Prayer requested as Tropical Cyclone Pam nears Vanuatu
Vanuatu, Asia-Pacific Region
Prayer is requested as Tropical Cyclone Pam gains strength in the South Pacific, making its way toward Vanuatu. This Category 5 storm with winds at 160 mph with gusts to 195 mph is forecast to reach Vanuatu Friday afternoon local time.
The following update was received March 12 from David and Sylvia Potter, Nazarene missionaries in Vanuatu:
Dear Friends,
We are literally sweating as we anticipate the arrival of Cyclone Pam, not just because we're not sure what to expect, but also because of the heat and humidity that comes with the storm. It was predicted nearly a week ago that this cyclone would be the most severe hurricane/cyclone of the Pacific. It didn't look at first like it would eventuate, but it has moved slowly south from the Solomon Islands and all the conditions have been ripe for it to become more and more serious. We are watching about four or five different online weather sites to try to be the most informed about its progress. Yesterday and during the night, the cyclone's progress toward the south pole slowed significantly and it has again intensified. The cyclone has reached a Category 5 this morning with sustained winds of 115 knots and gusts to 140 knots. They are predicting that the winds will get even stronger as the central pressure of the cyclone continues to drop. The weather forecasters are never entirely sure about the track that the cyclone will take, but what is concerning us is that it is aiming to hit us directly or narrowly miss us to the east — either prediction will bring very severe winds that will be very destructive.
We traveled to visit the people in our churches yesterday that are living in homes that would never stand up to the winds. When we arrived at these various places we found people completely unaware of the danger that was approaching! They had heard rumors that the cyclone had already passed. We did our best to convince our friends to begin preparing and looking for safe housing. We are thankful that the Vanuatu army helps to relocate people to schools and safe shelters during situations like this. The people in Vanuatu are for the most part entirely dependent on the food that they grow in their gardens, most of which are root crops, which take three to six months to develop. The winds and heavy rains that come with a cyclone can ruin gardens and the available food supply.
We have never faced a cyclone in our present house since we moved in seven years ago, so we aren't really sure whether our home will stand up to these fierce winds. David is screwing plywood sheets over our huge windows all around our house today. It is so hot and humid that closing up the windows sounds terrible, but it looks like the weather will be somewhat calm to handle the big sheets of wood today.
I've been teaching a Bible college class every evening for the last week and a half, and will teach this evening if the winds and rain hold off. You can't imagine how hard it is to concentrate on preparations for class and for my students to focus on what I'm teaching with a cyclone breathing down our necks!
Please be praying with us for our situation.
• We are asking God to do as Jesus did on the sea of Galilee — to block the wind and waves so that people's lives are spared.
• Pray that people will be wise in preparing for the storm even as they pray and trust God for protection.
• Pray that we will know what to do and how to help people during this time.
We may very likely lose our internet service and possibly phone service as we move into the thick of the storm on Friday or Saturday (Thursday and Friday in the U.S.), so please know that we will keep you posted as soon as we can.
Thank you for standing with us in the storm.
Love,
Sylvia and David
There are 11 Nazarene churches in Vanuatu.
More information will be added as it becomes available. Information can also be found at asiapacificnazarene.org. --Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region
92nd General Board highlights
Prayer is requested as Tropical Cyclone Pam gains strength in the South Pacific, making its way toward Vanuatu. This Category 5 storm with winds at 160 mph with gusts to 195 mph is forecast to reach Vanuatu Friday afternoon local time.
The following update was received March 12 from David and Sylvia Potter, Nazarene missionaries in Vanuatu:
Dear Friends,
We are literally sweating as we anticipate the arrival of Cyclone Pam, not just because we're not sure what to expect, but also because of the heat and humidity that comes with the storm. It was predicted nearly a week ago that this cyclone would be the most severe hurricane/cyclone of the Pacific. It didn't look at first like it would eventuate, but it has moved slowly south from the Solomon Islands and all the conditions have been ripe for it to become more and more serious. We are watching about four or five different online weather sites to try to be the most informed about its progress. Yesterday and during the night, the cyclone's progress toward the south pole slowed significantly and it has again intensified. The cyclone has reached a Category 5 this morning with sustained winds of 115 knots and gusts to 140 knots. They are predicting that the winds will get even stronger as the central pressure of the cyclone continues to drop. The weather forecasters are never entirely sure about the track that the cyclone will take, but what is concerning us is that it is aiming to hit us directly or narrowly miss us to the east — either prediction will bring very severe winds that will be very destructive.
We traveled to visit the people in our churches yesterday that are living in homes that would never stand up to the winds. When we arrived at these various places we found people completely unaware of the danger that was approaching! They had heard rumors that the cyclone had already passed. We did our best to convince our friends to begin preparing and looking for safe housing. We are thankful that the Vanuatu army helps to relocate people to schools and safe shelters during situations like this. The people in Vanuatu are for the most part entirely dependent on the food that they grow in their gardens, most of which are root crops, which take three to six months to develop. The winds and heavy rains that come with a cyclone can ruin gardens and the available food supply.
We have never faced a cyclone in our present house since we moved in seven years ago, so we aren't really sure whether our home will stand up to these fierce winds. David is screwing plywood sheets over our huge windows all around our house today. It is so hot and humid that closing up the windows sounds terrible, but it looks like the weather will be somewhat calm to handle the big sheets of wood today.
I've been teaching a Bible college class every evening for the last week and a half, and will teach this evening if the winds and rain hold off. You can't imagine how hard it is to concentrate on preparations for class and for my students to focus on what I'm teaching with a cyclone breathing down our necks!
Please be praying with us for our situation.
• We are asking God to do as Jesus did on the sea of Galilee — to block the wind and waves so that people's lives are spared.
• Pray that people will be wise in preparing for the storm even as they pray and trust God for protection.
• Pray that we will know what to do and how to help people during this time.
We may very likely lose our internet service and possibly phone service as we move into the thick of the storm on Friday or Saturday (Thursday and Friday in the U.S.), so please know that we will keep you posted as soon as we can.
Thank you for standing with us in the storm.
Love,
Sylvia and David
There are 11 Nazarene churches in Vanuatu.
More information will be added as it becomes available. Information can also be found at asiapacificnazarene.org. --Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region
92nd General Board highlights
Overland Park, Kansas
Each year, the Church of the Nazarene's General Board meets to discuss pressing matters and receive reports on the denomination's work around the world. This year's session began Friday morning, 20 February, with a time of prayer prior to committee meetings.
"It was deeply moving and allowed us to pray for the needs of each region," said David Wilson, general secretary.
Another focal point of the weekend is the Board of General Superintendents' annual report, presented by a member of the BGS. To read this year's report, presented by Gustavo A. Crocker, click here.
On the final day, the session deviated from the typical director reports to focus instead on the World Evangelism Fund.
"I was very pleased with this General Board session given the change in the format of the meetings," Wilson said. "Not only did things go smoothly, but there was renewed energy and engagement. I was especially thankful for the work accomplished on Monday morning as the General Board members met in small groups for the opportunity to provide feedback with the Board of General Superintendents on the topic of Funding the Mission."
The meeting ended with a missionary sending service, as is tradition.
Additional highlights of the 92nd Session of the General Board include:
Florida appellate judge and Nazarene layman Charles Davis serves as board president.
Action taken by General Board on NPH Board of Directors' report
Each year, the Church of the Nazarene's General Board meets to discuss pressing matters and receive reports on the denomination's work around the world. This year's session began Friday morning, 20 February, with a time of prayer prior to committee meetings.
"It was deeply moving and allowed us to pray for the needs of each region," said David Wilson, general secretary.
Another focal point of the weekend is the Board of General Superintendents' annual report, presented by a member of the BGS. To read this year's report, presented by Gustavo A. Crocker, click here.
On the final day, the session deviated from the typical director reports to focus instead on the World Evangelism Fund.
"I was very pleased with this General Board session given the change in the format of the meetings," Wilson said. "Not only did things go smoothly, but there was renewed energy and engagement. I was especially thankful for the work accomplished on Monday morning as the General Board members met in small groups for the opportunity to provide feedback with the Board of General Superintendents on the topic of Funding the Mission."
The meeting ended with a missionary sending service, as is tradition.
Additional highlights of the 92nd Session of the General Board include:
- The Saturday morning plenary included a report by Bob Brower, interim chair of the Nazarene Publishing House Board, on the past and future of NPH, followed by Q-and-A in Executive Session
- Lola Brickey was elected global Nazarene Missions International director
- The General Board commissioned eight missionaries on global contracts
- Ten retiring missionaries were honoredThe 2016 General Board meeting will be held 26 to 29 February in Ede, Netherlands, making it the first Church of the Nazarene corporate meeting held outside the U.S.
Florida appellate judge and Nazarene layman Charles Davis serves as board president.
Action taken by General Board on NPH Board of Directors' report
Kansas City, Missouri
The Interim Board of Directors of Nazarene Publishing House presented its "Situational Analysis Report" to the General Board on Saturday, 21 February 2015. After receiving the report, the General Board met in executive session with the Interim NPH Board for questions and discussion.
The General Board took the following action in response to recommendations in the NPH report:
"We are anticipating that each of these committees will submit an initial report by 1 December 2015. The goal is to have proposals ready for consideration by the 2016 General Board. We realize that some of the changes may involve revisions to the Manual, and we plan to have those resolutions finalized for consideration by General Assembly in 2017," Davis added.
As part of the NPH/Premier transaction review, questions were posed to each of the current general superintendents as to whether there were any financial dealings with Gerald W. Smith, Dianna Smith, or any of the business entities involved in the transaction such as Premier Studios, Inc. or Wolf Creek Development, LLC.
President Davis reported to the General Board that it has been determined that no such conflicts exist. Functioning as the board of directors for The Church of the Nazarene, Inc., the General Board had a duty to address allegations made regarding actions of the Board of General Superintendents about the NPH/Premier transaction.
"The answers given by the general superintendents to these conflict-of-interest questions directly refute the allegations as without merit," Davis emphasized.
David W. Graves, chair of the Board of General Superintendents, also expressed appreciation to the Interim NPH Board for its detailed and descriptive report.
"Our Board will also be reviewing this report. We look forward to working with the General Board in taking the needed steps to address the issues raised," Graves said. --General Board Executive Committee
Nazarenes in the News
The Interim Board of Directors of Nazarene Publishing House presented its "Situational Analysis Report" to the General Board on Saturday, 21 February 2015. After receiving the report, the General Board met in executive session with the Interim NPH Board for questions and discussion.
The General Board took the following action in response to recommendations in the NPH report:
- The Executive Committee of the General Board appointed a sub-committee to review the governance documents of all subsidiary organizations owned by The Church of the Nazarene, Inc. and those with whom a formal partnership has been established. These organizations include both corporate entities organized in the United States and subsidiaries in other countries. The review is to determine if changes in polity (governance) or policies should be proposed in light of the issues raised in the NPH report.
- The General Administration and Finance Committee of the General Board also met with two members of the Interim NPH Board, Dr. Bob Brower, chair, and Keith Pardue, secretary, for questions and discussion. In response to the NPH report, the General Board adopted the action of the committee, which authorized the chairman of the General Administration and Finance Committee, Joel Pearsall, to appoint a sub-committee to review the NPH report and discuss with the general treasurer and general secretary the financial policy issues raised in the report. The review is to include suggestions for possible changes in the financial policies established for the operation of the Global Ministry Center. General Board president, Charles A. Davis, Jr., stated: "The General Board deeply appreciates the diligent work and careful detail given by the Interim NPH Board in preparation of their report. The contents of this report suggest a need for close examination of the interrelationships between the church and its subsidiaries and a careful review of the policies established to govern the financial transactions of the church.
"We are anticipating that each of these committees will submit an initial report by 1 December 2015. The goal is to have proposals ready for consideration by the 2016 General Board. We realize that some of the changes may involve revisions to the Manual, and we plan to have those resolutions finalized for consideration by General Assembly in 2017," Davis added.
As part of the NPH/Premier transaction review, questions were posed to each of the current general superintendents as to whether there were any financial dealings with Gerald W. Smith, Dianna Smith, or any of the business entities involved in the transaction such as Premier Studios, Inc. or Wolf Creek Development, LLC.
President Davis reported to the General Board that it has been determined that no such conflicts exist. Functioning as the board of directors for The Church of the Nazarene, Inc., the General Board had a duty to address allegations made regarding actions of the Board of General Superintendents about the NPH/Premier transaction.
"The answers given by the general superintendents to these conflict-of-interest questions directly refute the allegations as without merit," Davis emphasized.
David W. Graves, chair of the Board of General Superintendents, also expressed appreciation to the Interim NPH Board for its detailed and descriptive report.
"Our Board will also be reviewing this report. We look forward to working with the General Board in taking the needed steps to address the issues raised," Graves said. --General Board Executive Committee
Nazarenes in the News
Global Ministry Center
Nazarenes in the News is a compilation of online news articles featuring Nazarene churches or church members.
Indiana compassionate ministry center begins Shalom Project
Indianapolis, Indiana
(WTHR, February 24) Reaching out to people who live in one of the city's more troubled neighborhoods is the goal of the Shalom Project.
It's the latest in the city's ongoing initiative to take back the six neighborhoods with the highest crime rates and it comes from a community partner.
Tuesday afternoon, Public Safety Director Troy Riggs applauded Pastor Jay Height and the Shepherd Community Center for taking on new challenges.
"This is one example where the Department of Public Safety isn't leading, but it's following and supporting," Riggs said.
Shepherd Community Center has played an important role in its east side neighborhood for 30 years. It has a school, pre-K program, and helps adults with jobs, housing and life skills.
For the rest of the story and a video, click here. Note: Height also serves as the USA/Canada Nazarene Compassionate Ministries coordinator for the Church of the Nazarene.
Korea missionaries give hope to Tonga's most vulnerable
Nuku'alofa, Tonga
(Mantangi Tonga, February 19) Two Korean missionaries have improved the quality of life for Tonga's most severely crippled people. The couple, Rev. 'Amanaki In-Kwon Kim (57) and his wife 'Ofa Jeong-Seok Kim (53), run the Mango Tree Centre, a rehabilitation centre at Houmakelikao in Nuku'alofa that provides free physiotherapy and counselling to disabled people and their families in Tonga.
Rev. 'Amanaki and his wife have been running the centre since 2007. The staff of six care for over 100 Tongans with severe disabilities, including 40 children suffering from a crippling disease known as Cerebral Palsy. Many of the children come from poor families.
For the rest of the story, click here.
Stories to share? Send them to submitnews@ncnnews.com.--Compiled by NCN News
Easter Offering resources available
Nazarenes in the News is a compilation of online news articles featuring Nazarene churches or church members.
Indiana compassionate ministry center begins Shalom Project
Indianapolis, Indiana
(WTHR, February 24) Reaching out to people who live in one of the city's more troubled neighborhoods is the goal of the Shalom Project.
It's the latest in the city's ongoing initiative to take back the six neighborhoods with the highest crime rates and it comes from a community partner.
Tuesday afternoon, Public Safety Director Troy Riggs applauded Pastor Jay Height and the Shepherd Community Center for taking on new challenges.
"This is one example where the Department of Public Safety isn't leading, but it's following and supporting," Riggs said.
Shepherd Community Center has played an important role in its east side neighborhood for 30 years. It has a school, pre-K program, and helps adults with jobs, housing and life skills.
For the rest of the story and a video, click here. Note: Height also serves as the USA/Canada Nazarene Compassionate Ministries coordinator for the Church of the Nazarene.
Korea missionaries give hope to Tonga's most vulnerable
Nuku'alofa, Tonga
(Mantangi Tonga, February 19) Two Korean missionaries have improved the quality of life for Tonga's most severely crippled people. The couple, Rev. 'Amanaki In-Kwon Kim (57) and his wife 'Ofa Jeong-Seok Kim (53), run the Mango Tree Centre, a rehabilitation centre at Houmakelikao in Nuku'alofa that provides free physiotherapy and counselling to disabled people and their families in Tonga.
Rev. 'Amanaki and his wife have been running the centre since 2007. The staff of six care for over 100 Tongans with severe disabilities, including 40 children suffering from a crippling disease known as Cerebral Palsy. Many of the children come from poor families.
For the rest of the story, click here.
Stories to share? Send them to submitnews@ncnnews.com.--Compiled by NCN News
Easter Offering resources available
Global Ministry Center
Resources are now available for the upcoming 2015 Easter Offering for the World Evangelism Fund.
The offering website, nazarene.org/generosity, includes promotional materials such as a social media plan, posters, bulletin inserts, and avideo. Sermon ideas, prayer points, devotionals, and children's activity sheets are also available to support local churches.
Leaders are encouraged to help their congregations creatively and innovatively prepare for this event using the Leader's Guide, which features a suggested schedule for resource use and a chart to divide offering emphasis responsibilities.
The Easter Offering website is once again available in the denomination's five official languages. Each language version can be accessed by a unique URL —
Resources are now available for the upcoming 2015 Easter Offering for the World Evangelism Fund.
The offering website, nazarene.org/generosity, includes promotional materials such as a social media plan, posters, bulletin inserts, and avideo. Sermon ideas, prayer points, devotionals, and children's activity sheets are also available to support local churches.
Leaders are encouraged to help their congregations creatively and innovatively prepare for this event using the Leader's Guide, which features a suggested schedule for resource use and a chart to divide offering emphasis responsibilities.
The Easter Offering website is once again available in the denomination's five official languages. Each language version can be accessed by a unique URL —
English at nazarene.org/generosity,
French at nazarene.org/generosite,
Korean at nazarene.org/generositykn,
Portuguese at nazarene.org/generosidade,
and Spanish at nazarene.org/generosidad.
The offering is typically taken on Easter Sunday, April 5, but may be customized in light of local churches' needs.
This year's theme, Every Tongue Confess, focuses on Philippians 2:1-11, where Paul speaks of the great sacrifice that Christ made in order to bring His people to unity with Him. Funds received from the offering provide essential resources for outreach in the Church of the Nazarene's 159 world areas.
Additional NCNNews.com Stories This Week
The offering is typically taken on Easter Sunday, April 5, but may be customized in light of local churches' needs.
This year's theme, Every Tongue Confess, focuses on Philippians 2:1-11, where Paul speaks of the great sacrifice that Christ made in order to bring His people to unity with Him. Funds received from the offering provide essential resources for outreach in the Church of the Nazarene's 159 world areas.
Additional NCNNews.com Stories This Week
Regional News
AfricaFlags of the Nations: Mali
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: Mali
The Church of the Nazarene officially entered Mali in 2010.
Mali had a population of 16,455,903 in 2014. Mali has not yet reported any Churches of the Nazarene.
Mali is on the Africa Region. For more information about the Africa Region, visit africanazarene.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
AfricaFlags of the Nations: Mali
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: Mali
The Church of the Nazarene officially entered Mali in 2010.
Mali had a population of 16,455,903 in 2014. Mali has not yet reported any Churches of the Nazarene.
Mali is on the Africa Region. For more information about the Africa Region, visit africanazarene.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.
Asia-Pacific
Myanmar District to provide summer break camps for children
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.
Asia-Pacific
Myanmar District to provide summer break camps for children
Myanmar, Asia-Pacific Region
Sunday School & Discipleship Ministries International leaders in Myanmar, led by Pastor Puia, will soon begin Children's Summer Camp 2015, an initiative to reach children for Christ during the upcoming summer break (March to May).
These children's camps will be held in 17 different locations across the district with a goal of reaching at least 960 children. SDMI will partner closely with Hi Kids International, which committed to support the camps through equipment, teachers, and finances.
Each children's camp will be coordination in conjunction with the local church and last three days. The camps include Bible teaching, music, storytelling, biblical drama presentations, games, and prayer.
Hi Kids International is part of an international children's ministry group that began in Europe. Pastor Jubilee, a Nazarene pastor in Myanmar, has been pioneering this ministry in Myanmar and Pastor Puia has been working closely with him for more than five years.
Through the work of the Holy Spirit and the commitment of these two pastors and others, more than 120 Saturday children's ministry centers were established across Myanmar with more than 6,000 children regularly attending.
Leaders request prayer that:
'They are starting to open themselves like a flower': Helping survivors of human trafficking
Sunday School & Discipleship Ministries International leaders in Myanmar, led by Pastor Puia, will soon begin Children's Summer Camp 2015, an initiative to reach children for Christ during the upcoming summer break (March to May).
These children's camps will be held in 17 different locations across the district with a goal of reaching at least 960 children. SDMI will partner closely with Hi Kids International, which committed to support the camps through equipment, teachers, and finances.
Each children's camp will be coordination in conjunction with the local church and last three days. The camps include Bible teaching, music, storytelling, biblical drama presentations, games, and prayer.
Hi Kids International is part of an international children's ministry group that began in Europe. Pastor Jubilee, a Nazarene pastor in Myanmar, has been pioneering this ministry in Myanmar and Pastor Puia has been working closely with him for more than five years.
Through the work of the Holy Spirit and the commitment of these two pastors and others, more than 120 Saturday children's ministry centers were established across Myanmar with more than 6,000 children regularly attending.
Leaders request prayer that:
- The program would be God-led and empowered
- Teachers and district SDMI leaders will be anointed by the Holy Spirit
- Sufficient funds will be available for the entire three months
- Children's ministry revival will take place in every local church
- Many children will answer the call to enter into personal relationship with Jesus Christ--Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region
'They are starting to open themselves like a flower': Helping survivors of human trafficking
Bucharest, Romania
By Gina Grate Pottenger for Where Worlds Meet
Chirila "Betty" says that when she was growing up with an alcoholic and abusive father, she didn't feel secure; she didn't feel love. Fortunately, when she was 18, a young man she knew invited her to church.
What if a different guy had invited her somewhere else? To his house, maybe? To meet a "friend"? What if that guy sniffed out vulnerability and took advantage? And then he sold her to a pimp, tricking her into human trafficking, a trap from which she could not escape?
That didn't happen.
Instead, although she identified herself as an atheist, she accepted the invitation to visit the Church of the Nazarene where everyone was cheerful and the youth group welcomed her with open arms. After attending regularly for a while, she accepted Christ in a youth camp and began singing in the church's worship team. She went on to college, earned a bachelor's degree and then a master's degree in psychology.
Now, as a psychologist at The Open Door, an emergency shelter for human trafficking survivors in Bucharest, Betty can empathize with the girls who come there to escape the hopeless black hole of sexual slavery. Like them, she remembers a childhood without the nurturing and safe feelings of being loved by one's family. Although her life took a different course, the women and girls can sense her compassion informed by experience.
She was invited to join the staff by Monica, the Nazarene who founded the nonprofit shelter. The young man, Simi, who initially invited her to church, is an administrator at the shelter.
It's the most fulfilling work Betty could have imagined.
"[The women are] not confident in themselves and that's one of the things that made them vulnerable for trafficking," she said. "When they start to feel that they're loved and when you start to give them attention, they are starting to open themselves like a flower, like a tulip."
Betty has worked with about 30 survivors over the course of her time at The Open Door. Normally there is only space for a handful to live at the shelter at any one time. The government brings the rescued survivors to the shelter, where Monica's team takes over in caring for them and providing rehabilitative activities, such as teaching them to cook, manage money, shop, and clean house.
She also helps them work out a plan to finish high school if they didn't graduate, as well as to find companies who will interview and potentially hire them for jobs. The intent is to shape in the women a new healthy self-awareness and teach them to interact in healthy ways with others, as they become independent and re-enter society.
"They have no idea how to live, how to cook or clean or how to wash their clothes," she said. "They depend on people. We're trying to teach them how to live by themselves. It's pretty difficult because many of them got used to a negative lifestyle; it's pretty hard for them to adjust to a positive lifestyle."
The shelter houses each woman for about 18 months, but cases are assessed individually, and women can stay longer if the staff evaluates that they need more time. The shelter also offers non-residential assistance to minors, currently working with 16 children. After having been involved so closely with redemptive work among trafficking survivors, Betty is frustrated that she perceives many Christians are still blind to the staggering reach of human trafficking.
Teanna Sunberg, missionary in Hungary, reported in an Engage magazine article:
Central Europe Field becomes home to unusual congregation
By Gina Grate Pottenger for Where Worlds Meet
Chirila "Betty" says that when she was growing up with an alcoholic and abusive father, she didn't feel secure; she didn't feel love. Fortunately, when she was 18, a young man she knew invited her to church.
What if a different guy had invited her somewhere else? To his house, maybe? To meet a "friend"? What if that guy sniffed out vulnerability and took advantage? And then he sold her to a pimp, tricking her into human trafficking, a trap from which she could not escape?
That didn't happen.
Instead, although she identified herself as an atheist, she accepted the invitation to visit the Church of the Nazarene where everyone was cheerful and the youth group welcomed her with open arms. After attending regularly for a while, she accepted Christ in a youth camp and began singing in the church's worship team. She went on to college, earned a bachelor's degree and then a master's degree in psychology.
Now, as a psychologist at The Open Door, an emergency shelter for human trafficking survivors in Bucharest, Betty can empathize with the girls who come there to escape the hopeless black hole of sexual slavery. Like them, she remembers a childhood without the nurturing and safe feelings of being loved by one's family. Although her life took a different course, the women and girls can sense her compassion informed by experience.
She was invited to join the staff by Monica, the Nazarene who founded the nonprofit shelter. The young man, Simi, who initially invited her to church, is an administrator at the shelter.
It's the most fulfilling work Betty could have imagined.
"[The women are] not confident in themselves and that's one of the things that made them vulnerable for trafficking," she said. "When they start to feel that they're loved and when you start to give them attention, they are starting to open themselves like a flower, like a tulip."
Betty has worked with about 30 survivors over the course of her time at The Open Door. Normally there is only space for a handful to live at the shelter at any one time. The government brings the rescued survivors to the shelter, where Monica's team takes over in caring for them and providing rehabilitative activities, such as teaching them to cook, manage money, shop, and clean house.
She also helps them work out a plan to finish high school if they didn't graduate, as well as to find companies who will interview and potentially hire them for jobs. The intent is to shape in the women a new healthy self-awareness and teach them to interact in healthy ways with others, as they become independent and re-enter society.
"They have no idea how to live, how to cook or clean or how to wash their clothes," she said. "They depend on people. We're trying to teach them how to live by themselves. It's pretty difficult because many of them got used to a negative lifestyle; it's pretty hard for them to adjust to a positive lifestyle."
The shelter houses each woman for about 18 months, but cases are assessed individually, and women can stay longer if the staff evaluates that they need more time. The shelter also offers non-residential assistance to minors, currently working with 16 children. After having been involved so closely with redemptive work among trafficking survivors, Betty is frustrated that she perceives many Christians are still blind to the staggering reach of human trafficking.
Teanna Sunberg, missionary in Hungary, reported in an Engage magazine article:
According to the International Labour Organization's June 2012 Press Release, Central Europe and the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) Fields have the highest number of trafficking victims per thousand inhabitants globally. These two parts of Europe account for 7 percent of the global trafficking market. In other words, 1.6 million people from Romania and the Eastern European neighborhood are trapped in forced labour situations today, according to an article.
"If we would have God's eyes, we will see things the way God sees them," Betty said. "You can close your eyes in front of reality. That doesn't make the problem disappear. That makes you ignorant. Right now I don't want to do anything else. If you can change a life, then you can say you accomplished the mission of the Lord. They need me. I hope one day we will get more people involved."--Church of the Nazarene Eurasia RegionCentral Europe Field becomes home to unusual congregation
Eurasia Region
"I tell you the truth," Jesus said, "corrupt tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the Kingdom of God before you do" (Matthew 21:31, NLB). And so he angered the religious people of his time by associating with sinners, with liars, thieves and prostitutes, accepting them, loving them, sharing with them the purifying grace of God.
When Maria was asked to start a church in a small mountain village in central Europe, she decided to do as Jesus did.
One day about two years ago, a lady who had heard of Maria's ministry through her sister invited her to come and start a church in her village.
NTC-Manchester announces visiting director for Manchester Wesley Research Centre
"I tell you the truth," Jesus said, "corrupt tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the Kingdom of God before you do" (Matthew 21:31, NLB). And so he angered the religious people of his time by associating with sinners, with liars, thieves and prostitutes, accepting them, loving them, sharing with them the purifying grace of God.
When Maria was asked to start a church in a small mountain village in central Europe, she decided to do as Jesus did.
One day about two years ago, a lady who had heard of Maria's ministry through her sister invited her to come and start a church in her village.
"I did not know what type of people would come," Maria remembers. "Some of the people we started to have were a few pimps and prostitutes."
For the rest of the story, see Engage magazine.NTC-Manchester announces visiting director for Manchester Wesley Research Centre
Manchester, United Kingdom
Nazarene Theological College-Manchester announced Howard Snyder, retired professor of history and theology of mission at Asbury Theological Seminary, will step in as visiting director for the Manchester Wesley Research Centre until January 2017.
Snyder is taking on primary leadership of the MWRC from current director Geordan Hammond, who will have a reduced role with the centre for two years in order to pursue research on George Whitefield's correspondence.
Previously, Snyder was professor of Wesley studies at Tyndale Seminary in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, from 2007 to 2012 and has explored Wesley's perspective of creation care and other areas of Wesleyan theology. He is the author of The Radical Wesley: The Patterns and Practices of a Movement Maker and other books.
"Howard Snyder is a pre-eminent Wesley studies scholar and a really phenomenal churchman, so he's spent a lot of his life thinking about and helping Wesleyans shape the Church for today," said Deirdre Brower Latz, principal of NTC-Manchester. "He's a kind of prophetic scholar. To have him … consenting to be the visiting director is wonderful."
As the primary leader of the centre, Snyder will work with twoadministrative assistants to carry out the day-to-day work of the centre, as well as plan events and work with the centre's 11 partner institutions.
Now retired, Snyder writes from his home in Wilmore, Kentucky, USA, and serves as a research supervisor for NTC-Manchester. Taking on leadership for the Manchester Wesley Research Centre fits his lifelong interest in Wesley studies.
"I was well aware Manchester was a major centre for Wesley studies with The John Rylands Library there," Snyder said. "I'm looking forward to getting more acquainted with the John Rylands and NTC.
"I have a long interest in church renewal and revival, so I'm interested not only academically but in terms of practical things the Church can learn and needs today from Wesley and early Methodism. I was raised in the Free Methodist Church, of which I'm still a member. I have a lot of interest not only in early Methodism, but also in the holiness movement and movements with roots in Methodism and the Wesleyan witness, including the Church of the Nazarene and some Pentecostal and Charismatic groups."
Hammond is pleased Snyder agreed to the role.
"He's widely known as a respected voice amongst Wesleyan scholars and ministers who speaks effectively to academics, ministers, and laypeople," he said. "I look forward to seeing how the centre develops under his leadership."
Snyder has also served as professor of history and theology of mission in the E. Stanley Jones School of World Mission and Evangelism at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky (1996-2006), where he still teaches or lectures occasionally, and has pastored in Chicago, Illinois, USA, Detroit, Michigan, USA and São Paulo, Brazil.
The Manchester Wesley Research Centre promotes and supports research on the life and work of John and Charles Wesley, their contemporaries in the 18th century Evangelical Revival, their historical and theological antecedents, their successors in the Wesleyan tradition, and contemporary scholarship in the Wesleyan and Evangelical tradition. This includes areas such as theology, history, biblical studies, education, ethics, literature, mission, philosophy, pastoral studies, practical theology, and social theology.
The centre is located on the campus of Nazarene Theological College-Manchester in Didsbury, Manchester, and is affiliated with the Methodist Archives, housed in The John Rylands Library. These research centres provide magnificent resources for students and researchers in this field.--NTC-Manchester
South America
Argentina church baptizes first members
Nazarene Theological College-Manchester announced Howard Snyder, retired professor of history and theology of mission at Asbury Theological Seminary, will step in as visiting director for the Manchester Wesley Research Centre until January 2017.
Snyder is taking on primary leadership of the MWRC from current director Geordan Hammond, who will have a reduced role with the centre for two years in order to pursue research on George Whitefield's correspondence.
Previously, Snyder was professor of Wesley studies at Tyndale Seminary in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, from 2007 to 2012 and has explored Wesley's perspective of creation care and other areas of Wesleyan theology. He is the author of The Radical Wesley: The Patterns and Practices of a Movement Maker and other books.
"Howard Snyder is a pre-eminent Wesley studies scholar and a really phenomenal churchman, so he's spent a lot of his life thinking about and helping Wesleyans shape the Church for today," said Deirdre Brower Latz, principal of NTC-Manchester. "He's a kind of prophetic scholar. To have him … consenting to be the visiting director is wonderful."
As the primary leader of the centre, Snyder will work with twoadministrative assistants to carry out the day-to-day work of the centre, as well as plan events and work with the centre's 11 partner institutions.
Now retired, Snyder writes from his home in Wilmore, Kentucky, USA, and serves as a research supervisor for NTC-Manchester. Taking on leadership for the Manchester Wesley Research Centre fits his lifelong interest in Wesley studies.
"I was well aware Manchester was a major centre for Wesley studies with The John Rylands Library there," Snyder said. "I'm looking forward to getting more acquainted with the John Rylands and NTC.
"I have a long interest in church renewal and revival, so I'm interested not only academically but in terms of practical things the Church can learn and needs today from Wesley and early Methodism. I was raised in the Free Methodist Church, of which I'm still a member. I have a lot of interest not only in early Methodism, but also in the holiness movement and movements with roots in Methodism and the Wesleyan witness, including the Church of the Nazarene and some Pentecostal and Charismatic groups."
Hammond is pleased Snyder agreed to the role.
"He's widely known as a respected voice amongst Wesleyan scholars and ministers who speaks effectively to academics, ministers, and laypeople," he said. "I look forward to seeing how the centre develops under his leadership."
Snyder has also served as professor of history and theology of mission in the E. Stanley Jones School of World Mission and Evangelism at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky (1996-2006), where he still teaches or lectures occasionally, and has pastored in Chicago, Illinois, USA, Detroit, Michigan, USA and São Paulo, Brazil.
The Manchester Wesley Research Centre promotes and supports research on the life and work of John and Charles Wesley, their contemporaries in the 18th century Evangelical Revival, their historical and theological antecedents, their successors in the Wesleyan tradition, and contemporary scholarship in the Wesleyan and Evangelical tradition. This includes areas such as theology, history, biblical studies, education, ethics, literature, mission, philosophy, pastoral studies, practical theology, and social theology.
The centre is located on the campus of Nazarene Theological College-Manchester in Didsbury, Manchester, and is affiliated with the Methodist Archives, housed in The John Rylands Library. These research centres provide magnificent resources for students and researchers in this field.--NTC-Manchester
South America
Argentina church baptizes first members
Aluminé, Argentina
Casa del Padre Church of the Nazarene in Aluminé, Argentina, celebrated its first baptisms February 15 when 10 people publicly declared their faith in Jesus Christ.
Just two weeks earlier, the church celebrated its organization at the Patagonia North District Assembly in Neuquén, Argentina. Church members include 30 adults, 25 children ages 7 to 12, and eight youth ages 13 to 18. The assembly was presided over by District Superintendent Eduardo Martínez and Cono Sur Field Strategy Coordinator Juan José Zani.
Casa del Padre aims to show God based on the teaching in John 14:6: "Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life, and that only through Him you can get to the Father.'" The church began a year ago through The Master's Plan, a cell-based system. There are currently cell groups for men, women, children, youth, married couples, and three for mixed groups.
The church also expanded into other areas this month with prayer cells in Piloli, located about 30 miles from un Aluminé, and a cell group in Villa Pehuenia, a tourist town about 35 miles from Aluminé, making a total of 10 cell groups. They also have a three-level discipleship course. The first level is for new believers, the second for individuals to grow in faith, and the third to send. This helps the church prepare leaders for the cell groups as well as the general meetings.
In November, the church bought property, including a building. The church began meeting there in January and at the first meeting, the congregation prayed for a woman who had breast cancer that spread to her kidneys and lungs.
"She had been living with this cancer for two years and was in delicate health," said Eduardo and Idalina Vergara, Casa del Padre leaders. "Glory to God she is now well, she only has a few traces on her bones but nothing serious the doctor says."
The Vergaras report God continues to do miracles in Aluminé, and this encourages them to keep preaching that the God of miracles in the Old Testament is the same today and forever.
"With this miracle, that makes six total since the Church of the Nazarene began work in the city of Aluminé," they said.--Church of the Nazarene South America Region
Casa del Padre Church of the Nazarene in Aluminé, Argentina, celebrated its first baptisms February 15 when 10 people publicly declared their faith in Jesus Christ.
Just two weeks earlier, the church celebrated its organization at the Patagonia North District Assembly in Neuquén, Argentina. Church members include 30 adults, 25 children ages 7 to 12, and eight youth ages 13 to 18. The assembly was presided over by District Superintendent Eduardo Martínez and Cono Sur Field Strategy Coordinator Juan José Zani.
Casa del Padre aims to show God based on the teaching in John 14:6: "Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life, and that only through Him you can get to the Father.'" The church began a year ago through The Master's Plan, a cell-based system. There are currently cell groups for men, women, children, youth, married couples, and three for mixed groups.
The church also expanded into other areas this month with prayer cells in Piloli, located about 30 miles from un Aluminé, and a cell group in Villa Pehuenia, a tourist town about 35 miles from Aluminé, making a total of 10 cell groups. They also have a three-level discipleship course. The first level is for new believers, the second for individuals to grow in faith, and the third to send. This helps the church prepare leaders for the cell groups as well as the general meetings.
In November, the church bought property, including a building. The church began meeting there in January and at the first meeting, the congregation prayed for a woman who had breast cancer that spread to her kidneys and lungs.
"She had been living with this cancer for two years and was in delicate health," said Eduardo and Idalina Vergara, Casa del Padre leaders. "Glory to God she is now well, she only has a few traces on her bones but nothing serious the doctor says."
The Vergaras report God continues to do miracles in Aluminé, and this encourages them to keep preaching that the God of miracles in the Old Testament is the same today and forever.
"With this miracle, that makes six total since the Church of the Nazarene began work in the city of Aluminé," they said.--Church of the Nazarene South America Region
Colombia, South America Region
Pastors and delegates gathered with Colombia Eje Cafetero District Superintendent Luis Meza to celebrate district assembly February 14.
Central Church of the Nazarene in Armenia continues to work toward its vision to plant a church in every village of Quindio. The church succeeded in bringing the Church of the Nazarene to several of these municipalities.
The assembly recognized the organization of Iglesia del Nazareno Ríos de Agua Viva (Rivers of Living Water Church of the Nazarene) in Cartago, led by Pastor Adaly Henao. The church began as a mission in 2013 and on December 17, 2014, it was organized with 63 full members.
In Manizales, Pastor Elizabeth Rodriguez prays every day at 4 a.m. on the mountain in a dangerous area. Through prayer, the sector has changed dramatically; there have been new people attending the church.
The district grew by 8 percent and is organizing a new church.--Church of the Nazarene South America Region
Pastors and delegates gathered with Colombia Eje Cafetero District Superintendent Luis Meza to celebrate district assembly February 14.
Central Church of the Nazarene in Armenia continues to work toward its vision to plant a church in every village of Quindio. The church succeeded in bringing the Church of the Nazarene to several of these municipalities.
The assembly recognized the organization of Iglesia del Nazareno Ríos de Agua Viva (Rivers of Living Water Church of the Nazarene) in Cartago, led by Pastor Adaly Henao. The church began as a mission in 2013 and on December 17, 2014, it was organized with 63 full members.
In Manizales, Pastor Elizabeth Rodriguez prays every day at 4 a.m. on the mountain in a dangerous area. Through prayer, the sector has changed dramatically; there have been new people attending the church.
The district grew by 8 percent and is organizing a new church.--Church of the Nazarene South America Region
Global Ministry Center News
In Memoriam
In Memoriam
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 March 9-13, 2015.
Gary Cunningham, 70, of Newnan, Georgia, passed away February 21. He was a retired minister and chaplain, serving in Indiana. He is survived by his wife, Donna Cunningham.
Gary Goodrich, 79, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away March 7. He was a pastor. He is survived by his wife, Donna Goodrich, who was a Nazarene Publishing House employee.
Juan Izquierdo, 89, of Miami, Florida, passed away March 10. He was a retired minister, serving in Florida. He was preceded in death by his wife, Teresa Izquierdo, in February.
Irving "Doc" Laird, 83, of Nampa, Idaho, passed away March 6. He was a retired minister and educator, serving in Indiana and Idaho (Northwest Nazarene University). He is survived by his wife, Beverly (Ashline) Laird. (NNU story)
James Steele Jr., 94, of Port Saint Lucie, Florida, passed away March 9. He was a retired minister, serving in Tennessee, Florida, and Wisconsin. He is survived by his wife, Eloise Steele.
Dorothy (Walkes) Stocker, 98, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away March 7. She was the widow of retired minister Willard Stocker, who passed away in 1982.
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
GMC employment opportunities
The following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received March 9-13, 2015.
Gary Cunningham, 70, of Newnan, Georgia, passed away February 21. He was a retired minister and chaplain, serving in Indiana. He is survived by his wife, Donna Cunningham.
Gary Goodrich, 79, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away March 7. He was a pastor. He is survived by his wife, Donna Goodrich, who was a Nazarene Publishing House employee.
Juan Izquierdo, 89, of Miami, Florida, passed away March 10. He was a retired minister, serving in Florida. He was preceded in death by his wife, Teresa Izquierdo, in February.
Irving "Doc" Laird, 83, of Nampa, Idaho, passed away March 6. He was a retired minister and educator, serving in Indiana and Idaho (Northwest Nazarene University). He is survived by his wife, Beverly (Ashline) Laird. (NNU story)
James Steele Jr., 94, of Port Saint Lucie, Florida, passed away March 9. He was a retired minister, serving in Tennessee, Florida, and Wisconsin. He is survived by his wife, Eloise Steele.
Dorothy (Walkes) Stocker, 98, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away March 7. She was the widow of retired minister Willard Stocker, who passed away in 1982.
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
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:
Financial Services — Administrative Assistant
This position works under the direction of the general treasurer, primarily providing administrative and clerical support.
Global Education and Clergy Development — Senior Program Assistant
This position assists the Global Clergy Development director and administrative director fulfill ministry objectives.
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.
USA/Canada Regional Office — Senior Program Assistant
This position provides assistance to the USA/Canada New Church Development director with event planning, travel arrangements, finance reconciliation, word processing, database maintenance, correspondence, and other tasks as needed.
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 or emailbsikes@nazarene.org.
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.
By NCN News Staff
The following positions are available at the Church of the Nazarene's Global Ministry Center:
Financial Services — Administrative Assistant
This position works under the direction of the general treasurer, primarily providing administrative and clerical support.
Global Education and Clergy Development — Senior Program Assistant
This position assists the Global Clergy Development director and administrative director fulfill ministry objectives.
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.
USA/Canada Regional Office — Senior Program Assistant
This position provides assistance to the USA/Canada New Church Development director with event planning, travel arrangements, finance reconciliation, word processing, database maintenance, correspondence, and other tasks as needed.
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 or emailbsikes@nazarene.org.
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.
Collegiate News
NNU community mourns loss of Irving 'Doc' Laird
Nampa, Idaho
Northwest Nazarene University Faculty Emeritus Irving "Doc" Laird passed away at his home March 6. A celebration worship service honoring his life will be held Saturday, March 14 at 2 p.m. at Nampa First Church of the Nazarene.
Laird was employed with NNU for 30 years before retiring in 1997. During this time he served as a professor in NNU's Division of Philosophy and Religion, he was dean of students for 11 years and chair of the Department of Special Ministries for 17 years. Laird initiated the social service ministry major and had opportunity to become involved in the beginning years of several Nazarene Compassionate Ministries inner city projects.
Laird was an example of servant leadership and grace among his peers and students. While at NNU he began a young man's discipleship group called The Covenant, which became a place of spiritual and personal growth for over a hundred college students. The group was based on eight principles: accountability, affirmation, availability, confidentiality, honesty, openness, prayer, and sensitivity. Laird stayed in contact with nearly all of the small-group participants up to his passing.
"I am so thankful to have had a mentor like Doc in my life," said Jeff Carr, a Covenant member. "He plucked me off a soccer field when I was 19 years old as a college kid who was trying to find his way. For over 30 years he advised, admonished, suggested, listened, guided and always loved me. Now I feel challenged to invest in others the way Doc invested in me and thousands of other students for over 60 years."
In 2010, the Irving W. and Beverly A. Laird Compassionate Ministries Scholarship was formed to assist students who desire to come to NNU from inner city compassionate ministries centers or who are preparing to work in urban compassionate ministries. In 2011, Laird was awarded The Wesley Order of Servant Leaders Award by NNU President David Alexander, honoring his practice and spirit of servant leadership reflective of the Christian faith and the university's mission. He was also presented with NCM's The Good Samaritan Award.
"Dr. Irving Laird personified the transformative nature of the NNU experience," Alexander said. "His lasting, positive impact will continue for generations to come in the lives of the students he nurtured, taught, mentored, and loved."
Prior to his career at NNU, Laird served in several associate positions and one senior pastorate. In retirement, Laird and his wife, Bev, stayed active in a variety of ministries at his local church and as a volunteer at Mountain States Tumor Institute. He also taught some short-term classes at various Nazarene campuses and spent time as interim chaplain at Eastern Nazarene College in 2001.
Laird's obituary may be found here.
Saturday's service will be live streamed at doclaird.com at 2 p.m. MST. The family suggests memorial gifts be given to the Irving W. and Beverly A. Laird Compassionate Ministry Scholarship fund at Northwest Nazarene University, 623 South University Blvd., Nampa, Idaho 83686.--Northwest Nazarene University
Wesleyan Theological Society presents award to MVNU president
NNU community mourns loss of Irving 'Doc' Laird
Northwest Nazarene University Faculty Emeritus Irving "Doc" Laird passed away at his home March 6. A celebration worship service honoring his life will be held Saturday, March 14 at 2 p.m. at Nampa First Church of the Nazarene.
Laird was employed with NNU for 30 years before retiring in 1997. During this time he served as a professor in NNU's Division of Philosophy and Religion, he was dean of students for 11 years and chair of the Department of Special Ministries for 17 years. Laird initiated the social service ministry major and had opportunity to become involved in the beginning years of several Nazarene Compassionate Ministries inner city projects.
Laird was an example of servant leadership and grace among his peers and students. While at NNU he began a young man's discipleship group called The Covenant, which became a place of spiritual and personal growth for over a hundred college students. The group was based on eight principles: accountability, affirmation, availability, confidentiality, honesty, openness, prayer, and sensitivity. Laird stayed in contact with nearly all of the small-group participants up to his passing.
"I am so thankful to have had a mentor like Doc in my life," said Jeff Carr, a Covenant member. "He plucked me off a soccer field when I was 19 years old as a college kid who was trying to find his way. For over 30 years he advised, admonished, suggested, listened, guided and always loved me. Now I feel challenged to invest in others the way Doc invested in me and thousands of other students for over 60 years."
In 2010, the Irving W. and Beverly A. Laird Compassionate Ministries Scholarship was formed to assist students who desire to come to NNU from inner city compassionate ministries centers or who are preparing to work in urban compassionate ministries. In 2011, Laird was awarded The Wesley Order of Servant Leaders Award by NNU President David Alexander, honoring his practice and spirit of servant leadership reflective of the Christian faith and the university's mission. He was also presented with NCM's The Good Samaritan Award.
"Dr. Irving Laird personified the transformative nature of the NNU experience," Alexander said. "His lasting, positive impact will continue for generations to come in the lives of the students he nurtured, taught, mentored, and loved."
Prior to his career at NNU, Laird served in several associate positions and one senior pastorate. In retirement, Laird and his wife, Bev, stayed active in a variety of ministries at his local church and as a volunteer at Mountain States Tumor Institute. He also taught some short-term classes at various Nazarene campuses and spent time as interim chaplain at Eastern Nazarene College in 2001.
Laird's obituary may be found here.
Saturday's service will be live streamed at doclaird.com at 2 p.m. MST. The family suggests memorial gifts be given to the Irving W. and Beverly A. Laird Compassionate Ministry Scholarship fund at Northwest Nazarene University, 623 South University Blvd., Nampa, Idaho 83686.--Northwest Nazarene University
Wesleyan Theological Society presents award to MVNU president
Mount Vernon, Ohio
The Wesleyan Theological Society awarded the Pastor-Preacher-Scholar Award to Mount Vernon Nazarene University President Henry W. Spaulding II during the society's 50th annual meeting, held at MVNU March 6 and 7.
The Pastor-Preacher-Scholar Award is given to individuals whose service is deemed an outstanding example of Wesleyan-Holiness ministry. It recognizes those who embody the virtues associated with excellence in Christian leadership. Spaulding was given this award in recognition of his previous pastoral leadership and his work at MVNU and other universities to establish a culture of Christ-centered scholarship. As a member of WTS for more than three decades, Spaulding's work has been characterized by theological integrity and a desire to share the gospel of Jesus.
Founded in 1965, the Wesleyan Theological Society is a group of Wesleyan-Holiness theologians and scholars that seek to encourage the exchange of ideas and stimulate scholarship among younger theologians, pastors, and laity. WTS hosts an annual academic conference at which they lead sessions and workshops on a variety of topics and present awards to outstanding members of the society. This year's speakers included Doug Strong, Beth Felker Jones, and Nicholas Wolterstorff. The presidential address was given by Richard Thompson of Northwest Nazarene University.
Two other awards were conferred at this meeting. The Lifetime Achievement Award was given to David Bundy for his career achievements in Wesleyan-Holiness scholarship. The Thomas L. Smith and Mildred Bangs Wynkoop Book Award was given to Priscilla Pope-Levison for her book Building the Old Time Religion: Women Evangelists in the Progressive Era.--Mount Vernon Nazarene University
MVNU to offer new pre-professional degree in communication sciences & disorders
The Wesleyan Theological Society awarded the Pastor-Preacher-Scholar Award to Mount Vernon Nazarene University President Henry W. Spaulding II during the society's 50th annual meeting, held at MVNU March 6 and 7.
The Pastor-Preacher-Scholar Award is given to individuals whose service is deemed an outstanding example of Wesleyan-Holiness ministry. It recognizes those who embody the virtues associated with excellence in Christian leadership. Spaulding was given this award in recognition of his previous pastoral leadership and his work at MVNU and other universities to establish a culture of Christ-centered scholarship. As a member of WTS for more than three decades, Spaulding's work has been characterized by theological integrity and a desire to share the gospel of Jesus.
Founded in 1965, the Wesleyan Theological Society is a group of Wesleyan-Holiness theologians and scholars that seek to encourage the exchange of ideas and stimulate scholarship among younger theologians, pastors, and laity. WTS hosts an annual academic conference at which they lead sessions and workshops on a variety of topics and present awards to outstanding members of the society. This year's speakers included Doug Strong, Beth Felker Jones, and Nicholas Wolterstorff. The presidential address was given by Richard Thompson of Northwest Nazarene University.
Two other awards were conferred at this meeting. The Lifetime Achievement Award was given to David Bundy for his career achievements in Wesleyan-Holiness scholarship. The Thomas L. Smith and Mildred Bangs Wynkoop Book Award was given to Priscilla Pope-Levison for her book Building the Old Time Religion: Women Evangelists in the Progressive Era.--Mount Vernon Nazarene University
MVNU to offer new pre-professional degree in communication sciences & disorders
Mount Vernon, Ohio
Mount Vernon Nazarene University's Department of Nursing and Health Sciences will offer a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders beginning this fall. This pre-professional degree will prepare students to pursue a graduate degree in audiology or speech-language pathology. MVNU is currently the only faith-based institution in Ohio with this program.
Speech-language pathology has been identified as one of the Ohio Buckeye Top Fifty high-wage occupations. The U.S. Department of Labor Projections indicated a 23.4 percent employment increase in speech-language pathology by 2020, representing a job change of 28,800. Audiology is also critically needed in the state of Ohio, according to the Northeast AuD Consortium. Projections by the U.S. Department of Labor and Statistics demonstrate an expected increase in need by 37 percent by 2020.
As the only Nazarene school in the U.S. and the only faith-based institution in the state of Ohio to offer a pre-professional degree forspeech-language pathology and audiology, MVNU is looking forward to how this new program will benefit the state of Ohio.
"We are excited about offering this new degree to prepare graduates for personal and professional opportunities in the service of others," said Carol Dorough, dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences. "The breadth of work settings, the variety in the types of care that speech-language pathologists and audiologists provide, and the ability to work with clients of all ages make this an attractive option for individuals seeking adegree in health care."
The program will begin enrollment immediately for the 2015-2016 academic year. More information on the B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders will be released as it becomes available.--Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Senior Editor: Frank M. Moore
Managing Editor: Chad E. Schnarr
Associate Editor: Sarah A. Glass
Mount Vernon Nazarene University's Department of Nursing and Health Sciences will offer a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders beginning this fall. This pre-professional degree will prepare students to pursue a graduate degree in audiology or speech-language pathology. MVNU is currently the only faith-based institution in Ohio with this program.
Speech-language pathology has been identified as one of the Ohio Buckeye Top Fifty high-wage occupations. The U.S. Department of Labor Projections indicated a 23.4 percent employment increase in speech-language pathology by 2020, representing a job change of 28,800. Audiology is also critically needed in the state of Ohio, according to the Northeast AuD Consortium. Projections by the U.S. Department of Labor and Statistics demonstrate an expected increase in need by 37 percent by 2020.
As the only Nazarene school in the U.S. and the only faith-based institution in the state of Ohio to offer a pre-professional degree forspeech-language pathology and audiology, MVNU is looking forward to how this new program will benefit the state of Ohio.
"We are excited about offering this new degree to prepare graduates for personal and professional opportunities in the service of others," said Carol Dorough, dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences. "The breadth of work settings, the variety in the types of care that speech-language pathologists and audiologists provide, and the ability to work with clients of all ages make this an attractive option for individuals seeking adegree in health care."
The program will begin enrollment immediately for the 2015-2016 academic year. More information on the B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders will be released as it becomes available.--Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Senior Editor: Frank M. Moore
Managing Editor: Chad E. Schnarr
Associate Editor: Sarah A. Glass
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Nazarene Communications Network
17001 Prairie Star Parkway
Lenexa, Kansas 66220 United States
Voice: (913) 577-0562
Fax: (913) 577-0857
Email: ncnnews@ncnnews.com
____________________________
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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