, the Church of the Nazarene's Global Ministry Center (GMC) proudly flies a flag each week of one of the many nations in which the denomination is present in ministry. Leaders were invited to send a national flag to be flown at the GMC alongside the flag of the United States*. The national flags rotate weekly, and photos of them raised are sent to the church leaders of that country.
This week: Italy
The Church of the Nazarene officially entered Italy in 1948.
Italy had a population of 61,680,122 in 2014. That same year, Italy reported seven Churches of the Nazarene, all of which have been officially organized. Italy has 268 total members.
Italy is a Phase 1 district on the Eurasia Region. For more information, visit eurasiaregion.org.
Previous flags featured:
Argentina
Aruba
Belize
Benin
Bolivia
Brazil
Burkina Faso
Cameroon
Canada
Cape Verde
Chile
Colombia
Côte d'Ivoire
Cuba
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
Equatorial Guinea
Ethiopia
France
Gabon
Germany
Ghana
Guam
Guatemala
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Guinea-Conakry
Guyana
Haiti
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Liberia
Madagascar
France
Gabon
Germany
Ghana
Guam
Guatemala
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Guinea-Conakry
Guyana
Haiti
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Liberia
Madagascar
Mali
Nicaragua
Niger
Nigeria
Paraguay
Peru
Senegal
Sierra Leone
South Africa
South Sudan
Suriname
Swaziland
Togo
United Kingdom
Uruguay
Venezuela
Additional World Areas
NOTE: Some countries cannot be represented in this project in order to maintain security of those working there.
* = The weekly highlighted flag is raised on the middle of three poles in compliance with U.S. government protocols. It flies to the left of the GMC host-nation United States flag, which flies above the host-state flag of Kansas. The Christian flag flies on the third pole.
The Global Ministry Center is the mission and service hub of the Church of the Nazarene.
South America
New superintendent in Los Lagos, Chile
Los Lagos, Chile
Alessandro Polonio was installed as District Superintendent of the Los Lagos District in Chile February 7. The previous superintendent was Alfredo Veloso, who passed away on January 10, 2015.
After a process that took several days of meetings and consultations, General Superintendent Jerry D. Porter announced through South America Regional Director Christian Sarmiento the decision to appoint Polonio as district superintendent.
Polonio, from Brazil, is a South America Region missionary assigned to Chile as Integral Ministries Coordinator, a ministry he shares with his wife, Cristiane, and accompanied by their daughters, Rachel and Sarah.
At the installation service, there were performances by the churches that make up the district. The event was full of excitement as it also included the presence of Francisca "Panchita," widow of Pastor Veloso.
Brother Jaime Diaz Tolman was appointed assistant to the district superintendent.
The South America Region prays and trusts that the Holy Spirit will guide the new superintendent, his assistant, and the church of this vast district to continue making Christlike disciples to the ends of the earth.--Church of the Nazarene South America Region
USA/Canada
Retired missionary Margaret Dayhoff passes away
University Park, Iowa
Retired missionary Margaret Dayhoff, 84, passed away February 17. Margaret and her husband, Paul, served as missionaries in South Africa for 40 years.
Margaret was born February 17, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, to Charles and Violet (Fletcher) Stark. She attended junior college in Spring Arbor, Michigan, and earned a bachelor's degree in education at GreenvilleCollege in Illinois.
After graduation, Margaret moved to South Africa to teach and work on the mission field. She married Paul Dayhoff in 1954, and the two served together as theological educators and missionaries.
Margaret later earned a master's degree in education at Truman State University in Missouri.
In addition to her husband, Margaret is survived by her children, Pat, James, Elizabeth, and Paula Else.
The funeral will be held February 20 at Gateway Church of the Nazarene in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Condolences can be sent to the church.
Memorials may be made to "Dayhoff Theology Chair" for Nazarene Theological College in Muldersdrift, South Africa.
Nazarenes in the News
Global Ministry Center
Nazarenes in the News is a compilation of online news articles featuring Nazarene churches or church members.
Oklahoma church recognized as Non-profit of the Year
Miami, Oklahoma
(The Miami News-Record, February 16) New Life Church of the Nazarene's Casey Hollingsworth fulfilled his life's calling by becoming apastor. He has been a pastor for a total 14 years and has spent eight years as a pastor at New Life Church of the Nazarene in Miami.
"I've been pastor here for about eight years," Hollingsworth said. "We merged with New Life Church of the Nazarene in Miami eight years ago. I was previously a pastor at a church in Picher called Picher Church of the Nazarene. We came together, formed a new church and came up with a new name."
Hollingsworth said he couldn't imagine doing anything else. He was heavily influenced by youth pastors while growing up in a church. He said God spoke to him one day and told him to be in the ministry.
"My youth pastors taught me what being a Christian is all about," Hollingsworth said. "They impacted me and changed my life. I thought I would do that for the lives of others. Just being around and raised in the church, it was like God was preparing me for the life of service within the church. It’s about being a part of something bigger than yourself."
For the rest of the story, click here.
NNU film students build subway as professor brings Hollywood to Nampa
Nampa, Idaho
(Idaho Press-Tribune, February 18) Northwest Nazarene University students filed down the stairs to the Wiley Street Subway Station on Tuesday and in and out of a waiting subway car. They grabbed open seats, and those left standing reached onto handholds.
The scene looked like something commuters would find in a large city, not exactly the type of thing stored in a university basement in Nampa — and that’s exactly what the students were going for.
The university's film students spent about five months constructing the Wiley Street Station, inside the Wiley Learning Center, as the set for a short film. The film, "700 Volts," is about an aging station attendant, an accident on the tracks, a boy who witnesses it and the effects of social media. It's expected to be finished in May.
For the rest of the story, click here.
ENC cancels classes during record-breaking snowstorms
Quincy, Massachusetts
(ENC.edu) Eastern Nazarene College canceled classes three days this month during record-breaking snowstorms.
The Boston area broke its record for the most snow in a 7-day timeframe on February 2 with 34.2 inches. The following week, the 30-day record was broken with 71 inches of snow in only 17 days.
For photos of the campus following the snowstorms, click here.
Kansas church continues renewal with 3 church plants
Chanute, Kansas
(NCN News submissions) Sunday attendance had declined to about 60 people per week at Chanute, Kansas, Church of the Nazarene when leaders decided to begin a renewal process in March 2014. Nearly a year later, the renewal process is continuing through three new church plants.
The church now averages 300 people per week.
For the rest of the story, click here.
Pennsylvania church hosts fundraisers for coffee shop
Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
(Chambersburg Public Opinion, February 15) Some 15 years ago Joe Thomas, associate pastor of Mosaic Church of the Nazarene, Chambersburg, had an idea: He wanted to start a coffeehouse where everyone who came would feel comfortable, welcome and willing to return something to the community.
He tried it out at one church and then, after moving to Chambersburg, tried again. The only problem, according to his wife, Stacy, was that the sites were never permanent.
"We always had to set up everything and then tear it all down," she said.
Fortune now seems to be smiling on the couple. They are organizing a Victorian-era Civil War ball, to take place Feb. 21 as a major fundraiser to finance their dream of a nonprofit coffeehouse to be called The Local Gathering.
For the rest of the story, click here.
New York pastor chosen for Harvard leadership institute
Far Rockaway, New York
(NCN News submissions) Les Mullings, senior pastor of Far Rockaway Community Church of the Nazarene on the Metro New York District, was selected to participate in the Harvard Graduate School of Education's Leadership Institute.
Mullings was chosen from among hundreds of applicants because of the influence the Far Rockaway Community church has had in the inner city through networking with local leaders and government officials, beginning the Challenge Prep charter school, and for his efforts to aid his community in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, which devastated Far Rockaway and the surrounding coastal areas.
He said he has been given an opportunity to bring the reality of a true urban education endeavor to the table and believes his dedication to education will expand his capacity to bring learning to every classroom and child in his community.
Stories to share? Send them to submitnews@ncnnews.com.--Compiled by NCN News
Global Ministry Center
The following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received February 16-20, 2015.
Margaret (Stark) Dayhoff, 84, of University Park, Iowa, passed away February 17. She was a retired missionary, serving in South Africa and Swaziland. She is survived by her husband, retired missionary Paul Dayhoff, who served in South Africa. (story)
Glendon Fisher, 98, of Roanoke, Virginia, passed away February 17. He was a retired minister, serving in Minnesota, Missouri, and Michigan. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Marion Fisher, in 1997 and his second wife, Mary Elizabeth Fisher, in 2006.
Isatu Fullah of Sierra Leone passed away February 16. She was the wife of James Fullah, who pastors Amazing Grace Church of the Nazarene in Ogoo Farm, Sierra Leone. (story)
Frances Jenner, 100, of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, passed away February 17. She was the widow of retired minister Gordon Jenner, who served in Saskatchewan. Gordon Jenner passed away in 1985.
Terri (Herald) Johnson, 56, of Vermilion, Ohio, passed away February 13. She was the wife of minister David Johnson, who pastors the Vermilion, Ohio, Church of the Nazarene.
M. Sue (Rutledge) Nix, 88, of Hoover, Alabama, passed away February 15. She was the wife of retired minister, educator, and chaplain Roy Nix Sr., who served in Mississippi, Indiana, Illinois, Alabama, Texas, Oklahoma.
L. Keith Peck, 97, of Bourbonnais, Illinois, passed away January 28. He served on the Northwest Illinois and former Washington (D.C.) District Advisory boards and as an elected delegate to four general assemblies. He is survived by his wife, Monica (Boudreau) Peck.
Charlotte Reidel, 84, of Winona, Minnesota, passed away February 15. She was the widow of retired minister Holland Reidel, who served in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Texas, and Illinois. Holland Reidel passed away in 2012.
James Storey, 76, of Anderson, Indiana, passed away February 19. He was a retired minister, serving in Indiana and Iowa. He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Storey.
For previous editions of In Memoriam, see the "Passings" section on ncnnews.com by clicking here.
Note: Please join with us in prayer for the families who have lost loved ones. Click on names for full stories, funeral information, local online obituaries, and/or guest books (if available). To submit an entry of a minister or church leader, send to submitnews@ncnnews.com.--Compiled by NCN News
Global praise reports and prayer requests
Nicaragua
Niger
Nigeria
Paraguay
Peru
Senegal
Sierra Leone
South Africa
South Sudan
Suriname
Swaziland
Togo
United Kingdom
Uruguay
Venezuela
Additional World Areas
NOTE: Some countries cannot be represented in this project in order to maintain security of those working there.
* = The weekly highlighted flag is raised on the middle of three poles in compliance with U.S. government protocols. It flies to the left of the GMC host-nation United States flag, which flies above the host-state flag of Kansas. The Christian flag flies on the third pole.
The Global Ministry Center is the mission and service hub of the Church of the Nazarene.
South America
New superintendent in Los Lagos, Chile
Alessandro Polonio was installed as District Superintendent of the Los Lagos District in Chile February 7. The previous superintendent was Alfredo Veloso, who passed away on January 10, 2015.
After a process that took several days of meetings and consultations, General Superintendent Jerry D. Porter announced through South America Regional Director Christian Sarmiento the decision to appoint Polonio as district superintendent.
Polonio, from Brazil, is a South America Region missionary assigned to Chile as Integral Ministries Coordinator, a ministry he shares with his wife, Cristiane, and accompanied by their daughters, Rachel and Sarah.
At the installation service, there were performances by the churches that make up the district. The event was full of excitement as it also included the presence of Francisca "Panchita," widow of Pastor Veloso.
Brother Jaime Diaz Tolman was appointed assistant to the district superintendent.
The South America Region prays and trusts that the Holy Spirit will guide the new superintendent, his assistant, and the church of this vast district to continue making Christlike disciples to the ends of the earth.--Church of the Nazarene South America Region
USA/Canada
Retired missionary Margaret Dayhoff passes away
Retired missionary Margaret Dayhoff, 84, passed away February 17. Margaret and her husband, Paul, served as missionaries in South Africa for 40 years.
Margaret was born February 17, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, to Charles and Violet (Fletcher) Stark. She attended junior college in Spring Arbor, Michigan, and earned a bachelor's degree in education at GreenvilleCollege in Illinois.
After graduation, Margaret moved to South Africa to teach and work on the mission field. She married Paul Dayhoff in 1954, and the two served together as theological educators and missionaries.
Margaret later earned a master's degree in education at Truman State University in Missouri.
In addition to her husband, Margaret is survived by her children, Pat, James, Elizabeth, and Paula Else.
The funeral will be held February 20 at Gateway Church of the Nazarene in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Condolences can be sent to the church.
Memorials may be made to "Dayhoff Theology Chair" for Nazarene Theological College in Muldersdrift, South Africa.
Nazarenes in the News
Nazarenes in the News is a compilation of online news articles featuring Nazarene churches or church members.
Oklahoma church recognized as Non-profit of the Year
Miami, Oklahoma
(The Miami News-Record, February 16) New Life Church of the Nazarene's Casey Hollingsworth fulfilled his life's calling by becoming apastor. He has been a pastor for a total 14 years and has spent eight years as a pastor at New Life Church of the Nazarene in Miami.
"I've been pastor here for about eight years," Hollingsworth said. "We merged with New Life Church of the Nazarene in Miami eight years ago. I was previously a pastor at a church in Picher called Picher Church of the Nazarene. We came together, formed a new church and came up with a new name."
Hollingsworth said he couldn't imagine doing anything else. He was heavily influenced by youth pastors while growing up in a church. He said God spoke to him one day and told him to be in the ministry.
"My youth pastors taught me what being a Christian is all about," Hollingsworth said. "They impacted me and changed my life. I thought I would do that for the lives of others. Just being around and raised in the church, it was like God was preparing me for the life of service within the church. It’s about being a part of something bigger than yourself."
For the rest of the story, click here.
NNU film students build subway as professor brings Hollywood to Nampa
Nampa, Idaho
(Idaho Press-Tribune, February 18) Northwest Nazarene University students filed down the stairs to the Wiley Street Subway Station on Tuesday and in and out of a waiting subway car. They grabbed open seats, and those left standing reached onto handholds.
The scene looked like something commuters would find in a large city, not exactly the type of thing stored in a university basement in Nampa — and that’s exactly what the students were going for.
The university's film students spent about five months constructing the Wiley Street Station, inside the Wiley Learning Center, as the set for a short film. The film, "700 Volts," is about an aging station attendant, an accident on the tracks, a boy who witnesses it and the effects of social media. It's expected to be finished in May.
For the rest of the story, click here.
ENC cancels classes during record-breaking snowstorms
Quincy, Massachusetts
(ENC.edu) Eastern Nazarene College canceled classes three days this month during record-breaking snowstorms.
The Boston area broke its record for the most snow in a 7-day timeframe on February 2 with 34.2 inches. The following week, the 30-day record was broken with 71 inches of snow in only 17 days.
For photos of the campus following the snowstorms, click here.
Kansas church continues renewal with 3 church plants
Chanute, Kansas
(NCN News submissions) Sunday attendance had declined to about 60 people per week at Chanute, Kansas, Church of the Nazarene when leaders decided to begin a renewal process in March 2014. Nearly a year later, the renewal process is continuing through three new church plants.
The church now averages 300 people per week.
For the rest of the story, click here.
Pennsylvania church hosts fundraisers for coffee shop
Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
(Chambersburg Public Opinion, February 15) Some 15 years ago Joe Thomas, associate pastor of Mosaic Church of the Nazarene, Chambersburg, had an idea: He wanted to start a coffeehouse where everyone who came would feel comfortable, welcome and willing to return something to the community.
He tried it out at one church and then, after moving to Chambersburg, tried again. The only problem, according to his wife, Stacy, was that the sites were never permanent.
"We always had to set up everything and then tear it all down," she said.
Fortune now seems to be smiling on the couple. They are organizing a Victorian-era Civil War ball, to take place Feb. 21 as a major fundraiser to finance their dream of a nonprofit coffeehouse to be called The Local Gathering.
For the rest of the story, click here.
New York pastor chosen for Harvard leadership institute
Far Rockaway, New York
(NCN News submissions) Les Mullings, senior pastor of Far Rockaway Community Church of the Nazarene on the Metro New York District, was selected to participate in the Harvard Graduate School of Education's Leadership Institute.
Mullings was chosen from among hundreds of applicants because of the influence the Far Rockaway Community church has had in the inner city through networking with local leaders and government officials, beginning the Challenge Prep charter school, and for his efforts to aid his community in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, which devastated Far Rockaway and the surrounding coastal areas.
He said he has been given an opportunity to bring the reality of a true urban education endeavor to the table and believes his dedication to education will expand his capacity to bring learning to every classroom and child in his community.
Stories to share? Send them to submitnews@ncnnews.com.--Compiled by NCN News
Global Ministry Center News
In MemoriamThe following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received February 16-20, 2015.
Margaret (Stark) Dayhoff, 84, of University Park, Iowa, passed away February 17. She was a retired missionary, serving in South Africa and Swaziland. She is survived by her husband, retired missionary Paul Dayhoff, who served in South Africa. (story)
Glendon Fisher, 98, of Roanoke, Virginia, passed away February 17. He was a retired minister, serving in Minnesota, Missouri, and Michigan. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Marion Fisher, in 1997 and his second wife, Mary Elizabeth Fisher, in 2006.
Isatu Fullah of Sierra Leone passed away February 16. She was the wife of James Fullah, who pastors Amazing Grace Church of the Nazarene in Ogoo Farm, Sierra Leone. (story)
Frances Jenner, 100, of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, passed away February 17. She was the widow of retired minister Gordon Jenner, who served in Saskatchewan. Gordon Jenner passed away in 1985.
Terri (Herald) Johnson, 56, of Vermilion, Ohio, passed away February 13. She was the wife of minister David Johnson, who pastors the Vermilion, Ohio, Church of the Nazarene.
M. Sue (Rutledge) Nix, 88, of Hoover, Alabama, passed away February 15. She was the wife of retired minister, educator, and chaplain Roy Nix Sr., who served in Mississippi, Indiana, Illinois, Alabama, Texas, Oklahoma.
L. Keith Peck, 97, of Bourbonnais, Illinois, passed away January 28. He served on the Northwest Illinois and former Washington (D.C.) District Advisory boards and as an elected delegate to four general assemblies. He is survived by his wife, Monica (Boudreau) Peck.
Charlotte Reidel, 84, of Winona, Minnesota, passed away February 15. She was the widow of retired minister Holland Reidel, who served in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Texas, and Illinois. Holland Reidel passed away in 2012.
James Storey, 76, of Anderson, Indiana, passed away February 19. He was a retired minister, serving in Indiana and Iowa. He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Storey.
For previous editions of In Memoriam, see the "Passings" section on ncnnews.com by clicking here.
Note: Please join with us in prayer for the families who have lost loved ones. Click on names for full stories, funeral information, local online obituaries, and/or guest books (if available). To submit an entry of a minister or church leader, send to submitnews@ncnnews.com.--Compiled by NCN News
Global praise reports and prayer requests
Global Ministry Center
Recent praise reports and prayer requests from NCN News, Nazarene Missions International, and JESUS Film Harvest Partners include:
PRAISES
JESUS Film - India
"I was so deep into bad habits, my parents were disturbed by me," shared Shamrao in India. "My parents did everything they could, but it was to no avail. I met a JESUS Film team and was able to see the film. I came to know who Christ is, and now believe He has forgiven me for my sins, and I have accepted Him as my personal Savior."
JESUS Film - Nicaragua
"I was involved with drugs and hunted by the police," confessed a viewer in Nicaragua. "After seeing the JESUS film, I realized I shouldn't be living this kind of life. I have accepted the Lord, but the change has not been easy for me. I am trusting in Him, and hope to learn more about His ways."
JESUS Film - Panama
"I live alone with a son who has special needs," shared a woman in Panama. "I worry for my son, because I am getting old. I feel everything will turn out badly for him. Talking with you today, though, I feel a hope in Jesus. I am giving my home to God to be used for a preaching point, and everything else in my life to Him to be used for His glory."
PRAYER REQUESTS
Request from sensitive area
Three families who were recently baptized in a city on the Asia-Pacific Region and the Nazarene pastor who had been discipling them were called in to give an explanation to local government officials, the police, and other important social figures who do not agree with their actions. This meeting could have a serious impact on these three families and also could have wide-ranging implications for the work of the church. For the full request, click here.
Nazarene World Week of Prayer 2015
The annual Nazarene World Week of Prayer (NWWP) is almost here. Prayer requests have been gathered from each Global Mission Region and for the Persecuted Church. The requests have been posted on the NMI website in five languages (English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Korean). Click hereto view and download the requests, and plan to join Nazarenes around the world in praying together during NWWP, Sunday, March 1 – Saturday, March 7.
BEREAVEMENT
Biprosh family
Rev. Biprosh, a pastor and JESUS Film team leader in India, passed away last week from injuries sustained after he fell from a roof while preparing to show the JESUS film. He is survived by his wife and 19-month-old son. More information about this story will be published as it becomes available.
MORE...
For more global concerns and continued requests, see the NMI Prayer Mobilization Line by clicking here or JESUS Film Harvest Partners by clicking here.
To share additional praises or prayer requests, please use the comment section below or see the Prayer Mobilization Line's Facebook page.
GMC employment opportunities
Global Ministry Center
By NCN News Staff
The following positions are available at the Church of the Nazarene's Global Ministry Center:
Global Education and Clergy Development — Senior Program Assistant
This position assists the Global Clergy Development director and administrative director fulfill ministry objectives.
Financial Services — Administrative Assistant
This position works under the direction of the general treasurer, primarily providing administrative and clerical support. This position also provides administrative and clerical support to the Donor Services manager and Global Treasury Services controller as needed.
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries — Computer Programming Coordinator
The person in this position will lead NCM's development team in developing and maintaining NCM's Web applications, systems, and websites.
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries Inc — Mentoring Coordinator
The person in this position is responsible for the NCMI Compassion Kids Mentoring Initiative and will support the expansion of mentoring and youth development activities across the Nazarene Compassionate Ministries network. For a full description of the position, click here. Applicants should send a resume or CV to ncmi@ncmi.org.
About
Located in Lenexa, Kansas, the Global Ministry Center is the administrative, mission, and service hub for the denomination's ministries in 159 world areas. All GMC positions report to this location. To obtain additional information, please call (913) 577-0500 and ask for Human Resources.
Our Non-Discrimination Policy
The Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center offers equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, disability, race, religion, creed, sex, or veteran status. The Global Ministry Center is an "at will" employer.
Our Faith-Based Organization
We are a faith-based organization. Acceptance of our Christian Code of Conduct is required and membership in the Church of the Nazarene is required for certain positions. The GMC and applicable remote work sites are smoke, alcohol, and drug free Christian workplaces.
Application Processing
Our Human Resources Office receives and processes many employment applications annually for a limited number of positions. While we regret that we cannot respond to each applicant, we do contact those individuals possessing the skills, education/training, and experience that best match the requirements of the open position for which the application was submitted.
An application must be completed by all applicants and an application must be completed for each position for which one wishes to be considered. Applications are retained for one year. Resumes are not necessary for entry-level positions, but they are preferred for professional level positions. Resumes may be submitted by mail.
Applying for Employment with the GMC
Application forms may be requested by calling (913) 577-0500, emailing bsikes@nazarene.org, or obtained in person from Human Resources at the Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center, 17001 Prairie Star Parkway, Lenexa, Kansas, 66220, Monday through Friday from 8:00 to 4:30 Central Time. Completed applications may be mailed or emailed to the attention of the Human Resources Office.
For more information, see the GMC's Human Resources page by clicking here.
Global Ministry Center
In 1948, Nazarene Missions International Global Council member Elizabeth Vennum was asked to pray about a challenging project for NMI. On her way home from a trip to Kansas City, Missouri, God gave her an idea. Vennum shared her plan the following year for a love gift modeled after the sacrifice of the woman who anointed Jesus' head with expensive perfume poured from an alabaster jar.
The council unanimously adopted the plan and the Board of General Superintendents approved Alabaster funds to be used exclusively for buildings and properties in cross-cultural ministries.
Since the first Alabaster offering was taken in 1949, Nazarenes around the world have given $100 million toward the purchase of land and construction of churches, schools, medical facilities, and homes for missionaries and national workers.
For Alabaster resources, click here.
New denominational website launches
Global Ministry Center
A new version of the nazarene.org website launched this month to better reflect and resource a global church.
With nearly all Nazarene pastors and members around the world able to access Church of the Nazarene information and online resources through hand-held devices, nazarene.org was greatly simplified for mobile users and lower bandwidth areas.
The site, which is still a work in progress, presents easy-to-find information for both the first-time visitor and longtime user. The site will soon be available in multiple languages.
Analytics show most nazarene.org visitors are first-time guests who want to know more about the Church of the Nazarene, its beliefs, and mission. Nazarene.org is designed to introduce the denomination and guide users to local churches. It is also more efficient for clergy and others seeking denominational news, announcements, and resources. Repeat users can navigate through the site using the "Organization" tab at the top of the site. There is also a "Frequently Visited Links" list on the footer of every page filled with convenient quick links.
Feedback is encouraged and can be offered by emailing web@nazarene.org. Use the hashtag #NewNazareneSite on social media to join the conversation.
The new nazarene.org is a collaborative project between the World Mission Communications Asia-Pacific New Media department and multiple Global Ministry Center entities.
Church of the Nazarene
nazarene.org
@nazarene
Facebook.com/nazareneofficial
Note: If using Internet Explorer, be sure it is updated to at least IE-10.
Southern Nazarene University President Loren P. Gresham was recently honored as one of Oklahoma's Most Admired CEOs in a ceremony sponsored by The Journal Record Publishing Co., the state's longtime leading company specializing in business publications and statewide events.
Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin brought greetings and commended the event and recognition of CEOs, stating, "this is a big deal!" As Gresham's award was presented by Journal Record Publishing Co. President Joni Brooks, highlights of Gresham's long tenure as president of SNU were read along with words of tribute from Express EmploymentProfessionals Chairman Robert A. Funk. Also noted was Gresham's leadership of the university through turbulent economic times while balancing the budget 25 consecutive years, yet maintaining top faculty, staff, and administrative team members.
Among the list of accomplishments and contributions Gresham has made to SNU and his community was his work with the International Board of Education for the Church of the Nazarene, the Council forChristian Colleges and Universities, and his prior service as chairman of the Council of Presidents of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, as well as his membership and leadership of numerous civic boards and organizations.
Gresham was described as a strategic consensus builder who adheres to servant leadership and is approachable and respectful of all. As one member of Gresham's administrative team stated, "The ultimate test of leadership is follow-ship, and thousands of SNU graduates have followed Dr. Gresham's example and have, or are, serving with excellence around the world."--Southern Nazarene University
Trevecca releases annual President's Report
Nashville, Tennessee
Trevecca Nazarene University President Dan Boone released his annual President's Report, featuring testimonials from students and employeesalike on the culture and success of Trevecca categorized within three core values.
The 36-page publication is the third annual report from Trevecca with a great focus on telling short stories around those beliefs. The three main values were introduced last year as part of a larger strategy map for the university.
"As you browse the President's Report, I hope you will sense the culture of Trevecca," Boone said. "Our success is not printing these words on a page but embodying them in flesh and blood."
Through Christlike character and real-world relevance, Trevecca aims to engage students, optimize resources, and grow impact through its values: unapologetically Christian, holistic education, and mentoring environment.
"Trevecca exists to offer a transforming hope to the world through the lives of our graduates," Boone said. "Two things are needed to make the difference — a holy passion to serve and practical expertise. To have expertise without service is haughty. To serve without the needed skill is fruitless."
Page through the digital version of the President's Report at trevecca.edu/treveccan.--Trevecca Nazarene University
MNU athlete chosen for new NAIA council
Recent praise reports and prayer requests from NCN News, Nazarene Missions International, and JESUS Film Harvest Partners include:
PRAISES
JESUS Film - India
"I was so deep into bad habits, my parents were disturbed by me," shared Shamrao in India. "My parents did everything they could, but it was to no avail. I met a JESUS Film team and was able to see the film. I came to know who Christ is, and now believe He has forgiven me for my sins, and I have accepted Him as my personal Savior."
JESUS Film - Nicaragua
"I was involved with drugs and hunted by the police," confessed a viewer in Nicaragua. "After seeing the JESUS film, I realized I shouldn't be living this kind of life. I have accepted the Lord, but the change has not been easy for me. I am trusting in Him, and hope to learn more about His ways."
JESUS Film - Panama
"I live alone with a son who has special needs," shared a woman in Panama. "I worry for my son, because I am getting old. I feel everything will turn out badly for him. Talking with you today, though, I feel a hope in Jesus. I am giving my home to God to be used for a preaching point, and everything else in my life to Him to be used for His glory."
PRAYER REQUESTS
Request from sensitive area
Three families who were recently baptized in a city on the Asia-Pacific Region and the Nazarene pastor who had been discipling them were called in to give an explanation to local government officials, the police, and other important social figures who do not agree with their actions. This meeting could have a serious impact on these three families and also could have wide-ranging implications for the work of the church. For the full request, click here.
Nazarene World Week of Prayer 2015
The annual Nazarene World Week of Prayer (NWWP) is almost here. Prayer requests have been gathered from each Global Mission Region and for the Persecuted Church. The requests have been posted on the NMI website in five languages (English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Korean). Click hereto view and download the requests, and plan to join Nazarenes around the world in praying together during NWWP, Sunday, March 1 – Saturday, March 7.
BEREAVEMENT
Biprosh family
Rev. Biprosh, a pastor and JESUS Film team leader in India, passed away last week from injuries sustained after he fell from a roof while preparing to show the JESUS film. He is survived by his wife and 19-month-old son. More information about this story will be published as it becomes available.
MORE...
For more global concerns and continued requests, see the NMI Prayer Mobilization Line by clicking here or JESUS Film Harvest Partners by clicking here.
To share additional praises or prayer requests, please use the comment section below or see the Prayer Mobilization Line's Facebook page.
GMC employment opportunities
By NCN News Staff
The following positions are available at the Church of the Nazarene's Global Ministry Center:
Global Education and Clergy Development — Senior Program Assistant
This position assists the Global Clergy Development director and administrative director fulfill ministry objectives.
Financial Services — Administrative Assistant
This position works under the direction of the general treasurer, primarily providing administrative and clerical support. This position also provides administrative and clerical support to the Donor Services manager and Global Treasury Services controller as needed.
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries — Computer Programming Coordinator
The person in this position will lead NCM's development team in developing and maintaining NCM's Web applications, systems, and websites.
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries Inc — Mentoring Coordinator
The person in this position is responsible for the NCMI Compassion Kids Mentoring Initiative and will support the expansion of mentoring and youth development activities across the Nazarene Compassionate Ministries network. For a full description of the position, click here. Applicants should send a resume or CV to ncmi@ncmi.org.
About
Located in Lenexa, Kansas, the Global Ministry Center is the administrative, mission, and service hub for the denomination's ministries in 159 world areas. All GMC positions report to this location. To obtain additional information, please call (913) 577-0500 and ask for Human Resources.
Our Non-Discrimination Policy
The Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center offers equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, disability, race, religion, creed, sex, or veteran status. The Global Ministry Center is an "at will" employer.
Our Faith-Based Organization
We are a faith-based organization. Acceptance of our Christian Code of Conduct is required and membership in the Church of the Nazarene is required for certain positions. The GMC and applicable remote work sites are smoke, alcohol, and drug free Christian workplaces.
Application Processing
Our Human Resources Office receives and processes many employment applications annually for a limited number of positions. While we regret that we cannot respond to each applicant, we do contact those individuals possessing the skills, education/training, and experience that best match the requirements of the open position for which the application was submitted.
An application must be completed by all applicants and an application must be completed for each position for which one wishes to be considered. Applications are retained for one year. Resumes are not necessary for entry-level positions, but they are preferred for professional level positions. Resumes may be submitted by mail.
Applying for Employment with the GMC
Application forms may be requested by calling (913) 577-0500, emailing bsikes@nazarene.org, or obtained in person from Human Resources at the Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center, 17001 Prairie Star Parkway, Lenexa, Kansas, 66220, Monday through Friday from 8:00 to 4:30 Central Time. Completed applications may be mailed or emailed to the attention of the Human Resources Office.
For more information, see the GMC's Human Resources page by clicking here.
Resources
February is Alabaster monthIn 1948, Nazarene Missions International Global Council member Elizabeth Vennum was asked to pray about a challenging project for NMI. On her way home from a trip to Kansas City, Missouri, God gave her an idea. Vennum shared her plan the following year for a love gift modeled after the sacrifice of the woman who anointed Jesus' head with expensive perfume poured from an alabaster jar.
The council unanimously adopted the plan and the Board of General Superintendents approved Alabaster funds to be used exclusively for buildings and properties in cross-cultural ministries.
Since the first Alabaster offering was taken in 1949, Nazarenes around the world have given $100 million toward the purchase of land and construction of churches, schools, medical facilities, and homes for missionaries and national workers.
For Alabaster resources, click here.
New denominational website launches
A new version of the nazarene.org website launched this month to better reflect and resource a global church.
With nearly all Nazarene pastors and members around the world able to access Church of the Nazarene information and online resources through hand-held devices, nazarene.org was greatly simplified for mobile users and lower bandwidth areas.
The site, which is still a work in progress, presents easy-to-find information for both the first-time visitor and longtime user. The site will soon be available in multiple languages.
Analytics show most nazarene.org visitors are first-time guests who want to know more about the Church of the Nazarene, its beliefs, and mission. Nazarene.org is designed to introduce the denomination and guide users to local churches. It is also more efficient for clergy and others seeking denominational news, announcements, and resources. Repeat users can navigate through the site using the "Organization" tab at the top of the site. There is also a "Frequently Visited Links" list on the footer of every page filled with convenient quick links.
Feedback is encouraged and can be offered by emailing web@nazarene.org. Use the hashtag #NewNazareneSite on social media to join the conversation.
The new nazarene.org is a collaborative project between the World Mission Communications Asia-Pacific New Media department and multiple Global Ministry Center entities.
Church of the Nazarene
nazarene.org
@nazarene
Facebook.com/nazareneofficial
Note: If using Internet Explorer, be sure it is updated to at least IE-10.
Collegiate News
SNU president honored as one of Oklahoma's top CEOsOklahoma Governor Mary Fallin brought greetings and commended the event and recognition of CEOs, stating, "this is a big deal!" As Gresham's award was presented by Journal Record Publishing Co. President Joni Brooks, highlights of Gresham's long tenure as president of SNU were read along with words of tribute from Express EmploymentProfessionals Chairman Robert A. Funk. Also noted was Gresham's leadership of the university through turbulent economic times while balancing the budget 25 consecutive years, yet maintaining top faculty, staff, and administrative team members.
Among the list of accomplishments and contributions Gresham has made to SNU and his community was his work with the International Board of Education for the Church of the Nazarene, the Council forChristian Colleges and Universities, and his prior service as chairman of the Council of Presidents of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, as well as his membership and leadership of numerous civic boards and organizations.
Gresham was described as a strategic consensus builder who adheres to servant leadership and is approachable and respectful of all. As one member of Gresham's administrative team stated, "The ultimate test of leadership is follow-ship, and thousands of SNU graduates have followed Dr. Gresham's example and have, or are, serving with excellence around the world."--Southern Nazarene University
Trevecca releases annual President's Report
Trevecca Nazarene University President Dan Boone released his annual President's Report, featuring testimonials from students and employeesalike on the culture and success of Trevecca categorized within three core values.
The 36-page publication is the third annual report from Trevecca with a great focus on telling short stories around those beliefs. The three main values were introduced last year as part of a larger strategy map for the university.
"As you browse the President's Report, I hope you will sense the culture of Trevecca," Boone said. "Our success is not printing these words on a page but embodying them in flesh and blood."
Through Christlike character and real-world relevance, Trevecca aims to engage students, optimize resources, and grow impact through its values: unapologetically Christian, holistic education, and mentoring environment.
"Trevecca exists to offer a transforming hope to the world through the lives of our graduates," Boone said. "Two things are needed to make the difference — a holy passion to serve and practical expertise. To have expertise without service is haughty. To serve without the needed skill is fruitless."
Page through the digital version of the President's Report at trevecca.edu/treveccan.--Trevecca Nazarene University
Olathe, Kansas
MidAmerica Nazarene University student Taylor Cowan was chosen for the NAIA's proposed Association of Student-Athletes, a new group to be added to the NAIA governance structure if approved at the annual convention in April. Cowan is a sophomore nursing major and will represent her sport, volleyball.
ASA would be the association's first governance group made up entirely of students and function as the advocacy arm of the student-athlete collective. The ASA will include at least one representative from every conference, including the Association of Independent Institutions (A.I.I.) and every NAIA championship sport.
"The ASA will allow student-athletes to have an input on the issues that directly impact them every day," said Kent Paulson, chair of the Conference Commissioners Association and Frontier Conference commissioner. "This group will have the unique opportunity to discuss matters most important to them on the NAIA's biggest stage."
Members of the proposed ASA were selected from a pool of nominees forwarded to the National Office by each conference and the A.I.I. MNU Volleyball Head Coach Kristin Steele says Cowan is one of MNU's brightest student-athletes. She was selected Freshman of the Year in MNU's athletic conference (HAAC) and has competed against many of the top volleyball programs in the country.
"Taylor knows what it is like to balance school and play at a high level," Steele said. "This, I believe, makes her an exceptional candidate for this panel. She was chosen out of an applicant pool of hundreds of other quality student athletes, which should make MNU and Pioneer Athletics proud."--MidAmerica Nazarene University
MidAmerica Nazarene University student Taylor Cowan was chosen for the NAIA's proposed Association of Student-Athletes, a new group to be added to the NAIA governance structure if approved at the annual convention in April. Cowan is a sophomore nursing major and will represent her sport, volleyball.
ASA would be the association's first governance group made up entirely of students and function as the advocacy arm of the student-athlete collective. The ASA will include at least one representative from every conference, including the Association of Independent Institutions (A.I.I.) and every NAIA championship sport.
"The ASA will allow student-athletes to have an input on the issues that directly impact them every day," said Kent Paulson, chair of the Conference Commissioners Association and Frontier Conference commissioner. "This group will have the unique opportunity to discuss matters most important to them on the NAIA's biggest stage."
Members of the proposed ASA were selected from a pool of nominees forwarded to the National Office by each conference and the A.I.I. MNU Volleyball Head Coach Kristin Steele says Cowan is one of MNU's brightest student-athletes. She was selected Freshman of the Year in MNU's athletic conference (HAAC) and has competed against many of the top volleyball programs in the country.
"Taylor knows what it is like to balance school and play at a high level," Steele said. "This, I believe, makes her an exceptional candidate for this panel. She was chosen out of an applicant pool of hundreds of other quality student athletes, which should make MNU and Pioneer Athletics proud."--MidAmerica Nazarene University
Senior Editor: Frank M. Moore
Managing Editor: Chad E. Schnarr
Associate Editor: Sarah A. Glass
Managing Editor: Chad E. Schnarr
Associate Editor: Sarah A. Glass
Contact us:
Nazarene Communications Network
17001 Prairie Star Parkway
Lenexa, Kansas 66220 United States
Voice: (913) 577-0562
Fax: (913) 577-0857
Email: ncnnews@ncnnews.com
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