Global Ministry Center
People around the world celebrate Christmas with social and family gatherings, festive decorations, and gift giving. However, many do not know the Christian meaning of the celebration. We have a sacred opportunity as believers in Jesus Christ to share the season’s true meaning. Our heavenly Father gave us the greatest gift ever given – His Son. As John 1:14 reminds us, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
Jesus brought the hope of transformation and His message of love, grace, and forgiveness. Best of all, He gave us relationship with our heavenly Father and eternal life. Scripture proclaims in John 17:3, “Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”
In a world filled with suffering and strife, Jesus came to offer peace, hope, and new beginnings. We pray that every Nazarene will experience and proclaim the true meaning of this Christmas season. “O come, let us adore Him – Christ the Lord!”
Board of General Superintendents
Eugénio R. Duarte
David W. Graves
David A. Busic
Gustavo A. Crocker
Filimão M. Chambo
Carla D. Sunberg
For a printable version of this letter, click here or on the image below.
Global Ministry Center
Thank Offering gifts enable partnership in God’s mission To Nazarenes around the world:
Traveling the globe, we have the opportunity to see first-hand the ways in which the offerings for the World Evangelism Fund make a difference. Every day people are coming to Jesus and being discipled because the global church family is coming together to be engaged in Kingdom work. We want to thank you for your generosity by way of the recent Thank Offering for the World Evangelism Fund. So far, we have received more than US$1,100,000, and these gifts will have a significant impact as they are invested in transformation.
Your partnership in this work is what makes it possible for the church to reach those around the world with the most urgent needs. Thank you for sharing Jesus with children, women, and men who are now living in the full knowledge of Christ. God asks us to partner with Him in this work, and when our resources are combined with God’s, the results are exponentially greater than our original investment. Now that’s exciting!
With hearts filled with gratitude,
The Board of General Superintendents
Flags of the Nations: GermanyThe flag of Germany is a tricolor consisting of three equal horizontal bands displaying the national colors of Germany: black, red, and gold.
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: Germany
The Church of the Nazarene officially entered Germany in 1958.
Germany had a population of 80,722,792 in 2016. That same year, Germany reported 20 Churches of the Nazarene, 18 of which had been officially organized. Germany has 2,199 total members.
Located on the Eurasia Region, Germany is a Phase 3 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.
In MemoriamThe following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received 18-20 December 2017.
Mary (Hill) Bynum-Zweiacher, 94, of Nampa, Idaho, passed away 10 December. She was the widow of retired minister William Bynum, who served in Texas, Wyoming, Washington, Idaho, and Oregon. William Bynum passed away in 1993. She was also preceded in death by her second husband, John Zweiacher.
LaFern (Dyer) Isley, 82, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, passed away 16 December. She was the wife of retired minister Elbert Isley, who served in Oklahoma.
Billy Lakey, 93, of Eldon, Missouri, passed away 18 December. He was a retired minister, serving in Missouri and Kansas. He is survived by his wife, Maxine Lakey.
Kenneth Maynard, 83, of Heath, Ohio, passed away 16 December. He was a retired minister, serving in Ohio and Texas. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Maynard, in November.
Stanley Wilson, 94, of Fowlerville, Michigan, passed away 16 December. He was a retired minister and missionary, serving in Michigan and the Philippines. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Wilson.
For previous editions of In Memoriam, see the "Passings" section by clicking here.
Note: Please join 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
Global Ministry Center
Global Ministry Center holiday scheduleWhile there will be no staff at the Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center Friday, 22 December 2017, through Monday, 1 January 2018, if an emergency need arises for communication of information during the Christmas holidays, please leave a voice mail message at the following number: (913)577-2720. That number will be checked at least once daily. Have a blessed Christmas season and happy new year!
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Human Resources
Human Resources
GMC employment opportunitiesPeople are our most valued resource. Our committed employees are involved in "Making Christlike Disciples in the Nations" in 162 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 jveigl@nazarene.org for details.
Employment Opportunities
Business Analyst (Full-time)
Information Technology
Description: Members of the IT team are primarily responsible for facilitating the ministry of the Global Ministry Center though the analysis, design, implementation, and support of software solutions. The Business Analyst will act as the primary liaison between the General Treasurer’s office, the Information Technology department, and other departments to enhance business processes.
Global Nazarene Communications, Director (Full-time)
Office of the Chief Administrative Officer
Description: This position will lead and coordinate the organization’s overall marketing/branding/advancement communication strategy. It will work collaboratively with senior leadership to develop corporate marketing, branding, advancement and communication strategies to broaden the impact of the Church of the Nazarene’s programs and oversee organizational messaging and constituent services. This position reports to the Chief Administrative Officer.
Security Specialist (Full-time)
Information Technology
Description: Members of the IT department are primarily responsible for facilitating the ministry of the Global Ministry Center through assistance and consultation to technology users. The Security Specialist troubleshoots and assists with network access and security policies and procedures.
Social Media Manager (Full-time)
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries
Description: Under the oversight of the director of development and communications manager, this position is responsible for the execution of social media marketing and communications plans, including developing and executing a comprehensive social media strategy to increase visibility, traffic, engagement, and constituent support. Applicants must have the ability to create excellent content and think strategically about how social media fits within an overall business/ministry marketing strategy.
Video Production Manager (Full-time)
Nazarene Communications
Description: This person is responsible for video acquisition, shooting, editing, and all related responsibilities for productions of varying lengths. Additional responsibilities include knowledge of production-related software and equipment, as well as collaborating on creative projects with the Nazarene Communications team.
To obtain additional information for GMC positions, please call 913-577-0500 and ask for Human Resources.
Nazarene Bible CollegeTo learn more about positions available at the NBC Administrative Offices, visit nbc.edu/jobs. All positions are located within the Global Ministry Center in Lenexa, Kansas.
Location of Global Ministry Center Positions
The GMC is the administrative hub for the Church of the Nazarene denominational ministries in 162 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, 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 humanresourcesgroup@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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---The Global Nazarene Communications Network News in Lenexa Kansas United States "The Church of the Nazarene News: Hope for girls in Ghana" This week in the Church of the Nazarene... Volume 1748 for Friday 15 December 2017
Ghana, Africa
For girls, by girls: Youth-led justice club changes future for hundreds
Sumprecia (left) and Lucy (right) are president and vice president of the Nazarene Girls for Justice Club.
In Sumprecia Yaro’s rural village in northeastern Ghana, educating girls is typically frowned upon.
“Right from childhood, the girls are made to believe that higher education makes it difficult or impossible for a girl to have a husband,” Sumprecia says.
In fact, there are a lot of things girls and women aren’t allowed to do in her village. They are not considered equal to men and, therefore, can’t make important decisions or inherit property. Those who choose to go to school have to scrape together funding on their own. Girls are expected to marry and devote their entire lives to supporting and serving their husband, children, and extended family. Very often, they have no choice in the matter.
“Girls are given out to marriages arranged by parents or as a gift to friends,” Sumprecia explains. “Women are advised to always obey, [and] men are allowed to discipline their wives just like their kids.”
Sumprecia grew up in Yapala, a small farming village. She was one of 17 children, including her siblings and half-siblings from her father’s two wives. When she was old enough for grade 1, she started following her friends to school. Although she was not enrolled, the teachers encouraged her to stay. Eventually, she started doing any kind of farming activities and odd jobs she could find to pay the school fees and enroll officially.
Her mother helped as much as she could, but by the time Sumprecia was qualified for high school, funds had dried up. In her village, it’s common for men to offer to help girls pay for school, but repayment is expected in the form of sexual favors. Exploitation is prevalent, and so is teen pregnancy.
“Only a few brave mothers will try to educate the girl child to the first basic educational level,” Sumprecia says. “Most girls drop out or become pregnant before grade 9.”
Without funding, Sumprecia sat out of school for three years, even though she was qualified for high school. Longing to finish her education, the teenager boldly approached the pastor of the local Nazarene church she attended to ask for help. He directed her to the denomination’s district superintendent, a man who had grown up in a different community and culture and was happy to work with her on ways to finish her education.
Sumprecia’s first-year high school fees were paid by a compassion fund the district had set up, and she also received two pigs to raise. The profits that the pigs and their progeny generated allowed her to finish school without having to turn to men who would exploit her.
Through the church’s support, Sumprecia became the first educated girl in her family. She says that the Nazarene superintendent encouraged her to keep up with her classes and never think of quitting. He even suggested that through her efforts, other girls could be empowered to believe they could succeed.
“For the first time, I felt like I am capable of doing something good, and could do more,” she says.
The Nazarene Girls for Justice Club has helped hundreds of girls gain an education or vocational training and receive emotional and spiritual support.
A dream of justice
Sumprecia’s feeling that she could do more wasn’t just a passing notion. She went on to found the Nazarene Girls for Justice Club as a way to equip and empower other girls.
Sumprecia knew her story wasn’t unique. She also knew that many girls weren’t as fortunate as she was: when they left school, they often didn’t get to go back. She says God began to speak to her about forming a club to support other girls the way she had been supported.
“I had a lot of encouragement to dream of living and doing anything that men could do because I am not a lesser human being,” Sumprecia says. “I always find ways to share this same dream with other girls and to encourage them.”
In 2009, the dream God gave her for the justice club came to fruition. Since then, young women have been coming together to create tangible solutions for the problems they face.
At first, running the club wasn’t smooth. In order to garner the respect and support of the men in the community, leadership of the club was given to a man in the beginning. This generated a lot of tension—how would the young women learn to accomplish things themselves if they weren’t allowed to lead? Still, they didn’t let the awkwardness stop them. Sumprecia, along with 14 other girls who had similar stories, came together to start the first club.
“We freely discussed our issues and found ways to respond with biblical teachings and prayers,” Sumprecia says.
After about a year, the church leadership helped the club transition its structure. Now, the club functions independently under the leadership of young women. Nazarene district leadership continues to provide support in the form of mentoring and leadership training opportunities, as well as finances for larger project proposals. The church leaders also engage with local police when legal justice is needed for specific situations in the lives of the girls, such as sexual assault.
The club hasn’t just continued to function; it has exploded. The original club with 15 members has grown to more than 750 members, plus others who aren’t yet registered officially. The club consists of groups who meet across four zones in 11 different communities. The groups meet on the first Saturday of each month, and the local group leaders also meet together every three months. Once a year, all members are invited to a club-wide gathering at a central location.
While the Nazarene Girls for Justice Club was born out of a local Nazarene church and still bears its name, girls from other denominations and even other faith traditions are also welcome. Any girl who is facing an injustice herself or wants to help others address injustice can join.
One of the most successful activities of the club has been running a piggery to help girls continue their education.
Aiming high
The support the club provides is multi-faceted and seemingly endless. Together, members contribute “love offerings” during their meetings and manage a bank account where funds for their ministry are kept.
They use these funds to address real-life problems girls are experiencing. One of the most successful activities of the club has been running a piggery to help girls continue their education. The members work together to raise pigs. When a girl receives a pig, she is able to sell the piglets to cover school expenses, in the same way Sumprecia did when she continued her high school education. Recently, the piggery was destroyed by a storm, so they are now working to raise the 5,600 Cedi ($1,265 USD) needed to reestablish their herd. This time, they plan to build a sturdier structure.
The club has a farm where peanuts, maize, and rice are grown to earn additional income for club projects. They also buy sewing machines and provide vocational training for girls who want to learn a trade. In addition, they invite women who have found professional success to speak, and they organize specialists to come teach various skills.
Sumprecia notes that this approach is working.
“The club empowers girls and encourages them to aim high in life,” she says. “Many people have seen the fruits of the club. Girls graduate and are now gainfully employed or learn a trade and are now leading in training others.”
Since the club’s inception, more than 450 girls have either completed high school or learned a vocational skill to support themselves. Many have also gone beyond high school, including Sumprecia, who studied medicine and now works as a nurse.
In addition to coming up with practical ways to meet tangible needs and helping girls stay out of exploitative situations, the club also works to address emotional and spiritual concerns. They start by making sure members understand and experience the love of God, and they talk a lot about living in a Christian relationship before marriage and when married.
“We have helped more than 1,700 girls to have a positive view of themselves and to live a biblical, moral right life,” Sumprecia says. “I am proud to say, teenage pregnancy and teenage marriages have reduced significantly from 90 percent to 20 percent in the areas we serve.”
Esther (left) and Lucy (right) work on the club’s maize farm, which helps fund education and training for young women. Doing more
While the clubs still do not see strong support from men in the community, more women are getting involved. Mothers are changing their ideas about the importance of school for girls, and more often than not, now hope their daughters attend, rather than discouraging it.
The girls who are involved in the club are pioneers: no other women have taken on the responsibilities of leadership the way they have. As members graduate, they become community leaders, teachers, wives, mothers, and more. And because of the Nazarene Girls for Justice Club, they will teach their peers and daughters that they can do more, that they can dream more.
Esther first learned about the club when its leaders helped a 13-year-old girl in her community avoid an arranged marriage. When Esther learned about the training, support, and justice work they were doing, she decided to join.
As part of the club, she was able to continue her own education.
“I was thrown out of class because I could not pay my fees,” Esther explains. “The club helped me with two piglets, and now I have been able to take care of my school needs.”
Not only did she finish primary school and high school, but Esther is now studying at a teacher training college.
“I love this club,” she says. (Republished with permission from the Winter 2017 edition of NCM Magazine)
---The Global Nazarene Communications Network News in Lenexa Kansas United States "The Church of the Nazarene News: Hope for girls in Ghana" This week in the Church of the Nazarene... Volume 1748 for Friday 15 December 2017
Sumprecia (left) and Lucy (right) are president and vice president of the Nazarene Girls for Justice Club.
In Sumprecia Yaro’s rural village in northeastern Ghana, educating girls is typically frowned upon.
“Right from childhood, the girls are made to believe that higher education makes it difficult or impossible for a girl to have a husband,” Sumprecia says.
In fact, there are a lot of things girls and women aren’t allowed to do in her village. They are not considered equal to men and, therefore, can’t make important decisions or inherit property. Those who choose to go to school have to scrape together funding on their own. Girls are expected to marry and devote their entire lives to supporting and serving their husband, children, and extended family. Very often, they have no choice in the matter.
“Girls are given out to marriages arranged by parents or as a gift to friends,” Sumprecia explains. “Women are advised to always obey, [and] men are allowed to discipline their wives just like their kids.”
Sumprecia grew up in Yapala, a small farming village. She was one of 17 children, including her siblings and half-siblings from her father’s two wives. When she was old enough for grade 1, she started following her friends to school. Although she was not enrolled, the teachers encouraged her to stay. Eventually, she started doing any kind of farming activities and odd jobs she could find to pay the school fees and enroll officially.
Her mother helped as much as she could, but by the time Sumprecia was qualified for high school, funds had dried up. In her village, it’s common for men to offer to help girls pay for school, but repayment is expected in the form of sexual favors. Exploitation is prevalent, and so is teen pregnancy.
“Only a few brave mothers will try to educate the girl child to the first basic educational level,” Sumprecia says. “Most girls drop out or become pregnant before grade 9.”
Without funding, Sumprecia sat out of school for three years, even though she was qualified for high school. Longing to finish her education, the teenager boldly approached the pastor of the local Nazarene church she attended to ask for help. He directed her to the denomination’s district superintendent, a man who had grown up in a different community and culture and was happy to work with her on ways to finish her education.
Sumprecia’s first-year high school fees were paid by a compassion fund the district had set up, and she also received two pigs to raise. The profits that the pigs and their progeny generated allowed her to finish school without having to turn to men who would exploit her.
Through the church’s support, Sumprecia became the first educated girl in her family. She says that the Nazarene superintendent encouraged her to keep up with her classes and never think of quitting. He even suggested that through her efforts, other girls could be empowered to believe they could succeed.
“For the first time, I felt like I am capable of doing something good, and could do more,” she says.
A dream of justice
Sumprecia’s feeling that she could do more wasn’t just a passing notion. She went on to found the Nazarene Girls for Justice Club as a way to equip and empower other girls.
Sumprecia knew her story wasn’t unique. She also knew that many girls weren’t as fortunate as she was: when they left school, they often didn’t get to go back. She says God began to speak to her about forming a club to support other girls the way she had been supported.
“I had a lot of encouragement to dream of living and doing anything that men could do because I am not a lesser human being,” Sumprecia says. “I always find ways to share this same dream with other girls and to encourage them.”
In 2009, the dream God gave her for the justice club came to fruition. Since then, young women have been coming together to create tangible solutions for the problems they face.
At first, running the club wasn’t smooth. In order to garner the respect and support of the men in the community, leadership of the club was given to a man in the beginning. This generated a lot of tension—how would the young women learn to accomplish things themselves if they weren’t allowed to lead? Still, they didn’t let the awkwardness stop them. Sumprecia, along with 14 other girls who had similar stories, came together to start the first club.
“We freely discussed our issues and found ways to respond with biblical teachings and prayers,” Sumprecia says.
After about a year, the church leadership helped the club transition its structure. Now, the club functions independently under the leadership of young women. Nazarene district leadership continues to provide support in the form of mentoring and leadership training opportunities, as well as finances for larger project proposals. The church leaders also engage with local police when legal justice is needed for specific situations in the lives of the girls, such as sexual assault.
The club hasn’t just continued to function; it has exploded. The original club with 15 members has grown to more than 750 members, plus others who aren’t yet registered officially. The club consists of groups who meet across four zones in 11 different communities. The groups meet on the first Saturday of each month, and the local group leaders also meet together every three months. Once a year, all members are invited to a club-wide gathering at a central location.
While the Nazarene Girls for Justice Club was born out of a local Nazarene church and still bears its name, girls from other denominations and even other faith traditions are also welcome. Any girl who is facing an injustice herself or wants to help others address injustice can join.
Aiming high
The support the club provides is multi-faceted and seemingly endless. Together, members contribute “love offerings” during their meetings and manage a bank account where funds for their ministry are kept.
They use these funds to address real-life problems girls are experiencing. One of the most successful activities of the club has been running a piggery to help girls continue their education. The members work together to raise pigs. When a girl receives a pig, she is able to sell the piglets to cover school expenses, in the same way Sumprecia did when she continued her high school education. Recently, the piggery was destroyed by a storm, so they are now working to raise the 5,600 Cedi ($1,265 USD) needed to reestablish their herd. This time, they plan to build a sturdier structure.
The club has a farm where peanuts, maize, and rice are grown to earn additional income for club projects. They also buy sewing machines and provide vocational training for girls who want to learn a trade. In addition, they invite women who have found professional success to speak, and they organize specialists to come teach various skills.
Sumprecia notes that this approach is working.
“The club empowers girls and encourages them to aim high in life,” she says. “Many people have seen the fruits of the club. Girls graduate and are now gainfully employed or learn a trade and are now leading in training others.”
Since the club’s inception, more than 450 girls have either completed high school or learned a vocational skill to support themselves. Many have also gone beyond high school, including Sumprecia, who studied medicine and now works as a nurse.
In addition to coming up with practical ways to meet tangible needs and helping girls stay out of exploitative situations, the club also works to address emotional and spiritual concerns. They start by making sure members understand and experience the love of God, and they talk a lot about living in a Christian relationship before marriage and when married.
“We have helped more than 1,700 girls to have a positive view of themselves and to live a biblical, moral right life,” Sumprecia says. “I am proud to say, teenage pregnancy and teenage marriages have reduced significantly from 90 percent to 20 percent in the areas we serve.”
While the clubs still do not see strong support from men in the community, more women are getting involved. Mothers are changing their ideas about the importance of school for girls, and more often than not, now hope their daughters attend, rather than discouraging it.
The girls who are involved in the club are pioneers: no other women have taken on the responsibilities of leadership the way they have. As members graduate, they become community leaders, teachers, wives, mothers, and more. And because of the Nazarene Girls for Justice Club, they will teach their peers and daughters that they can do more, that they can dream more.
Esther first learned about the club when its leaders helped a 13-year-old girl in her community avoid an arranged marriage. When Esther learned about the training, support, and justice work they were doing, she decided to join.
As part of the club, she was able to continue her own education.
“I was thrown out of class because I could not pay my fees,” Esther explains. “The club helped me with two piglets, and now I have been able to take care of my school needs.”
Not only did she finish primary school and high school, but Esther is now studying at a teacher training college.
“I love this club,” she says. (Republished with permission from the Winter 2017 edition of NCM Magazine)
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Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal
New event expedites Manual translationTranslators from 11 different language groups gathered in Lisbon, Portugal, 18-24 November for the Church of the Nazarene’s first Manual Translation Summit.The group spent five days discussing additions to the 2017-2021 Manual and establishing a lexicon of terms for each language.
Scott Stargel, head of Global Nazarene Publications, came up with the idea for the event.
“It’s important to have the right vocabulary and consistent terms,” Stargel said.
The committees represented the following languages: Albanian, Arabic, Armenian, Dutch, French, German, Hungarian, Portuguese (Brazil and Portugal), Romanian, Russian, and Vietnamese.
By bringing different language groups together, leaders hope to release translations sooner than in past years.
“The primary push behind this is that districts can start voting [on amendments to the Manual constitution] in January instead of after U.S. assemblies,” Stargel said.
General Secretary David Wilson, who oversees the publication of the Manual, explained how this year’s process was different.
"The Board of General Superintendents declared the electronic version and the printed version as the official Manual," he said. “This enabled us to start the translation process more quickly. Now, the 2017-2021 Manual will be in place for the early, global assemblies.”
Stargel emphasized the importance of the gathering.
“We’ve never had this many language groups together at one time before the English Manual is released,” he said. “Typically we wait until April to begin this process, after the English Manual is printed. This means that the translations are delayed by about a year.”
The translators also appreciated the event.
“Having translated and updated the Manual since the late 80s, the invitation to come to Portugal was a new one,” said Hans Deventer, a member of the Dutch committee. “’Till now, I had mainly worked on my own. Being there, it soon became clear why this event had been organized. Any question a team would have was promptly answered by Dr. David Wilson or by Scott Stargel, which was very beneficial to the process.”
Wilson is pleased with how the summit turned out.
“It was really one of the best things we’ve done, for several reasons,” he said. “We are three to four months ahead of schedule. Having everybody in the room at the same time, the energy, for me to be there to answer their questions, and for them to be able to collaborate together — all of those things were extremely beneficial.”
Because the event was well-received, leaders hope to hold similar gathers on the Asia-Pacific and Africa regions.
“To have 40 participants working on 11 language versions of the Manual at the same time and in the same place reflected what it means to be a truly international denomination,” said Raquel Pereira, Portugal literature coordinator. “Besides the intense work, we had a great time sharing different perspectives and a loving fellowship, only possible through the One who created, redeems, and continually forms us into becoming the beloved children of God.”
For more information on the Manual and to access the 2017-2021 electronic version, visit nazarene.org/manual. (Office of the General Secretary)
RELATED: BGS declares effective date for new Manual
New field strategy coordinator for Africa WestThe Church of the Nazarene's Africa Region released the following announcement about the appointment of a new field strategy coordinator:
We are pleased to announce that as of December 1, 2017, Rev. Moïse Toumoudagou has been appointed to serve as the field strategy coordinator of the Africa West Field. The appointment of Rev. Toumoudagou came from Dr. Verne Ward (Global Mission director) with the approval of Dr. Carla Sunberg (Africa jurisdictional general superintendent) and the recommendation of Rev. Daniel Gomis (Africa regional director). Rev. Toumoudagou previously served as coordinator of the Africa West Field Francophone countries and as district superintendent of the Benin Coastal and Togo North districts.
Rev. Gomis said, "I am convinced that Rev. Toumoudagou's passion for mission, leadership development, church planting, and community discipleship will take West Africa to another level of maturity and growth."
Please pray for Rev. Toumoudagou, his wife Marthe, and daughter Evelyne as they transition into this new leadership role.
Daniel Gomis, who previously served as field strategy coordinator for Africa West, was elected Africa regional director in September. (Church of the Nazarene Africa)
Flags of the Nations: GabonSince 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: Gabon
The Church of the Nazarene officially entered Gabon in 1999.
Gabon had a population of 1,738,541 in 2016. Located on the Africa Region, Gabon 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.
M+Power volunteer continues friendship with refugee familiesOne year after Anderson Sanchez volunteered at a refugee camp where he became close to some of the families, he spent three weeks visiting them in their new northern European homes.
A university student in Manchester, U.K., Anderson gave the summer of 2016 as an M+Power volunteer. He joined other Nazarenes from the Eurasia Region and around the world in a multi-denominational partnership to serve in a Greek refugee camp.
Their roles went beyond sorting and handing out clothing and food. The volunteers sought to build relationships and trust with those they served, and in that context, to demonstrate God’s love for them.
“It was not just a project from the Nazarene church," Sanchez said. "We really care about them and we really want to establish relationships with them, and not just treat them [like] one more project.”
Anderson and other team members became close with some of the families by spending much time together eating and talking. After the summer was over and team members returned home, they maintained regular contact with their new friends.
So, when some of the families were resettled in northern Europe, they invited Anderson to come visit them. In the refugee camp, they had all talked about how they wanted to meet again.
“When I was living in Greece, no one wanted to say goodbye. We had a really good time,” he said. “We were saying, ‘No, I am coming to visit you. We will meet again.’”
Spending three weeks in July and August receiving the hospitality of 12 families was a fulfillment of that promise. The families were thrilled to have Anderson and another volunteer to come and stay with them, and continue their friendship.
The governments in France, the Netherlands and Germany provide housing to refugees who have legally settled there. Anderson’s friends are relieved to be in warmer, dryer shelter with private bathrooms, bedrooms and kitchens – unlike in the camps. Yet, they still face challenges. They need to learn the local language in order to secure visas. The older family members worry they won’t be able to learn a new language.
Many come from cultures of hospitality where community is important and large, extended families live close together. But now they are excluded from surrounding society and neighbors by cultural and language barriers.
“They are always on their own,” they told Anderson. “They miss eating together in big groups. They miss that time in Greece when we used to eat together at night, sharing food. Now … they don’t know too many people.”
Anderson said that their relationships and language haven’t progressed to the point of sharing spiritual and faith conversations, but he hopes someday it will.
“They do appreciate the fact we are Christians, and one family highlighted that they now look at Christians in a better position [than people of their own faith] because of what we are doing with them,” he said.
He said the most special moment of the trip was when he arrived and the family ran toward him, and he ran toward them; he felt he was meeting his “real family.”
“What we built in Greece didn’t change for the time we were separated. It was really good.”
Anderson is now serving as the Eurasia Region’s M+Power coordinator for Northern Europe. A cross-cultural training event is scheduled for Glasgow, Scotland, in January, for people from Northern Europe who are interested in serving as cross-cultural volunteers in Eurasia.
“We hope to keep raising missionaries and volunteers and send them out to do ministry – compassionate ministries – that they go and find their call in the Kingdom, that they see the world is more than what we are seeing now.” (Church of the Nazarene Eurasia)
For more information on how the Church of the Nazarene helps refugees, visit ncm.org.
In MemoriamThe following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received 11-15 December 2017.
Martha (West) Andress, 89, of Gastonia, North Carolina, passed away 7 December. She was the wife of retired minister Robert Andress, who served in West Virginia and North Carolina.
Jacqueline Ingersol Bishop, 89, of Stillwater, Oklahoma, passed away 29 November. She was a pianist and missions president.
M. G. Burnsed Jr., 96, of Orlando, Florida, passed away 13 December. He was a retired minister, serving in Florida. He is survived by his wife, Sara Burnsed.
Arliss (Hethcote) Drabenstot, 94, of Huntington, Indiana, passed away 13 December. She was the widow of retired minister George Drabenstot, who served in Indiana. George Drabenstot passed away in 1997.
Dorothea (Lemon) Muxworthy, 90, of Langley, British Columbia, Canada, passed away 18 October. She was the wife of retired minister Charles Muxworthy, who served in Ontario, Alberta, and California and led the Canada Pacific District.
For previous editions of In Memoriam, see the "Passings" section by clicking here.
Note: Please join 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
Global Ministry Center holiday schedule
While there will be no staff at the Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center Friday, 22 December 2017, through Monday, 1 January 2018, if an emergency need arises for communication of information during the Christmas holidays, please leave a voice mail message at the following number: (913)577-2720. That number will be checked at least once daily. Have a blessed Christmas season and happy new year!
While there will be no staff at the Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center Friday, 22 December 2017, through Monday, 1 January 2018, if an emergency need arises for communication of information during the Christmas holidays, please leave a voice mail message at the following number: (913)577-2720. That number will be checked at least once daily. Have a blessed Christmas season and happy new year!
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Human Resources
Human Resources
GMC employment opportunitiesPeople are our most valued resource. Our committed employees are involved in "Making Christlike Disciples in the Nations" in 162 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 jveigl@nazarene.org for details.
Employment Opportunities
Business Analyst (Full-time)
Information Technology
Description: Members of the IT team are primarily responsible for facilitating the ministry of the Global Ministry Center though the analysis, design, implementation, and support of software solutions. The Business Analyst will act as the primary liaison between the General Treasurer’s office, the Information Technology department, and other departments to enhance business processes.
Global Nazarene Communications, Director (Full-time)
Office of the Chief Administrative Officer
Description: This position will lead and coordinate the organization’s overall marketing/branding/advancement communication strategy. It will work collaboratively with senior leadership to develop corporate marketing, branding, advancement and communication strategies to broaden the impact of the Church of the Nazarene’s programs and oversee organizational messaging and constituent services. This position reports to the Chief Administrative Officer.
Security Specialist (Full-time)
Information Technology
Description: Members of the IT department are primarily responsible for facilitating the ministry of the Global Ministry Center through assistance and consultation to technology users. The Security Specialist troubleshoots and assists with network access and security policies and procedures.
Social Media Manager (Full-time)
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries
Description: Under the oversight of the director of development and communications manager, this position is responsible for the execution of social media marketing and communications plans, including developing and executing a comprehensive social media strategy to increase visibility, traffic, engagement, and constituent support. Applicants must have the ability to create excellent content and think strategically about how social media fits within an overall business/ministry marketing strategy.
Video Production Manager (Full-time)
Nazarene Communications
Description: This person is responsible for video acquisition, shooting, editing, and all related responsibilities for productions of varying lengths. Additional responsibilities include knowledge of production-related software and equipment, as well as collaborating on creative projects with the Nazarene Communications team.
To obtain additional information for GMC positions, please call 913-577-0500 and ask for Human Resources.
Nazarene Bible CollegeTo learn more about positions available at the NBC Administrative Offices, visit nbc.edu/jobs. All positions are located within the Global Ministry Center in Lenexa, Kansas.
Location of Global Ministry Center PositionsThe GMC is the administrative hub for the Church of the Nazarene denominational ministries in 162 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, 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 ProcessingOur 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 humanresourcesgroup@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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ABOUT US
The Global Church of the Nazarene is a Protestant Christian church in the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition. Organized in 1908, the denomination is now home to about 2.5 million members worshipping in more than 29,000 local congregations in 162 world areas.
Address:
The Global Church of the Nazarene
Global Ministry Center
17001 Prairie Star Parkway
Lenexa, Kansas, 66220, United States
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