This week in the Church of the Nazarene...
Kudjip, Papua New Guinea
Fire destroys houses at Kudjip Nazarene Mission StationAt approximately 9 a.m. on August 21, a fire broke out in a staff residence at Kudjip Nazarene Mission Station in Papua New Guinea. There were no injuries.
The cause of the fire is unknown. It started in one unit of a triplex and quickly spread to the other two units. Two small temporary buildings were also destroyed. The units are all occupied by staff members of Kudjip Nazarene Hospital. No one was in the units at the time.
All three families lost most of their possessions, though quick-acting neighbors and passers-by were able to retrieve items out of the second and third units before they caught fire. Others, including hospital staff members and missionaries, rushed to the scene intending to help, but there was little that could be done.
The fire is not believed to be related to the current drought in PNG. Kudjip Station has had several minor grass fires in the past weeks due to the dry conditions, but the house fire appeared to begin within the house. No other buildings were threatened.
The house was in an area known as “Airstrip,” a reference to the runway that was located there in the early days of the station. It is occupied primarily by hospital staff. No missionary homes are located in the area.
Nazarene Health Ministries has provided alternative housing and emergency funds. Co-workers, neighbors, and missionaries have donated clothing, food, money, and other essentials.
Unit residents include two community health workers (similar to a certified nurse aid in the USA) and the medical records officer. All are long-term staff members.
Kudjip Station includes the hospital, Nazarene College of Nursing, and the Melanesia/South Pacific Field offices. [Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region]
Read moreGreenfield, Indiana
Indiana church celebrates 100 years of hope despite hardshipsStringtown Church of the Nazarene was damaged by a tornado in 1974.
The worshippers on this corner have gathered under a tent, within walls of wood or brick, and for short times away from the site.
But when members and friends gather Sunday at New Hope Church of the Nazarene, for many years known as Stringtown Church of the Nazarene, they will celebrate not the building where they meet but what has happened inside it for 100 years. They’ll spend the next four Sundays celebrating the century past and looking to the future.
The church started in a tent, said longtime member Carolyn Pitts, who has heard the story of the church’s beginning.
Those who have been part of the church through the decades suggest the passion that birthed the church continued into the years that followed. They tell stories of intense encounters with God, of calls to life change or to ministry heard and answered and of deep love among the worshipers gathered at the northeast corner of U.S. 40 and County Road 500 East.
‘How they testified’
In the “History of Hancock County,” published in 1916, George J. Richman referred to the fledgling congregation as Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene. “This little congregation was organized at Stringtown in February, 1915 …” he wrote, noting that Grover Van Duyn and his wife had donated land for a church building, which was to be completed in 1916.
Pitts has been going to the church since her family moved to the area when she was 2 years old. She recalls that as a small child she and a cousin would race the aisle once the service ended to see who could reach the kindly pastor first.
“He just loved us and paid a lot of attention to us when we were young,” she said.
Not even tragedy — twice — could keep the congregation down. On Jan. 2, 1960, a fire destroyed the church building.
Pitts remembers a friend calling her and saying if she wanted to see the church to hurry, because it was on fire. She packed up her babies and hurried over.
“The last post fell in when we got there,” she said.
Members met for services in the Memorial Building on North Street in downtown Greenfield, while a new structure was built.
Fourteen years later, that building was ravaged by a tornado that ripped off one side of the sanctuary.
Once again, “the church people held together like a family,” remembers Martha Mae Cooper.
This time the congregation worshipped in the Seventh Day Adventist church’s building while its own building was repaired.
Cooper has been attending the church since the late 1930s, around the time she married Marion Chapman. He was a Sunday School superintendent for the church. After his death, she and her second husband, Robert Cooper, moved to Rushville and worshipped there for several years. They moved back in 1959 and became active at Stringtown again; she taught Sunday School until she was 91.
“God has been faithful to the church, with many people accepting Christ as their savior,” Cooper said.
One of those revivals happened in 1987. Kent Pitcher remembers it, and the path leading up to it, well.
‘He set me free’
Pitcher was a 15-year-old attending high school in Knightstown when a neighbor invited him to the church.
He had been to church before, but when he started attending at Stringtown, “That’s where I first experienced Jesus in a real way,” he said. He remembers thinking “these people know something about God that I don’t know about God.”
He played on a church league basketball team. Doris Sparks, wife of the Rev. Keith A. Sparks, was like a mother to him. He never forgot the way the people of the church “just kind of took me in under their wing.”
Still, Pitcher said for about 10 years, he went his own way, and “it wasn’t really pretty.” Mired in addiction to alcohol and other drugs, he nevertheless agreed to go to church one Sunday with his mom. It was Mother’s Day.
When he got to church, he learned it was also the last day of a series of revival services.
“I realized I’d been set up,” he said, but he’s sort of laughing as he tells this story, as if he doesn’t really mind. “They’d been praying for me.”
Pitcher walked down the aisle at the end of the service.
“That Sunday I got saved,” he said. “I went to the altar that day and … asked the Lord to set me free from addictions, and he set me free.”
Pitcher said he figured if God did that for him, God could do anything. He came back at Stringtown and had once again found a family of support there.
Later, Pitcher went to a district camp meeting in Camby with the church. There, he felt God was telling him to become a pastor. Back in Hancock County, he struggled for two weeks before nervously telling the Rev. Forrest F. Harvey what he thought God had said.
Harvey recommended Nazarene Bible College in Colorado Springs, Colorado. So in February 1989, Pitcher packed his car and left town — but not without one more expression of love and support from the church.
As he drove north on State Road 9 to catch the westbound ramp onto Interstate 70 and his long journey to Colorado, he found some church members parked on the ramp, waving to him as he left. Some even followed him eight miles to the Mt. Comfort exit, where they got off the interstate and headed back to Greenfield.
Pitcher would later transfer to MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe, Kansas. After graduation he would minister in Missouri before serving on the mission field for six years in Guatemala and Costa Rica. Today, he is senior pastor of Southside Church of the Nazarene in Tilton, Illinois.
Pitcher will speak at New Hope Church of the Nazarene as part two of a four-week celebration of the church’s centennial. The series, in true Stringtown/New Hope fashion, will kick off with a revival. The Rev. Jim Chapman will lead services of spiritual renewal from Sunday through Wednesday. The Rev. Kent Pitcher speaks Aug. 30 and will be followed by the Covenant Players, a Christian repertory theater ministry, on Sept. 6.
Dr. David W. Graves, a general superintendent in the Church of the Nazarene, will speak Sept. 13 about embracing the future.
‘Offer people hope’
The church has embraced some changes in recent years, said the Rev. Josh Robertson, the church’s current pastor. It has transitioned to a more contemporary style of worship and three years ago changed its name from Stringtown to New Hope.
Robertson, who became pastor in 2010, said he knew the church had a fund for a new sign.
“If we’re going to do this, I would like to consider changing the name,” he remembers saying to church members. “The word ‘hope’ kept coming up in our conversations — that we wanted to offer people hope.”
The church also recently launched a revamped Wednesday night children’s ministry and is trying to attract young families.
Dan Tutrow, his wife and two children were among those younger families. They came to the church 12 years ago after a grandmother at one of their children’s soccer games invited them to the church.
“I remember … everyone was very loving,” Tutrow said. “A genuine caring.”
Tutrow said Robertson has a good vision for the church and is encouraging members to dream boldly about its future.
“We’re hoping for a church where we can go on a weekly basis,” he said, “and every week, we come to see someone be saved in our church.”
Pitcher knows what it’s like to be one of those people.
When he speaks to the congregation, he said, “It’ll be ‘Look how God has used this church in the last 100 years’ — the impact that that little local church had on a little country boy from Indiana.”[Republished with permission from the Greenfield Daily Reporter]
Indiana church celebrates 100 years of hope despite hardshipsStringtown Church of the Nazarene was damaged by a tornado in 1974.
The worshippers on this corner have gathered under a tent, within walls of wood or brick, and for short times away from the site.
But when members and friends gather Sunday at New Hope Church of the Nazarene, for many years known as Stringtown Church of the Nazarene, they will celebrate not the building where they meet but what has happened inside it for 100 years. They’ll spend the next four Sundays celebrating the century past and looking to the future.
The church started in a tent, said longtime member Carolyn Pitts, who has heard the story of the church’s beginning.
Those who have been part of the church through the decades suggest the passion that birthed the church continued into the years that followed. They tell stories of intense encounters with God, of calls to life change or to ministry heard and answered and of deep love among the worshipers gathered at the northeast corner of U.S. 40 and County Road 500 East.
‘How they testified’
In the “History of Hancock County,” published in 1916, George J. Richman referred to the fledgling congregation as Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene. “This little congregation was organized at Stringtown in February, 1915 …” he wrote, noting that Grover Van Duyn and his wife had donated land for a church building, which was to be completed in 1916.
Pitts has been going to the church since her family moved to the area when she was 2 years old. She recalls that as a small child she and a cousin would race the aisle once the service ended to see who could reach the kindly pastor first.
“He just loved us and paid a lot of attention to us when we were young,” she said.
Not even tragedy — twice — could keep the congregation down. On Jan. 2, 1960, a fire destroyed the church building.
Pitts remembers a friend calling her and saying if she wanted to see the church to hurry, because it was on fire. She packed up her babies and hurried over.
“The last post fell in when we got there,” she said.
Members met for services in the Memorial Building on North Street in downtown Greenfield, while a new structure was built.
Fourteen years later, that building was ravaged by a tornado that ripped off one side of the sanctuary.
Once again, “the church people held together like a family,” remembers Martha Mae Cooper.
This time the congregation worshipped in the Seventh Day Adventist church’s building while its own building was repaired.
Cooper has been attending the church since the late 1930s, around the time she married Marion Chapman. He was a Sunday School superintendent for the church. After his death, she and her second husband, Robert Cooper, moved to Rushville and worshipped there for several years. They moved back in 1959 and became active at Stringtown again; she taught Sunday School until she was 91.
“God has been faithful to the church, with many people accepting Christ as their savior,” Cooper said.
One of those revivals happened in 1987. Kent Pitcher remembers it, and the path leading up to it, well.
‘He set me free’
Pitcher was a 15-year-old attending high school in Knightstown when a neighbor invited him to the church.
He had been to church before, but when he started attending at Stringtown, “That’s where I first experienced Jesus in a real way,” he said. He remembers thinking “these people know something about God that I don’t know about God.”
He played on a church league basketball team. Doris Sparks, wife of the Rev. Keith A. Sparks, was like a mother to him. He never forgot the way the people of the church “just kind of took me in under their wing.”
Still, Pitcher said for about 10 years, he went his own way, and “it wasn’t really pretty.” Mired in addiction to alcohol and other drugs, he nevertheless agreed to go to church one Sunday with his mom. It was Mother’s Day.
When he got to church, he learned it was also the last day of a series of revival services.
“I realized I’d been set up,” he said, but he’s sort of laughing as he tells this story, as if he doesn’t really mind. “They’d been praying for me.”
Pitcher walked down the aisle at the end of the service.
“That Sunday I got saved,” he said. “I went to the altar that day and … asked the Lord to set me free from addictions, and he set me free.”
Pitcher said he figured if God did that for him, God could do anything. He came back at Stringtown and had once again found a family of support there.
Later, Pitcher went to a district camp meeting in Camby with the church. There, he felt God was telling him to become a pastor. Back in Hancock County, he struggled for two weeks before nervously telling the Rev. Forrest F. Harvey what he thought God had said.
Harvey recommended Nazarene Bible College in Colorado Springs, Colorado. So in February 1989, Pitcher packed his car and left town — but not without one more expression of love and support from the church.
As he drove north on State Road 9 to catch the westbound ramp onto Interstate 70 and his long journey to Colorado, he found some church members parked on the ramp, waving to him as he left. Some even followed him eight miles to the Mt. Comfort exit, where they got off the interstate and headed back to Greenfield.
Pitcher would later transfer to MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe, Kansas. After graduation he would minister in Missouri before serving on the mission field for six years in Guatemala and Costa Rica. Today, he is senior pastor of Southside Church of the Nazarene in Tilton, Illinois.
Pitcher will speak at New Hope Church of the Nazarene as part two of a four-week celebration of the church’s centennial. The series, in true Stringtown/New Hope fashion, will kick off with a revival. The Rev. Jim Chapman will lead services of spiritual renewal from Sunday through Wednesday. The Rev. Kent Pitcher speaks Aug. 30 and will be followed by the Covenant Players, a Christian repertory theater ministry, on Sept. 6.
Dr. David W. Graves, a general superintendent in the Church of the Nazarene, will speak Sept. 13 about embracing the future.
‘Offer people hope’
The church has embraced some changes in recent years, said the Rev. Josh Robertson, the church’s current pastor. It has transitioned to a more contemporary style of worship and three years ago changed its name from Stringtown to New Hope.
Robertson, who became pastor in 2010, said he knew the church had a fund for a new sign.
“If we’re going to do this, I would like to consider changing the name,” he remembers saying to church members. “The word ‘hope’ kept coming up in our conversations — that we wanted to offer people hope.”
The church also recently launched a revamped Wednesday night children’s ministry and is trying to attract young families.
Dan Tutrow, his wife and two children were among those younger families. They came to the church 12 years ago after a grandmother at one of their children’s soccer games invited them to the church.
“I remember … everyone was very loving,” Tutrow said. “A genuine caring.”
Tutrow said Robertson has a good vision for the church and is encouraging members to dream boldly about its future.
“We’re hoping for a church where we can go on a weekly basis,” he said, “and every week, we come to see someone be saved in our church.”
Pitcher knows what it’s like to be one of those people.
When he speaks to the congregation, he said, “It’ll be ‘Look how God has used this church in the last 100 years’ — the impact that that little local church had on a little country boy from Indiana.”[Republished with permission from the Greenfield Daily Reporter]
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Saipan, Asia-Pacific Region
Saipan residents without housing, electricity following Typhoon SoudelorOn August 2, Typhoon Soudelor swept over the small island of Saipan, leaving a swath of destruction in its path.
Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region team members Dave and Helen Ann Bucher arrived back on the island after home assignment and gave the following update:
We are so pleased to report that there were no reported deaths, and injuries were limited. This is amazing since there are so many huge trees that have fallen, along with power poles. Tin sheets from roofs and walls must have been flying everywhere since they were caught in trees, power lines, fence rows, and just lying all over the ground.
Everyone who was here for the storm tells about how scared they were — even the grown men. One man told us how he and his wife hid under the kitchen table crying and praying until the eye came over and there was a short break in the wind and rain. During that time they ran across the street and knocked on a neighbor’s door and ask if they could stay for the rest of the storm.
Housing update: We basically have three types of housing on Saipan — concrete, semi-concrete, and tin. The concrete homes had windows blown out, the semi-concrete suffered roof damage, and most of the tin homes were completely flattened.
Saipan is part of the U.S. Commonwealth in the Pacific, so the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been taking applications for assistance in rebuilding homes.
Shelters: Several of the schools were used as shelters for those that have been displaced. Most of the shelters have now been shut down and the families have been given tents. This is difficult as the tents have no floor, making the families susceptible to visiting rats. Batteries are in short supply, making solar powered lights distributed by our teams very much appreciated. With all of the standing water, mosquitos are getting bad. Many people are burning fires at night to help keep the mosquitoes away.
Food: Canned goods and other staples are available in stores. A few restaurants are open. The Red Cross and Salvation Army are doing some mass feeding.
Power: The utility’s generation plant was damaged and hundreds of power poles were broken. Lines are down everywhere. FEMA has brought in generators with the priority for restoration first for the hospital, then water and sewer, and then general distribution. It is possible that it will be several months before the power is completely restored.
Water: There are a few wells coming back online with generators. In the meantime, people have lined up for up to 100 gallons of water for washing and flushing. Hope is that municipal water will be functioning within the week.
The Buchers are assisting in the distribution of solar-powered lights and charging cell phones with their generator. Cell phones are the only reliable means of communication. Teens that are part of the ministry have been helping out with The Salvation Army. Recently they helped serve 1,731 meals before the food ran out.
How to help
Pray. Continued prayer is requested for the people of Saipan as typhoon season continues and more storms cross the Pacific.
Give. Churches and individuals around the world can support families in need by giving to the Asia Flood Relief fund.
To send donations by mail, use these instructions:
In the U.S., make checks payable to "General Treasurer" and send them to:
Global Treasury Services
Church of the Nazarene
P.O. Box 843116
Kansas City, Missouri 64184-3116 United States
Be sure to put “Fund 125296" 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 Canada
Be sure to put “Fund 125296" in the Memo area.
For any other country, give through your local church or district, designating your gift to the Asia Flood Relief fund.[Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region]
Saipan, Asia-Pacific Region
Saipan residents without housing, electricity following Typhoon SoudelorOn August 2, Typhoon Soudelor swept over the small island of Saipan, leaving a swath of destruction in its path.
Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region team members Dave and Helen Ann Bucher arrived back on the island after home assignment and gave the following update:
We are so pleased to report that there were no reported deaths, and injuries were limited. This is amazing since there are so many huge trees that have fallen, along with power poles. Tin sheets from roofs and walls must have been flying everywhere since they were caught in trees, power lines, fence rows, and just lying all over the ground.
Everyone who was here for the storm tells about how scared they were — even the grown men. One man told us how he and his wife hid under the kitchen table crying and praying until the eye came over and there was a short break in the wind and rain. During that time they ran across the street and knocked on a neighbor’s door and ask if they could stay for the rest of the storm.
Housing update: We basically have three types of housing on Saipan — concrete, semi-concrete, and tin. The concrete homes had windows blown out, the semi-concrete suffered roof damage, and most of the tin homes were completely flattened.
Saipan is part of the U.S. Commonwealth in the Pacific, so the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been taking applications for assistance in rebuilding homes.
Shelters: Several of the schools were used as shelters for those that have been displaced. Most of the shelters have now been shut down and the families have been given tents. This is difficult as the tents have no floor, making the families susceptible to visiting rats. Batteries are in short supply, making solar powered lights distributed by our teams very much appreciated. With all of the standing water, mosquitos are getting bad. Many people are burning fires at night to help keep the mosquitoes away.
Food: Canned goods and other staples are available in stores. A few restaurants are open. The Red Cross and Salvation Army are doing some mass feeding.
Power: The utility’s generation plant was damaged and hundreds of power poles were broken. Lines are down everywhere. FEMA has brought in generators with the priority for restoration first for the hospital, then water and sewer, and then general distribution. It is possible that it will be several months before the power is completely restored.
Water: There are a few wells coming back online with generators. In the meantime, people have lined up for up to 100 gallons of water for washing and flushing. Hope is that municipal water will be functioning within the week.
The Buchers are assisting in the distribution of solar-powered lights and charging cell phones with their generator. Cell phones are the only reliable means of communication. Teens that are part of the ministry have been helping out with The Salvation Army. Recently they helped serve 1,731 meals before the food ran out.
How to help
Pray. Continued prayer is requested for the people of Saipan as typhoon season continues and more storms cross the Pacific.
Give. Churches and individuals around the world can support families in need by giving to the Asia Flood Relief fund.
To send donations by mail, use these instructions:
In the U.S., make checks payable to "General Treasurer" and send them to:
Global Treasury Services
Church of the Nazarene
P.O. Box 843116
Kansas City, Missouri 64184-3116 United States
Be sure to put “Fund 125296" 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 Canada
Be sure to put “Fund 125296" in the Memo area.
For any other country, give through your local church or district, designating your gift to the Asia Flood Relief fund.[Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region]
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Indianapolis, Indiana
Former Indianapolis District Superintendent John Hay rememberedJohn Hay Sr., retired superintendent for the Indianapolis District, passed away August 25. He was 80.
Hay was born in Albany, Kentucky, to Martin and Lola Hay. He married Janet Sheffield on April 16, 1954. Three years later, while attending Trevecca Nazarene College (now University), John accepted his first pastorate at Albany First Church of the Nazarene.
John also served at two churches in West Virginia — Charleston Loundondale Church of the Nazarene and Parkersburg First Church of the Nazarene — before becoming superintendent of the Indianapolis District. He served in the position 19 years and was awarded an honorary doctorate from Olivet Nazarene College (now University).
Survivors include his wife, Janet, as well as two children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sisters, and a brother.
Two visitations will be held — August 28 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Flanner and Buchanan in Speedway, 2950 N. High School Rd. and August 29 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Indianapolis Southport Church of the Nazarene, 920 E. Southport Rd. A memorial service will immediately follow the second visitation. Memorials may be made to Shepherd Community Center, 4107 E. Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46201.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Former Indianapolis District Superintendent John Hay rememberedJohn Hay Sr., retired superintendent for the Indianapolis District, passed away August 25. He was 80.
Hay was born in Albany, Kentucky, to Martin and Lola Hay. He married Janet Sheffield on April 16, 1954. Three years later, while attending Trevecca Nazarene College (now University), John accepted his first pastorate at Albany First Church of the Nazarene.
John also served at two churches in West Virginia — Charleston Loundondale Church of the Nazarene and Parkersburg First Church of the Nazarene — before becoming superintendent of the Indianapolis District. He served in the position 19 years and was awarded an honorary doctorate from Olivet Nazarene College (now University).
Survivors include his wife, Janet, as well as two children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sisters, and a brother.
Two visitations will be held — August 28 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Flanner and Buchanan in Speedway, 2950 N. High School Rd. and August 29 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Indianapolis Southport Church of the Nazarene, 920 E. Southport Rd. A memorial service will immediately follow the second visitation. Memorials may be made to Shepherd Community Center, 4107 E. Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46201.
Read more
East Tennessee campers raise $17,000 for mission projectsImagine going to kids' camp and experiencing Guatemala, Sri Lanka, Cuba, and Haiti. The children of the East Tennessee District in the U.S. had that adventure.
Embracing Nazarene Mission International's 100th Anniversary Celebration, children adopted anniversary projects in these countries and more. Projects included several for EvangeCubes® in Guatemala, solar flashlights for Nepal and Ghana, audio Bibles for Benin, a backpack JESUS Film set for Burkina Faso, and a backpack set for Sri Lanka. In addition to JESUS Film projects, the district children also raised funds to purchase a parsonage and renovate a church in the village in Cuba where Nazarene work was first started more than 100 years ago. Haiti benefits from the addition of clean water wells.
District NMI President Teresa Hodge facilitated the Mission Jamboree day at children’s camp. Through various stations, 100 children were able to sample the culture of four countries for which they supplied tools to honor Christ and tell of His love.
"The Mission Jamboree was cool because you get to learn a lot about a different culture, but you do it at camp,” said 11-year-old Emily Miller.
For the rest of the story, see Engage magazine.
East Tennessee kids raise $17,000 for mission projects at camp by Diane Robbins
Imagine going to kids' camp and experiencing Guatemala, Sri Lanka, Cuba and Haiti. The children of the East Tennessee District in the United States had that adventure.
Embracing the Nazarene Mission International (NMI) 100th Anniversary Celebration, the children adopted anniversary projects in these countries and more. Projects included several for JESUS Film Harvest Partners (JFHP) - EvangeCubes® for Guatemala, solar flashlights for Nepal and Ghana, audio Bibles for Benin, a backpack JESUS Film set for Burkina-Faso, and a backpack set for Sri Lanka. In addition to JFHP projects, the district children also raised funds to purchase a parsonage and renovate a church in the village in Cuba where Nazarene work was first started over 100 years ago. Haiti benefits from the addition of clean water wells.
District NMI President Teresa Hodge facilitated the Mission Jamboree day at children’s camp. Through various stations, 100 children were able to sample the culture of four countries for which they supplied tools to honor Christ and tell of His love.
"The Mission Jamboree was cool because you get to learn a lot about a different culture, but you do it at camp,” said 11-year-old Emily Miller.
East Tennessee campers raise $17,000 for mission projectsImagine going to kids' camp and experiencing Guatemala, Sri Lanka, Cuba, and Haiti. The children of the East Tennessee District in the U.S. had that adventure.
Embracing Nazarene Mission International's 100th Anniversary Celebration, children adopted anniversary projects in these countries and more. Projects included several for EvangeCubes® in Guatemala, solar flashlights for Nepal and Ghana, audio Bibles for Benin, a backpack JESUS Film set for Burkina Faso, and a backpack set for Sri Lanka. In addition to JESUS Film projects, the district children also raised funds to purchase a parsonage and renovate a church in the village in Cuba where Nazarene work was first started more than 100 years ago. Haiti benefits from the addition of clean water wells.
District NMI President Teresa Hodge facilitated the Mission Jamboree day at children’s camp. Through various stations, 100 children were able to sample the culture of four countries for which they supplied tools to honor Christ and tell of His love.
"The Mission Jamboree was cool because you get to learn a lot about a different culture, but you do it at camp,” said 11-year-old Emily Miller.
For the rest of the story, see Engage magazine.
East Tennessee kids raise $17,000 for mission projects at camp by Diane Robbins
Imagine going to kids' camp and experiencing Guatemala, Sri Lanka, Cuba and Haiti. The children of the East Tennessee District in the United States had that adventure.
Embracing the Nazarene Mission International (NMI) 100th Anniversary Celebration, the children adopted anniversary projects in these countries and more. Projects included several for JESUS Film Harvest Partners (JFHP) - EvangeCubes® for Guatemala, solar flashlights for Nepal and Ghana, audio Bibles for Benin, a backpack JESUS Film set for Burkina-Faso, and a backpack set for Sri Lanka. In addition to JFHP projects, the district children also raised funds to purchase a parsonage and renovate a church in the village in Cuba where Nazarene work was first started over 100 years ago. Haiti benefits from the addition of clean water wells.
District NMI President Teresa Hodge facilitated the Mission Jamboree day at children’s camp. Through various stations, 100 children were able to sample the culture of four countries for which they supplied tools to honor Christ and tell of His love.
"The Mission Jamboree was cool because you get to learn a lot about a different culture, but you do it at camp,” said 11-year-old Emily Miller.
At the Guatemala station, they ate mangos, played musical instruments, and learned to use EvangeCubes® to tell the story of God’s love for all mankind.
The Sri Lanka station served tea and crumpets in the style of a Sri Lankan tea plantation. They listened intently to the story of a miraculous JESUS Film showing in the rain at a tea plantation. (To read JESUS Film “Let It Rain!” go to: http://www.jfhp.org/progress/jfstories.cfm?PageNum_JFStories=2. )
At the Cuba station, they sampled tropical fruit, learned Spanish phrases, and viewed a video of ‘their church’ in Cuba.
A recent project was a well for Haiti; they raised enough for three wells, so the Haiti station celebrated clean water. Children
The Sri Lanka station served tea and crumpets in the style of a Sri Lankan tea plantation. They listened intently to the story of a miraculous JESUS Film showing in the rain at a tea plantation. (To read JESUS Film “Let It Rain!” go to: http://www.jfhp.org/progress/jfstories.cfm?PageNum_JFStories=2. )
At the Cuba station, they sampled tropical fruit, learned Spanish phrases, and viewed a video of ‘their church’ in Cuba.
A recent project was a well for Haiti; they raised enough for three wells, so the Haiti station celebrated clean water. Children
used a hand pump to fill buckets of water, which they carried on their heads in a relay race, with bottles of cold water as their prize. Six-year-old camper Lily Miller said, "(It) was awesome and the best part was learning how they had to carry water on their heads."
Additionally, some of the children made evange-bracelets using five colors (dark – representing sin, red – the blood Christ shed, white – a heart washed clean, gold – relationship with God in Heaven, green – growth as a new believer) as an outreach tool to send to teams of people in other countries who are using the JESUS Film in ministry.
The East Tennessee District children had set a goal to raise $12,570 for JESUS Film projects; they raised $17,100 in an offering called “Valentines for Jesus.” The special children’s offerings began five years ago, with offerings surpassing their goals more each successive year.
As the sun set, 100 children repeated a scene which occurs every 19 minutes around the world as they gathered on blankets to watch the JESUS film under the open sky, mission style. They watched with undivided attention, riveted to the screen, even after a long day of mission activity. They loved it, and responded well.
The celebration of the 100th NMI anniversary was made official with confetti cannons, cake and a punch fountain!. When darkness enveloped the hillside where the JESUS film had been shown, 100 children got into the “100” formation (with a lot of help from counselors), turned on the flashlights they had been given, and shouted “Happy Birthday, NMI”.
Additionally, some of the children made evange-bracelets using five colors (dark – representing sin, red – the blood Christ shed, white – a heart washed clean, gold – relationship with God in Heaven, green – growth as a new believer) as an outreach tool to send to teams of people in other countries who are using the JESUS Film in ministry.
The East Tennessee District children had set a goal to raise $12,570 for JESUS Film projects; they raised $17,100 in an offering called “Valentines for Jesus.” The special children’s offerings began five years ago, with offerings surpassing their goals more each successive year.
As the sun set, 100 children repeated a scene which occurs every 19 minutes around the world as they gathered on blankets to watch the JESUS film under the open sky, mission style. They watched with undivided attention, riveted to the screen, even after a long day of mission activity. They loved it, and responded well.
The celebration of the 100th NMI anniversary was made official with confetti cannons, cake and a punch fountain!. When darkness enveloped the hillside where the JESUS film had been shown, 100 children got into the “100” formation (with a lot of help from counselors), turned on the flashlights they had been given, and shouted “Happy Birthday, NMI”.
“When children are involved in missions, the whole church, and the whole district is blessed and challenged. The JESUS Film and other projects we adopted this year really resonated with our children, and they loved celebrating what God had helped them accomplish. What fun it was to be the “Camp Nana,” and share their joy,” said Teresa Hodge.
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Africa
Flags of the Nations: Cameroon
The Cameroon flag is a vertical tricolor of green, red and yellow, defaced with a five-pointed star in its center. The center stripe is thought to stand for unity: red is the colour of unity, and the star is referred to as "the star of unity." The yellow stands for the sun and also the savannas in the northern part of the country, while the green is for the forests in the southern part of Cameroon.
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: Cameroon
The Church of the Nazarene officially entered Cameroon in 1999.
Cameroon had a population of 23,130,708 in 2014. Located on the Africa Region, Cameroon has not yet reported any Churches of the Nazarene. For more information about the Africa Region, visit africanazarene.org.
* = 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.
Subscribe to NCN NewsFacebookTwitterContactAfrica
Flags of the Nations: Cameroon
The Cameroon flag is a vertical tricolor of green, red and yellow, defaced with a five-pointed star in its center. The center stripe is thought to stand for unity: red is the colour of unity, and the star is referred to as "the star of unity." The yellow stands for the sun and also the savannas in the northern part of the country, while the green is for the forests in the southern part of Cameroon.
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: Cameroon
The Church of the Nazarene officially entered Cameroon in 1999.
Cameroon had a population of 23,130,708 in 2014. Located on the Africa Region, Cameroon has not yet reported any Churches of the Nazarene. For more information about the Africa Region, visit africanazarene.org.
* = 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.
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Asia-Pacific
Vanuatu, Asia-Pacific Region
Relief efforts spark increased church attendance in VanuatuAsia-Pacific Communications received the following update from David and Sylvia Potter, missionaries to Vanuatu, five months after Cyclone Pam:
David and I have been away from Vanuatu for the past four months doing our home assignment in the United States. We left Vanuatu just one month after the cyclone. Our partners, Revs. Peter and Jenny Isaac, handled the relief and recovery efforts while we were away and did a wonderful job!
We are happy to see that Vanuatu is much greener, which means that some trees are showing signs of life. But, the effects of the cyclone are still very apparent everywhere. Recovery is quite slow!
Asia-Pacific
Vanuatu, Asia-Pacific Region
Relief efforts spark increased church attendance in VanuatuAsia-Pacific Communications received the following update from David and Sylvia Potter, missionaries to Vanuatu, five months after Cyclone Pam:
David and I have been away from Vanuatu for the past four months doing our home assignment in the United States. We left Vanuatu just one month after the cyclone. Our partners, Revs. Peter and Jenny Isaac, handled the relief and recovery efforts while we were away and did a wonderful job!
We are happy to see that Vanuatu is much greener, which means that some trees are showing signs of life. But, the effects of the cyclone are still very apparent everywhere. Recovery is quite slow!
We were so blessed after the cyclone by the tremendous outpouring of love from around the world as people partnered with us through Nazarene Compassionate Ministries. From the very first day after the cyclone, we were able to begin purchasing the supplies that were needed to share with our church congregations so that they could in turn reach out to the people in their communities. The love and compassion that people saw being offered by the Nazarene churches has sparked interest and enthusiasm and many new people are coming to our churches.
The people of Vanuatu are quite resilient! The day after the cyclone many of them were gathering up the bits of corrugated tin that made up their homes, and some of them had nailed the pieces together again to make a shelter within a week’s time. The Church of the Nazarene in Vanuatu supplied tarps, nails, and hammers to our church communities to help them with the process of rebuilding. Several of our pastors are still living in make-shift homes. To some extent, it is a way of life for them, but it certainly has its stresses!
One of the biggest challenges for the people in Vanuatu is that their gardens were destroyed by the cyclone. Their staple foods are root crops like cassava, sweet potato, taro, and yams which take quite a long time to grow before they are ready to harvest. Right after the cyclone, the people harvested what they could from their gardens and then re-planted their gardens. Just recently, the government issued its last ration of rice to the families in Port Vila.
The Church of the Nazarene has provided literally tons of rice to our church communities to distribute among the people in their areas. Without this, many people would have starved.
Prima's temporary shelter
We have continued to listen to people as they share about God’s blessing on their vegetable gardens! We’ve seen people doing fundraisers by joining their food resources. Several folks at our Prima and Black Sand churches have indicated that their sweet potato and cassava gardens are doing well. Today at the market, there were more baskets of sweet potato, taro, yams, and some cassava, as well as lots of other vegetables. I heard today from a woman who has been helping on Tanna that the coconut trees were blown down there. Coconuts are another of the main foods for the people in Vanuatu.
Two of our church shelters here in Port Vila that were blown down by the cyclone have been rebuilt using disaster relief funds. This brought comfort and hope to the congregations and a sense that they were loved and cared for. Two teams of our Port Vila Nazarenes went to two islands to the south, Aniwa and Tanna, where we have Nazarene congregations and distributed bags of rice and tarps. The Tanna team helped to build a new church shelter. Both teams took the opportunity to share the love of Jesus and the Good News as they were on the islands.
We talked with two of our pastors and District Superintendent Peter Isaac about the possibility of turning some mission property into garden space for church people who have limited available land for gardening. There was strong interest in developing a community garden.
New Black Sand Church of the Nazarene
During our visit with church members, we were told of an incredible story of God’s miraculous hand. One of the men told about a domestic fight that broke out where a log was thrown at a woman, but instead of hitting the woman, the log landed on her small baby who was crawling nearby. Those present during the incident immediately wanted to attack the man who had thrown the log but instead, decided to pray. There was immense joy as they shared the story and showed us the small child, who was literally raised to life and is well today. They then showed us the log, nestled in the rafters of the front of the church as a reminder to pray and of God’s healing of the little boy.
God is truly at work in Vanuatu. Thank you for your continued prayers.[Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region]
The people of Vanuatu are quite resilient! The day after the cyclone many of them were gathering up the bits of corrugated tin that made up their homes, and some of them had nailed the pieces together again to make a shelter within a week’s time. The Church of the Nazarene in Vanuatu supplied tarps, nails, and hammers to our church communities to help them with the process of rebuilding. Several of our pastors are still living in make-shift homes. To some extent, it is a way of life for them, but it certainly has its stresses!
One of the biggest challenges for the people in Vanuatu is that their gardens were destroyed by the cyclone. Their staple foods are root crops like cassava, sweet potato, taro, and yams which take quite a long time to grow before they are ready to harvest. Right after the cyclone, the people harvested what they could from their gardens and then re-planted their gardens. Just recently, the government issued its last ration of rice to the families in Port Vila.
The Church of the Nazarene has provided literally tons of rice to our church communities to distribute among the people in their areas. Without this, many people would have starved.
Prima's temporary shelter
We have continued to listen to people as they share about God’s blessing on their vegetable gardens! We’ve seen people doing fundraisers by joining their food resources. Several folks at our Prima and Black Sand churches have indicated that their sweet potato and cassava gardens are doing well. Today at the market, there were more baskets of sweet potato, taro, yams, and some cassava, as well as lots of other vegetables. I heard today from a woman who has been helping on Tanna that the coconut trees were blown down there. Coconuts are another of the main foods for the people in Vanuatu.
Two of our church shelters here in Port Vila that were blown down by the cyclone have been rebuilt using disaster relief funds. This brought comfort and hope to the congregations and a sense that they were loved and cared for. Two teams of our Port Vila Nazarenes went to two islands to the south, Aniwa and Tanna, where we have Nazarene congregations and distributed bags of rice and tarps. The Tanna team helped to build a new church shelter. Both teams took the opportunity to share the love of Jesus and the Good News as they were on the islands.
We talked with two of our pastors and District Superintendent Peter Isaac about the possibility of turning some mission property into garden space for church people who have limited available land for gardening. There was strong interest in developing a community garden.
New Black Sand Church of the Nazarene
During our visit with church members, we were told of an incredible story of God’s miraculous hand. One of the men told about a domestic fight that broke out where a log was thrown at a woman, but instead of hitting the woman, the log landed on her small baby who was crawling nearby. Those present during the incident immediately wanted to attack the man who had thrown the log but instead, decided to pray. There was immense joy as they shared the story and showed us the small child, who was literally raised to life and is well today. They then showed us the log, nestled in the rafters of the front of the church as a reminder to pray and of God’s healing of the little boy.
God is truly at work in Vanuatu. Thank you for your continued prayers.[Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region]
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South America
Peru churches planting churches
Colán, Peru
Jose Casteaneda Julca, 70, and Victor Manuel Ruiz, 68, learned it's never too late to serve God.
Casteaneda is pastor of El Tablazo Church of the Nazarene, which recently planted a daughter church. That church, Pueblo Nuevo Church of the Nazarene in Colán, was organized August 23 on the Peru Pacifico Norte District with 50 full members. Pueblo Nuevo, under Manuel's leadership, has started four daughter churches.
Manuel insists the credit belongs to God.
“I don’t do anything,” he said. “I am like this drum; if no one comes to play it, it doesn’t produce any sound. Just like me, if the Holy Spirit doesn’t use me, I am nothing.”[Church of the Nazarene South America Region]
South America
Peru churches planting churches
Colán, Peru
Jose Casteaneda Julca, 70, and Victor Manuel Ruiz, 68, learned it's never too late to serve God.
Casteaneda is pastor of El Tablazo Church of the Nazarene, which recently planted a daughter church. That church, Pueblo Nuevo Church of the Nazarene in Colán, was organized August 23 on the Peru Pacifico Norte District with 50 full members. Pueblo Nuevo, under Manuel's leadership, has started four daughter churches.
Manuel insists the credit belongs to God.
“I don’t do anything,” he said. “I am like this drum; if no one comes to play it, it doesn’t produce any sound. Just like me, if the Holy Spirit doesn’t use me, I am nothing.”[Church of the Nazarene South America Region]
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USA/Canada
Birmingham, Alabama
Southeast Region presents Team Nazarene: Our Past, Our Present, Our FutureFrom left to right: Alabama North District Superintendent Greg Story, Center Point Pastor Robert Dabydeen, Black Ministries Facilitator Charles Tillman, USA/Canada Regional Director Bob Broadbooks, East Point Pastor Edward Husband, and conference chairman Bill Allen (back row).
The 2015 Southeast Regional Black Nazarene Fellowship Conference, held at Birmingham, Alabama, Center Point Church of the Nazarene, was filled with a weekend of activities. These activities included workshops, plenary sessions, fellowship time, a youth talent showcase, and Work & Witness projects.
Nearly 200 Nazarenes from the Southeast Region were in attendance for the weekend event, planned and organized by the conference committee and chairperson Bill Allen. Centered on I Corinthians 12:12, 25-26, messages were delivered by Charles Johnson of Fitkins Memorial Church of the Nazarene in Meridian, Mississippi; Tanya Allen of Memphis, Tennessee, Friendship Church of the Nazarene; Pastor Kelvin Rankin of Bread of Community Life Church of the Nazarene in Vicksburg, Mississippi; and Charles Tillman Sr., National Black Nazarene Ministries facilitator. The praise and worship team, led by Joan Myers and musicians David Gillette, Royce Williams, and Monroe Ballard, brought Spirit-filled worship at every service.
Workshops were held on Saturday afternoon focusing on the Battlefield of the Mind, How to Prepare for Your Pastor’s Retirement, The Health of Your Church, Do You Know Where Your Children Are?, and a super workshop that featured a panel of Nazarene pastors. The Work & Witness team accomplished several repair projects at the Center Point Church, and the evening culminated with a youth talent showcase. The conference also welcomed guests from the Church of the Nazarene's Global Ministry Center, sponsor college Trevecca Nazarene University, and Nazarene Theological Seminary.
The National Black Nazarene Conference will be held next year in Orlando, Florida, from July 27 to 31, 2016. [Church of the Nazarene Multicultural Ministries]
USA/Canada
Birmingham, Alabama
Southeast Region presents Team Nazarene: Our Past, Our Present, Our FutureFrom left to right: Alabama North District Superintendent Greg Story, Center Point Pastor Robert Dabydeen, Black Ministries Facilitator Charles Tillman, USA/Canada Regional Director Bob Broadbooks, East Point Pastor Edward Husband, and conference chairman Bill Allen (back row).
The 2015 Southeast Regional Black Nazarene Fellowship Conference, held at Birmingham, Alabama, Center Point Church of the Nazarene, was filled with a weekend of activities. These activities included workshops, plenary sessions, fellowship time, a youth talent showcase, and Work & Witness projects.
Nearly 200 Nazarenes from the Southeast Region were in attendance for the weekend event, planned and organized by the conference committee and chairperson Bill Allen. Centered on I Corinthians 12:12, 25-26, messages were delivered by Charles Johnson of Fitkins Memorial Church of the Nazarene in Meridian, Mississippi; Tanya Allen of Memphis, Tennessee, Friendship Church of the Nazarene; Pastor Kelvin Rankin of Bread of Community Life Church of the Nazarene in Vicksburg, Mississippi; and Charles Tillman Sr., National Black Nazarene Ministries facilitator. The praise and worship team, led by Joan Myers and musicians David Gillette, Royce Williams, and Monroe Ballard, brought Spirit-filled worship at every service.
Workshops were held on Saturday afternoon focusing on the Battlefield of the Mind, How to Prepare for Your Pastor’s Retirement, The Health of Your Church, Do You Know Where Your Children Are?, and a super workshop that featured a panel of Nazarene pastors. The Work & Witness team accomplished several repair projects at the Center Point Church, and the evening culminated with a youth talent showcase. The conference also welcomed guests from the Church of the Nazarene's Global Ministry Center, sponsor college Trevecca Nazarene University, and Nazarene Theological Seminary.
The National Black Nazarene Conference will be held next year in Orlando, Florida, from July 27 to 31, 2016. [Church of the Nazarene Multicultural Ministries]
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MVNU awarded full approval by Ohio Board of NursingMount Vernon Nazarene University’s nursing program has received full approval from the Ohio Board of Nursing. Approval is required for all nursing programs and is awarded based on a quality written report and site visit. MVNU was awarded the maximum approval of five academic years.
“The recent action by the Ohio Board of Nursing to grant us the full five-year continued approval is another confirmation of the quality of our program and the professionalism of Dr. Dorough’s leadership,” said Barnett Cochran, MVNU’s vice president for Academic Affairs. “The OBN accreditation process is rigorous and thorough, and the five-year approval is certainly not perfunctory. This is great news for us!”
The Ohio Board of Nursing approves pre-licensure education programs to assure programs maintain academic and clinical standards for the preparation of entry-level nurses. This approval follows MVNU’s accreditation during the fall semester by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, which awarded MVNU the maximum accreditation span of five full years.
“The purpose of the OBN is to assure the public is provided safe, effective care by nurses with appropriate levels of knowledge, skill, and competence,” said Carol Dorough, dean of MVNU’s School of Nursing and Health Sciences. “Nursing programs must be approved by the OBN, or graduates of those programs are not eligible to take the National Licensure Exam, the exam required for them to become licensed as registered nurses.”[Mount Vernon Nazarene University]
MVNU awarded full approval by Ohio Board of NursingMount Vernon Nazarene University’s nursing program has received full approval from the Ohio Board of Nursing. Approval is required for all nursing programs and is awarded based on a quality written report and site visit. MVNU was awarded the maximum approval of five academic years.
“The recent action by the Ohio Board of Nursing to grant us the full five-year continued approval is another confirmation of the quality of our program and the professionalism of Dr. Dorough’s leadership,” said Barnett Cochran, MVNU’s vice president for Academic Affairs. “The OBN accreditation process is rigorous and thorough, and the five-year approval is certainly not perfunctory. This is great news for us!”
The Ohio Board of Nursing approves pre-licensure education programs to assure programs maintain academic and clinical standards for the preparation of entry-level nurses. This approval follows MVNU’s accreditation during the fall semester by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, which awarded MVNU the maximum accreditation span of five full years.
“The purpose of the OBN is to assure the public is provided safe, effective care by nurses with appropriate levels of knowledge, skill, and competence,” said Carol Dorough, dean of MVNU’s School of Nursing and Health Sciences. “Nursing programs must be approved by the OBN, or graduates of those programs are not eligible to take the National Licensure Exam, the exam required for them to become licensed as registered nurses.”[Mount Vernon Nazarene University]
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Nampa, Idaho
NNU engineering programs achieve ABET accreditationNorthwest Nazarene University received official notification from the international Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology that its new Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree program is accredited. This is the culmination of an intense five-year process of program building, growth, assessment, and evaluation to meet ABET’s rigorous standards.
“This ABET ‘stamp of approval’ ensures that the education offered in our NNU engineering program meets the international measure of high quality and that NNU’s graduates are well prepared to serve at the forefront of the engineering both here in the Valley and around the globe,” said Stephen Parke, NNU engineering program director.
Community, students, alumni, faculty/staff, and local media are invited to an ABET accreditation celebration event on Monday, August 31 on NNU's campus. The ceremony will begin at noon on the campus quad in front of the Thomas Family Health and Science Center. Several engineering industry leaders, including Micron CEO Mark Durcan and Jim Nottingham, vice president and general manager of Hewlett-Packard Imaging and Printing Group, will speak, highlighting the importance of growing engineering and technology education in the region.
Immediately following the ceremony, from 12:30 to 1 p.m., there will be a technology showcase and networking time inside the first-floor atrium of the Thomas Center, where guests can interact with NNU’s engineering students and faculty and view current design and research projects, including agricultural drones and NASA RockSat and CubeSat projects.
NNU has a 60-year history of providing quality engineering physics education, started in 1955 by Manhattan Project scientist Gilbert Ford. The department has more than 300 alumni pioneering in science and engineering fields around the globe. The NNU Bachelor of Science in Engineering program has 85 students enrolled with six faculty and two staff. It already has 18 graduates whose degrees will be grandfathered into the newly accredited status. It is a multidisciplinary program focusing on broad engineering fundamentals and liberal arts, and includes a choice of upper-division concentrations in electrical, mechanical, and engineering physics.
“The program has been well established and doing a phenomenal job training its students to think critically as real engineers with a humanitarian and ethical base," said John Lonai, a 2015 engineering graduate. "The fact that this is finally coming to fruition is really awesome. It means that the graduates will finally be getting the recognition they deserve.”
ABET is a nonprofit, non-governmental organization that is an internationally recognized accreditor of college and university programs, specializing in the disciplines of applied science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology. ABET allows secondary education programs to better reflect current and future industry needs by guiding the educational process through evaluations developed by ABET members. According to the ABET website, those involved with NNU can rest assured that graduates from an ABET-accredited program have a solid educational foundation and are capable of leading the way in innovation, emerging technologies, and anticipating the welfare and safety needs of the public.[Northwest Nazarene University]
Nampa, Idaho
NNU engineering programs achieve ABET accreditationNorthwest Nazarene University received official notification from the international Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology that its new Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree program is accredited. This is the culmination of an intense five-year process of program building, growth, assessment, and evaluation to meet ABET’s rigorous standards.
“This ABET ‘stamp of approval’ ensures that the education offered in our NNU engineering program meets the international measure of high quality and that NNU’s graduates are well prepared to serve at the forefront of the engineering both here in the Valley and around the globe,” said Stephen Parke, NNU engineering program director.
Community, students, alumni, faculty/staff, and local media are invited to an ABET accreditation celebration event on Monday, August 31 on NNU's campus. The ceremony will begin at noon on the campus quad in front of the Thomas Family Health and Science Center. Several engineering industry leaders, including Micron CEO Mark Durcan and Jim Nottingham, vice president and general manager of Hewlett-Packard Imaging and Printing Group, will speak, highlighting the importance of growing engineering and technology education in the region.
Immediately following the ceremony, from 12:30 to 1 p.m., there will be a technology showcase and networking time inside the first-floor atrium of the Thomas Center, where guests can interact with NNU’s engineering students and faculty and view current design and research projects, including agricultural drones and NASA RockSat and CubeSat projects.
NNU has a 60-year history of providing quality engineering physics education, started in 1955 by Manhattan Project scientist Gilbert Ford. The department has more than 300 alumni pioneering in science and engineering fields around the globe. The NNU Bachelor of Science in Engineering program has 85 students enrolled with six faculty and two staff. It already has 18 graduates whose degrees will be grandfathered into the newly accredited status. It is a multidisciplinary program focusing on broad engineering fundamentals and liberal arts, and includes a choice of upper-division concentrations in electrical, mechanical, and engineering physics.
“The program has been well established and doing a phenomenal job training its students to think critically as real engineers with a humanitarian and ethical base," said John Lonai, a 2015 engineering graduate. "The fact that this is finally coming to fruition is really awesome. It means that the graduates will finally be getting the recognition they deserve.”
ABET is a nonprofit, non-governmental organization that is an internationally recognized accreditor of college and university programs, specializing in the disciplines of applied science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology. ABET allows secondary education programs to better reflect current and future industry needs by guiding the educational process through evaluations developed by ABET members. According to the ABET website, those involved with NNU can rest assured that graduates from an ABET-accredited program have a solid educational foundation and are capable of leading the way in innovation, emerging technologies, and anticipating the welfare and safety needs of the public.[Northwest Nazarene University]
Read more
In Memoriam
In MemoriamThe following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received August 24-28, 2015.
Godwin Chirwa of South Africa passed away August 10. He was superintendent of the Drakenburg District. More information will be posted as it is made available.
L. Wavalene (Replogle) Clay, 94, of Fostoria, Ohio, passed away August 21. She was the widow of retired minister and district superintendent D. E. Clay, who served in Ohio and led the North Central Ohio District. D. E. Clay passed away in 2011.
George Fields, 85, of Northport, Alabama, passed away August 24. He was a retired minister, serving in Alabama. He is survived by his wife, Hazel Fields.
John Hay, 80, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away August 25. He was a retired minister and district superintendent, serving in Kentucky, West Virginia, Florida and leading the Indianapolis District. He is survived by his wife, Janet (Sheffield) Hay. (story)
R. Dean Mitchell, 71, of New Harmony, Indiana, passed away August 24. He was a retired minister, serving in Indiana. He is survived by his wife, E. Ellen (Mohr) Mitchell.
Elva (Bates) Morden, 84, of Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada, passed away August 20. She was a retired missionary, serving in Swaziland. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence Morden.
M. Joyce Paul, 88, of Chewelah, Washington, passed away August 20. She was the widow of retired evangelist Charles Paul, who served in Tennessee. Charles Paul passed away in April.
Louis Powell, 92, of Pensacola, Florida, passed away August 26. He was a minister, previously serving in Florida. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Essie Powell, and is survived by his second wife, Myrtle Powell.
W. Frank Powell, 93, of Nampa, Idaho, passed away August 19. He was a retired minister, evangelist, and educator, serving in California, Iowa, Washington, and Idaho. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Frampton-Powell, in 2009.
Ottis Smith Jr., 93, of Westerville, Ohio, passed away August 17. He was a retired minister and evangelist, serving in Virginia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Florida. He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Smith, in 2013.
For previous editions of In Memoriam, see the "Passings" section 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 news@nazarene.org.[Compiled by NCN News]
In Memoriam
In MemoriamThe following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received August 24-28, 2015.
Godwin Chirwa of South Africa passed away August 10. He was superintendent of the Drakenburg District. More information will be posted as it is made available.
L. Wavalene (Replogle) Clay, 94, of Fostoria, Ohio, passed away August 21. She was the widow of retired minister and district superintendent D. E. Clay, who served in Ohio and led the North Central Ohio District. D. E. Clay passed away in 2011.
George Fields, 85, of Northport, Alabama, passed away August 24. He was a retired minister, serving in Alabama. He is survived by his wife, Hazel Fields.
John Hay, 80, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away August 25. He was a retired minister and district superintendent, serving in Kentucky, West Virginia, Florida and leading the Indianapolis District. He is survived by his wife, Janet (Sheffield) Hay. (story)
R. Dean Mitchell, 71, of New Harmony, Indiana, passed away August 24. He was a retired minister, serving in Indiana. He is survived by his wife, E. Ellen (Mohr) Mitchell.
Elva (Bates) Morden, 84, of Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada, passed away August 20. She was a retired missionary, serving in Swaziland. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence Morden.
M. Joyce Paul, 88, of Chewelah, Washington, passed away August 20. She was the widow of retired evangelist Charles Paul, who served in Tennessee. Charles Paul passed away in April.
Louis Powell, 92, of Pensacola, Florida, passed away August 26. He was a minister, previously serving in Florida. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Essie Powell, and is survived by his second wife, Myrtle Powell.
W. Frank Powell, 93, of Nampa, Idaho, passed away August 19. He was a retired minister, evangelist, and educator, serving in California, Iowa, Washington, and Idaho. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Frampton-Powell, in 2009.
Ottis Smith Jr., 93, of Westerville, Ohio, passed away August 17. He was a retired minister and evangelist, serving in Virginia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Florida. He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Smith, in 2013.
For previous editions of In Memoriam, see the "Passings" section 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 news@nazarene.org.[Compiled by NCN News]
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Global praise reports and prayer requestsGlobal Ministry Center
Recent praise reports and prayer requests from NCN News, Nazarene Missions International, and JESUS Film Harvest Partners include:
PRAISES
JESUS Film - Malawi
"More than 1,200 people came to watch the JESUS film," shared a team member in Malawi. "Of those, 769 people made a decision for Christ! We were well received by the chiefs, teachers, and the villagers. Fifty-three new believers immediately registered their names to our newly birthed church. The chief told us in his village polygamy, prostitution, and hard living are common lifestyles. He appreciated our coming with the gospel of Christ through the JESUS film. He said he was hopeful his village will be transformed since most villagers will now be followers of Christ who will live a good life in their community. The wife of one man confessed that now she finally feels married since her husband will be home with her and their children."
JESUS Film - Mexico
"I felt in my heart there was something missing," said a man in Mexico. "Even though my parents taught me to work hard and live a good moral life, I lacked something. One day on my way home from work I went through the park as usual. On this day, a crowd was listening to a man tell a story using a colorful cube with pictures on it. As he explained how God loved us by sending Jesus to die in our place, I felt a great need to know God. When an invitation was given, I accepted the Lord Jesus as my Savior and have been attempting to learn more about Him every week."
JESUS Film - Sri Lanka
"He saw Jesus in prison," said a team member in Sri Lanka. "Radha was in prison for three months. While there, a follower of Christ shared with him about the Lord after the JESUS film was shown. Radha considered this a wonderful experience. We made arrangement to show the film near his home. Because of Radha's testimony, many people came to the presentation."
PRAYER REQUESTS
Rain in Papua New Guinea
It’s the dry season in Kudjip, Papua New Guinea, where there is a Nazarene hospital. However, this season is especially dry. Water supply in the wells is low and some wells have run dry. Without rain, critical issues will arise, such as food shortages. The hospital staff and most Papua New Guineans depend on their gardens for food. Should the gardens die, there may be an influx of people at the markets, where prices will skyrocket. In addition, the hospital’s electricity runs off of the power generated from a hydroelectric system. The river used to draw water for the system is very low. Fortunately, the hospital has generators, but the fuel to run them is expensive.
HEALTH-RELATED REQUESTS
Nancy Miller
Missionary Nancy Miller is regaining her strength following treatment for venous reflux, but will need oxygen while flying. Click here to read more about Nancy's condition.
Nancy and her husband, George, have been missionaries on the Asia-Pacific Region since 1989 and have served in Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and now at Philippine Nazarene College in the northern Philippines.
David Phillips
Southeast Asia Field Strategy Coordinator David Phillips, who recently underwent surgery for colon cancer, is currently in the U.S. for chemotherapy. For the latest update, click here.
Brent Smith
Pastor Brent Smith of the Talihina, Oklahoma, Church of the Nazarene was roofing a house when he fell off, landing face/chest first. He suffered facial fractures and broke some ribs, an arm, and a wrist, and has a brain bleed. As of August 27 he had awakened from an induced coma and was alert, according a GoFundMe page set up for his medical expenses. He had surgery on his left arm and elbow replacement surgery. More procedures may be required, though he is out of intensive care.
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.
Global praise reports and prayer requestsGlobal Ministry Center
Recent praise reports and prayer requests from NCN News, Nazarene Missions International, and JESUS Film Harvest Partners include:
PRAISES
JESUS Film - Malawi
"More than 1,200 people came to watch the JESUS film," shared a team member in Malawi. "Of those, 769 people made a decision for Christ! We were well received by the chiefs, teachers, and the villagers. Fifty-three new believers immediately registered their names to our newly birthed church. The chief told us in his village polygamy, prostitution, and hard living are common lifestyles. He appreciated our coming with the gospel of Christ through the JESUS film. He said he was hopeful his village will be transformed since most villagers will now be followers of Christ who will live a good life in their community. The wife of one man confessed that now she finally feels married since her husband will be home with her and their children."
JESUS Film - Mexico
"I felt in my heart there was something missing," said a man in Mexico. "Even though my parents taught me to work hard and live a good moral life, I lacked something. One day on my way home from work I went through the park as usual. On this day, a crowd was listening to a man tell a story using a colorful cube with pictures on it. As he explained how God loved us by sending Jesus to die in our place, I felt a great need to know God. When an invitation was given, I accepted the Lord Jesus as my Savior and have been attempting to learn more about Him every week."
JESUS Film - Sri Lanka
"He saw Jesus in prison," said a team member in Sri Lanka. "Radha was in prison for three months. While there, a follower of Christ shared with him about the Lord after the JESUS film was shown. Radha considered this a wonderful experience. We made arrangement to show the film near his home. Because of Radha's testimony, many people came to the presentation."
PRAYER REQUESTS
Rain in Papua New Guinea
It’s the dry season in Kudjip, Papua New Guinea, where there is a Nazarene hospital. However, this season is especially dry. Water supply in the wells is low and some wells have run dry. Without rain, critical issues will arise, such as food shortages. The hospital staff and most Papua New Guineans depend on their gardens for food. Should the gardens die, there may be an influx of people at the markets, where prices will skyrocket. In addition, the hospital’s electricity runs off of the power generated from a hydroelectric system. The river used to draw water for the system is very low. Fortunately, the hospital has generators, but the fuel to run them is expensive.
HEALTH-RELATED REQUESTS
Nancy Miller
Missionary Nancy Miller is regaining her strength following treatment for venous reflux, but will need oxygen while flying. Click here to read more about Nancy's condition.
Nancy and her husband, George, have been missionaries on the Asia-Pacific Region since 1989 and have served in Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and now at Philippine Nazarene College in the northern Philippines.
David Phillips
Southeast Asia Field Strategy Coordinator David Phillips, who recently underwent surgery for colon cancer, is currently in the U.S. for chemotherapy. For the latest update, click here.
Brent Smith
Pastor Brent Smith of the Talihina, Oklahoma, Church of the Nazarene was roofing a house when he fell off, landing face/chest first. He suffered facial fractures and broke some ribs, an arm, and a wrist, and has a brain bleed. As of August 27 he had awakened from an induced coma and was alert, according a GoFundMe page set up for his medical expenses. He had surgery on his left arm and elbow replacement surgery. More procedures may be required, though he is out of intensive care.
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.
Read moreHuman Resources
GMC employment opportunitiesPeople are our most valued resource. Our committed employees are involved in "Making Christlike Disciples in the Nations" in 159 world areas.
The Global Ministry Center Human Resources Office professionals strive to deliver the highest possible service to our employees, and are responsible for the recruitment, placement and retention of qualified individuals to staff the ministry and administrative positions of the GMC. The many employee services include compensation and benefit administration, payroll, employment, employee relations, training, counseling, organizational communication and events, and workplace programs.
*Volunteer opportunities for GMC ministries are available now. Email bsikes@nazarene.org for details.
Employment Opportunities
Global Education and Clergy Development — Software Developer (Full-time)
Office: Global Education and Clergy Development
Ministry: International Board of Education
Title: Software Developer
Description: This position is responsible for facilitating the ministry of the International Board of Education through the customization and enhancement of the OpenCUAS school administrative system. This will include customizing, or developing computer programs and applications in support of the system. (Full-time position)
Information Technology — Software Developer (Full-time)
Office: General Secretary's Office
Ministry: Information Technology
Title: Software Developer
Description: Responsibilities for this position include facilitating the ministry of the Global Ministry Center through the analysis, design, implementation, and support of software solutions. (Full-time position)
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries — Computer Programming Coordinator (Full-time)
Office: Global Mission
Ministry: Nazarene Compassionate Ministries
Title: Computer Programming Coordinator
Description: Responsibilities for this position include leading NCM's development team in developing and maintaining NCM's Web applications, systems, and websites. (Full-time position)
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries — Donor Strategist (Full-time)
Office: Global Mission
Ministry: Nazarene Compassionate Ministries
Title: Donor Strategist
Description: Under oversight of the director of development, this position is responsible for fundraising through building partnerships and donor/sponsor engagement and communication, including managing the research, design, content, and production of NCM materials for information, promotion, and education. (Full-time position)
Pensions and Benefits — Administrative Assistant (Full-time)
Office: Financial Services
Ministry: Pensions and Benefits
Title: Administrative Assistant
Description: Responsibilities for this position include leading/managing special and cyclical projects primarily within the Benefits Services Area (BSA), providing administrative assistance to the administrative director and other staff-level positions, coordinating the education/training priorities of internal staff as well as plan participants, ensuring that the appropriate resources and support are provided to complete assigned projects, and processing customer service inquiries as needed. (Full-time position)
To obtain additional information, please call 913-577-0500 and ask for Human Resources.
Location of our Positions
The GMC is the administrative hub for the Church of the Nazarene denominational ministries in 159 world areas. The GMC is conveniently located in Lenexa, Kansas, with easy access to I-35 and I-435 and within short driving distance to Kansas City International airport. All GMC positions report to this location.
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. Resumés are not necessary for entry-level positions, but they are preferred for professional level positions.
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 U.S. Central Time. Completed applications may be mailed or emailed to the attention of the Human Resources Office.
GMC employment opportunitiesPeople are our most valued resource. Our committed employees are involved in "Making Christlike Disciples in the Nations" in 159 world areas.
The Global Ministry Center Human Resources Office professionals strive to deliver the highest possible service to our employees, and are responsible for the recruitment, placement and retention of qualified individuals to staff the ministry and administrative positions of the GMC. The many employee services include compensation and benefit administration, payroll, employment, employee relations, training, counseling, organizational communication and events, and workplace programs.
*Volunteer opportunities for GMC ministries are available now. Email bsikes@nazarene.org for details.
Employment Opportunities
Global Education and Clergy Development — Software Developer (Full-time)
Office: Global Education and Clergy Development
Ministry: International Board of Education
Title: Software Developer
Description: This position is responsible for facilitating the ministry of the International Board of Education through the customization and enhancement of the OpenCUAS school administrative system. This will include customizing, or developing computer programs and applications in support of the system. (Full-time position)
Information Technology — Software Developer (Full-time)
Office: General Secretary's Office
Ministry: Information Technology
Title: Software Developer
Description: Responsibilities for this position include facilitating the ministry of the Global Ministry Center through the analysis, design, implementation, and support of software solutions. (Full-time position)
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries — Computer Programming Coordinator (Full-time)
Office: Global Mission
Ministry: Nazarene Compassionate Ministries
Title: Computer Programming Coordinator
Description: Responsibilities for this position include leading NCM's development team in developing and maintaining NCM's Web applications, systems, and websites. (Full-time position)
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries — Donor Strategist (Full-time)
Office: Global Mission
Ministry: Nazarene Compassionate Ministries
Title: Donor Strategist
Description: Under oversight of the director of development, this position is responsible for fundraising through building partnerships and donor/sponsor engagement and communication, including managing the research, design, content, and production of NCM materials for information, promotion, and education. (Full-time position)
Pensions and Benefits — Administrative Assistant (Full-time)
Office: Financial Services
Ministry: Pensions and Benefits
Title: Administrative Assistant
Description: Responsibilities for this position include leading/managing special and cyclical projects primarily within the Benefits Services Area (BSA), providing administrative assistance to the administrative director and other staff-level positions, coordinating the education/training priorities of internal staff as well as plan participants, ensuring that the appropriate resources and support are provided to complete assigned projects, and processing customer service inquiries as needed. (Full-time position)
To obtain additional information, please call 913-577-0500 and ask for Human Resources.
Location of our Positions
The GMC is the administrative hub for the Church of the Nazarene denominational ministries in 159 world areas. The GMC is conveniently located in Lenexa, Kansas, with easy access to I-35 and I-435 and within short driving distance to Kansas City International airport. All GMC positions report to this location.
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. Resumés are not necessary for entry-level positions, but they are preferred for professional level positions.
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 U.S. Central Time. Completed applications may be mailed or emailed to the attention of the Human Resources Office.
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