Missionary Renegade: Nazarene News: Oldest elder, 109, passes away from Nazarene Communications Network News of Lenexa, Kansas, United States Volume 1545 for Friday, November 13, 2015 - This week in the Church of the Nazarene...

Friday, November 13, 2015

Nazarene News: Oldest elder, 109, passes away from Nazarene Communications Network News of Lenexa, Kansas, United States Volume 1545 for Friday, November 13, 2015 - This week in the Church of the Nazarene...

Nazarene News: Oldest elder, 109, passes away from Nazarene Communications Network News of Lenexa, Kansas, United States Volume 1545 for Friday, November 13, 2015 - This week in the Church of the Nazarene...

Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota

Minnesota pastor uses insight gained in Hollywood career

Chris Sikorowski went from working in the Hollywood film industry to pastoring Grace Church of the Nazarene in Inver Grove Heights this summer. He and his wife, Allison, and their two young sons, Elias and Brasen, moved from Pasadena, California, to Inver Grove Heights in late July. (Photo courtesy of the Sikorowski family)

The new lead pastor of Grace Church of the Nazarene in Inver Grove Heights wasn’t always preaching in front of a congregation.

The Rev. Chris Sikorowski, 39, once worked in Hollywood’s film industry with actors as big as Will Smith, Tom Hanks and Arnold Schwarzenegger.

But after working on more than 100 movies, shows and documentaries, Sikorowski, along with his wife, Allison, and their two boys, Elias, 1 and a half, and Brasen, 7 months, left the West Coast, where he regularly rubbed elbows with some of Hollywood’s best-known stars, in late July and settled into their new home in a Inver Grove Heights.

***Sikorowski, who used to produce behind-the-scenes specials, poses with Will Smith while working on “Men in Black II.” (submitted photo)***

Sikorowski worked mostly as a film producer, but also as a director, a cinematographer and about a dozen other roles. His Internet Movie Database (IMdB) page proves that.

Though his two careers — pastor and film producer — could seem like they encompass two different worlds, he points out that each, in fact, exists in the same world, and he likes to bring them together.

For Sikorowski, his experience in film and culture is a tool he finds useful as a pastor.

“I think that we have to engage culture, not run from it,” he says. “In my sermons and when I’m working with youth, I try to find clips from movies, TV shows and popular culture — things that are going on right now in the world — and tie them together with the truth that we find in Scripture.”

**Sikorowski poses with Vince Vaughn and Jon Favreau while working on “Made.” (submitted photo)**

For example, in a recent sermon series entitled “Love Never Fails,” Sikorowski used an example from the classic 1987 film “The Princess Bride.”

He says the famous line spoken by the character Inigo Montoya, “Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya, you killed my father, prepare to die,” is not only familiar to most, but also relatable — the emotion, the focus, the eventual letdown.

“I see it all as a dialogue and not as two things that are in opposition to one another,” Sikorowski says.

Answering a greater call

But how did the Twin Cities native go from working in Hollywood to pastoring in Inver Grove Heights?

Sikorowski poses with Arnold Schwarzenegger while working on the movie “Total Recall.” (submitted photo)

He said he had the resume and career fit for success in Hollywood, finding his niche in various types of films, largely specials such as “making-of” documentaries, which feature behind-the-scenes looks at how movies are created.

At the same time he was volunteering at his church in Pasadena, California, and feeling drawn in another direction.

“At the end of the day, I felt like God was calling me to work in ministry,” he says. “I felt a conviction that that’s where God wanted me, that it wasn’t about the paycheck, but about what I was supposed to do.”

He attended Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, became an ordained minister in 2009, and after he and his wife had their sons, they decided to move to Minnesota where he accepted the lead pastor position at Grace Church of the Nazarene.

***Sikorowski poses with Kurt Russell while working on “Used Cars.” (submitted photo)***

Sikorowski, who grew up in Burnsville and majored in film studies at the University of Minnesota, said he also thought that Minnesota would be a good place to raise his kids.

“I loved it here,” he says. “I had an amazing childhood, and I felt like this would be the best place to raise our kids.”

Oct. 25 will be Sikorowski’s 12th Sunday leading the service at Grace Church.

For those interested in contacting Chris Sikorowshi, he can be reached by email at pastorchris@gracenazarene and at his office by phone at 651-455-9464.[Republished with permission from the South-West Review] **Read more**

Chrisman, Illinois

Denomination's oldest ordained elder passes away

General Superintendent J. K. Warrick presents George Reader with an award on the 80th anniversary of his ordination in 2012.

George Reader, 109, passed away November 5. At the time of his death, he was believed to be the oldest living ordained elder in the Church of the Nazarene.

Reader pastored, taught, and evangelized throughout the U.S. Midwest until his retirement in 1976. He served as a senior pastor in the Illinois cities of Shelbyville, Rantoul, Marseilles, Freeport, Tuscola, Ridge Farm, Georgetown, Taylorville, Granite City, and Monticello.

In 2012, the Illinois District celebrated the 80th anniversary of Reader’s ordination, performed in 1932 by then General Superintendent J. B. Chapman.

Reader was also Olivet Nazarene University's oldest living alumnus. He served on the university's Board of Trustees for 21 years.

“George Reader was an inspiration to us all, not only because at the time of his death he was the oldest Nazarene elder in the United States, but because he fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith,” said Jerry D. Porter, Church of the Nazarene general superintendent.

Reader prayed at the USA/Canada Region's Mission 2015 Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, earlier this year through a video.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Gertrude (Mills) Reader, and two sons, Paul and James. He is survived by two sons: John W. (Lois) Reader and Daniel L. (Verna) Reader; two daughters-in-law: Deloris Reader (wife of Paul) and Mary Lou Reader (wife of James); six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

A funeral service was held Wednesday at the Chrisman, Illinois, Church of the Nazarene.

Related: Previously published video feature on Reader from Grace & Peace magazine Read more
Asia-Pacific Region

Asia-Pacific Region hosts first conference for cross-cultural ministry workers

The Asia-Pacific Region recently hosted iConnect, a member care event for cross-cultural ministry workers across the region. The goal was to organize an event that would allow each participant a sacred space to connect to God, His purpose, and one another.
“What began as a dream became a reality and is now a very sweet memory,” said Mark Louw, regional director. “Thanks to an extraordinary planning committee who — with the help of the team — identified key topics and appropriate speakers, we have concluded a historic first gathering of cross-cultural servants who were encouraged, motivated, and ministered to. Seeing the children play together and adults mingle with new friends from around the globe brought joy to my heart. I am so proud of the outcomes accomplished and the positive feedback received that my mind is already turning toward the planning of a future regional gathering of cross-cultural servants in four years time. My hope is that an even greater number of our team members will be able to attend.”
The organizing team planned the event to provide information and tools specifically requested by team members while at the same time creating a retreat atmosphere with space for rest and team interaction. This was accomplished through worship services, workshops, roundtable discussions, and activities.

John and Linda Seaman, former cross-cultural ministry workers (John now serves as superintendent of USA/Canada's Michigan District), shared from their heart as they spoke of "knowing God.” They also facilitated a workshop exploring lessons learned from the field and were available for pastoral visits.
David A. Busic, general superintendent in jurisdiction for the region, invited attendees to explore the practice of solitude, experiencing the still, quiet voice of God in the midst of full and demanding lifestyles.
Louw challenged participants to discover anew the gift of Sabbath in a message that examined the rhythm of a life balanced in God. In addition, Louw facilitated workshops and a roundtable discussion with Global Mission Director Verne Ward, Global Mission Personnel Coordinator Marty Hoskins, and Busic, addressing the denomination's philosophy of cross-cultural ministry as well as current trends in the denomination.

Brian and Julie Woolery led worship sessions and participants experienced prolonged times of prayer together and for one another.
The Renewal of the Mind — a workshop exploring the implications of breakthrough brain science and what happens when servants of God allow Him to change them — was facilitated by Monika Knausenberger, a professional counselor from Australia with a heart for cross-cultural workers. Monika also ministered through appointments for private consultation and counseling.
Pursuing Peace in the Midst of a Life That Matters, facilitated by John Moore with Harmon and Cindy Schmelzenbach, integrated an understanding of the physiology of stress management with practical tools and a biblical perspective on achieving peace as a lifestyle, even as participants seek to reach goals of eternal significance.
Natalie Ward facilitated a roundtable discussion exploring resources and tools especially valuable for parents raising children in cross-cultural settings. Parents were encouraged to keep their families in high priority, and solutions were offered for commonly experienced challenges.

Rick Power, superintendent for USA/Canada's Hawaii Pacific District, led a discussion group for participants who had read the book The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson, a book on prayer recommended by John Seaman.
iConnect ministered to a total of 99 participants, including children and facilitators.
"It was a great success and we thank all who helped to organize, facilitate, and participate in this event, which we all hope to see repeated in the future," Cindy Schmelzenbach said.[Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region] Read more

Nashville, Tennessee

Trevecca students answer God’s call to serve refugeesOver the course of a few days this fall, Kathy Mowry sat in her office and listened as a steady stream of visitors — staff members, students — dropped by her office with an innocuous question: Do you have a minute?
Some came alone; others came as couples or families. Some cried or whispered; others spoke with joyful passion.
They didn’t know about one another, but each of the visitors said the same thing: God is calling me, and I must go.
“I would drive to work crying and drive home crying,” Mowry, professor of intercultural studies at Trevecca Nazarene University, said. “It’s just a beautiful thing God is putting together.”
That “beautiful thing” involves seven recent Trevecca graduates answering God’s call to serve in central Europe. In early November, the final doors opened for a team of six Trevecca alumni and soon-to-be graduates to minister on the front lines of the refugee crisis in Europe. They will begin their work in Serbia, but will move throughout central Europe as the refugees move. They will serve the refugees for a year or more.
Isaac Petty, who will graduate in December, will be a part of a separate emphasis helping with church development in Poland.
The call
For weeks, Jacob and Dorothee Arnold Morris watched the news of the growing refugee crisis in Europe. The images of the refugees streaming into central Europe had broken their hearts, but the couple can pinpoint one moment when the crisis became real: when the body of three-year-old Syrian refugee Aylan Kurdi, washed ashore on a Turkish beach.
Kurdi had been part of a group of 23 refugees trying to reach the Greek island of Kos. Aylan, his brother, mother, and others drowned when their boats capsized in the Aegean Sea last month.
“The picture is of him facedown in the sand with a T-shirt, shorts, and Velcro shoes on — the same kind of shoes that our 3-year-old son would wear,” Jacob said. “I realized that being fortunate enough to be born where I was born and the privilege that I was born into was not any reason for me to just sit back while other people are literally fleeing for their lives.”
Others on the team say there wasn’t a definitive moment, but rather a growing conviction that God was calling them to enter into the suffering of the refugees.
Engaged and planning a wedding for April 2016, Curt Rich and Megan Trees say that God called them to be open to changing the plans they’d made for their married life.
“It’s really just being open to saying yes to whatever He has for us, whether that was the plans we had made or something completely different like this,” Rich said.
Tori Stone, a senior graduating in May 2016, says watching the news of the refugee crisis left her feeling helpless. But it also reminded her of a calling God had planted in her heart after a trip to Croatia last summer.
“At that time I knew that God wanted me to come back to Croatia, but I said I needed time to pray about it,” Stone said. “I told God there was going to be a lot of things He had to do if He really wanted me to. Through this whole thing, I’ve just watched Him work in my life and prepare the things that I said would be problems for me going.”
Christina Corzine, who will also graduate in May 2016, says an internship with World Relief, a nonprofit that works with refugees in Nashville, opened her eyes to the great need of refugees around the world.
“People that I was interacting with on a daily basis were on a long journey in a secondary home country, learning and getting settled,” Corzine said. “Yet, in Europe there are people on an even longer journey trying to find refuge from all the turmoil. . . . It’s going to be an honor to be the church in the midst of all the brokenness.”
Isaac Petty, who has never visited Europe, recognized God’s call to the region early in the semester. Petty will serve in Poland and isn’t part of the team mobilized to minister to the refugees. He will serve for eight months, helping to organize Work & Witness teams as well as summer youth camps.
“I’m excited,” Petty said. “I know it’s going to be so different, but I’m ready to go and holding nothing back.”
Timing
The refugee team will begin their work in Central Europe in waves. The Morris family plans to be on the field as early as this winter. The couple will leave behind jobs at Trevecca, as well as the local church they serve, Inglewood Church of the Nazarene. With their two young children, Elias and Miriam, Jacob and Dorothee simply want to join God where He is already at work.
“[We] go to really enter into the suffering of these people and to do so in name of a God who enters into the suffering of the world,” Jacob said. “Just this week, it’s really hit home that what it means to follow God is to . . . enter into suffering and to do so willingly.”
Corzine agrees.
“It is my prayer that our team can remind them that in the midst of turmoil and chaos is love and compassion,” she said.
The remainder of the team will be in Europe by early summer. Rich and Trees plan to arrive in June following their wedding and Rich’s graduation in May 2016. Stone and Corzine will also move in June, following graduation. The team will be on the field for at least a year.
Petty will begin his work in Poland in January 2016. He’ll serve for eight months, returning to the U.S. in August 2016.
For more information on how you can give, visit give.trevecca.edu/europe-missions.

[Trevecca Nazarene University] Read more
Lenexa, Kansas

Free VBS resource continues to impact children worldwide

In the fall of 2014, Kids Reaching Kids began work on a new Vacation Bible School curriculum in response to a growing need within many local Nazarene churches for Wesleyan/Holiness Vacation Bible School that could bring children to a saving faith in Christ without creating a financial burden for the church.

The God of the Underdogs VBS was sent free of charge to every Nazarene church within the U.S. and Canada; eventually, it made its way across the globe. The curriculum was made available in both English and Spanish, and with the help of some VBS-passionate Nazarenes in Kenya, portions were translated into Swahili.

In addition to hard copies, The God of the Underdogs is available as a free download at gotuvbs.com and will remain there indefinitely.

In 2015, a God of the Underdogs VBS was held in:

272 U.S. churches across 39 states
90 churches in Kenya
28 churches in Guyana
At least one church in Canada, Great Britain, Japan, Trinidad, and Zimbabwe

The God of the Underdogs curriculum will continue to impact churches in 2016, including:

52 churches in Puerto Rico as a part of Encuentro Puerto Rico
Potentially more than 100 churches throughout other parts of the Mesoamerica Region

Due to the success of The God of the Underdogs VBS, Kids Reaching Kids is producing a second VBS curriculum for 2016. BOLD: Be Outspoken… Live it Daily! will lead children on an adventure through the book of Acts. To receive a free BOLD VBS kit, visit boldvbs.com. BOLD will be available in English, Spanish, and Swahili.[
Sunday School and Discipleship Ministries International]
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Eurasia

Flags of the Nations: France

The tricolore consists of three vertical bands of equal width, displaying the country's national colors: blue, white, and red. Red, white, and blue have come to represent liberty, equality and fraternity — the ideals of the French Revolution.

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: France

The Church of the Nazarene officially entered France in 1977.

France had a population of 66,259,012 in 2014. That same year, France reported nine Churches of the Nazarene, eight of which had been officially organized. France has 315 total members.

Located on the Eurasia Region, France is a Phase 1 district. For more information about the Eurasia Region, visit eurasiaregion.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.

Read more
USA/Canada

Nazarenes in the News

Courtney Wood and her daughter Kaydence Chaffin, 4, both from Nampa, pick up some produce at the Nazarene Care House in Nampa, Idaho. The Nazarene Care House provides food to low-income families and the homeless. (Idaho Press photo)

Nazarenes in the News is a compilation of online news articles featuring Nazarene churches or church members.

Idaho's Nazarene Care House serves area residents in need

Nampa, Idaho

(Idaho Press, November 1) A young girl holds her mother’s hand as they walk through the Nampa Nazarene Care House shopping for groceries. She’s excited because her mother is letting her take home pink cupcakes she found on one of the shelves.

“This food bank is awesome,” Courtney Wood, the girl’s mother, said. “I’ve actually never been to this one before. This one is a lot bigger and has a lot to offer. We get fresh local vegetables, bread, milk and cereal.”

Wood lost her job at a local day care on Labor Day. Since she’s been between jobs, Wood found herself needing help to feed her daughters. So she went to the Nazarene Care House located on 16th Street.

Wood is just one of over 250 residents who come to the care house in a week looking for groceries.

For the rest of the story, click here.

Staff at Illinois church's recovery group 'walk alongside you'

Decatur, Illinois

(Herald & Review, November 1) Steve Pinkley once woke up behind a tavern in the back of a pickup truck full of scrap lumber because he couldn't find a bed after a day of drinking.

Yet it took three attempts at Alcoholics Anonymous for real change to begin and a 950-mile move to Myrtle Beach, S.C., in 2005 for true healing.

That's where he and his wife found Celebrate Recovery, a Christ-centered program developed by the Rev. John Baker of Southern California's Saddleback Church to help people recover from addictions and emotional problems.

“The people are real, they are honest, and they are willing to walk alongside of you,” Pinkley said. “It's a safe place.”

After moving back to Decatur, Steve and Cheryl Pinkley started their own group at New Beginnings Church of God in January 2012, the same month a group started at First Church of the Nazarene.

For the rest of the story, click here.

Stories to share? Send them to news@nazarene.org.[
Compiled by NCN News]
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Moving Ministers: October 2015

Compiled by the General Secretary's Office from district reports, Moving Ministers is a monthly listing of Nazarene ministers in new assignments on the USA/Canada Region.
Roles included in the latest report are pastor and pastoral service. Entries were received from October 1 to October 31, 2015.
To view the October report, click here.For previous reports, see usacanadanazarene.org.Read more

Moving Ministers As of: 11/2/2015

Rev. Timothy D. Asbill Jr. from Pastor

Inver Grove Heights Grace

Inver Grove Heights MN

to Pastor on 9/20/2015

Mitchell Harvest Community

Mitchell SD

Rev. Charles H. Ashby from Pastor

Crowley First

Crowley LA

to Pastoral Service on 9/27/2015

GracePointe

Shreveport LA

Rev. Christopher S. Baker from Pastoral Service

Owego

Owego NY

to Pastor on 7/12/2015

Columbus Community

Columbus WI

Rev. Teresa G. Baker from Pastoral Service

Owego

Owego NY

to Pastor on 7/12/2015

Columbus Community

Columbus WI

Rev. Jared A. Burgess from Student

West Virginia North

Fairmont WV

to Pastor on 7/5/2015

London

London KY

Rev. Martin A. Burns from Pastoral Service

Waynesburg

Waynesburg PA

to Pastoral Service on 10/11/2015

Greenville First

Greenville SC

Rev. Jerry L. Carpenter from Pastor

Chillicothe Westside

Chillicothe OH

to Pastor on 11/29/2015

Hebron

Hebron OH

Rev. Omar Castro from Pastor

Benson

Benson AZ

to Pastor on 11/16/2015

Iglesia del Nazareno Dios es Amor

Rev. James E. Cedar from Pastor

Wolcott New Life Community

Wolcott NY

Pastor on 10/25/2015

to Casper First

Casper WY

Rev. Chad W. Clardie from Pastor

Watertown

Watertown NY

to Pastor on 10/18/2015

Springfield One Life

Springfield MO

Rev. Brian D. Daniels from Pastor

Portsmouth First

Portsmouth OH

to Pastoral Service on 8/17/2015

Mount Vernon First

Mount Vernon OH

Rev. Adrian E. Daugherty from Pastoral Service

Longview First

Longview TX

to Pastoral Service on 8/1/2015

Cornerstone

Lake Jackson TX

Rev. Michael J. De Haan from Pastoral Service

Moravia Lighthouse

Moravia IA

to Pastoral Service on 9/27/2015

Topeka Wanamaker Woods

Topeka KS

Rev. Michael P. Elliott from Pastor

Petersburg

Petersburg IN

to Pastor on 8/1/2015

Community of Hope

Corydon IN

Rev. Marie Fitts from Pastoral Service

Anchorage Chapel/Cross

Anchorage AK

to Pastor on 10/4/2015

North Pole

North Pole AK

Rev. Jeffrey S. Fletcher from Unassigned

Kansas City

Overland Park KS

to Pastor on 11/15/2015

Kansas City St. Paul's

Kansas City MO

Rev. Christopher M. Gilmore from Pastoral Service

Hutchinson First

Hutchinson KS

to Pastor on 7/1/2015

Corbin

Corbin KY

Rev. Jeremy M. Glovitch from Pastoral Service

Mount Sterling

Mount Sterling OH

to Pastoral Service on 7/1/2015

Lifepoint

Columbus OH

Rev. Michael A. Graham from Pastoral Service

Adrian First

Adrian MI

to Pastor on 10/4/2015

Holly

Holly MI

Rev. John R. Hale from Pastoral Service

Southview Community

Kingsport TN

to Pastor on 7/27/2015

Newport

Newport TN

Rev. Michael M. Hancock from Pastor

Nashville Bethel

Nashville TN

to Pastoral Service on 8/23/2015

Xenia

Xenia OH

Rev. Ryan Grant Hannay from Student

Oklahoma

Bethany OK

to Pastoral Service on 9/22/2015

South Austin

Austin TX

Rev. Mark D. Hendrick from Pastor

Kilgore

Kilgore TX

to Pastor on 11/8/2015

Longview First

Longview TX

Rev. Amy Jo Higgins from Pastoral Service

Marshall

Marshall IL

to Pastoral Service on 9/1/2015

New Hope

Princeton IL

Rev. Thomas R. Higgins from Pastor

Marshall

Marshall IL

to Pastoral Service on 9/1/2015

New Hope

Princeton IL

Rev. James Thomas High Jr. from Pastoral Service

Connecting Pointe

Lincoln NE

to Pastoral Service on 9/20/2015

Decatur First

Decatur IL

Rev. Brian L. Jenkerson from Pastor

Sikeston Eastside

Sikeston MO

to Pastor on 9/27/2015

Tabor Weaver Memorial

Tabor IA

Rev. J. Ramiro Juárez from Unassigned

Western Latin American

Santa Fe Springs CA

to Pastoral Service on 9/1/2015

Hillside Community

Rowland Heights CA

Rev. Barry W. Kennard from Pastor

Monterey Living Hope

Monterey CA

to Pastoral Service on 10/18/2015

Nampa First

Nampa ID

Rev. Kelly Klubek from Pastoral Service

Iola

Iola KS

to Pastor on 10/18/2015

McCune

Mc Cune KS

Rev. John L. Kouts from Pastor

East Paulding

Dallas GA

to Pastor on 10/18/2015

Ozark First

Ozark MO

Rev. Landon J. Letsinger from Pastor

Mansfield

Mansfield MO

to Pastor on 9/27/2015

Wheatland

Wheatland MO

Rev. Jeffrey A. Marcoe from Pastor

New Braunfels First

New Braunfels TX

to Pastor on 10/18/2015

Amarillo First

Amarillo TX

Rev. Kevin R. McDonald from Pastor

Chanute

Chanute KS

to Pastor on 9/14/2015

Junction City First

Junction City KS

Rev. Patrick E. McGue II from Unassigned

West Virginia South

Charleston WV

to Pastoral Service on 7/31/2015

Moundsville

Moundsville WV

Rev. Daniel D. Mercado from Unassigned

Louisiana

Alexandria LA

to Pastor on 9/6/2015

Salisbury

Salisbury NC

Rev. A. Glenn Messer from Unassigned

North Carolina

Charlotte NC

to Pastor on 7/25/2015

Trinity

Lake Charles LA

Rev. Troy S. Mishler from Pastor

Mission Viejo Sanctuary Fellowship

Mission Viejo CA

to Pastoral Service on 8/1/2015

Hillsboro

Hillsboro OR

Rev. Eric Nahass from Pastor

San Antonio Tezel Oaks

San Antonio TX

to Pastor on 8/17/2015

Duncan Heritage Oaks

Duncan OK

Rev. Eric O'Neal from Pastoral Service

Kansas City Southwood

Kansas City MO

to Pastoral Service on 10/25/2015

Broken Arrow First

Broken Arrow OK

Rev. W. Bradley Paradee from Pastor

Brighton Chapel Hill

Brighton CO

to Pastor on 10/4/2015

Long Beach First

Long Beach CA

Rev. Jonathan L. Parker from Student

East Tennessee

Tullahoma TN

to Pastoral Service on 8/1/2015

Kansas City Central

Lenexa KS

Rev. Karolyn L. Parsons from Pastoral Service

Sullivan

Sullivan IN

to Pastor on 8/23/2015

Mitchell

Mitchell IN

Rev. Art Perkins from Pastor

Honolulu First

Honolulu HI

to Pastor on 10/18/2015

Portsmouth First

Portsmouth OH

Rev. Silas Andrew Perkins from Pastoral Service

Honolulu First

Honolulu HI

to Pastoral Service on 10/18/2015

Portsmouth First

Portsmouth OH

Rev. Shane T. Perry from Pastoral Service

Toledo Trinity

Toledo OH

to Pastoral Service on 11/22/2015

Madison First

Madison AL

Rev. Neal E. Peterson from Pastoral Service

Muncie South Side

Muncie IN

to Pastoral Service on 10/18/2015

Racine Community

Racine WI

Rev. Ainsley Ports from Pastoral Service

Cape May Seashore Community

Cape May NJ

to Pastoral Service on 7/1/2015

Cedar Rapids Oakland

Cedar Rapids IA

Rev. Sean J. Ports from Pastoral Service

Cape May Seashore Community

Cape May NJ

to Pastoral Service on 7/1/2015

Cedar Rapids Oakland

Cedar Rapids IA

Rev. David Jack Rose from Pastoral Service

South Austin

Austin TX

to Pastor on 9/1/2015

Victoria First

Victoria TX

Rev. Galen D. Ryman from Pastoral Service

Hastings Lakeside Community

Hastings NE

to Pastoral Service on 9/6/2015

Crossbridge Community

Ottawa IL

Rev. Camelot B. Shuff from Pastoral Service

Harrisonburg

Harrisonburg VA

to Pastor on 10/11/2015

Newport News

Newport News VA

Rev. Henry B. Siems from Pastor

Stillwater First

Stillwater OK

to Pastor on 10/25/2015

Waterloo

Edmond OK

Rev. Chris S. Sikorowski from Pastoral Service

Montrose

Montrose CA

to Pastor on 8/9/2015

Inver Grove Heights Grace

Inver Grove Heights MN

Rev. David W. Sorensen from Pastor

Royalton First

Royalton IL

to Pastor on 8/23/2015

Glenview

Glen Carbon IL

Rev. Timothy David Sorensen from Pastoral Service

Royalton First

Royalton IL

to Pastor on 7/27/2015

Godfrey

Godfrey IL

Rev. Zachary S. Spoon from Pastoral Service

Reynoldsburg

Reynoldsburg OH

to Pastor on 11/1/2015

One Hope Community

Columbus OH

Rev. Jeremy M Stanley from Student

West Virginia North

Fairmont WV

to Pastoral Service on 9/13/2015

Lower Lights Community

Columbus OH

Rev. Richard L. Stout from Pastoral Service

Winter Haven First

Winter Haven FL

to Pastor on 9/20/2015

Sikeston First

Sikeston MO

Rev. Troy C. Sundermeyer from Student

Kansas City

Overland Park KS

to Pastor on 7/6/2015

Family Community

Winnsboro LA

Rev. Ardyce Ann Miller-Templeman from Pastoral Service

Greeley Celebration Pointe

Greeley CO

to Pastor on 9/27/2015

Karval

Karval CO

Rev. Earl W. Templeman from Unassigned

Colorado

Thornton CO

to Pastoral Service on 9/27/2015

Karval

Karval CO

Rev. Andrew David Vinson from Pastoral Service

Pasadena First

Pasadena CA

to Pastoral Service on 10/11/2015

Nampa College

Nampa ID

Rev. Joshua D. Warren from Pastoral Service

Covenant Fellowship

Mount Juliet TN

to Pastoral Service on 8/9/2015

Harvest Community

Lilburn GA

Rev. David A. Webb from Unassigned

South Central Ohio

Grove City OH

to Pastor on 8/1/2015

Grahn

Grahn KY

Rev. Robert Westfall from Pastoral Service

Bremerton

Bremerton WA

to Pastoral Service on 10/4/2015

Meridian Valley Shepherd

Meridian ID

Rev. Kyle M. White from Unassigned

Oregon Pacific

Salem OR

to Pastoral Service on 7/13/2015

Moscow

Moscow ID

Rev. Valerie L. White from Unassigned

Oregon Pacific

Salem OR

to Pastoral Service on 7/13/2015

Moscow

Moscow ID

Rev. Cory R. Williams from Pastoral Service

Sanford GracePointe

Sanford FL

to Pastoral Service on 9/1/2015

Rock Hill Trinity

Rock Hill SC

Rev. Larry D. Williams from Pastor

Fort Worth Northside

Fort Worth TX

to Pastor on 9/28/2015

Dallas First

DeSoto TX

Rev. Robert M. Willis from Unassigned

Illinois

Alton IL

to Pastor on 8/23/2015

Mount Sterling

Mount Sterling IL

Rev. Jeremiah Wood from Pastor

Chanute Ragamuffin

Chanute KS

to Pastoral Service on 9/14/2015

Junction City First

Junction City KS

Rev. Timothy R. Zollars from Pastor

Powell Twin Springs

Pineville MO

to Pastor on 10/25/2015

Osceola

Osceola MO

Bethany, Oklahoma

SNU receives grant to fund veterans center

Southern Nazarene University announced the receipt of a $330,000 grant award to support student veteran success on campus. The grant will establish a Veterans Educational Transitions Success Center on the SNU Bethany campus, develop a veteran student support team across campus offices, and add a coordinator for the new program.

The VETS Center at SNU will serve as a single point of contact to coordinate veteran student support services on campus for both graduate and undergraduate students. Support services will assist veteran students in transitioning to campus life, including orientations, academic and career counseling, and connecting to community support.

The three-year Centers of Excellence for Veteran Student Success (CEVSS) grant is funded through the U.S. Department of Education’s Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education.

"SNU's longstanding commitment to serving military veterans will receive a welcome boost from the CEVSS grant,” said Loren Gresham, SNU president. “Our ability to serve more vets with enhanced services will result in higher achievement rates and better results after graduation in the workplace."

Out of 13 total grants nationwide, SNU was the only recipient in the state of Oklahoma and will house the only federally funded Center of Excellence for Veteran Student Success in the state. SNU will contribute to the overall funding costs of this program ($39,000 or 9 percent, along with the federally-funded $330,000 or 91 percent).

SNU currently has more than 230 veteran students in traditional, graduate, and professional studies programs for adults. All of SNU’s educational programs are VA-approved. The university is a Post-911 G.I. Bill Yellow Ribbon Program participant and was named a 2015 Military Friendly School® by Victory Media. SNU accepts ACE credit for military training and experience, participates in the VA’s Principles of Excellence Program, and endorses the President’s 8 Keys to Veterans’ Success.

The university offers a course for both traditional students and working adults. The School of Professional Studies offers six bachelor’s and 11 master’s degree programs across areas such as business, network management, organizational leadership, family studies and gerontology, counseling, education, kinesiology, nursing, and theology.[
Southern Nazarene University]
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San Diego, California

PLNU mourns loss of professor emeritus Ron Kirkemo

Ronald Kirkemo, professor emeritus at Point Loma Nazarene University, passed away November 4. He was 71.

Born in Eureka, California, in 1944, Kirkemo, or “Dr. K” as he is remembered by students, graduated from Pasadena College (now Point Loma Nazarene University) in 1965 with a degree in history, and later from American University in Washington D.C. in 1969 with a doctorate in international politics. That same year (1969), Ron returned to Pasadena College as a faculty member for a career that would span more than four decades and impact countless lives.

On campus, throughout San Diego, and in the broader Church of the Nazarene, Kirkemo was known for his commitment to students, academic excellence, and public service. He consistently pushed individual students and the broader university to think higher and be more ambitious about serving God and being engaged in the world through service.

Kirkemo’s influence extended beyond the Department of History and Political Science to the broader university and community. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Wesleyan Center 21 years ago with the chief goal that the center would support and inspire scholarship within the Wesleyan tradition. Similarly, he launched the Institute for Politics and Public Service at PLNU with the intent to nurture and inspire public service in the minds of students and support engagement in the San Diego region, the nation, and the world.

He is the author of several books on foreign policy, including Between the Eagle and the Dove about diplomats caught in difficult choices. He has also written three histories of the university, For Zion’s Sake, Promise and Destiny, and Moving Stories, as well as a daily devotional called Soulcraft.

“His writings on the university’s history shaped our understanding of God’s blessings, grace, and protection over the generations,” said Bob Brower, PLNU president. “A friend to all of us, Dr. K will be deeply missed.”

The memorial service for Kirkemo is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday, November 22 in Brown Chapel at Point Loma Nazarene University, 3900 Lomaland Drive San Diego, California.

In lieu of flowers, friends and family wish to direct donations to the "Dr. Ron Kirkemo Student Scholarship Fund," created to benefit students with an interest in political science at PLNU.

To give online, visit pointloma.edu/giving, select “Other Designation,” and reference “Dr. Ron Kirkemo Student Scholarship Fund” with your contribution. By mail, make checks payable to PLNU and reference “Dr. Ron Kirkemo Student Scholarship Fund” in the memo line. Checks can be mailed to PLNU, Office of University Advancement, 3900 Lomaland Drive, San Diego, California 92106.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family:

c/o: Patti Kirkemo

Office of the President

Point Loma Nazarene University

3900 Lomaland Drive

San Diego, California 92106 United States

Prayers for his wife of 48 years, Patti Kirkemo, their children, and grandchildren are greatly appreciated. [
Point Loma Nazarene University]
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In Memoriam

The following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received November 9-13, 2015.

William "Bill" Bixler, 81, of Katy, Texas, passed away November 3. He was a retired minister, serving in Michigan. He is survived by his wife, Donna Bixler.

Wilbur Courtright, 80, of Westminster, California, passed away October 26. He was a head usher, board member, and greeter for 20 years at Sterling First Church of the Nazarene. He is survived by his wife, Brenda (Scherbinske) Courtright.

Carl Fletcher, 45, of Bourbonnais, Illinois, passed away November 7. He was an assistant professor and director of broadcasting at Olivet Nazarene University. He is survived by his wife, Camille (Smith) Fletcher.

Paul Hetrick, 99, of Alhambra, California, passed away November 8. He was a retired minister and missionary, serving in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Swaziland, Mozambique, and Antigua. He was preceded in death by his wife, retired missionary Mae Hetrick, in 2000. More information will be posted as it is made available.

Patricia "Pat" (Stockett) Johnston, 74, of Temple City, California, passed away November 6. She was a retired missionary, serving in Lebanon, Jordan, and Papua New Guinea. She is survived by her husband, retired minister and missionary Gordon Johnston, who served in California, Lebanon, Jordan, and Papua New Guinea. More information will be posted as it is made available.

Paul Jones, 77, of Dallas, Georgia, passed away November 5. He was a minister, previously serving in Pennsylvania. He is survived by his wife, Susan Jones.

Nancy (Abner) Kidd, 76, of Monroe, Ohio, passed away November 5. She was the wife of retired minister Terry Kidd, who served in Ohio.

Ron Kirkemo, 71, of San Diego, California, passed away November 4. He was a retired educator, teaching at Point Loma Nazarene University. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Kirkemo. (story)

Ruth Martin, 96, of Wayzata, Minnesota, passed away October 28. She was the wife of Alvin Martin, founding president of Canadian Theological Seminary. Alvin Martin passed away in 2003.

Ruth McConnell, 98, of Enumclaw, Washington, passed away November 10. She was the widow of retired minister James McConnell, who served in Washington, North Dakota, Nebraska, and California. James McConnell passed away in 1998.

Doretta Nees, 97, of Kalispell, Montana, passed away November 12. She was the widow of retired minister and educator L. Guy Nees, who served in Montana, Idaho, British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Illinois, California, Ohio, and Kansas and led the Los Angeles District. L. Guy Nees passed away in 2004.

Edwin Nelson, 74, of Marianna, Florida, passed away November 8. He was a retired minister, serving in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Florida. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl Nelson.

John Powell, 71, of Orangeburg, South Carolina, passed away November 6. He was a retired minister, serving in Tennessee, Missouri, South Carolina, Alabama, and Georgia. He is survived by his wife, Sue Powell.

Robert Russum, 77, of Georgetown, Mississippi, passed away November 6. He was a retired minister, serving in Mississippi and Texas. He is survived by his wife, Mary Russum.

Stanley Sabine Jr., 90, of Sabattus, Maine, passed away November 10. He was a retired minister, serving in Maine. He is survived by his wife, Helen Sabine.

Clifford Walton, 88, of Jamestown, New York, passed away November 10. He was a retired minister and educator, serving in Ohio, Michigan, and Massachusetts. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy (Young) Walton.

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 Ministry Center

Neus transition to parachurch organization

After much prayer and careful consideration, Ray and Becki Neu announced they are leaving the Church of the Nazarene's Sunday School and Discipleship Ministries International team to join a parachurch organization. The Neus have served the Church of the Nazarene as global missionaries on specialized assignment contract since June 2013.

“I am profoundly grateful for Ray and Becki’s service to the church and pray that the Lord will anoint their new efforts with continued success and productivity,” said Woodie Stevens, global SDMI director.

Stevens emphasized that Tell THE Story will continue to expand around the world as Nazarenes of all ages prepare to tell Bible stories that transform lives through deep personal engagement with the Word.

“Equipping disciple-makers to make disciples with the living Word using Tell THE Story is enjoying a warm global reception and is gaining considerable momentum in local churches,” Stevens said.

Tell THE Story has been introduced to more than 10,000 people since February 2014. Hundreds of Bible storytellers have been trained, and 36 qualified as trainers. Trainings are now being conducted on each of the denomination’s regions.

SDMI envisions Tell THE Story trainers on each district, field, and region by General Assembly 2017. The highly engaging method is easy to learn and easy to pass on to others.

“Those who have attended the trainings testified to the transforming power of God’s Word and want to share it with others," Stevens said. "With the simple training, people learn how to tell the stories in an attractive way that helps others listen, learn, and want to know more. “

Future trainings will be in Riverside, California, from November 17 to 19, 2015, and in Lake Placid, Florida, from January 12 to 14, 2016.

For additional training and schedule information, visit nazarene.org/tellthestory or contact Woodie Stevens at 913-577-2800.

[SDMI]

Global praise reports and prayer requests

Recent praise reports and prayer requests from NCN News, Nazarene Missions International, and JESUS Film Harvest Partners include:

PRAISES

JESUS Film - Benin

"I did not follow the commandments of God," testified Mindi in Benin. "The JESUS Film saved me from a life without the Lord. I realized Christ can save us if we only give Him our heart. Now, I bury my past to be reborn again as only He can make me. Jesus is perfect!"

JESUS Film - El Salvador

"We were overheard in a beauty salon," shared a team in El Salvador. "The hairdresser asked for a Bible. She surprised us by coming several villages over to a cell meeting with the JESUS Film, and asked us to share at her house. Through this ministry, she and her family have all come to Christ."

JESUS Film - Haiti

"Today I am saying bye to the world in order to walk with Jesus," shared Ervenante in Haiti. "He loves me and gave His life for me. I wish I had accepted Christ earlier in my life. Please pray for me."

PRAYER REQUESTS

Burundi

Violence in Burundi has escalated and continues to displace people. Nazarenes are reaching out to their communities, trying to bring peace and reconciliation. Some church members and pastors have moved to the refugee camps outside Burundi and continue to minister. Missionaries have also relocated to continue working in the other countries of their jurisdiction while anticipating the day they can return to Burundi.

Middle East

Violence continues in the Middle East — including this week in Beruit — destroying lives and livelihoods. Continued prayer is requested for the families of those lost, individuals in harm's way, refugees, and workers trying to bring peace. Related: 5 Prayers for Peace

HEALTH-RELATED REQUESTS

Daughters in car accident

Last month the daughters of a family serving in a Creative Access Area were hit by a car on their way home from school. Today the girls are back to school part time while they receive physical therapy. For the rest of the update, click here.

Nancy Miller

Pray for missionary Nancy Miller, who is anemic, has pulmonary hypertension, and is on oxygen around the clock. Nancy will be seeing specialists for these issues in the USA. The Millers write, “We need strength and the Lord’s guidance during this most difficult time.” George and Nancy Miller have served as Nazarene missionaries since 1989 in Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and most recently the Philippines.

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.