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"The hearts of the people" by Dr. Erin Meier
When the budget was sharply decreased at Nazarene Hospital in Papua New Guinea, the staff members offered to cut their own salaries in order to keep the hospital open.
"The hearts of the people" by Dr. Erin Meier
For the past few weeks, things at the Nazarene Hospital at Kudjip, Papua New Guinea, have been a bit gloomy. Some of the gloom has been due to the rain, power outages, wet shoes, and darker days, but a lot of the gloom has been because the hospital received confirmation that our budget for the year was going to be 40 percent less than we received from the Papua New Guinea government in 2015.
A 40 percent reduction in our budget isn't something that we can easily make up from other areas. As we have shared ideas for how to continue offering the same medical services as in prior years, every idea has a downside.
We could cut our staff by 40 percent, and then cut our services by 40 percent - but how do we serve the people of Jiwaka who need our help?
We could raise fees enough to make up the difference - but how do we serve the poor, the hurting, the ones our hospital always tries to make allowances for?
We could cut our staff salaries - but how will we retain staff when they can find another job where they would get paid more than we can afford to pay them?
We can decrease our spending - but what do we do when the government runs out of medicines or supplies? Will we choose not to buy life-saving medicine?
After lots of emails, discussions, meetings and prayer, we choose to do a little bit of everything. We increased fees, decreased spending, cut staff by not replacing those who leave, and cut salaries by not raising them to the government level for 2016. We made a plan and have ideas of what steps 4 through 6 would be if we still need to do more as we re-evaluate our budget and finances each month to make sure we are not overspending.
We held a staff meeting on Wednesday, to let them know what we were doing, to share our plan with them and to get any ideas they had on what else we could be doing. After our administration team spoke, our local staff members stood up, one by one. They started talking about how they are here as missionaries, how they have left their homes and so this is their home now. They explained how they want to stay here and to serve the people of Jiwaka. They want to help keep our doors open.
One by one, before they sat down, they said they wanted to give up part of their salary to help the hospital keep going.
As I heard staff after staff stand and say this, from nurses to maintenance men, from cleaners to clerks, I just started crying.
When I left the U.S. over eight years ago, I didn't know anything about Papua New Guinea, about Kudjip, about the staff at the hospital. I just knew God had called me here and so I came. I have learned a lot in these past eight years about missionary medicine, about the Highlands culture, and about the people of Papua New Guinea. But I wasn't expecting this response from our staff.
Our staff come from all over the country. We have many staff who are from nearby villages, but many come from outside our catchment area. Many of our staff leave their homes and families, just like I did, and travel to Kudjip to work, because they too have felt God calling them to serve.
In 2015, the hospital decided to send all the staff on a spiritual retreat. All the staff were able to attend one of the four retreats that were held throughout the year. Some of the areas/topics at the retreats were individual growth in their relationship with Christ, marriage strengthening, stewardship, etc. The staff all loved the retreats and learned a lot from them. Some gave their lives to Christ or rededicated their lives to Christ as a result of the retreat. From this, the local church held a baptism where many staff and students were baptized.
Our staff aren't just here to collect a paycheck and support their family. Many of them are here as missionaries, and want to help make Jesus known to the people who come for medical care. Many of our staff have had their own lives or their families lives transformed while they have been at Kudjip, and share that love and passion of Christ with our patients. Our staff are here for the people of PNG and their love and heart to serve God and the people was shown beautifully in our staff meeting.
Their willingness to sacrifice, to give up part of their income, to give up some of their luxuries for a period of time, to allow the hospital to keep going, was an encouragement to my heart. As the tears fell, the gloominess started to fade and hope made an appearance -- hope that no matter what happens with our continued pleas to the government for more money, that our doors will remain open, our staff will stay to serve, our patients will be able to continue seeing and hearing about Jesus, and that hearts will continue to be changed, mine included, because of Nazarene Hospital and those I am privileged to serve with.
Our staff come from all over the country. We have many staff who are from nearby villages, but many come from outside our catchment area. Many of our staff leave their homes and families, just like I did, and travel to Kudjip to work, because they too have felt God calling them to serve.
In 2015, the hospital decided to send all the staff on a spiritual retreat. All the staff were able to attend one of the four retreats that were held throughout the year. Some of the areas/topics at the retreats were individual growth in their relationship with Christ, marriage strengthening, stewardship, etc. The staff all loved the retreats and learned a lot from them. Some gave their lives to Christ or rededicated their lives to Christ as a result of the retreat. From this, the local church held a baptism where many staff and students were baptized.
Our staff aren't just here to collect a paycheck and support their family. Many of them are here as missionaries, and want to help make Jesus known to the people who come for medical care. Many of our staff have had their own lives or their families lives transformed while they have been at Kudjip, and share that love and passion of Christ with our patients. Our staff are here for the people of PNG and their love and heart to serve God and the people was shown beautifully in our staff meeting.
Their willingness to sacrifice, to give up part of their income, to give up some of their luxuries for a period of time, to allow the hospital to keep going, was an encouragement to my heart. As the tears fell, the gloominess started to fade and hope made an appearance -- hope that no matter what happens with our continued pleas to the government for more money, that our doors will remain open, our staff will stay to serve, our patients will be able to continue seeing and hearing about Jesus, and that hearts will continue to be changed, mine included, because of Nazarene Hospital and those I am privileged to serve with.
About Nazarene Hospital
Nazarene Hospital, in the highlands of Papua New Guinea, has 136 beds and admits 5,000 people per year. In total, the hospital touches an average of 50,000 people per year who seek free or inexpensive health care. The hospital is served by more than 230 staff people.
Every year 600 to 800 people give their lives to Christ at the hospital, new churches are started, miracles happen, people grow in their faith, patients find comfort and some face death with new hope, and the good news of abundant life in Christ is lived and proclaimed.
On the Web
Hospital: http://www.nazpng.org/
To give, visit http://nazpng.org/hospital/donation/
Join the Kudjip Nazarene Hospital group on Facebook.[Dr. Erin Meier is a missionary doctor at Kudjip Nazarene Hospital in Papua New Guinea. Article reprinted with permission from her ministry blog.]
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"It's not about missions" by Priscilla Radcliffe
In Papua New Guinea, a local church's mission service features a visit by the missionaries they sent to Vanuatu, Peter and Jenny Isaac. Jenny reflected how Revelation reveals the purpose of mission: so that all people will worship God.
"It's not about missions" by Priscilla Radcliffe
Nazarene Hospital, in the highlands of Papua New Guinea, has 136 beds and admits 5,000 people per year. In total, the hospital touches an average of 50,000 people per year who seek free or inexpensive health care. The hospital is served by more than 230 staff people.
Every year 600 to 800 people give their lives to Christ at the hospital, new churches are started, miracles happen, people grow in their faith, patients find comfort and some face death with new hope, and the good news of abundant life in Christ is lived and proclaimed.
On the Web
Hospital: http://www.nazpng.org/
To give, visit http://nazpng.org/hospital/donation/
Join the Kudjip Nazarene Hospital group on Facebook.[Dr. Erin Meier is a missionary doctor at Kudjip Nazarene Hospital in Papua New Guinea. Article reprinted with permission from her ministry blog.]
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"It's not about missions" by Priscilla Radcliffe
In Papua New Guinea, a local church's mission service features a visit by the missionaries they sent to Vanuatu, Peter and Jenny Isaac. Jenny reflected how Revelation reveals the purpose of mission: so that all people will worship God.
"It's not about missions" by Priscilla Radcliffe
A recent church service was slightly ironic and very meaningful on multiple levels. Immanuel Church of the Nazarene’s held a Nazarene Missions International (NMI) service for the Papua New Guinean missionaries to the island nation of Vanuatu – the Isaac family. Peter, Jenny, Bennett, Enrich and Junior Isaac left Papua New Guinea (PNG) for Vanuatu 10 years ago to work at discipling and training the church there.
Pressed together in the crowded church building this morning were several spheres that don’t coincide everyday. There were American missionaries, sent and supported by the Nazarene church in America; a Work & Witness team of pastors and leaders sent by the home district of a missionary family serving here in Papua New Guinea -- Scott and Gail Dooley; and the Papua New Guinean church’s NMI and missionaries.
I listened amidst this crowd of people who, although we are usually separated by great distances of space and culture, share the same heart and goal. The PNG NMI called on their church family to be a new generation of missionaries sent out from PNG to carry Christ’s heart to people waiting to know him.
This convergence of things that usually happen in separate orbits was unexpectedly beautiful. Seeing all these people together was like a rare glimpse of the bigger picture for which they exist—uniting all peoples in worshiping our shared Father.
The youth of Immanuel Church were maybe the most visible part of the service: our NMI director said she wanted them to lead the service because missions was their responsibility—they were the ones who owned the vision for the future. Tambourine girls ushered in the missionaries, after which a surprising majority of the church’s youth performed a drama about a Sunday School teacher who taught and led kids to Christ, gave much of her money to missions, and finally arrived in heaven to be greeted by a multitude of people who were affected by her choices to give. Then the youth sang a new song I had never heard before that begged, “Give us the nations, God. It’s the cry of our heart.” They were a beautiful vision of young, growing believers who are putting themselves in a place where God can use them to build His church.
Pressed together in the crowded church building this morning were several spheres that don’t coincide everyday. There were American missionaries, sent and supported by the Nazarene church in America; a Work & Witness team of pastors and leaders sent by the home district of a missionary family serving here in Papua New Guinea -- Scott and Gail Dooley; and the Papua New Guinean church’s NMI and missionaries.
I listened amidst this crowd of people who, although we are usually separated by great distances of space and culture, share the same heart and goal. The PNG NMI called on their church family to be a new generation of missionaries sent out from PNG to carry Christ’s heart to people waiting to know him.
This convergence of things that usually happen in separate orbits was unexpectedly beautiful. Seeing all these people together was like a rare glimpse of the bigger picture for which they exist—uniting all peoples in worshiping our shared Father.
The youth of Immanuel Church were maybe the most visible part of the service: our NMI director said she wanted them to lead the service because missions was their responsibility—they were the ones who owned the vision for the future. Tambourine girls ushered in the missionaries, after which a surprising majority of the church’s youth performed a drama about a Sunday School teacher who taught and led kids to Christ, gave much of her money to missions, and finally arrived in heaven to be greeted by a multitude of people who were affected by her choices to give. Then the youth sang a new song I had never heard before that begged, “Give us the nations, God. It’s the cry of our heart.” They were a beautiful vision of young, growing believers who are putting themselves in a place where God can use them to build His church.
Peter and Jenny Isaac shared what following God far from their familiar place has been like for them—how sometimes they think they want to come home. How sometimes the work of guarding and growing the Christians there in the face of animism, materialism, and other real demonic forces keeps them working around the clock, 24 hours. Nevertheless, Jenny says that God is with them and gives them all they need to carry on—He tells them His work isn’t done and they never walk alone.
I am in wonder, seeing that God is the same. He whispers the same truths over and over, for my parents, for the Isaacs, for me—for all who give their lives for the joy set before them: the hope of all people made alive in the love of Him who loved us first.
In the afternoon, we had an English service in the chapel during which Sheena, our dentist and a recent addition to the PNG mission family, shared her testimony. After coming to Christ as a teenager, she began a journey of discovering her passions and purpose in Christ. Though the way before her wasn’t always clear, there were things that laid the path before her. One of her favorite passages is Revelation 7:9-10:
“I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice,
‘Salvation belongs to our God,
who sits on the throne,
and to the Lamb’” (NIV).
I am in wonder, seeing that God is the same. He whispers the same truths over and over, for my parents, for the Isaacs, for me—for all who give their lives for the joy set before them: the hope of all people made alive in the love of Him who loved us first.
In the afternoon, we had an English service in the chapel during which Sheena, our dentist and a recent addition to the PNG mission family, shared her testimony. After coming to Christ as a teenager, she began a journey of discovering her passions and purpose in Christ. Though the way before her wasn’t always clear, there were things that laid the path before her. One of her favorite passages is Revelation 7:9-10:
“I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice,
‘Salvation belongs to our God,
who sits on the throne,
and to the Lamb’” (NIV).
She said she realized this verse wasn’t about missions, it was about worship.
An influential book for her was one by John Piper that said, “Missions exists because worship doesn’t….It is a temporary necessity. But worship abides forever."*
There was a lot of talk about missions today, about how it’s the heart-beat of God. However, today I was reveling in the beauty of what is made possible because of missions: worshiping with people from very different worlds who are brought together in His love.
This verse sums it up better than I can:
2 Corinthians 4:15 “All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God. 16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (NIV). [Priscilla Radcliffe, the daughter of Nazarene missionaries Dr. Jim and Kathy Radcliffe, grew up in Papua New Guinea where her family has served since 1985. She recently returned as a volunteer, teaching at the school for missionary kids in Kudjip.]
*(John Piper, Let the Nations be Glad! (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Academic, 1946. Reprint, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1993), 17.)
An influential book for her was one by John Piper that said, “Missions exists because worship doesn’t….It is a temporary necessity. But worship abides forever."*
There was a lot of talk about missions today, about how it’s the heart-beat of God. However, today I was reveling in the beauty of what is made possible because of missions: worshiping with people from very different worlds who are brought together in His love.
This verse sums it up better than I can:
2 Corinthians 4:15 “All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God. 16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (NIV). [Priscilla Radcliffe, the daughter of Nazarene missionaries Dr. Jim and Kathy Radcliffe, grew up in Papua New Guinea where her family has served since 1985. She recently returned as a volunteer, teaching at the school for missionary kids in Kudjip.]
*(John Piper, Let the Nations be Glad! (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Academic, 1946. Reprint, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1993), 17.)
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"Video: Creative ministry in Central Europe" by Eurasia Region Communications
In the Central Europe Field, with its vastly different cultures and economies, the Churches of the Nazarene are developing creative ways to meet the needs of people in their communities.
"Video: Creative ministry in Central Europe" by Eurasia Region Communications
In the Central Europe Field, with its vastly different cultures and economies, the Churches of the Nazarene are developing creative ways to meet the needs of people in their communities, from coffee shops and small business start-up help to anti-trafficking work and an aquaponics garden.
To download this 5 minute video, or watch other video stories, visit the Eurasia Region's video page:https://vimeo.com/146630648
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"Brought together across the continents" by Carol Anne Eby
Some people say the Internet is not a good platform for real relationships. But Ánderson, from Colombia, and Janary, from the Philippines, might argue that point -- that's where they met and formed a deep friendship. Today, they are missionaries in Japan.
"Brought together across the continents" by Carol Anne Eby
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"Video: Creative ministry in Central Europe" by Eurasia Region Communications
In the Central Europe Field, with its vastly different cultures and economies, the Churches of the Nazarene are developing creative ways to meet the needs of people in their communities.
"Video: Creative ministry in Central Europe" by Eurasia Region Communications
To download this 5 minute video, or watch other video stories, visit the Eurasia Region's video page:https://vimeo.com/146630648
"Brought together across the continents" by Carol Anne Eby
Some people say the Internet is not a good platform for real relationships. But Ánderson, from Colombia, and Janary, from the Philippines, might argue that point -- that's where they met and formed a deep friendship. Today, they are missionaries in Japan.
"Brought together across the continents" by Carol Anne Eby
Some people say the Internet is not a good platform for real relationships. But Ánderson and Janary Godoy might argue that point -- that’s where they met and formed a deep friendship. But way before that, God began preparing this Filipino, Tagalog-speaking girl and Spanish-speaking, Colombian boy for the marriage and ministry He would eventually lead them to. Today, they are serving as missionaries in Japan.
Christianity was nothing new to Janary, also known as Jana. “You can call me a third generation Nazarene since my grandparents became Christians through the missionaries of the Church of the Nazarene in the Philippines,” she explained.
But being church members was not enough for Janary’s family. Jana was in high school when God called her engineer father into the pastorate. He then served as a professor at the Luzon Nazarene Bible College, but now pastors a church in Bremerton, Washington, U.S.
Christianity was nothing new to Janary, also known as Jana. “You can call me a third generation Nazarene since my grandparents became Christians through the missionaries of the Church of the Nazarene in the Philippines,” she explained.
But being church members was not enough for Janary’s family. Jana was in high school when God called her engineer father into the pastorate. He then served as a professor at the Luzon Nazarene Bible College, but now pastors a church in Bremerton, Washington, U.S.
In stark contrast, Ánderson, from Bogota, Colombia, was born into a non-traditional, non-Christian family that included four children who had three different mothers. Ánderson recalls that the family life was stressful while he was growing up.
“My mother used to work 10 hours a day to get money to buy food for my sister and me.”
He often suffered from depression as a child and teen, turning to violence and thoughts of suicide. He felt empty and alone.
“My mother used to work 10 hours a day to get money to buy food for my sister and me.”
He often suffered from depression as a child and teen, turning to violence and thoughts of suicide. He felt empty and alone.
____________________
As a pastor’s kid, naturally Janary was very involved in the church as a youth leader and children’s worker. In her teen years, she sensed the Lord calling her to be a pastor. However, she saw how difficult it was for a family to live on a pastor’s salary. So she became interested in seeking a ministry role that would provide more income. She was very interested in performing arts, so after high school, instead of going to Bible school to study theology, she enrolled in the University of the Philippines to study theater arts, hoping to use that for ministry.
However, during her first year of study she felt overwhelming guilt for disobeying God’s call to the pastorate. She left the university to study at Faith Bible College.
_____________________
As a pastor’s kid, naturally Janary was very involved in the church as a youth leader and children’s worker. In her teen years, she sensed the Lord calling her to be a pastor. However, she saw how difficult it was for a family to live on a pastor’s salary. So she became interested in seeking a ministry role that would provide more income. She was very interested in performing arts, so after high school, instead of going to Bible school to study theology, she enrolled in the University of the Philippines to study theater arts, hoping to use that for ministry.
However, during her first year of study she felt overwhelming guilt for disobeying God’s call to the pastorate. She left the university to study at Faith Bible College.
_____________________
Despite his difficult family situation, Ánderson excelled in his studies and was considered by many colleges for a scholarship.
“I took the admissions exam to a prestigious college, the National College of Colombia. Although I was only 16 years old, I entered the college and began to study pure chemistry,” Ánderson recalled.
His increasing knowledge, however, did not fill a void in his heart and, thanks to the invitation of a high school friend, he began attending a Church of the Nazarene.
On December 14, 2004, he committed his life to Christ and immersed himself in studying the Bible. He told Engage magazine in 2009, “God’s Word was so real for me, like the air that I breathe and the blood that runs through my veins.”
In August 2005, Ánderson accepted the opportunity to study at South America Nazarene Theological Seminary. He began preparing for the ministry, although he didn’t know the exact shape of his calling.
Gradually Ánderson sensed a call to missions. Since childhood he’d felt a keen interest in Japan, and when he discovered that fewer than 1 percent of Japan’s population was Christian, he yearned to change those statistics. He graduated and returned to his church to work with teenagers, teach, lead Bible studies, and participate in evangelism and missions. During this time Ánderson also experienced the joy of seeing his family respond to the gospel: His mother and sister became Christians, and his father began visiting the church occasionally.
______________________
“I took the admissions exam to a prestigious college, the National College of Colombia. Although I was only 16 years old, I entered the college and began to study pure chemistry,” Ánderson recalled.
His increasing knowledge, however, did not fill a void in his heart and, thanks to the invitation of a high school friend, he began attending a Church of the Nazarene.
On December 14, 2004, he committed his life to Christ and immersed himself in studying the Bible. He told Engage magazine in 2009, “God’s Word was so real for me, like the air that I breathe and the blood that runs through my veins.”
In August 2005, Ánderson accepted the opportunity to study at South America Nazarene Theological Seminary. He began preparing for the ministry, although he didn’t know the exact shape of his calling.
Gradually Ánderson sensed a call to missions. Since childhood he’d felt a keen interest in Japan, and when he discovered that fewer than 1 percent of Japan’s population was Christian, he yearned to change those statistics. He graduated and returned to his church to work with teenagers, teach, lead Bible studies, and participate in evangelism and missions. During this time Ánderson also experienced the joy of seeing his family respond to the gospel: His mother and sister became Christians, and his father began visiting the church occasionally.
______________________
Back in the Philippines, in 2007 Janary’s dad left the pastorate to become a professor at Luzon Nazarene Bible College, and the church elected Janary to be their new pastor. She enrolled at Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary (APNTS) in Manila to seek more training.
This was Janary’s first exposure to different cultures, since the seminary hosts so many international students—she quickly noted the differences in students’ food, worldviews, and practices. In 2010, the seminary held a mission week. Janary prayed about serving in another country, even though she had never imagined herself doing anything besides pastoring a Philippine church.
In 2012, Janary joined 12:7 Serve, a youth leadership initiative sponsored by the Mesoamerica Region and Global Nazarene Youth International (NYI). This program was designed for 12 young people from nine different countries to serve seven different ministry sites over six months.
This was Janary’s first exposure to different cultures, since the seminary hosts so many international students—she quickly noted the differences in students’ food, worldviews, and practices. In 2010, the seminary held a mission week. Janary prayed about serving in another country, even though she had never imagined herself doing anything besides pastoring a Philippine church.
In 2012, Janary joined 12:7 Serve, a youth leadership initiative sponsored by the Mesoamerica Region and Global Nazarene Youth International (NYI). This program was designed for 12 young people from nine different countries to serve seven different ministry sites over six months.
“It was a crazy time of being stretched,” Janary said. “We were trying to adjust in a new environment since we moved sites every three weeks, and some districts every three days, while we were also adjusting with each other. We took turns preparing food and had to work as one despite our differences.”
The last site the team visited was Panama, where the Mesoamerica Region was holding a Nazarene Youth Conference. At the end of one service, an altar call was given for young people who wanted to be missionaries.
“After all my experiences with 12:7 Serve, the burden God laid on my heart to go into missions was so great, and I went forward to surrender myself, praying, ‘Here I am, send me.’ Peace filled my heart. My affirmation came of my call to the mission field.”
_________________________
The next step in Ánderson’s journey was when a professor suggested that if he wanted to be a missionary in Japan, perhaps he should transfer to APNTS since it was in an Asian setting. So in 2010, as his first step, Ánderson began to reach out to APNTS students. One of his contacts was a friend of Jana’s—she encouraged Ánderson to become “friends” with Jana on Facebook.
Their friendly conversations turned into attraction. After enjoying a long-distance relationship for 15 months, the two young people met for the first time in 2011 when Ánderson arrived at APNTS.
In November of 2013, they were married at the seminary. “Jana has been a great complement for my life because we have very different personalities, but we both are called by God and want to do our best for Him,” Ánderson said.
________________________
In July 2014, Brian and Julie Woolery, missionaries in Okinawa, told the Godoys about a chaplaincy need in their son’s school, and God opened doors for them to go to Okinawa Christian School International.
The last site the team visited was Panama, where the Mesoamerica Region was holding a Nazarene Youth Conference. At the end of one service, an altar call was given for young people who wanted to be missionaries.
“After all my experiences with 12:7 Serve, the burden God laid on my heart to go into missions was so great, and I went forward to surrender myself, praying, ‘Here I am, send me.’ Peace filled my heart. My affirmation came of my call to the mission field.”
_________________________
The next step in Ánderson’s journey was when a professor suggested that if he wanted to be a missionary in Japan, perhaps he should transfer to APNTS since it was in an Asian setting. So in 2010, as his first step, Ánderson began to reach out to APNTS students. One of his contacts was a friend of Jana’s—she encouraged Ánderson to become “friends” with Jana on Facebook.
Their friendly conversations turned into attraction. After enjoying a long-distance relationship for 15 months, the two young people met for the first time in 2011 when Ánderson arrived at APNTS.
In November of 2013, they were married at the seminary. “Jana has been a great complement for my life because we have very different personalities, but we both are called by God and want to do our best for Him,” Ánderson said.
________________________
In July 2014, Brian and Julie Woolery, missionaries in Okinawa, told the Godoys about a chaplaincy need in their son’s school, and God opened doors for them to go to Okinawa Christian School International.
Though he never dreamed of becoming a teacher, Ánderson now teaches high school science and Bible classes. Jana serves as elementary chaplain and a high school Bible teacher. About 80 percent of the students in this Christian school come from non-Christian backgrounds, so it’s truly a mission field.
“Many of my students don’t have a relationship with Jesus and some never read the Bible until they came to my class,” Jana said. “Whenever I read their journal entries on our weekly lessons, I know God is working in their hearts—and that is exciting to see their growth from unbelief to belief.”
Ánderson and Jana have also worked in several churches. In 2015 they joined with an Urasoe Church of the Nazarene mission trip to serve the Yorokobi Church of the Nazarene in Hokkaido, Japan. Ánderson and Jana helped with the church’s summer school, an English program for elementary students. The church also held an international party where people of different nationalities met, shared food, and practiced their English. This led to relationships being built and the gospel eventually being shared. The church is growing as it captures the interest of the community and attracts young people.
“Many of my students don’t have a relationship with Jesus and some never read the Bible until they came to my class,” Jana said. “Whenever I read their journal entries on our weekly lessons, I know God is working in their hearts—and that is exciting to see their growth from unbelief to belief.”
Ánderson and Jana have also worked in several churches. In 2015 they joined with an Urasoe Church of the Nazarene mission trip to serve the Yorokobi Church of the Nazarene in Hokkaido, Japan. Ánderson and Jana helped with the church’s summer school, an English program for elementary students. The church also held an international party where people of different nationalities met, shared food, and practiced their English. This led to relationships being built and the gospel eventually being shared. The church is growing as it captures the interest of the community and attracts young people.
Currently the couple attend the Urasoe church in Okinawa where they continue to study the language and culture. Ánderson was ordained in the Japan District in 2015. They have also ministered in the Woolerys' congregation, Keystone Church of the Nazarene.
Japan is one of the Nazarene denomination’s oldest mission fields. The country has deep roots in Buddhism and Shintoism, but Ánderson and Jana feel that Japan is not closed to the gospel. Instead, the country is becoming more open to spiritual influence, especially in regards to helping the emerging young leaders. This couple has found the best way to share the gospel is to assist the Japanese Christians who have invested many years in mission labor.
Can different cultures really meld together successfully? Ánderson and Janary Godoy assert that with God, they can. After all, their ministry, and even their marriage, are beautiful examples of how God can partner differences to build His kingdom.
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"Iglesias de Vanuatu asisten a comunidades ante la hambruna" by David and Sylvia Potter
Los habitantes de Vanuatu, en el Pacífico sur, reciben a menudo asistencia durante tiempos de desastre. Mientras que su país se enfrenta a una sequía, los nazarenos locales llevaron agua y alimentos a las personas necesitadas.
"Iglesias de Vanuatu asisten a comunidades ante la hambruna" by David and Sylvia Potter
Japan is one of the Nazarene denomination’s oldest mission fields. The country has deep roots in Buddhism and Shintoism, but Ánderson and Jana feel that Japan is not closed to the gospel. Instead, the country is becoming more open to spiritual influence, especially in regards to helping the emerging young leaders. This couple has found the best way to share the gospel is to assist the Japanese Christians who have invested many years in mission labor.
Can different cultures really meld together successfully? Ánderson and Janary Godoy assert that with God, they can. After all, their ministry, and even their marriage, are beautiful examples of how God can partner differences to build His kingdom.
Read More
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"Iglesias de Vanuatu asisten a comunidades ante la hambruna" by David and Sylvia Potter
Los habitantes de Vanuatu, en el Pacífico sur, reciben a menudo asistencia durante tiempos de desastre. Mientras que su país se enfrenta a una sequía, los nazarenos locales llevaron agua y alimentos a las personas necesitadas.
"Iglesias de Vanuatu asisten a comunidades ante la hambruna" by David and Sylvia Potter
En tiempos recientes se nos ha puesto en el corazón una canción basada en Salmos 103:8: “El Señor es clemente y compasivo, lento para la ira y grande en amor.” Mateo 9:36 dice que cuando Jesús vio las multitudes, Él tuvo compasión por ellos. Una de las maneras en que nos hacemos semejantes a Cristo es en Su compasión hacia los demás—al ver a los demás como Jesús lo hace.
La pequeña nación isleña de Vanuatu ha recibido durante muchos años la ayuda de otros países, especialmente durante tiempos de desastre. Con el correr del tiempo, esto puede generar una actitud de impotencia y dependencia. También puede hacer que algunas personas piensen que el tener compasión es responsabilidad de otros. Dios está ayudando a nuestros líderes locales y distritales a comenzar a mirar a través de los ojos de la compasión. Ellos están comenzando a ver las necesidades a su alrededor y a pensar en qué pueden hacer para ayudar.
Desde el otoño pasado, el fenómeno periódico conocido como El Niño ha traído pesadas lluvias sobre algunas partes del mundo, pero también ha causado sequía y hambruna en otras. Esto ha sido particularmente devastador para las áreas en las que se acostumbra contar con lluvias frecuentes.
Entre estas zonas que fueron gravemente afectadas se encuentran Papúa Nueva Guinea y otras naciones isleñas como Vanuatu, un grupo de 85 islas pequeñas.Según OCHA (la Oficina de Coordinación de Asuntos Humanos), 4,7 millones de personas han sido afectadas por la sequía en 11 países del Pacífico y se espera que 40 por ciento de las comunidades en Vanuatu se queden sin agua potable.
En respuesta a la reciente sequía y hambruna, el recientemente creado equipo delMinisterio Nazareno de Compasión--Vanuatu (MNC) se reunió para hablar acerca de cómo la Iglesia del Nazareno de nuestras comunidades puede asistir a otras personas. Ellos decidieron que les gustaría ayudar a sus comunidades en dos maneras. En primer lugar, las iglesias locales de la isla de Port Vila querían proveer agua potable a sus comunidades al construir tanques de agua en sus edificios (foto arriba). En segundo lugar, ellos decidieron que ya que la hambruna era más severa en la isla de Tanna, se distribuirían bolsas de arroz y harina en algunas aldeas donde tenían contactos.
En diciembre, dos tanques de agua fueron construidos en las iglesias de Black Sand (Arenas Negras) y Prima con el apoyo de fondos provistos por el MNC. Ninguna de estas aldeas contaban con una fuente de agua potable. En febrero, las iglesias terminarán la instalación de los tanques al colocar canaletas de desagüe en los techos de las iglesias.
Una semana antes de Navidad, un equipo de seis pastores y líderes de iglesia tomaron un bote con rumbo a Tanna y distribuyeron arroz y harina entre las aldeas, así como baldes con filtros de agua que pueden recibir aguas impuras y reducir impurezas en un 99 por ciento, haciéndolas aptas para consumo. La Palabra de Dios fue predicada en todas las áreas de la isla donde el equipo viajó. Ellos reportaron que la gente se mostraba más hambrienta por la Palabra de Dios que por cualquier otra cosa. Dos hombres jóvenes en una aldea del suroeste de Tanna se comprometieron a dar inicio a una nueva iglesia, y el pastor John, de la iglesia de Arenas Negras se mantiene en contacto con ellos para brindarles apoyo y mentoría.
Revistiendo con cemento el exterior del tanque de agua.
Un tanque de agua terminado.
Equipo de MNC en Tanna.
Baldes con filtro de agua.
Orando por los enfermos.
Compartiendo arroz y harina.[David y Sylvia Potter son misioneros pioneros de la Iglesia del Nazareno en la nación isleña de Vanuatu, en el Pacífico sur. Ellos fueron primeramente asignados como misioneros médicos en la Escuela de Enfermería Nazarena de Kudjip, Papúa Nueva Guinea, en 1992 y allí sirvieron hasta que aceptaron el llamado para dar inicio a la tarea de la Iglesia del Nazareno en Vanuatu, en setiembre de 2003. Impreso con el permiso de su carta de noticias.]
Traducido por Ed Brussa.
Leer más
---------------------
Engage Magazine - The Global Mission Magazine of The Global Church of the Nazarene's Nazarene Mission International of Lenexa, Kansasm United States - Issue No. 107 for Wednesday, 11 February 2016
RECENT ARTICLES:
"Reflecting Christ: Strategic team builder" by Howard Culbertson
Not long after Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River, He called 12 men as His "disciples." Choosing them was an intentional, strategic move on Jesus' part.
"Reflecting Christ: Strategic team builder" by Howard Culbertson
La pequeña nación isleña de Vanuatu ha recibido durante muchos años la ayuda de otros países, especialmente durante tiempos de desastre. Con el correr del tiempo, esto puede generar una actitud de impotencia y dependencia. También puede hacer que algunas personas piensen que el tener compasión es responsabilidad de otros. Dios está ayudando a nuestros líderes locales y distritales a comenzar a mirar a través de los ojos de la compasión. Ellos están comenzando a ver las necesidades a su alrededor y a pensar en qué pueden hacer para ayudar.
Desde el otoño pasado, el fenómeno periódico conocido como El Niño ha traído pesadas lluvias sobre algunas partes del mundo, pero también ha causado sequía y hambruna en otras. Esto ha sido particularmente devastador para las áreas en las que se acostumbra contar con lluvias frecuentes.
Entre estas zonas que fueron gravemente afectadas se encuentran Papúa Nueva Guinea y otras naciones isleñas como Vanuatu, un grupo de 85 islas pequeñas.Según OCHA (la Oficina de Coordinación de Asuntos Humanos), 4,7 millones de personas han sido afectadas por la sequía en 11 países del Pacífico y se espera que 40 por ciento de las comunidades en Vanuatu se queden sin agua potable.
En respuesta a la reciente sequía y hambruna, el recientemente creado equipo delMinisterio Nazareno de Compasión--Vanuatu (MNC) se reunió para hablar acerca de cómo la Iglesia del Nazareno de nuestras comunidades puede asistir a otras personas. Ellos decidieron que les gustaría ayudar a sus comunidades en dos maneras. En primer lugar, las iglesias locales de la isla de Port Vila querían proveer agua potable a sus comunidades al construir tanques de agua en sus edificios (foto arriba). En segundo lugar, ellos decidieron que ya que la hambruna era más severa en la isla de Tanna, se distribuirían bolsas de arroz y harina en algunas aldeas donde tenían contactos.
En diciembre, dos tanques de agua fueron construidos en las iglesias de Black Sand (Arenas Negras) y Prima con el apoyo de fondos provistos por el MNC. Ninguna de estas aldeas contaban con una fuente de agua potable. En febrero, las iglesias terminarán la instalación de los tanques al colocar canaletas de desagüe en los techos de las iglesias.
Una semana antes de Navidad, un equipo de seis pastores y líderes de iglesia tomaron un bote con rumbo a Tanna y distribuyeron arroz y harina entre las aldeas, así como baldes con filtros de agua que pueden recibir aguas impuras y reducir impurezas en un 99 por ciento, haciéndolas aptas para consumo. La Palabra de Dios fue predicada en todas las áreas de la isla donde el equipo viajó. Ellos reportaron que la gente se mostraba más hambrienta por la Palabra de Dios que por cualquier otra cosa. Dos hombres jóvenes en una aldea del suroeste de Tanna se comprometieron a dar inicio a una nueva iglesia, y el pastor John, de la iglesia de Arenas Negras se mantiene en contacto con ellos para brindarles apoyo y mentoría.
Revistiendo con cemento el exterior del tanque de agua.
Un tanque de agua terminado.
Equipo de MNC en Tanna.
Baldes con filtro de agua.
Orando por los enfermos.
Compartiendo arroz y harina.[David y Sylvia Potter son misioneros pioneros de la Iglesia del Nazareno en la nación isleña de Vanuatu, en el Pacífico sur. Ellos fueron primeramente asignados como misioneros médicos en la Escuela de Enfermería Nazarena de Kudjip, Papúa Nueva Guinea, en 1992 y allí sirvieron hasta que aceptaron el llamado para dar inicio a la tarea de la Iglesia del Nazareno en Vanuatu, en setiembre de 2003. Impreso con el permiso de su carta de noticias.]
Traducido por Ed Brussa.
Leer más
---------------------
Engage Magazine - The Global Mission Magazine of The Global Church of the Nazarene's Nazarene Mission International of Lenexa, Kansasm United States - Issue No. 107 for Wednesday, 11 February 2016
RECENT ARTICLES:
"Reflecting Christ: Strategic team builder" by Howard Culbertson
Not long after Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River, He called 12 men as His "disciples." Choosing them was an intentional, strategic move on Jesus' part.
"Reflecting Christ: Strategic team builder" by Howard Culbertson
Not long after Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River (photo left), He called 12 as His “disciples.” Those chosen were not going to be simply followers or “groupies.” Choosing them was an intentional, strategic move on Jesus’ part.
For Jesus’ three years of earthly ministry, those men were His ministry team. While they traveled around, He taught and mentored them. In between ministering to large crowds, Jesus poured Himself into these 12 men. He had a long-term mission for these men, a mission that would continue after He ascended into Heaven.
Those disciples were able to observe Jesus up close as He modeled teaching, preaching and holistic ministry. Each Sabbath He attended synagogue services with them. He encouraged them. He scolded them. He talked to these 12 men about relationships. He prayed for them. He posed questions to help them process His teachings. He answered their questions.
Those 12 men received in-service, on-the-job training from Jesus. He gave them responsibilities. He sent them out two by two and then de-briefed them when they returned. He cast a vision for the future, a future when He would no longer be physically present with them.
A bit of a structure even emerged in the little band. Three of them became a sort of “executive council.” The group had a treasurer. Three event-filled years passed and not long before His Ascension, Jesus told those 12 men, “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you" (John 20:21). And so they went, taking the gospel beyond the borders of Israel and pushing toward the ends of the known world.
Global missionaries need to follow Jesus’ example of strategic team building. Indeed, Jesus’ example shaped the strategy the Apostle Paul employed in his church-planting work across the northern rim of the Mediterranean Sea.
To be sure, we missionaries feel a burden to proclaim the gospel to as many lost people as possible. We also want to call believers to a life of holiness. However, if we want to follow Jesus’ example, shouldn’t we become strategic team builders? Shouldn’t missionaries follow Jesus’ pattern and put together discipleship and church planting teams to carry forward the work long after expatriate missionaries have re-deployed elsewhere?
Read More
---------------------
"Vanuatu churches help famine-stricken communities" by David and Sylvia Potter
The people of Vanuatu, in the South Pacific, have often received international aid in times of disaster. As their country wrestles with drought, local Nazarenes took fresh water and food to others in need.
"Vanuatu churches help famine-stricken communities" by David and Sylvia Potter
A song has been in our hearts lately that is based on Psalm 103:8: “The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, and rich in love.” Matthew 9:36 says that when Jesus saw the crowds, He had compassion on them. One of the ways that we are to become like Christ is in His compassion toward others—to see others like Jesus sees them.
The small island nation of Vanuatu has for many years been the recipient of lots of outside aid, especially in times of disasters. Over time, this can engender an attitude of helplessness and dependency. It can also tend to make people think that compassionate care is someone else’s responsibility. God is helping our local and district leaders begin to see through eyes of compassion. They are beginning to see the needs around them, and to think about what they can do to help.
Since last fall, the periodic weather phenomenon known as El Niño has brought heavy rain to some parts of the world, but drought and famine to others. This has been particularly devastating for areas used to frequent rainfall.
Among these hard hit are Papua New Guinea and a number of Pacific Island nations, including Vanuatu, a group of 85 small islands. According to OCHA(Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs), 4.7 million people are affected by drought in 11 Pacific countries, and 40 percent of communities in Vanuatu are expected to run out of safe drinking water.
In response to the recent drought and famine, the newly formed Nazarene Compassionate Ministries--Vanuatu (NCM) team met to talk about how the Nazarene church in our local communities could help other people. They decided they would like to help their communities in two ways. First, the local churches in the island of Port Vila wanted to provide fresh water for their communities by building water tanks at their churches (photo above). Second, they decided that since the famine was more severe on the island of Tanna, they would like to distribute bags of rice and flour to some villages where they had contacts.
In December, two water tanks were built at Black Sand and Prima Churches with the support of NCM funding. Neither of these villages have a clean water source. In February the churches will finish the water tanks by attaching gutters to the church roofs.
One week before Christmas, a team of six pastors and church leaders took a boat to Tanna and distributed rice and flour to villages as well as buckets with water filters that can take unclean water and make it 99 percent pure for drinking. The Word of God was preached in all areas of the island where the team traveled. They reported that the people were more hungry for God’s Word than for anything else. Two young men in a village in the southwest part of Tanna committed to starting a church, and Pastor John from our Black Sand church is continuing to be in contact with them to encourage and mentor them.
Putting cement on the outside of the water tank.
Completed water tank.
NCM mission team to Tanna.
Water filter buckets
Praying for the sick.
Sharing rice and flour.[David and Sylvia Potter are pioneer missionaries for the Church of the Nazarene in the south Pacific island nation of Vanuatu. They were first appointed as medical missionaries to the Nazarene College of Nursing at Kudjip, Papua New Guinea, in 1992 and served there until they accepted the call to begin the work of the Church of the Nazarene in Vanuatu in September 2003. Reprinted with permission from their newsletter.]
Read More
---------------------
"'Am I wiser than these?'" by Zee Gimon
For Zhanna Yugay, who believed that her own knowledge and hard work were enough to secure a foundation for her life, what began as a simple interpreting job became the start of a faith journey.
"Am I wiser than these?'" by Zee Gimon
For Zhanna Yugay, who believed that her own knowledge and hard work were enough to secure a foundation for her life, what began as a simple interpreting job became the start of a faith journey.
It was 1996 when South Korean missionary Michael Park came to Astana, Kazakhstan. In those days, in a nation climbing out of the ruins of Communism, religious activities and missionaries were rare and many people visited his church from curiosity.
During the first year, Park preached in the Russian language and, while he could speak it, he wasn't fluent enough to share the Good News clearly with the people. A solution to this obstacle had to be found.
Knowing that his friend Zhanna Yugay, whose parents were originally from South Korea, could translate from Korean, Park approached her with a proposal to become an interpreter, and she agreed.
Zhanna began to attend the Church of the Nazarene as an interpreter -- who did not believe in God. When she studied at the university in Saint Petersburg and later had practical lessons in Moscow, her friend showed her paintings of Jesus at the Tretyakov Gallery, but they never impressed Zhanna. Besides, no one talked about God with her, so faith was a foreign matter, and she knew she could rely on herself.
Every day, Park prayed for Zhanna to be found by Christ, yet she relied mostly on her mind’s abilities to translate the heartfelt sermons. She was not moved in her spirit by what she was interpreting for the congregation. It took two years since their meeting for the Good News to reach the heart of Zhanna.
Due to a flight delay, she stayed at a pastors’ conference for two additional hours in Chekhov, in the Moscow region. All the missionaries and pastors prayed together on their knees and Zhanna pretended to do the same, while she actually watched everyone. It stunned her to see all these people being so honest and sincere in their prayers, some even with tears in their eyes. A question was born in her mind: “Am I wiser than all these people? Why do I cling to my own way?”
A verse she had heard from 1 Corinthians 1:25 came to her: “For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.” That truth became the catalyst to Zhanna sincerely joining the others in prayer.
“I asked God to forgive me and told Him that He can have my life. I wanted to be in His hands and to live according to His will. I opened my heart to Jesus Christ and my life has never been the same ever since,” shares Zhanna. “There were times when I was overwhelmed with joy and people back in our home church came up to me and told me that I have changed somehow. Within a week, I became a different person. I realized that my reaction to things happening around me has changed, as if my world became brighter.”
Granted, everyday life goes on and Christian faith is not based on emotions only, so Zhanna strives to do everything she can for other people to see the Lord every day in her. She says,
“It’s not easy. Actually, it would’ve been impossible if not for the Holy Spirit’s support and strength.”
She became a pastor in 2001, after Park talked about the necessity for a local pastor for two years. Zhanna agreed with him, but did not think he was actually praying for her to be the pastor, instead thinking about other younger people who were active at the church.
“It was a Sunday, and before the service, I felt so light, and then Pastor Michael asked me to take the role, and I felt the heavy weight settle on my shoulders. For two days, I kept thinking of the reasons why I couldn’t be a pastor. However, I did make my decision in the end.”
Later, when a district superintendent was needed, Zhanna was asked to be the interim superintendent after Park had to return to Korea. The other missionary, who was getting ready to assume the role, had trouble with documents and someone was needed in the meantime. Since she has spent many years working hand in hand with Park, everything was familiar to her. In 2009, the decision has been made by Gustavo Crocker, former Eurasia Regional director, that Zhanna would remain in the superintendent position, and she has been serving ever since. She is also the administrator of the EuNC Central Asia Learning Center.
Zhanna's life is an example of the importance of persevering in prayer for those who don't yet know the Lord. Although it took several years for Zhanna to recognize her need for God, Michael Park's prayers for her were finally answered.
Read More
---------------------
"Video: Middle East churches serve their communities" by Eurasia Region Communications
Local Nazarene churches in the Eastern Mediterranean Field of the Eurasia Region are rising to God's call to share His love with their communities, through educating children, serving Syrian refugees, youth ministry, television broadcasts, theological education, and much more. This 5-minute video will take you there.
"Video: Middle East churches serve their communities" by Eurasia Region Communications
Local Nazarene churches in the Eastern Mediterranean Field of the Eurasia Region are rising to God's call to share His love with their communities, through educating children, serving Syrian refugees, youth ministry, television broadcasts, theological education, and much more. This 5-minute video will take you there.
To download this video, or watch other video stories, visit the Eurasia Region's video page:https://vimeo.com/146628210
Read More
---------------------
"The desert shall blossom" by Carol Anne Eby
In the arid, dusty desert of Senegal, the Nazarene church is building a farm where local leaders can develop improved agricultural methods that will enable Senegalese families to grow adequate food year round.
"The desert shall blossom" by Carol Anne Eby
For Jesus’ three years of earthly ministry, those men were His ministry team. While they traveled around, He taught and mentored them. In between ministering to large crowds, Jesus poured Himself into these 12 men. He had a long-term mission for these men, a mission that would continue after He ascended into Heaven.
Those disciples were able to observe Jesus up close as He modeled teaching, preaching and holistic ministry. Each Sabbath He attended synagogue services with them. He encouraged them. He scolded them. He talked to these 12 men about relationships. He prayed for them. He posed questions to help them process His teachings. He answered their questions.
Those 12 men received in-service, on-the-job training from Jesus. He gave them responsibilities. He sent them out two by two and then de-briefed them when they returned. He cast a vision for the future, a future when He would no longer be physically present with them.
A bit of a structure even emerged in the little band. Three of them became a sort of “executive council.” The group had a treasurer. Three event-filled years passed and not long before His Ascension, Jesus told those 12 men, “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you" (John 20:21). And so they went, taking the gospel beyond the borders of Israel and pushing toward the ends of the known world.
Global missionaries need to follow Jesus’ example of strategic team building. Indeed, Jesus’ example shaped the strategy the Apostle Paul employed in his church-planting work across the northern rim of the Mediterranean Sea.
To be sure, we missionaries feel a burden to proclaim the gospel to as many lost people as possible. We also want to call believers to a life of holiness. However, if we want to follow Jesus’ example, shouldn’t we become strategic team builders? Shouldn’t missionaries follow Jesus’ pattern and put together discipleship and church planting teams to carry forward the work long after expatriate missionaries have re-deployed elsewhere?
Read More
---------------------
"Vanuatu churches help famine-stricken communities" by David and Sylvia Potter
The people of Vanuatu, in the South Pacific, have often received international aid in times of disaster. As their country wrestles with drought, local Nazarenes took fresh water and food to others in need.
"Vanuatu churches help famine-stricken communities" by David and Sylvia Potter
A song has been in our hearts lately that is based on Psalm 103:8: “The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, and rich in love.” Matthew 9:36 says that when Jesus saw the crowds, He had compassion on them. One of the ways that we are to become like Christ is in His compassion toward others—to see others like Jesus sees them.
The small island nation of Vanuatu has for many years been the recipient of lots of outside aid, especially in times of disasters. Over time, this can engender an attitude of helplessness and dependency. It can also tend to make people think that compassionate care is someone else’s responsibility. God is helping our local and district leaders begin to see through eyes of compassion. They are beginning to see the needs around them, and to think about what they can do to help.
Since last fall, the periodic weather phenomenon known as El Niño has brought heavy rain to some parts of the world, but drought and famine to others. This has been particularly devastating for areas used to frequent rainfall.
Among these hard hit are Papua New Guinea and a number of Pacific Island nations, including Vanuatu, a group of 85 small islands. According to OCHA(Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs), 4.7 million people are affected by drought in 11 Pacific countries, and 40 percent of communities in Vanuatu are expected to run out of safe drinking water.
In response to the recent drought and famine, the newly formed Nazarene Compassionate Ministries--Vanuatu (NCM) team met to talk about how the Nazarene church in our local communities could help other people. They decided they would like to help their communities in two ways. First, the local churches in the island of Port Vila wanted to provide fresh water for their communities by building water tanks at their churches (photo above). Second, they decided that since the famine was more severe on the island of Tanna, they would like to distribute bags of rice and flour to some villages where they had contacts.
In December, two water tanks were built at Black Sand and Prima Churches with the support of NCM funding. Neither of these villages have a clean water source. In February the churches will finish the water tanks by attaching gutters to the church roofs.
One week before Christmas, a team of six pastors and church leaders took a boat to Tanna and distributed rice and flour to villages as well as buckets with water filters that can take unclean water and make it 99 percent pure for drinking. The Word of God was preached in all areas of the island where the team traveled. They reported that the people were more hungry for God’s Word than for anything else. Two young men in a village in the southwest part of Tanna committed to starting a church, and Pastor John from our Black Sand church is continuing to be in contact with them to encourage and mentor them.
Putting cement on the outside of the water tank.
Completed water tank.
NCM mission team to Tanna.
Water filter buckets
Praying for the sick.
Sharing rice and flour.[David and Sylvia Potter are pioneer missionaries for the Church of the Nazarene in the south Pacific island nation of Vanuatu. They were first appointed as medical missionaries to the Nazarene College of Nursing at Kudjip, Papua New Guinea, in 1992 and served there until they accepted the call to begin the work of the Church of the Nazarene in Vanuatu in September 2003. Reprinted with permission from their newsletter.]
Read More
---------------------
"'Am I wiser than these?'" by Zee Gimon
For Zhanna Yugay, who believed that her own knowledge and hard work were enough to secure a foundation for her life, what began as a simple interpreting job became the start of a faith journey.
"Am I wiser than these?'" by Zee Gimon
For Zhanna Yugay, who believed that her own knowledge and hard work were enough to secure a foundation for her life, what began as a simple interpreting job became the start of a faith journey.
It was 1996 when South Korean missionary Michael Park came to Astana, Kazakhstan. In those days, in a nation climbing out of the ruins of Communism, religious activities and missionaries were rare and many people visited his church from curiosity.
During the first year, Park preached in the Russian language and, while he could speak it, he wasn't fluent enough to share the Good News clearly with the people. A solution to this obstacle had to be found.
Knowing that his friend Zhanna Yugay, whose parents were originally from South Korea, could translate from Korean, Park approached her with a proposal to become an interpreter, and she agreed.
Zhanna began to attend the Church of the Nazarene as an interpreter -- who did not believe in God. When she studied at the university in Saint Petersburg and later had practical lessons in Moscow, her friend showed her paintings of Jesus at the Tretyakov Gallery, but they never impressed Zhanna. Besides, no one talked about God with her, so faith was a foreign matter, and she knew she could rely on herself.
Every day, Park prayed for Zhanna to be found by Christ, yet she relied mostly on her mind’s abilities to translate the heartfelt sermons. She was not moved in her spirit by what she was interpreting for the congregation. It took two years since their meeting for the Good News to reach the heart of Zhanna.
Due to a flight delay, she stayed at a pastors’ conference for two additional hours in Chekhov, in the Moscow region. All the missionaries and pastors prayed together on their knees and Zhanna pretended to do the same, while she actually watched everyone. It stunned her to see all these people being so honest and sincere in their prayers, some even with tears in their eyes. A question was born in her mind: “Am I wiser than all these people? Why do I cling to my own way?”
A verse she had heard from 1 Corinthians 1:25 came to her: “For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.” That truth became the catalyst to Zhanna sincerely joining the others in prayer.
“I asked God to forgive me and told Him that He can have my life. I wanted to be in His hands and to live according to His will. I opened my heart to Jesus Christ and my life has never been the same ever since,” shares Zhanna. “There were times when I was overwhelmed with joy and people back in our home church came up to me and told me that I have changed somehow. Within a week, I became a different person. I realized that my reaction to things happening around me has changed, as if my world became brighter.”
Granted, everyday life goes on and Christian faith is not based on emotions only, so Zhanna strives to do everything she can for other people to see the Lord every day in her. She says,
“It’s not easy. Actually, it would’ve been impossible if not for the Holy Spirit’s support and strength.”
She became a pastor in 2001, after Park talked about the necessity for a local pastor for two years. Zhanna agreed with him, but did not think he was actually praying for her to be the pastor, instead thinking about other younger people who were active at the church.
“It was a Sunday, and before the service, I felt so light, and then Pastor Michael asked me to take the role, and I felt the heavy weight settle on my shoulders. For two days, I kept thinking of the reasons why I couldn’t be a pastor. However, I did make my decision in the end.”
Later, when a district superintendent was needed, Zhanna was asked to be the interim superintendent after Park had to return to Korea. The other missionary, who was getting ready to assume the role, had trouble with documents and someone was needed in the meantime. Since she has spent many years working hand in hand with Park, everything was familiar to her. In 2009, the decision has been made by Gustavo Crocker, former Eurasia Regional director, that Zhanna would remain in the superintendent position, and she has been serving ever since. She is also the administrator of the EuNC Central Asia Learning Center.
Zhanna's life is an example of the importance of persevering in prayer for those who don't yet know the Lord. Although it took several years for Zhanna to recognize her need for God, Michael Park's prayers for her were finally answered.
Read More
---------------------
"Video: Middle East churches serve their communities" by Eurasia Region Communications
Local Nazarene churches in the Eastern Mediterranean Field of the Eurasia Region are rising to God's call to share His love with their communities, through educating children, serving Syrian refugees, youth ministry, television broadcasts, theological education, and much more. This 5-minute video will take you there.
"Video: Middle East churches serve their communities" by Eurasia Region Communications
Local Nazarene churches in the Eastern Mediterranean Field of the Eurasia Region are rising to God's call to share His love with their communities, through educating children, serving Syrian refugees, youth ministry, television broadcasts, theological education, and much more. This 5-minute video will take you there.
To download this video, or watch other video stories, visit the Eurasia Region's video page:https://vimeo.com/146628210
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"The desert shall blossom" by Carol Anne Eby
In the arid, dusty desert of Senegal, the Nazarene church is building a farm where local leaders can develop improved agricultural methods that will enable Senegalese families to grow adequate food year round.
"The desert shall blossom" by Carol Anne Eby
What do you get when you mix a hot, arid land bordering the Sahara, a population dependent on agriculture, 14 percent of children under age 5 malnourished, a lack of clean water, and the passion of a church to bring about change? The answer: the Joseph Project located in Fandane, 5 kilometers south of Mbour, Senegal, in West Africa.
Through the Joseph Project, Nazarene leaders in Senegal are partnering with the Trevecca Nazarene University Urban Farm (Nashville, USA) to build a model farm in the desert of Senegal, where they can test greenhouse technology alongside improved agricultural methods. By developing and demonstrating sustainable and more fruitful farming practices, the Joseph Project will bring the means for more abundant physical life – and also spiritual life – to the resourceful people of West Africa.
Life in the desert
Tim and Michelle Eby had been serving as Nazarene missionaries in Senegal for several years when he became concerned about the numbers of pastors who were being called and trained to lead churches, but eventually forced to leave their villages for work in the cities when the welfare of their families depended on them to find resources to live.
The nonprofit organization Heifer International reports that 57 percent of Senegal’s population lives in rural areas, reliant on agriculture for their livelihood, and 47 percent of its land area is used for agricultural purposes.
However, Senegal is a very difficult place to raise crops. The climate is arid and gets limited rainfall.
Tim said, “During the dry months, the steady wind and no rain dries up everything. The local farmers get essentially one crop a year during the rainy season between July and the end of August and after that we do not see a drop of rain until July of the next year.”
There may be no rain from above, but ironically water lies just below the surface. In some places good water can be found as close as 20 feet down. But to get that water in sufficient quantities to do farming is a great challenge.
This challenge led Tim to form a drilling team to help bring fresh water to numerous villages. With the help of partners, like Tim Davis from Briarwood Church of the Nazarene in Alabama, they were able to import the equipment to Senegal and then train local youth in the church to drill wells. The group drills wells not only in villages where Nazarene churches are located, but in other areas where people are desperate for sustainable, clean water. Drilling wells has helped to provide a source of income above normal budgeted costs that will allow for expanded technology to irrigate land and restore the natural cycle of life.
Drilling wells was only the start. In 2014 a Work & Witness team from Westchester, Ohio, came to Dakar, Senegal, to help with drilling wells, medical clinic efforts, construction, and more. During their travels around the country, they observed that greenhouses in some areas were successful in producing crops – even in the very dry season. The team shared this approach with Tim. Upon returning to Ohio, they gathered the resources for establishing a greenhouse for an area where the Nazarene church was located.
This was the start of the Joseph Project.
A Joseph dream
About a year ago, with resources from the estate of a long-time Nazarene missions supporter named Sherri Reger, the church purchased land at Fandane for the Joseph Project. In 2015, a team from New Hampshire, U.S., came to build a cottage on the land; this cottage will house future mission teams who come to help local Nazarenes with the Joseph Project. The house will be called “Chez Sherri,” named for Sherri.
This house will also be a training classroom where Bible students from local villages will come to spend one week at a time in intensive discipleship and biblical training through Nazarene Theological Institute. While on the property, Bible students will also learn about more effective agricultural practices.
All the Joseph Project workers are local Nazarene leaders. At present Tim is mentoring a project manager, Jean Jacque Diousse, to oversee the project. The district leadership will oversee the project and help guide the development of the impact of the project, through the direction and leadership of newly appointed District Superintendent, Rev. Daniel Gomis.
The project team envisions that the Joseph Project will birth new ideas for solar and wind technology that can help bring water from underground springs to the surface and made available for use in surrounding villages. If successful, this model could be transferred back to local church farms that will help support local ministry in these remote villages.
Several teams have come to start work on the greenhouse. Supporters have been eager to get involved, because the dream is to create a self-sustaining source for nutritious food in the long-term.
Partnership with Trevecca
Another exciting aspect of the project is a partnership with Trevecca Nazarene University(TNU) Urban Farm. TNU has established a small farm on the campus which is being used for instructional purposes in the Social Justice program of the university. The farm demonstrates sustainable farming in the inner city. Nazarene Compassionate Ministries (NCM) awarded Trevecca’s J.V. Morsch Center for Social Justice a grant for winning first place in an NCM Water Challenge Campaign. The grant recently helped four students and Professor Jason Adkins to join a Work & Witness team from Trevecca Community Church to continue building the greenhouse in Fandane. Jamie Casler, director of the J.V. Morsch center, says, “The J.V. Morsch Center for Social Justice is designed to provide students with hands-on learning opportunities in domestic and international settings as a way for students to apply classroom learning to meet real world needs.”
The TNU mission team wanted to determine how the Joseph Project could best serve its neighbors. Students and leaders from the Trevecca Urban Farm interviewed nearby residents and visited various farms and farm projects in the area to learn about local farming practices. They found that these remarkably resourceful farmers were able to feed their families year round from only three months of rain, with millet and peanuts being their staple crops.
Nevertheless, there was a concerted cry for water for extending their season to grow vegetables to sell in the market as well as provide for their families in the dry times of the year. Wells would provide resiliency for years when rain did not come in needed quantities.
The university students, local Senegalese leaders, along with the Trevecca Community Church members, finished the cottage, added shade cloth to the greenhouse, built a water tower, facilitated the drilling of a well, built benches for a nearby church, shared training with the farm manager, and drew up a farm plan to help form the physical and programmatic shape of the farm. The environmental justice students were thrilled to engage in work on a farming program.
Leaders hope the farm and greenhouse will become a catalyst and an influence in the area. The green house, now called the “Screen House,” will be an example of how shade and controlled environment – if managed well – can produce better plants and potentially better seeds for the future. They hope that the Joseph Project will be a model that can be reproduced in other West African countries like Benin, Togo, Cote d’Ivore, Liberia, Ghana, Burkina Faso and Mali.
Rivers of flowing water
Knowing that water is absolutely critical for irrigation and success of the project, in January Tim and the drill team drilled two wells on the property of the Screen House, but both failed. They had limited water and too much salt to be effective for irrigation. After much prayer, the 16 members of the Work & Witness team, the well drillers, missionaries and pastors, joined hands and hearts and believed God would direct them to the right spot. At the center of the property, Louis Pierre Faye, the newly trained well drilling operator, and his team started to drill, determined that – by the grace of God – even if they had to drill 330 feet, they would find good water!
They hit a five-foot layer of rock at only 10 feet and drilled through it. Just below that layer they found a cavern of water that showed evidence of an underground river of fresh water. Amazingly they only had to drill to 45 feet and now have a good 30 feet of fresh water that seems to never end.
“It is the most water I have ever found that close to the surface in all of my wells drilled in Senegal! What a blessing from God,” Tim exclaimed.
The project is now registered as an official water project with Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, which will contribute funds to help the new project get a water tower and distribution system of water across the property.
Today, the desert wind whistles across a land that is barren and only grows tough thorns, brush and briars. It has a lone screen house and a work shed standing on the hard, dry dirt. But in Tim’s vision for the future, he sees a rich green perimeter of trees and flowers, and plants and animals filling every corner as the land is restored to its natural cycle. It will take hard work, passionate farming and future students sharing their knowledge. But as all of it is anointed with God’s blessing, restoration will come and God’s promise will be fulfilled as written in Isaiah, “The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom.” (Isaiah 35:1)
Read More
Through the Joseph Project, Nazarene leaders in Senegal are partnering with the Trevecca Nazarene University Urban Farm (Nashville, USA) to build a model farm in the desert of Senegal, where they can test greenhouse technology alongside improved agricultural methods. By developing and demonstrating sustainable and more fruitful farming practices, the Joseph Project will bring the means for more abundant physical life – and also spiritual life – to the resourceful people of West Africa.
Life in the desert
Tim and Michelle Eby had been serving as Nazarene missionaries in Senegal for several years when he became concerned about the numbers of pastors who were being called and trained to lead churches, but eventually forced to leave their villages for work in the cities when the welfare of their families depended on them to find resources to live.
The nonprofit organization Heifer International reports that 57 percent of Senegal’s population lives in rural areas, reliant on agriculture for their livelihood, and 47 percent of its land area is used for agricultural purposes.
However, Senegal is a very difficult place to raise crops. The climate is arid and gets limited rainfall.
Tim said, “During the dry months, the steady wind and no rain dries up everything. The local farmers get essentially one crop a year during the rainy season between July and the end of August and after that we do not see a drop of rain until July of the next year.”
There may be no rain from above, but ironically water lies just below the surface. In some places good water can be found as close as 20 feet down. But to get that water in sufficient quantities to do farming is a great challenge.
This challenge led Tim to form a drilling team to help bring fresh water to numerous villages. With the help of partners, like Tim Davis from Briarwood Church of the Nazarene in Alabama, they were able to import the equipment to Senegal and then train local youth in the church to drill wells. The group drills wells not only in villages where Nazarene churches are located, but in other areas where people are desperate for sustainable, clean water. Drilling wells has helped to provide a source of income above normal budgeted costs that will allow for expanded technology to irrigate land and restore the natural cycle of life.
Drilling wells was only the start. In 2014 a Work & Witness team from Westchester, Ohio, came to Dakar, Senegal, to help with drilling wells, medical clinic efforts, construction, and more. During their travels around the country, they observed that greenhouses in some areas were successful in producing crops – even in the very dry season. The team shared this approach with Tim. Upon returning to Ohio, they gathered the resources for establishing a greenhouse for an area where the Nazarene church was located.
This was the start of the Joseph Project.
A Joseph dream
About a year ago, with resources from the estate of a long-time Nazarene missions supporter named Sherri Reger, the church purchased land at Fandane for the Joseph Project. In 2015, a team from New Hampshire, U.S., came to build a cottage on the land; this cottage will house future mission teams who come to help local Nazarenes with the Joseph Project. The house will be called “Chez Sherri,” named for Sherri.
This house will also be a training classroom where Bible students from local villages will come to spend one week at a time in intensive discipleship and biblical training through Nazarene Theological Institute. While on the property, Bible students will also learn about more effective agricultural practices.
All the Joseph Project workers are local Nazarene leaders. At present Tim is mentoring a project manager, Jean Jacque Diousse, to oversee the project. The district leadership will oversee the project and help guide the development of the impact of the project, through the direction and leadership of newly appointed District Superintendent, Rev. Daniel Gomis.
The project team envisions that the Joseph Project will birth new ideas for solar and wind technology that can help bring water from underground springs to the surface and made available for use in surrounding villages. If successful, this model could be transferred back to local church farms that will help support local ministry in these remote villages.
Several teams have come to start work on the greenhouse. Supporters have been eager to get involved, because the dream is to create a self-sustaining source for nutritious food in the long-term.
Partnership with Trevecca
Another exciting aspect of the project is a partnership with Trevecca Nazarene University(TNU) Urban Farm. TNU has established a small farm on the campus which is being used for instructional purposes in the Social Justice program of the university. The farm demonstrates sustainable farming in the inner city. Nazarene Compassionate Ministries (NCM) awarded Trevecca’s J.V. Morsch Center for Social Justice a grant for winning first place in an NCM Water Challenge Campaign. The grant recently helped four students and Professor Jason Adkins to join a Work & Witness team from Trevecca Community Church to continue building the greenhouse in Fandane. Jamie Casler, director of the J.V. Morsch center, says, “The J.V. Morsch Center for Social Justice is designed to provide students with hands-on learning opportunities in domestic and international settings as a way for students to apply classroom learning to meet real world needs.”
The TNU mission team wanted to determine how the Joseph Project could best serve its neighbors. Students and leaders from the Trevecca Urban Farm interviewed nearby residents and visited various farms and farm projects in the area to learn about local farming practices. They found that these remarkably resourceful farmers were able to feed their families year round from only three months of rain, with millet and peanuts being their staple crops.
Nevertheless, there was a concerted cry for water for extending their season to grow vegetables to sell in the market as well as provide for their families in the dry times of the year. Wells would provide resiliency for years when rain did not come in needed quantities.
The university students, local Senegalese leaders, along with the Trevecca Community Church members, finished the cottage, added shade cloth to the greenhouse, built a water tower, facilitated the drilling of a well, built benches for a nearby church, shared training with the farm manager, and drew up a farm plan to help form the physical and programmatic shape of the farm. The environmental justice students were thrilled to engage in work on a farming program.
Leaders hope the farm and greenhouse will become a catalyst and an influence in the area. The green house, now called the “Screen House,” will be an example of how shade and controlled environment – if managed well – can produce better plants and potentially better seeds for the future. They hope that the Joseph Project will be a model that can be reproduced in other West African countries like Benin, Togo, Cote d’Ivore, Liberia, Ghana, Burkina Faso and Mali.
Rivers of flowing water
Knowing that water is absolutely critical for irrigation and success of the project, in January Tim and the drill team drilled two wells on the property of the Screen House, but both failed. They had limited water and too much salt to be effective for irrigation. After much prayer, the 16 members of the Work & Witness team, the well drillers, missionaries and pastors, joined hands and hearts and believed God would direct them to the right spot. At the center of the property, Louis Pierre Faye, the newly trained well drilling operator, and his team started to drill, determined that – by the grace of God – even if they had to drill 330 feet, they would find good water!
They hit a five-foot layer of rock at only 10 feet and drilled through it. Just below that layer they found a cavern of water that showed evidence of an underground river of fresh water. Amazingly they only had to drill to 45 feet and now have a good 30 feet of fresh water that seems to never end.
“It is the most water I have ever found that close to the surface in all of my wells drilled in Senegal! What a blessing from God,” Tim exclaimed.
The project is now registered as an official water project with Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, which will contribute funds to help the new project get a water tower and distribution system of water across the property.
Today, the desert wind whistles across a land that is barren and only grows tough thorns, brush and briars. It has a lone screen house and a work shed standing on the hard, dry dirt. But in Tim’s vision for the future, he sees a rich green perimeter of trees and flowers, and plants and animals filling every corner as the land is restored to its natural cycle. It will take hard work, passionate farming and future students sharing their knowledge. But as all of it is anointed with God’s blessing, restoration will come and God’s promise will be fulfilled as written in Isaiah, “The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom.” (Isaiah 35:1)
Read More
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"Nazarene News: Responding to Flint water crisis" The Global Nazarene Communications Network of Lenexa, Kansas, United States Volumen 1603 for Friday, 22 January 2016 - This week in the Church of the Nazarene...
"Refugee response team issues urgent call for help buying shoes"
After walking hundreds of miles through the frozen January mud of the Balkans and with hundreds of miles still ahead, some refugees are barefoot. Volunteers on the Central Europe refugee response team receive hundreds of requests a day for shoes.
"Refugee response team issues urgent call for help buying shoes"
Central Europe Field, Eurasia Region
While 12 tons of clothing has been donated and distributed to the thousands of migrants passing through Red Cross transit camps, travelers at the borders of Macedonia, Croatia, and Serbia desperately need shoes. After walking hundreds of miles through the frozen January mud of the Balkans and with hundreds of miles still ahead, some are barefoot; others have insufficient footwear for the winter.
Nazarene camp volunteers are putting out an urgent call for the global church to help supply shoes for the refugees.
Chris and Karen Lewis, Nazarene volunteers for the Central Europe refugee response team, reported that while they are currently able to purchase about 50 pairs of new shoes a week, there are requests from up to 1,000 people per week.
“Because the camp’s need for shoes is so great, when Nazarene Compassionate Ministries–Central Europe delivers a box of shoes, there are cheers," they said. "We are known as ‘the Shoe People.’”
How to help
The volunteers have worked out a special rate with a reputable shoe company close to the camp, which also boosts the local economy. For 10 USD (7 GBP/9 euro), volunteers can supply a pair of boots to a refugee.
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries has established a fundraising page specifically for Central Europe’s shoe ministry along the Refugee Highway of the Balkans. One hundred percent of any donation goes directly to purchasing shoes. Click here to donate.
Please do NOT send shoes as shipping is extremely costly and retrieving the packages is time-consuming.
For a personal story of one teenage refugee in need of shoes, visit Engage magazine or the Central Europe Field blog, centraleuropenaz.org.[Nazarene Compassionate Ministries]
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"Michigan church responds to Flint water crisis"
Tens of thousands of people in Flint, Michigan, have lived with lead-contaminated water for nearly two years. The West Flint Church of the Nazarene is responding with thousands of bottles of water, needed for daily drinking, cooking, and even bathing.
"Michigan church responds to Flint water crisis"
Flint, Michigan
When numbers are reported about the global water crisis — almost one in every 10 people lacks access to safe drinking water — the U.S. is not the first country to come to mind. But for tens of thousands of people in Flint, Michigan, a water crisis is a daily reality.
Since April 2014, lead has contaminated the city’s entire water supply. A state decision to switch the water source from Lake Huron to the Flint River went terribly wrong. The water from the river is highly corrosive and eroded the water pipes that service the city’s household and other plumbing. The lead in the pipes leached into the water, causing toxic levels of lead contamination.
In the midst of the crisis, the West Flint Church of the Nazarene has been working to meet needs.
“The immediate need is bottled water,” said David Bowser, pastor of the West Flint church.
The church has already taken 2,200 cases of water to one of the most affected areas.
“Within two and a half hours, it had all been distributed,” Bowser said.
Government officials have warned people not to even give the contaminated water to their pets. Bottled water is necessary for drinking, cooking, and even bathing.
“A family could easily go through two to three cases of water a day and not even bathe,” Bowser said.
The West Flint church has been involved in Nazarene disaster response for many years, and Bowser believes that experience has prepared them to respond to the current emergency in their own community.
“When [Hurricane] Katrina hit, this church adopted New Orleans First Church of the Nazarene in the 9th ward and helped rebuild that church,” Bowser said. “For the last several years, this local church has been actively engaged in what we call ‘be the church,’ which is regular opportunities to serve in the areas where this water crisis is most affecting.”
City, state, and federal government officials are involved in decisions about a long-term fix, but in the meantime, “the church has to continue to respond,” Bowser said.
A permanent solution will take years. Even though the city has switched to a new water source, the damage done to the water pipes is irreparable. The cost to replace the entire plumbing infrastructure is estimated to be more than $1 billion.
Matthew Soulia, associate pastor at the West Flint church, says a major concern is the way the current water crisis has affected a community that had enough problems already.
“This is a severe, dangerous, and emergency situation,” Soulia said. “It’s also piling on some serious, systemic problems that Flint has been facing for decades — issues of struggling education, crime rates, blight, poverty. It’s like adding fuel to the fire. There are only small pockets within Flint that wouldn’t be considered poor. People have limited means and education and ability to respond [to the current crisis].”
Bowser says the West Flint church is poised to respond in part because of the relationships and connections they have been creating in under-served neighborhood and with other churches in the target areas.
“For four years, we’ve worked in this community,” Bowser said. “This church is missional and sees what it looks like not doing something to or for a community, but working with a community.”
Bowser says the West Flint Church of the Nazarene is committed to helping their neighbors during this crisis “for a long, long time.”
“We really are dealing with a third-world kind of dynamic that’s right here in our community,” Bowser said. “The poverty is overwhelming and the needs are so great, and we find ourselves fighting the battle along the lines of water.”
How to help
Pray. Pray for the families affected by the water crisis in Flint. Pray for West Flint Church of the Nazarene as they work to assist their neighbors over the coming months and years.
Give. The church is requesting support for the purchase of bottled water. You can donate to the Flint Water Crisis fund through Nazarene Compassionate Ministries by clicking here.
To send donations by mail:
In the U.S., make checks payable to "General Treasurer" and send them to:
Global Treasury Services
Church of the Nazarene
P.O. Box 843116
Kansas City, MO 64184-3116
Be sure to put 125778 in the Memo area.
In Canada, make checks payable to "Church of the Nazarene Canada" and send them to:
Church of the Nazarene Canada
20 Regan Road, Unit 9
Brampton, Ontario L7A 1C3
Be sure to put 125778 in the Memo area.
For other countries, please give through your local church or district, designating your gift to the Flint Water Crisis.[Nazarene Compassionate Ministries]
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"Costa Rica churches donates supplies for Cuba refugees"
Churches on the Costa Rica North and Central district pooled their resources to purchase personal hygiene products and clothing for hundreds of refugees from Cuba currently stranded in Costa Rica.
"Costa Rica churches donate supplies for Cuba refugees"
Costa Rica, Mesoamerica Region
Churches on the Costa Rica North and Central districts pooled their resources to purchase personal hygiene products and clothing for hundreds of refugees from Cuba currently stranded in Costa Rica.
Cuba refugees began making their way to the U.S. through several Central American countries late last year, but in November, Nicaragua closed its border, forcing many Cubans to remain in Costa Rica.
The Costa Rica government has established at least 37 locations where lodging and food is provided. There are approximately 8,000 Cuban refugees in Costa Rica who would like to travel to the U.S.
The Church of the Nazarene began ministering to the refugees shortly after they became stranded. Dhariana Balbuena, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries coordinator for Costa Rica, led a team from San Jose to La Cruz, which is close to the border with Nicaragua. The team worked with children and adults and left much-needed supplies, including 2,800 articles of personal hygiene and clothing for both children and adults.
Upala Centro Church of the Nazarene is located just 400 meters (less than a quarter of a mile) from one of the refugee centers. Pastor Jose Perfect, Rosa, and her daughter Estafania visit them regularly to encourage them, and the church is helping the refugees when it can.
After Costa Rica Ministry Coordinator David Webb visited the church and the multi-use building that houses the refugee center, the Costa Rica North and Central districts sent supplies to the refugees.
"We took some personal items that people had donated," said Rolando Morera, a member of Poas Church of the Nazarene. "We also shared with them the Evangecube. Later, we showed the movie The Power of the Cross and at the end of the movie, there were 12 people who accepted the Lord as their personal Savior. It was a special time of sharing between the local church and the refugees. Four people shared how very happy they felt now that Christ lives in their hearts, and they thanked the church for the time they had spent with them. Now Pastor Perfecto has begun to disciple these new believers."
A group of the men from Cuba — Joaquin, Leonardo, David, and Rodolfo — are attending the local church in Upala, along with a group of women who received the Lord.
This month the Cuban refugees hope to continue their journey toward the U.S. They will leave by plane for El Salvador, where they will take buses to Mexico and on to the U.S.[Church of the Nazarene Mesoamerica Region]
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"SANU creates continuing education centre, welcomes library & IT team"
Southern Africa Nazarene University recently welcomed a team of library and information technology personnel from six Nazarene higher education institutions to implement new library and student management systems. The new systems will allow the university to begin offering continuing education courses.
"SANU creates continuing education centre, welcomes library & IT team"
Manzini, Swaziland
Southern Africa Nazarene University recently welcomed a team of 13 library and information technology personnel from eight Nazarene higher education institutions to implement new library and student management systems. The team members are from the USA, Great Britain, Malawi, and South Africa.
During her welcoming remarks, SANU Vice Chancellor Winnie Nhlengethwa said the implementation of these two projects is a result of a dream of that began more than 10 years when Sharon Bull, library director at Northwest Nazarene University, spent her sabbatical studying the libraries of the Church of the Nazarene colleges, universities, and seminaries on the Africa Region. Among the findings in her research was the significant lack of library systems to support the cataloguing and tracking of items. Nhlengethwa went on to say the university is committed to offering quality Christian higher education that matches global standards to produce transformational leaders who can effectively impact communities across the globe.
Two years ago, Nazarene Education Commissioner Dan Copp committed to partner with Global Information Technology (IT) in identifying and supporting strategic software solutions for Nazarene institutions without adequate solutions such as student information systems and library systems. The International Board of Education procured both the library and student management systems software and supplies. The support is coupled with training of the librarians at SANU, Nazarene Theological College–Central Africa, and Nazarene Theological College–South Africa.
"The spirit of collaboration is a joy to watch," said Tammy Condon, IBOE administrative director. "By the end of the first week, the trainers are taking a backseat and it is the SANU, NTC–South Africa, and NTC–Central Africa librarians who are taking the initiative with the catalogue project, strategizing for their libraries, and dreaming the way forward for their schools, while the global library team is dreaming of how to deploy [the library system] on other regions globally."
Condon extended her appreciation to the vice chancellor for allowing SANU to pilot the Open Source Automated Library System and Open Community University Administrative System.
Karen and John Porter
In response to the demand for distance and part-time education, the university is working to establish a Continuing Education Centre. Karen Jones-Porter will join SANU as director for continuing education with her husband, John Porter. The couple forms a strategic team to drive the establishment and roll-out of the continuing education programme. John will also assist in the establishment of the University Advancement and Church Relations Department in the university.
Karen is currently an adjunct associate professor at NNU, teaching Master of Business Administration courses. She also teaches at Trevecca Nazarene University in the Master of Organizational Leadership programme. Karen has also been a director of Adult & Professional Programs at NNU from 2009 to 2012. She holds a Doctor of Management in organizational leadership, Master of Arts in missiology, Master of Business Administration, and a Bachelor of Science in cross-cultural communications. Karen brings extensive experience in the teaching and facilitation of online courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
John was a minister in the Church of the Nazarene for 47 years before retiring in 2015. He has served on the Trevecca Nazarene University Board, District Ministerial Credentials Board, and District Advisory Board. He has been a district SDMI chairperson and assistant to the district superintendent in addition to serving many other community organisations.]Southern Africa Nazarene University]
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"Southern Florida District Hispanic churches challenged to be engaged, plan for future"
More than 250 Hispanic pastors, mission presidents, and leaders met at the Ebenezer Church of the Nazarene in Miami Gardens for the annual Southern Florida District Hispanic Mission Congress.
"Southern Florida District Hispanic churches challenged to be engaged, plan for future
Miami Gardens, Florida
Alma Iverson of the West Palm Beach Maranatha Church shows off the tamales she prepared.
More than 250 Hispanic pastors, mission presidents, and leaders met at the Ebenezer Church of the Nazarene January 16 for the annual Southern Florida District Hispanic Mission Congress. Ministry mission education was provided for adults, youth, and children.
District Superintendent Brian Wilson was the principle speaker. Under a large tent while speaking Spanish, he challenged all Hispanic churches to become fully involved in local and world mission ministries.
“From the 21 countries where the official language is Spanish, the Hispanic church in the USA is currently a safe gathering place for the immigrant Hispanic Christian," Wilson said. "It is a place where we celebrate God’s blessings and reproduce Hispanic cultural values, traditions, language, and worship styles, but it is also a place of missional sending, where God challenges us to take responsibility for the welfare of others who are not like us.”
Southern Florida District Superintendent Brian Wilson brings the keynote address to the Hispanic Mission Congress.
Wilson offered three decadal challenges for Hispanic churches in Southern Florida: Learn to share space with other cultures as we minister in multicultural communities; develop a sense of missional responsibility for non-Hispanics here and around the world; pass the baton of church leadership to the second generation of Hispanics.
Retiring District Mission President Dennis Moore gave his farewell address to Hispanic pastors and leaders. He said that they and their youth could become the spiritual and guiding forces for the Church of the Nazarene over the next 20 years.
Ardee Coolidge, the district’s Missions Spanish language coordinator, and host pastor Jorge Diaz organized the praise teams, open-air tent, and elaborate outdoor food festival for the event.
“The food from numerous Latin American countries was unbelievable," Moore said of the afternoon International Food Festival. "The preparation and authentic kiosks reflect the determination and creativity of our Hispanic churches.”
Winners of the International Food Festival were chosen for the best food, juice, desserts, and decorations.
The top churches winning the festival competition were Pahokee Spanish in first place, Carol City Ebenezer in second place, and West Palm Beach Maranatha in third place.
“The Hispanic Mission Congress is a great event to encourage and educate our Hispanic churches about missions and how the Great Commission is of utmost importance in this 21st century,” Moore said.[Church of the Nazarene Southern Florida District via NCN News submissions]
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Mesoamerica
"Flags of the Nations: Guyana"
Each week, the Church of the Nazarene's Global Ministry Center proudly flies a flag of one of the many nations in which the denomination is present in ministry. This week's flag: Guyana, Mesoamerica Region. Click "read more" for information on the country, including what year the denomination entered Guyana and how many Nazarenes are there today.
"Flags of the Nations: Guyana
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: Guyana
The Church of the Nazarene officially entered Guyana in 1946.
Guyana had a population of 735,554 in 2014. That same year, Guyana reported 48 Churches of the Nazarene, 47 of which had been officially organized. Guyana has 4,335 total members.
Located on the Mesoamerica Region, Guyana has one Phase 3 district and one Phase 2 district. For more information about the Mesoamerica Region, visit mesoamericaregion.org.
* = The weekly highlighted flag is raised on the middle of three poles in compliance with U.S. government protocols. It flies to the left of the GMC host-nation United States flag, which flies above the host-state flag of Kansas. The Christian flag flies on the third pole.
The Global Ministry Center is the mission and service hub of the Church of the Nazarene.
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USA/Canada
"Nazarenes in the News"
Nazarenes in the News is a compilation of online news articles featuring Nazarene churches or church members. In the news this week: Ontario church members escape burning house ... Indiana compassionate ministry center assists with foot washing, shoe distribution.
"Nazarenes in the News"
Nazarenes in the News is a compilation of online news articles featuring Nazarene churches or church members.
CTV News photo
Ontario church members escape burning house
Thornbury, Ontario, Canada
(CTV News, January 20) An 11-year-old boy from the Blue Mountains is being praised for taking steps that fire officials say helped saved his family from their burning home.
The fire broke out at the Wilson’s farmhouse Monday morning while the family was sleeping. The sound of the smoke alarm woke up James, who then quickly ran through the house to alert his family.
“I saw the fire in the library, so I went out and yelled at the top of the stairs for everybody to get up,” said James.
James’ yelling prompted his mother to jump into action.
“I knew by the way he was calling something was wrong,” said Kerri Wilson.
Soon enough, they were helping everyone out of the burning house. There were 13 people in the house at the time, including two infants and two seniors.
For the rest of the story and video about the Church of the Nazarene members, click here.
Indy Star photo
Indiana compassionate ministry center assists with foot washing, shoe distribution
Indianapolis, Indiana
(Indy Star, January 15) Madi, a smiling 8-year-old student, swung her bare feet back and forth above the basin of water today, and giggled at her friend who sat nearby.
"Will this tickle?" she asked Katie Gilson, a staff assistant for Gov. Mike Pence.
"It might tickle a little," Gilson told the girl as she laughed and splashed her feet into the water.
Gilson washed Madi's feet with Dora the Explorer body wash that smelled like cherries and rubbed them dry with a blue cloth. Gilson then helped Madi put on a new pair of socks and a sparkly new pair of gym shoes.
State employees, including Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann, washed the feet of about 150 children and gave them new pairs of shoes and socks at (the Church of the Nazarene's) Shepherd Community Center on the east side.
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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"Madelyn Hurn remembered"
Madelyn Hurn, widow of retired General Superintendent Raymond Hurn, passed away January 11. She was 93.
"Madelyn Hurn remembered"
Olathe, Kansas
Madelyn Hurn, widow of retired General Superintendent Raymond Hurn, passed away January 11 at age 93.
She was born February 13, 1922, in Stafford, Kansas, the third of four children. Madelyn attended Bresee College, where she met her husband. The couple was married December 30, 1941, and began holding weekend revival meetings where Madelyn would play the Vibraharp and Raymond played trombone.
Madelyn supported Raymond through prayer ministry as he pastored churches in Hays, Kansas; Tulsa, Oklahoma; Atlanta, Georgia; Norman, Oklahoma; and Medford, Oregon. In 1959, Raymond was elected superintendent of the West Texas District. He served in the position for nine years until the couple moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where Raymond worked in the Department of Home Missions (now the USA/Canada Regional Office).
He went on to be elected general superintendent, serving from 1985 to 1993. The couple then retired to Aberdeen Village in Olathe, where Madelyn continued her ministry by visiting those who were ill or new to the community to ease their transition.
Raymond passed away in 2007. Madelyn is survived by two daughters, Connie Isbell and Jacque Oliver; grandchildren, Baraq Isbell (Suzie), Amy Condrey (Jeff), and Danielle Prince; and two great-grandchildren. Also surviving are many cousins, nieces, nephews, and their families.
A funeral was held January 15.
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"Approaching the end: Westphal's reach extends beyond PLNU basketball"
Point Loma Nazarene University women's head basketball coach Bill Westphal will retire at the end of the season after leading the program — and impacting lives — for more than 16 years.
"Approaching the end: Westphal's reach extends beyond PLNU basketball"
San Diego, California
Coaches often move from college program to college program quite frequently. Some coaches leave because they see greener pastures somewhere else; some coaches leave because of the chance to build something different and new; finally, other coaches are given no option but to leave because of the nature of collegiate sports and its need for immediate success. But, as with most rules, there is an exception. This is where we find Point Loma Nazarene University women's head basketball coach Bill Westphal. He has spent the last 17 years building one of the most successful programs in Point Loma's history, amassing a record of 350-176 and making the playoffs in each season.
As with all good things, however, they must come to an end at some point. Westphal announced prior to the 2015-2016 year this will be his final season at the helm of the PLNU women's basketball program. This marks the conclusion to the significant portion of Westphal's life spent in the world of basketball since his early childhood days, but he appears ready to let the game go.
"Golf, God, and grandkids," he says in his typical easy-going manner when asked what he is going to do when he retires. "Although, probably not in that order," he adds quickly with a wink.
Westphal began his basketball career at Aviation High in Redondo Beach, California. He was recruited to play his collegiate years at the University of Southern California (USC) and went on to tour the country with the original Athletes in Action basketball team. From there, Westphal decided to pursue his high school career goal and got into the world of coaching.
"It was really my high school basketball coach that got me to have the desire to coach," Westphal said. "I was a teacher's assistant for him my senior year of high school, and I asked him a ton of questions about basketball and coaching. He told me to get a physical education degree and then I could be a teacher and a coach just like he was, so that's what I did when I was at USC."
After the Athletes in Action stint, he accepted his first job as a high school teacher and coach.
Westphal then went on to coach at the college and professional levels, with his most successful seasons coming at the helm of the Grand Canyon University men's basketball team. He led the Lopes to a two-year mark of 55-15 and a birth in the NAIA national championship game both seasons. Those teams were also ranked No. 1 in the NAIA polls for multiple weeks during his tenure.
After years of coaching at all different levels and running one of the most successful basketball camps in the state of Arizona, the Westphal Brothers Basketball Camp, which he ran with his brother, NBA championship coach Paul Westphal, Bill decided to make the move out to a small college in San Diego called Point Loma.
He accepted the job of men's associate head coach in 1999, but then later went on to take over the women's program in 2000, where he has spent the last 16 years. He has made the playoffs in each one of his years at the helm of the women's basketball team, even doing so in the few years of the probationary period when PLNU was moving from the NAIA to the NCAA.
Westphal, though, is a reflective man. He does not dwell on his accomplishments nor does he share them often. He says he has learned many things over his career, most of which having to do more with life and less with basketball. When asked what the three most important lessons he has learned as a coach over the years were, he took a moment to think.
"The first thing I would have to say I have learned is that it is always about more than winning," Westphal said. "Win/loss records are nearly always forgotten, but relationships that are built throughout the season are lasting. The relationships I build with my players, the relationships they build between one another, and the relationship the team and the individual players build with Lord are always the most important things.
"A lot of my players come back to visit me from time to time and it is so exciting for me to hear about what they are doing now, where they are living, and their new families. I always love to see them interacting with their children; that is what matters."
Westphal lingers on the first lesson, eventually describing a journey he has been through his entire career, but especially at PLNU.
"I have spent my years coaching trying to discover what it means to be a grace-based coach," he said. "Every year, I discover a little bit more about what this looks like and how it should be implanted in this life. Now, I can't give you an exact definition of what a grace-based coach is because I am still discovering the answer to that myself, but I can tell what it is not. It is not being legalistic or dictatorial. A lot of the girls think I am too easy on them or don't push them as hard as I should, but I just tell them 'Well, you should have seen me 20 years ago. You would have hated me.' I used to think fear was the greatest motivator, but over time I have realized that is not the case at all. Love is the greatest motivator."
Madison West, a junior guard on the PLNU women's basketball team, affirmed this.
"Coach Westphal always tells us to live loved," she said. "For the last two seasons, he has always emphasized this. Often, during the season in the middle of the heat of league, he reminds us basketball is just a small portion of life; it is something he has realized over the years and thus emphasizes it with us. It all stems from a verse in 1 John 4:16 that he wants to live by and challenges us to live by. The verse talks about how God is love, and whoever lives in love, lives in God. So in everything we do, we should abide in God, therefore living loved."
Finally, Westphal arrived at the last of the three lessons, using a quote from basketball coach John Wooden.
"Your players are good enough if you are capable of showing them how," Westphal said. "Last year, our team started out 1-6 amidst great expectations. I tried different line-ups, different strategies, whatever. None of it seemed to be working over those 10 games. But I would sit in my office and tell myself my players are good enough as long as I can show them how. I didn't blame them or point out all of their mistakes, I just constantly worked to figure out how to show the team they were good enough."
He tinkered with the line-up until he found a formula that seemed to work and eventually received at an at-large bid to Regionals, where the Sea Lions upset the No. 1 team in the nation, Alaska–Anchorage, on their home floor, 64-63.
With a few more games before the end of the season, Westphal is going to give his team everything he has before he says goodbye for one final time. Regardless of the outcome of the season, wins and losses have never defined a successful season for Westphal. That, as he said, is always forgotten. What will not be forgotten is the impact Westphal has had on PLNU's campus and his players.
"Live loved," Madison West says. That, above everything else, is the legacy Westphal will leave once he retires.[Point Loma Nazarene University]
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"Olivet announces ONU Global"
Olivet Nazarene University announced the establishment of ONU Global, a program that oversees the university’s School of Graduate and Continuing Studies and administers non-traditional learning.
"Olivet announces ONU Global"
Bourbonnais, Illinois
Olivet Nazarene University announced the establishment of ONU Global, a program that oversees the university’s School of Graduate and Continuing Studies and administers non-traditional learning.
ONU Global has locations in Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan, offering more than 30 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. Students may complete programs on-ground, online, or a combination of both. With approval for online programming in 46 states, ONU Global offers 14 programs fully online.
Partnered with more than 200 organizations across the U.S., ONU Global has more than 150 learning locations, including five regional centers. ONU Global has a presence in Hong Kong along with partnerships in China, the Czech Republic, South Africa, Dubai UAE, and Israel. Students affiliated with partner organizations receive a tuition discount, access to professional development seminars, use of ONU facilities, and additional benefits.
“Thousands of students are currently enrolled in the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies, and many new students are starting every day, creating rapid growth in Olivet’s non-traditional programming,” said Ryan Spittal, vice president for strategic expansion. “The purpose of ONU Global is to continue expanding the missional impact and quality programming of Olivet. Over the next five years, we expect continued significant advances in our operation, including new programming and locations that expand opportunities for students.”
ONU Global offers programs in health care, education, business, engineering, criminal justice, and ministry. Spittal pointed out most ONU Global students are non-residential, non-traditional students.
“ONU Global provides a wide range of highly respected programs that are recognized in the industry for preparing students to compete in the job market and our constantly changing world,” Spittal said. “Olivet has become a leader in the Christian non-traditional learning environment, and ONU Global provides the opportunity for growing numbers of individuals to access Olivet programming.”
Additional information about ONU Global and Olivet’s School of Graduate and Continuing Studies is available at graduate.olivet.edu.[Olivet 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 January 18-22, 2015.
"In Memoriam: January 22, 2016"
The following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received January 18-22, 2016.
Clarence Barror, 82, of Plant City, Florida, passed away January 13. He was a retired minister, serving in Virginia, Ohio, and Florida. He is survived by his wife, Gloria (Collette) Barror.
Kenneth Dossey, 80, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away January 14. He was a retired minister, serving in Indiana.
Larry Hoffpauir, 89, of Lake Charles, Louisiana, passed away January 19. He was a retired minister, serving in Louisiana. He was preceded in death by his wife, Clonia Hoffpauir, in 2014.
Sergio Mayorga, 63, of Blue Island, Illinois, passed away January 18. He was a minister, serving at Blue Island Spanish Church of the Nazarene. He is survived by his wife, Heriberta Mayorga.
Betty (Moore) Mays, 81, of Minford, Ohio, passed away January 19. She was the widow of retired minister W. Earl Mays Sr., who served in Kentucky and Ohio. W. Earl Mays Sr. passed away in 1994.
Novice (Hinton) Morris, 86, of Mount Vernon, Ohio, passed away January 14. She was a retired Mount Vernon Nazarene University employee who served as assistant to five of the university's presidents. She was preceded in death by her husband, Cecil Morris. (story)
Christina (Taca) Nutt, 53, of Weatherford, Texas, passed away January 13. She was the wife of minister Randy Nutt, who previously served in Texas.
Gerald Radabaugh, 74, of Niles, Michigan, passed away January 19. He was a minister, previously serving in Michigan. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth (Mosey) Radabaugh.
Barbara Towler, 78, of Ontario, California, passed away September 10, 2015. She was the wife of retired minister Calvin Towler, who served in Oregon and California.
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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"GMC employment opportunities"
Located in Lenexa, Kansas, the Global Ministry Center is the administrative, mission, and service hub for the Church of the Nazarene's ministries in 159 world areas. The following positions are available:
"Human Resources"
People are our most valued resource. Our committed employees are involved in "Making Christlike Disciples in the Nations" in 159 world areas.
The Global Ministry Center Human Resources Office professionals strive to deliver the highest possible service to our employees, and are responsible for the recruitment, placement and retention of qualified individuals to staff the ministry and administrative positions of the GMC. The many employee services include compensation and benefit administration, payroll, employment, employee relations, training, counseling, organizational communication and events, and workplace programs.
*Volunteer opportunities for GMC ministries are available now. Email bsikes@nazarene.org for details.
Employment Opportunities
Information Technology — Software Developer (Full-time)
Office: General Secretary
Ministry: Information Technology
Title: Software Developer
Description: Members of the software development team are primarily responsible for facilitating the ministry of the Global Ministry Center through the analysis, design, implementation, and support of software solutions.
To obtain additional information, please call 913-577-0500 and ask for Human Resources.
Location of our Positions
The GMC is the administrative hub for the Church of the Nazarene denominational ministries in 159 world areas. The GMC is conveniently located in Lenexa, Kansas, with easy access to I-35 and I-435 and within short driving distance to Kansas City International airport. All GMC positions report to this location.
Our Non-Discrimination Policy
The Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center offers equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, disability, race, religion, creed, sex, or veteran status. The Global Ministry Center is an “at will” employer.
Our Faith-Based Organization
We are a faith-based organization. Acceptance of our Christian Code of Conduct is required and membership in the Church of the Nazarene is required for certain positions. The GMC and applicable remote work sites are smoke-, alcohol-, and drug-free Christian workplaces.
Application Processing
Our Human Resources Office receives and processes many employment applications annually for a limited number of positions. While we regret that we cannot respond to each applicant, we do contact those individuals possessing the skills, education/training, and experience that best match the requirements of the open position for which the application was submitted.
An application must be completed by all applicants and an application must be completed for each position for which one wishes to be considered. Applications are retained for one year. Resumés are not necessary for entry-level positions, but they are preferred for professional level positions.
Applying for Employment with the GMC
Application forms may be requested by calling 913-577-0500, emailing bsikes@nazarene.org, or obtained in person from Human Resources at the Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center, 17001 Prairie Star Parkway, Lenexa, Kansas, 66220, Monday through Friday from 8:00 to 4:30 U.S. Central Time. Completed applications may be mailed or emailed to the attention of the Human Resources Office.
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"Churches commit to address human trafficking on Freedom Sunday"
On February 14, Nazarene congregations around the globe are committing to stand against human trafficking through participation in Freedom Sunday. Last year, more than 200 congregations worldwide participated in the event through prayer, worship, preaching, and support of church-based anti-trafficking ministries.
"Churches commit to address human trafficking on Freedom Sunday"
Global Ministry Center
On February 14, Nazarene congregations around the globe are committing to stand against human trafficking through participation in Freedom Sunday. Last year, more than 200 congregations worldwide participated in the event through prayer, worship, preaching, and support of church-based anti-trafficking ministries.
This is the third year the Church of the Nazarene will join other denominations within the Wesleyan Holiness Consortium to observe Freedom Sunday. In 2014, the Church of the Nazarene's Board of General Superintendents endorsed the Wesleyan Holiness Consortium’s Declaration for Freedom, a document drafted in part by Nazarene Theological Seminary President Carla Sunberg and other Nazarene leaders. The Wesleyan Holiness Consortium chose the first Sunday of Lent for Freedom Sunday as a way to focus on the fast spoken of in Isaiah 58:6: “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?” (NIV).
While precise numbers are difficult to verify, expert estimates suggest at least 20 million children, women, and men are in bondage today through a criminal industry that profits approximately US$150 billion each year through slave labor. Human trafficking is a problem that affects nearly every country in the world.
Jamie Gates, director of the Center for Justice and Reconciliation at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, California, says the church has an integral role to play in the fight against human trafficking.
“It has mostly been the church who has been paying attention to human trafficking over the past few years,” he said. “A great example … was the [U.S.] Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000. It was church people that got that off the ground.”
This year, the university's Center for Pastoral Leadership and the Center for Justice and Reconciliation are partnering to encourage churches on their district to participate in Freedom Sunday through Freedom Jars. Inspired by a project started last year by Bakersfield, California, First Church of the Nazarene, the jars will be used to collect money to benefit PLNU’s Beauty for Ashes fund, which supports scholarships for survivors of trafficking.
“The Beauty for Ashes Scholarship Fund started as a dream … to help survivors find a new life,” said Kim Berry Jones, program director for PLNU’s Center for Justice and Reconciliation. “We welcomed our first survivor this January to campus. It’s exciting for all of us — she can’t believe it’s really happening, and we are honored to have her as a student at PLNU. … You can imagine the kind of tenacity it takes for someone to pursue a university education. We’ve been amazed at the resiliency of the survivors we are talking to who are currently considering applying to the university or are in the application process.”
On Freedom Sunday, congregations are encouraged to take a Freedom Offering, which will support church-based ministries, including a mobile intervention clinic in Moldova, ministries focused on at-risk children, church-based prevention education, scholarships for trafficking survivors, and a drop-in center in Mumbai, India.
Becky Sukanen, a Nazarene missionary to Moldova, is working with Pastor Sergey Talaly to reach out to victims of sex trafficking in Moldova through a mobile intervention clinic that will travel to different areas in the country to provide health care and referral services to women who are being prostituted.
“We started out with an a phone survey asking girls if they wanted out of the life and if they had any health concerns, spiritual concerns, etc.,” Sukanen said. “After research into it, we found … that there was a gap in services that the Church of the Nazarene could step up and provide. We also wanted them to get a chance to meet us face to face so that we could share Christ's love with each of them and start a long-term trust-building relationship with the girls as they start to realize their need to get out.
“It is my hope that we will be able to see men and women set free from sexual slavery, intervene on their behalf, and prevent this from happening in families that are at risk, all in Christ's loving name and all with long-term holistic healing and restoration in mind.”
In Ukraine, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries recently partnered with A21, an international anti-trafficking organization, to host training for children’s ministry leaders. According to Andriy Takhtay, NCM coordinator in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) Region, the event was an eye-opener for participants.
One of the children’s ministry leaders from Kyiv, Ukraine, reported, “After returning from the conference, I have surfed the pages of the children from our Sunday School in such social networks as Facebook. I realized that they unknowingly published a lot of information about themselves, which makes them potential victims. The very next meeting of the Sunday School, we talked about the danger of falling into trafficking and about precaution steps. Our kids not only removed all information about themselves that makes them vulnerable, but also told their friends about the possible danger.”
Stephen Gualberto, Church of the Nazarene field strategy coordinator for the Philippines and Micronesia, says human trafficking prevention and education through local churches will be a key focus in the Philippines beginning this year. The West Mindnao District in the Philippines recently hosted a forum on human trafficking for pastors from a variety of denominations in Zamboanga City, which is a gateway for trafficking people from the Philippines to Malaysia.
In Mumbai, India, the Sharon Bethel Church of the Nazarene is in the beginning stages of opening a drop-in center for children of women who are prostituted in a nearby red-light district. The church was inspired by God’s words in Jeremiah 29:11.
“Every woman in the red light area is God’s child, whether she is forced, trapped, or sold,” Sanjay Gawali said. “God never planned for them to be into prostitution, but He does have plans for these women to have a wonderful life without harm and destruction, and we [the church] could be a channel of help for these women to find prosperity in life, better than prostitution.”
Churches can sign up to participate in Freedom Sunday and download free resources, including a bulletin and prayer resources in both English and Spanish, at ncm.org/freedomsunday.[Nazarene Compassionate Ministries]
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Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, February 24, 2016 "The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him."[Psalm 24:1 NLT]
PRAISES:
The Rains Came
For several months we prayed for God to bring rain to Papua New Guinea (PNG). Reports from PNG say that they are receiving an abundance of rain, to the point of overflow. Thank you, Lord. Read more in the Asia-Pacific Region's news.
David Phillips
Missionary David Phillip, after having undergone cancer treatments for the past several months says that the latest CT scan was clear, he is done with chemo, there is no evidence of cancer, and he has been cleared to return to work. Praise the Lord! David and his wife, Naomi, serve in the Southeast Asia Field on the Asia-Pacific Region.
PRAY FOR:
GLOBAL MINISTRY REQUESTS
Cyclone Winston
A path of destruction and death was left in Fiji after Cyclone Winston blew through on February 19 and 20. The island nation of Tonga also sustained damage as the cyclone passed by. Pray for everyone who was affected by Cyclone Winston, one of the strongest in recorded history for the Southern Hemisphere. Read the latest updates on the aftermath of the storm in the Asia-Pacific Region's news article.
Nazarene World Week of Prayer 2016
The annual Nazarene World Week of Prayer (NWWP) begins this weekend on Sunday, February 28 and continues through Saturday, March 5. To get you started, below are requests from each world region and for the Persecuted Church. You will find more requests on the NMI website by clicking here.
Pray with Verne Ward, director of Global Mission for these missionaries who are part of the March Prayer Focus:
Audrey Riggins
Audrey Riggins, the 17-month-old daughter of missionaries Scot and Jill Riggins, had an echocardiogram that revealed a small PDA (patent ductus arteriosus) and a slightly enlarged left side of the heart. Unfortunately, Audrey was congested so the procedure to correct the PDA has been postponed until March 8th. Please pray for little Audrey and the entire Riggins family, who serve in the Philippines
Mary Beth Giles
Pray for missionary Mary Beth Giles who will see a vascular surgeon on February 25 to discuss treatment options for an ongoing health issue. Ask God to give Mary Beth guidance and peace. She and her husband, Dave, minister in Poland.
BEREAVEMENT
Family of Berge Najarian
Retired missionary Berge Najarian passed away on February 19 due to complications following hip surgery. Please be in prayer for the Najarian family as they deal with the unexpected passing of Berge. He and his late wife, Doris, served in Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, Antigua, Grenada, and Zambia. Per Berge’s request, there will be no former service.
Thank you for praying.
Do not work so hard for Christ, that you make no time to pray to Christ. He is the lifeblood of all prayer, all work, all being, all communion[Ann Voskamp, A Holy Experiment]
Prayer Mobilization Line Wednesday, February 24, 2016 “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.”[Psalm 24:1 NLT]
PRAISES
The Rains Came
For several months we prayed for God to bring rain to Papua New Guinea (PNG). Reports from PNG say that they are receiving an abundance of rain, to the point of overflow. Thank you, Lord.
As missionary doctor Erin Meier says in her blog post, "If you are still praying for rain for us here in the Highlands of PNG, it would be ok to stop." Read more in the Asia-Pacific Region’s news.
David Phillips
Missionary David Phillips has undergone a series of chemotherapy treatments for the past sixmonths after he was diagnosed with stage 3c cancer. Good news! David reported this week that the latest CT scan was clear, he is done with chemo, and there is no evidence of cancer. Praise the Lord! Pray for David as he works to regain strength and overcome lingering numbness from the treatments. He and his wife, Naomi, thank everyone for their prayers!
The Phillips serve in the Southeast Asia Field on the Asia-Pacific Region.
PRAY FOR:
Cyclone Winston
A path of destruction and death was left in Fiji after Cyclone Winston blew through on February 19 and 20. The island nation of Tonga also sustained damage as the cyclone passed by. In Fiji, reports are that some Nazarene pastors were reached and they are ok, but communications have not been established with those on outer islands. Pray for everyone who was affected by Cyclone Winston, one of the strongest in recorded history for the Southern Hemisphere. Read more in the Asia-Pacific Region’s news article.
Nazarene World Week of Prayer 2016
The annual Nazarene World Week of Prayer (NWWP) begins this weekend on Sunday, February 28 and continues through Saturday, March 5. To get you started, below are requests from each world region and for the Persecuted Church. You will find more requests on the NMI website by clicking here.
• Africa Region—Pray for God to show the church in Africa how they can give witness to the gospel in major cities.
• Asia-Pacific Region—Chinese Ministries Field: Two training centers are offering classes to men and women who are called to serve the church. Pray for courage and perseverance for the students and instructors.
• Eurasia Region—Refugees, refugees, refugees! Please pray for the refugees and the mitigation of their situation. Please pray for a cease-fire in Syria. Even though it is bitterly cold in Germany, 1,000 to 3,000 more refugees arrive daily. Their situation is heartbreaking and devastating. Please pray for these men, women, and children. Pray for
safety for the refugees as they enter new places.
• Mesoamerica Region—Pray for more workers for the harvest. Pray that children and youth would respond to a cross-cultural call to serve and that their churches will train and send them to be world changers.
• South America Region—Pray for the new leadership in Brazil:
Manuel Lima, Brazil sub regional director Luis Biazon, Brazil Central field strategy coordinator Rubens Rodrigues, Brazil North field strategy coordinator Wagner de Sousa, Brazil South field strategy coordinator
• USA/Canada Region—Pray for the Ethnic Facilitators and Strategic Readiness Teams as they pray, strategize, and implement a plan of action among their ethnic group in the USA/Canada Region.
• Persecuted Church— Zimbabwe: "Officials threatened to arrest us," said a Nazarene JESUS Film team member in Zimbabwe. "We were harassed and told to leave the area even though we had all the required documents and a letter of permission from the village head. We were told to be gone or our equipment would be confiscated. We complied and left the village. Please join with us in prayer for this community, that we might find favor to return and share God's love."
NWWP is an annual event occurring during the week that includes the World Day of Prayer (the first Friday in March). During this week Nazarenes dedicate themselves to interceding for our church and our world. Encourage your congregation to join you in prayer during NWWP.
March Missionary Prayer Focus
Pray with Verne Ward, director of Global Mission for these missionaries who are part of the March Prayer Focus:
Audrey Riggins
Audrey Riggins, the 17-month-old daughter of missionaries Scot and Jill Riggins, had an echocardiogram that revealed a small PDA (patent ductus arteriosus) and a slightly enlarged left side of the heart. Unfortunately, Audrey was congested so the procedure to correct the PDA has been postponed until March 8th. Please pray for little Audrey and the entire Riggins family, who serve in the Philippines.
Mary Beth Giles
Pray for missionary Mary Beth Giles who will see a vascular surgeon on February 25 to discuss treatment options for an ongoing health issue. Ask God to give Mary Beth guidance and peace. She and her husband, Dave, minister in Poland.
BEREAVEMENT
Family of Berge Najarian
Retired missionary Berge Najarian passed away on February 19 due to complications following hip surgery. Please be in prayer for the Najarian family as they deal with the unexpected passing of Berge. He and his late wife, Doris, served in Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, Antigua, Grenada, and Zambia. Per Berge’s request, there will be no former service.
Thanks for praying!
"Do not work so hard for Christ, that you make no time to pray to Christ. He is the lifeblood of all prayer, all work, all being, all communion."[Ann Voskamp, A Holy Experiment]
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Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, February 17, 2016 "The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him."[Psalm 24:1 NLT]
PRAISES:
“A Glimpse” Television
Praise God that a new Nazarene television program has overcome significant challenges in getting main, secular stations to put it on the air began broadcasting February 15 on Arabic MTV. The program, “A Glimpse”, will be on the air through the Easter season giving viewers in Middle Eastern countries a look into the life of Jesus.
Pray for Middle East Broadcast Director Ayman Kafrouny and his team as they work on an Arabic subtitled version so MTV can use it in North America, Australia, and other parts of the world.
Chapel Factory
The Church of the Nazarene in Haiti is growing faster than churches can be built. In an effort to provide places of worship for Haitian Nazarenes, Work & Witness Haiti developed the Chapel Factory. Missionaries Darin and Tonya Kucey say, “Praise God for the beginning of the construction of the new Chapel Factory. We expect the construction to be done by March.” Pray with the team in Haiti for the completion of the Chapel Factory. Read more and find a link to videos about the Chapel Factory project in theNCN News article.
Refugee Response
Give praise and glory to God for the way three fields on the Eurasia Region are putting together a plan to reach out to refugees. Each field represents a phase in the journey of the refugees: the countries of origin, the countries of transition, and the destination countries. With help from Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, the Eurasia Region is responding to physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
PRAY FOR:
GLOBAL MINISTRY REQUESTS
Eurasia Prayers
Join with Eurasia Regional Director Arthur Snijders in prayer for:
The new volunteers and missionaries who are coming to our region, especially in the Central Europe Field
Missionaries who have aging parents back home and who are torn between calling and care for the family
The missionary volunteers in India. We are grateful for them and ask for prayers for their ministries.
February Missionary Prayers
Missionaries who are part of the February Prayer Focus have sent in the following requests. What a privilege it is to pray for:
Scot and Tyronza Pringle, serving in Papua New Guinea
Pray for our adult children, Keara and Gavin, and our niece, Taylor Brooke.
Pray for us that we will seek the Lord’s will in all things.
Darin and Tonya Kucey, serving in Haiti
Pray that the Lord would bring more teams to Haiti to help support the amazing growth in the country.
Please join us in asking the Lord to provide the financial means to attend the Mesoamerica Regional Missionary Retreat this May. The flights are the responsibility of the missionaries while the Region covers the cost of the accommodations.
Ask the Lord for stability and safety in Haiti during the coming political elections.
Pray for the Lord’s intervention in the spread of the Zika virus. Pray particularly for the protection of the Kucey family from this virus. Karissa continues to suffer from Zika’s “sister virus” chickengunya that she contracted two years ago.Click here to read more requests from Darin and Tonya.
Nazarene World Week of Prayer 2016
The annual Nazarene World Week of Prayer (NWWP) begins on February 28 and continues through March 5. Praise reports, answers to requests from last year’s NWWP, and new ways to pray for missionaries and ministries around the world can be found on the NMI website by clicking here. Encourage your congregation to join you in prayer during NWWP.
PML CORRECTION
In the February 10 edition of PML an error was made in the prayer request for the family of Carol Kratz Bennett. Carol’s first, late husband was James (Jim), not Eldon. Eldon is the name of Carol and Jim’s son. We apologize for this error and any confusion it caused. Thank you for your continued prayers for Carol’s family.
Thank you for praying.
The most eloquent prayer is the prayer through hands that heal and bless.[Billy Graham]
NMI Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, February 17, 2016 “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.”[Psalm 24:1 NLT]
PRAISES
“A Glimpse” Television
For months the broadcast team in the Middle East has been working on a new television program but they faced significant challenges in convincing the main, secular television stations to broadcast it. Arabic MTV said they would air the program (“A Glimpse”) but asked for a large sum of money to do so and that wasn’t in the budget said Ayman Kafrouny, Nazarene broadcast director in the Middle East. “But, as usual, God has His own ways to provide,” says Ayman. “On February 15 at 6:10pm, the first episode of “A Glimpse” was aired on MTV and will continue through the Easter season.” Praise God!
Pray for Ayman and his team as they work on an Arabic subtitled version so MTV can use it in North America, Australia, and other parts of the world.
Chapel Factory
The Church of the Nazarene in Haiti is growing faster than churches can be built and more than 1,000 church buildings are needed now. In an effort to provide places of worship for Haitian Nazarenes, Work & Witness Haiti developed the Chapel Factory. At the Chapel Factory, steel columns and trusses are built then delivered to a local congregation who has prepared the land that will house their new building.
Missionaries Darin and Tonya Kucey say, “Praise God for the beginning of the construction of the new Chapel Factory the first week of December. We expect the construction to be done by March.” Pray with the team in Haiti for the completion of the Chapel Factory and for the new congregations as they wait for their new buildings.
Refugee Response
Give praise and Glory to God for the way three fields on the Eurasia Region are putting together a plan to reach out to refugees. Each field represents a phase in the journey of the refugees: the countries of origin, the countries of transition, and the destination countries. With help from Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, the Region is responding to physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
PRAY FOR:
Eurasia Prayers
Join with Eurasia Regional Director Arthur Snijders in prayer for:
• The new volunteers and missionaries who are coming to our region, especially in the Central Europe Field
• Missionaries who have aging parents back home and who are torn between calling and care for the family
• The missionary volunteers in India. We are grateful for them and ask for prayers for their ministries.
February Missionary Prayers
Missionaries who are part of the February Prayer Focus have sent in the following requests. What a privilege it is to pray for:
Scot and Tyronza Pringle, serving in Papua New Guinea
Pray for our adult children, Keara and Gavin, and our niece, Taylor Brooke.
Pray for us that we will seek the Lord’s will in all things.
Darin and Tonya Kucey, serving in Haiti
• Tonya has started more advanced language classes. Please pray that God would give added grace as she progresses in the goal of speaking Creole.
• Pray for Cory as he works two jobs to try and help with expenses while studying at Olivet Nazarene University. He is walking by faith that the Lord will provide for his tuition and living expenses. He has enough to cover his first semester.
• Pray that the Lord would bring more teams to Haiti to help support the amazing growth in the country.
• Thank you for praying for Ryan and his final semester at St. Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. He graduated with his Business Degree January 23rd. Please continue to pray for him as he will be making decisions regarding his future.
• Please join us in asking the Lord to provide the financial means to attend the Mesoamerica Regional Missionary Retreat this May. The flights are the responsibility of the missionaries while the Region covers the cost of the accommodations.
• Ask the Lord for stability and safety in Haiti during the coming political elections.
• Pray for the Lord’s intervention in the spread of the Zika virus. Pray particularly for the protection of the Kucey family from this virus. Karissa continues to suffer from Zika’s “sister virus” chickengunya that she contracted 2 years ago. Prayer for healing would be appreciated for her.
• Seek the Lord with us to locate effective strategy for the significant growth in the Church of the Nazarene in Haiti and the additional demand for construction of churches.
• Pray for wisdom and direction in the area of health, fitness and nutrition. Tonya has continued to struggle with various health issues and would covet additional prayer for her physical restoration.
• Join us in asking the Lord for his guidance and direction for discipling the new followers of Christ through the JESUS Film.
• Pray for our Work & Witness staff—Colson, Fatil, Asnet, Wilio, and Michel—as well as the 35 other contracted masons, welders, painters, etc.
• Ask the Lord for his blessing on the other Nazarene missionaries in Haiti and ministries:
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, Haiti Water Project, Haiti Hot Lunch Program, the 43 JESUS Film teams and the Seminary.
• Pray for revival in Haiti.
• Petition the Lord for his protection upon the Kucey family as they live and travel throughout the country; that no weapon forged against them will prosper.
• Pray for Christ’s covering over the Kucey marriage and ministry.
• Ask the Lord to increase His level of love in the lives of Darin, Tonya and Karissa for Haiti and its people.
• Pray for the teams scheduled to come in 2016 and for the Lord to send more teams to Haiti to help with the tremendous needs here.
• Please pray for Karissa and all aspects of her life—spiritually, physically, mentally, emotionally, and academically.
Nazarene World Week of Prayer 2016
The annual Nazarene World Week of Prayer (NWWP) focuses on the work of God through Nazarene missionaries and ministries. NWWP begins on February 28 and continues through March 5. Praise reports, answers to requests from last year’s NWWP, and new ways for missionaries and ministries around the world can be found on the NMI website and some will be included in the e-mail and printable editions of PML next week. Encourage your congregation to join you in prayer during NWWP.
PML CORRECTION
In the February 10 edition of PML an error was made in the prayer request for the family of Carol Kratz Bennett. Carol’s first, late husband was James (Jim), not Eldon. Eldon is the name of Carol and Jim’s son. We apologize for this error and any confusion it caused. Thank you for your continued prayers for Carol’s family.
Thanks for praying!
“The most eloquent prayer is the prayer through hands that heal and bless.”[Billy Graham]
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Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, February 10, 2016 "The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid?
The Lord protects me from danger—so why should I tremble?"[Psalm 27:1 NLT]
PRAISES:
Visa Renewed!
The missionary family whose visa renewal had been rejected applied to enter an appeal. Last week they received word that their visa has been renewed for another year. Praise God!
PRAY FOR:
GLOBAL MINISTRY REQUESTS
Papua New Guinea Challenges
An urgent request has been received from one of the team members in Papua New Guinea asking for strength, wisdom and guidance as the team carries out challenging tasks ahead.
Click here to read more in the Printable PML.
Victims of Taiwan Earthquake
A powerful earthquake struck southern Taiwan on February 6. The Church of the Nazarene has 43 churches in the country. Leaders say, that to the best of their knowledge, no Nazarenes were injured. Pray for everyone who has been affected by the quake.
Endless Possibilities
After a recent World Mission Broadcast training in the Democratic Republic of Congo, missionaries Gavin and Jill Fothergill write, “From 5-minute devotional thoughts, to 30-minute shows highlighting music and relevant topics, our possibilities are endless in sharing the Gospel. In Lubumbashi alone, we have 14 radio stations.” Please keep this growing ministry in your prayers.
January Missionary Prayers
Missionaries who are part of the January Prayer Focus have sent in the following requests. What a privilege it is to pray for:
In-Kwon and Jeong-Seok Kim, serving in Tonga
Our home assignment in New Zealand and Korea starts in April. Please pray that we will effectively share our mission report to many churches. Pray that God will provide Bill and Shirley with wisdom and strength as they look after the Mango Tree Centre while we are away.
Our youngest son, David, suffers from frequent migraines. Please pray for his healing.
The Zika Virus is epidemic in Tonga and lives are threatened. Please pray for God to protect the Tongan people from the Zika Virus as well as Chikungunya and Dengue Fever.
Nate and Becky Strawser, serving in the United Kingdom
Family:
Pray for our son who is having some difficulties at school.
Pray for time together as a whole family.
Ministry:
Pray for the “Blend” coffee shop ministry. Pray for those we work with as well as those we hope to minister to.
Pray for Jubilee House, a refuge for women and children escaping domestic abuse. Pray for the core team of volunteers and upcoming meetings with local businesses, as we try to recruit financial partners within our local community.
Pray for the preparations for our fundraising event in May.
Josh and Shannon Herndon, serving in Spain
Please pray that the process of obtaining visas to move to our new work in Greece is successful, painless, and quick, if it is the Lord's will.
Please pray for open doors of ministry in in Greece, especially in partnering with the Greek Orthodox Church.
Please pray for the economic situation in Greece, the refugee crisis that continues to pass through Greek borders, and the human trafficking problem that persists in that part of the world.
Click here to read more requests from Josh and Shannon. Click here to read more about their upcoming move to Greece in the NCN News article.
Sean and Rachael Dundar, serving in Ireland
Please pray for:
Our continued transition into this new culture
A successful semester of classwork
Bethany Lisburn Church of the Nazarene, its growth and prosperityClick here to read more requests from the Dundars in Printable PML.
General Superintendents
Please pray for the General Superintendents who are traveling this month:
Jerry D. Porter
J. K. Warrick
Eugénio Duarte
David W. Graves
David A. Busic
Gustavo A. Crocker
GLOBAL CONCERNS – BODY OF CHRIST
Drought
After a year of unusually low rainfall, the drought in Zimbabwe has become so severe that officials declared a state of disaster across much of the country, the BBC reported February 5. Additionally, Ethiopia is experiencing its worst drought in decades, with more than 10 million people needing emergency aid. (Out of Africa Newsletter)
BEREAVEMENT
Family of Carol Kratz Bennett
Retired missionary Carol Kratz Bennett passed away on January 29, 2016. Carol, along with her first late husband, Eldon, served in Brazil for 29 years. A memorial service will be held at Bethany First Church of the Nazarene in Oklahoma on March 19. Pray for the Bennett family during this time.
Thank you for praying.
Until God opens the next door, praise Him in the hallway![Author unknown]
NMI Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, February 10, 2016 “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.”[Psalm 24:1 NLT]
PRAISE:
Renewed!
God heard and answered your prayers for the missionaries whose visa renewal applications were denied. The family received a registered letter from the government saying that they have been granted a one-year extension. The letter also said that the extension was based on the excellent service they are providing to their community. Praise the Lord! Thank you, Jesus, for answering our prayers and that this missionary family can continue the work you’ve called them to for another year.
PRAY FOR:
Papua New Guinea Challenges
An urgent request has been received from one of the team members in Papua New Guinea asking for strength, wisdom and guidance as the team carries out challenging tasks ahead. Due to the sensitivities of the situation, details are limited but fortunately God knows and we ask you to pray for:
• A smooth transition of activities to complete the important tasks at hand in the midst of tribal and other significant challenges, and the ability to sustain the ministry project from start to finish.
• Team unity, peace of mind, heart and body for all the people involved.
• Integrity of everyone involved, that the team may stand firm, regardless of how huge the pressure might be to compromise.
May our team in Papua New Guinea continue their mission of exemplifying Christ in everything they do.
Victims of Taiwan Earthquake
A powerful earthquake struck southern Taiwan on February 6. The Church of the Nazarene has 43 churches in Taiwan and connection has been established with the district superintendent and Nazarene Youth International coordinator. They say, to the best of their knowledge, no Nazarenes were injured. Searchers continue to sift through the rubble to find survivors. Pray for everyone who has been affected by the quake, for those who lost family and friends, and for aid workers.
Leaders on the Asia-Pacific Region say, “Through generous donations previously made to the Nazarene Compassionate Ministries Asia-Pacific Disaster Relief Fund, we have resources on hand and are poised to respond as critical needs are identified.”
Endless Possibilities
After a recent World Mission Broadcast radio training in the Democratic Republic of Congo, missionaries Gavin and Jill Fothergill say, “From five-minute devotional thoughts, to 30-minute shows highlighting music and discussing relevant topics, our possibilities are endless in sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ. In Lubumbashi alone, we have 14 radio stations. Of those, about 5 will broadcast Christian music and messages. We are excited to see where the Lord leads and what opportunities present themselves." Please keep this growing ministry in your prayers.
January Missionary Prayers
Missionaries who are part of the January Prayer Focus have sent in the following requests. What a privilege it is to pray for:
In-Kwon and Jeong-Seok Kim, serving in Tonga
• Our home assignment begins in April and it will be in New Zealand and Korea. Please pray that we will effectively share our mission report to many churches. Pray that God will provide Bill and Shirley with wisdom and strength as they look after the Mango Tree Centre while we are away.
• Please pray that our Bible classes and home church ministry will help the disabled people of Tonga to live a life with Christ.
• Our youngest son, David, suffers from frequent migraines. Please pray for his healing.
• Please pray that God will send the Mango Tree Centre a therapist missionary to be in charge of rehabilitative therapy.
• The Zika Virus is epidemic in Tonga and lives are threatened. Please pray for God to protect the Tongan people from the Zika Virus as well as Chikungunya and Dengue Fever.
Nate and Becky Strawser, serving in the United Kingdom
Family:
• Pray for our son who is having some difficulties at school.
• Pray for time together as a whole family.
Ministry:
• Pray for the “Blend” coffee shop ministry. Pray for those we work with as well as those we hope to minister to.
• Pray for Jubilee House, a refuge for women and children escaping domestic abuse. Pray for the core team of volunteers and upcoming meetings with local businesses, as we try to recruit financial partners within our local community.
• Pray for the preparations for our fundraising event in May.
Josh and Shannon Herndon, serving in Spain
• Please pray that the process of obtaining visas to move to the new work in Greece is successful, painless, and quick, if it is the Lord's will.
• Please pray that hearts in Greece will be open to hearing the message of Christ.
• Please pray for open doors of new ministry in our new assignment in Greece, especially in partnering with the Greek Orthodox Church.
• Please pray for the economic situation in Greece, the refugee crisis that continues to pass through Greek borders, and the human trafficking problem that persists in that part of the world.
• Please pray for ministry in Spain as we prepare to do the final sports camp outreach here in March.
• Please pray for our family as we prepare to make the transition to a new country, a new culture, a new language and a new school for our children.
• Please pray for leadership on the Eurasia field, as they continue to make tough decisions in a region that spans many different countries, cultures, and time zones.
Sean and Rachael Dundar, serving in The United Kingdom
Please pray for:
• Our continued transition into this new culture
• A successful semester of classwork
• Bethany Lisburn Church of the Nazarene, its growth and prosperity
• The United Kingdom and all of Europe during the refugee crisis. Pray that the church will be the hands and feet of Christ to the refugees.
• The ministries of the church and our outreach to those in the community
General Superintendents
Please pray for the General Superintendents who are traveling this month:
Jerry D. Porter
J. K. Warrick
Eugénio Duarte
David W. Graves
David A. Busic
Gustavo A. Crocker
GLOBAL CONCERNS – BODY OF CHRIST
Drought
After a year of unusually low rainfall, the drought in Zimbabwe has become so severe that officials declared a state of disaster across much of the country, the BBC reported February 5.
Additionally, Ethiopia is experiencing its worst drought in decades, with more than 10 million people needing emergency aid. (Out of Africa Newsletter)
HEALTH-RELATED REQUESTS
Family of Carol Kratz Bennett
Retired missionary Carol Kratz Bennett passed away on January 29, 2016. Carol, along with her first late husband, Eldon, served in Brazil for 29 years. A memorial service will be held at Bethany First Church of the Nazarene in Oklahoma on March 19. Pray for the Bennett family during this time.
Thanks for praying!
Until God opens the next door, praise Him in the hallway![Author unknown]
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Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, February 3, 2016 "The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid?
The Lord protects me from danger—so why should I tremble?"[Psalm 27:1 NLT]
PRAISES:
JESUS Film Praises
Give praise as you read just a few of the many testimonies from the JESUS Film Harvest Partners ministry:
"The church in Dulag had closed in 2009 for many reasons," said a Filipino team member. "Yet through the JESUS Film ministry, it is being rekindled back to life. The church now makes an impact in the community bringing hope through medical missions, and other compassionate ministries.
"I am giving everything I have to God," said Christine, mother of two, in Benin (Africa). "I am happy to have seen the JESUS Film. From what I saw and what I have learned, Christ gave His life to save humanity. I am glad He protects us and gives us His peace and hope, so we can love and serve Him in all we do."
"I told the Lord, if He wanted me to see the film, my grandson had to get well," shared a grandmother in Panama. "God is so good! I called my daughter before leaving my house, and she told me my grandson was better. I am a new believer today after seeing the film."
Click here to read more about JESUS Film Harvest Partners
PRAY FOR:
GLOBAL MINISTRY REQUESTS
Help for Migrants
The refugee crisis in Europe continues. According to the United Nations, there are more than one million Syrian migrants in Lebanon and about 70 percent of them are below the "extreme" poverty line. The lack of earning power is causing food insecurity among refugees. In the midst of this, Nazarenes are responding by giving generously. Thanks to a partnership with Heart For Lebanon, the funds are greatly increased. For every bag bought, they add two more. Please continue to pray for the refugees and those extending a helping hand. ncm.org/refugees
Deployment, Commissioning, Retirement
Recently, a new missionary deployed to her field of service and a family is set to depart on February 7 to their area of ministry. Pray for these servants as they make the transition into missionary life.
In three weeks, seven missionary families will travel to interview with members of the General Board and the Board of General Superintendents to be considered for global recognition. This recognition is called being commissioned and it is a formal acknowledgement by the Church of the Nazarene of missionaries who have proven themselves in ministry and received recommendation from the region where they currently serve. Pray for these who are preparing to travel to the meetings and as they stand before the church to declare their deep desire to continue serving the Lord as Nazarene missionaries.
Also at this year’s General Board meetings, two families will be recognized for their years of service as they prepare to retire. Pray for the soon to be “retirees” as they transition out of missionary service to the next chapter of their lives.
Global Women and Girls Fund
In an effort to support women and their families through self-help groups, small business creation, vocational training, small-scale farming, literacy education, and other programs, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries is helping women and girls see themselves as people who are valuable, capable, and equal because they are made in God’s image. Partnering with local churches around the world, NCM also creates schools that give opportunity for education, life skills, and spiritual guidance in areas that do not traditionally value the importance of education for girls. Pray for the Nazarene who administer these valuable ministries and for the women and girls who participate…may they experience God’s love abundantly.
Janet Miller—UPDATE
NMI East Ohio District President Mark Miller and his family appreciate the prayers of the church as the search for his aunt, Janet Miller, continues. She went missing onDecember 24, 2016, and at this point, police say there is nothing more they can do. The family is understandably discouraged. Pray for God to reveal the whereabouts of Janet and for peace for the family as the wait continues.
HEALTH-RELATED REQUESTS
Harmon Schmelzenbach Sr.–UPDATE
Harmon Schmelzenbach Sr.’s son, Harmon Jr., writes: “These past few days have seen significant improvement with dad’s situation. Our family is deeply aware and appreciative of the great army of prayer warriors who have been lifting him before God’s throne! Thank you so very much.”
Praise God for this good news and keep praying for Harmon's complete recovery.
Harmon Sr., and his wife, Beverly, are retired missionaries who served in South Africa, Namibia, Swaziland, Kenya, Ethiopia, and the United States. Harmon Jr., and his family serve on the Asia-Pacific Region.
BEREAVEMENT
Family of Paul Alfred Lehman
It is never easy for missionaries to be literally half-a-world-away when family losses occur. Paul Lehman passed away on January 27. A funeral service was held on January 30 in Michigan. Paul was the grandfather of missionary Lisa Lehman who serves in Thailand. Pray for Lisa and her family as they grieve Paul’s passing.
Family of Vipul Kharat
Pastor Vipul Kharat was on holiday in his hometown of Buldana, India, when he passed away unexpectedly. Vipul served as pastor of the All Nations Church of the Nazarene in Auckland, New Zealand for the past 23 years. Pray for Vipul’s wife, Suzanne, their son, Sameer, and the congregation at the All Nations Church.
Thank you for praying.
We never know how God will answer our prayers, but we can expect that He will get us involved in His plan for the answer. If we are true intercessors, we must be ready to take part in God’s work on behalf of the people for whom we pray.[Corrie ten Boom]
NMI Prayer Mobilization Line for February 3, 2016 “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.”[Psalm 24:1 NLT]
PRAISE:
JESUS Film Praises
Give praise as you read just a few of the many testimonies from the JESUS Film Harvest
Partners ministry:
• "The church in Dulag had closed in 2009 for many reasons," said a Filipino team member. "Yet through the JESUS Film ministry, it is being rekindled back to life. The church now makes an impact in the community bringing hope through medical missions, and other compassionate ministries. "Pray for this church to continue to be a place of hope and help!
• "I am giving everything I have to God," said Christine, mother of two, in Benin. "I am happy to have seen the JESUS Film. From what I saw and what I have learned, Christ gave His life to save humanity. He suffered, even for bad men, in order to save us who are lost. I am glad He protects us and gives us His peace and hope, so we can love and serve Him in all we do." Praise God for Christine's witness.
• "I told the Lord, if He wanted me to see the film, my grandson had to get well," shared a grandmother in Panama. "God is so good! I called my daughter before leaving my house, and she told me my grandson was better. I am a new believer today after seeing the film." Praise God for working miracles.
PRAY FOR:
Help for Migrants
The refugee crisis in Europe continues. According to the United Nations, there are more than one million Syrian migrants in Lebanon and about 70 percent of them are below the "extreme" poverty line. The lack of earning power is causing food insecurity among refugees. In the midst of this, Nazarenes are responding by giving generously with part of the funds given going to purchase food for refugee families. Thanks to a partnership with Heart For Lebanon, those funds are greatly increased. For every bag bought, they add two more. Your support is making a difference!
Please continue to pray for the refugees and those extending a helping hand.
Deployment, Commissioning, Retirement
• Recently, a new missionary deployed to their field of service and a family is set to depart on February 7 to their area of ministry. Pray for these servants as they make the transition into missionary life.
• In three weeks, seven missionary families will travel to interview with members of the General Board and the Board of General Superintendents to be considered for global recognition. This recognition is called being commissioned and it is a formal acknowledgement by the Church of the Nazarene of missionaries who have proven themselves in ministry and received recommendation from the region where they currently serve. Pray for these who are preparing to travel to the meetings and as they stand before the church to declare their deep desire to continue serving the Lord as Nazarene missionaries.
• Also at this year’s General Board meetings, two families will be recognized for their years of service as they prepare to retire. Pray for the soon to be “retirees” as they transition out of missionary service to the next chapter of their lives.
Global Women and Girls Fund
In an effort to support women and their families through self-help groups, small business creation, vocational training, small-scale farming, literacy education, and other programs, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries is helping women and girls see themselves as people who are valuable, capable, and equal because they are made in God’s image. Partnering with local churches around the world, NCM also creates schools that give opportunity for education, life skills, and spiritual guidance in areas that do not traditionally value the importance of education for girls. Pray for the Nazarene who administer these valuable ministries and for the women and girls who participate…may they experience God’s love abundantly.
Janet Miller—UPDATE
NMI East Ohio District President Mark Miller and his family appreciate the prayers of the church as the search for his aunt, Janet Miller, continues. She went missing on December 24, 2016, and at this point, police say there is nothing more they can do. The family is understandably discouraged. Pray for God to reveal the whereabouts of Janet and for peace for the family as the wait continues.
HEALTH-RELATED REQUESTS
Harmon Schmelzenbach Sr.–UPDATE
The Schmelzenbach family greatly appreciates ongoing prayer for Harmon Sr. as evaluations of current treatment continues. Harmon and his wife, Beverly, are retired missionaries who served in South Africa, Namibia, Swaziland, Kenya, Ethiopia, and the United States.
BEREAVEMENT
Family of Paul Alfred Lehman
It is never easy for missionaries to be literally half-a-world-away when family losses occur. Paul Lehman passed away on January 27. A funeral service was held on January 30 in Michigan. Paul was the grandfather of missionary Lisa Lehman who serves in Thailand. Pray for Lisa and her family as they grieve Paul’s passing.
Family of Vipul Kharat
Pastor Vipul Kharat was on holiday in his hometown of Buldana, India, when he passed away unexpectedly. Vipul served as pastor of the All Nations Church of the Nazarene in Auckland, New Zealand for the past 23 years. He was a third generation Nazarene, being a grandson of Rev. Waman H. Kharat, one of the first Indians to be ordained an elder in the church of the Nazarene in November 1937 by General Superintendent J.B. Chapman. Pray for Vipul’s wife, Suzanne, their son, Sameer, and the congregation at the All Nations Church.
Thanks for praying!
“We never know how God will answer our prayers, but we can expect that He will get us involved in His plan for the answer. If we are true intercessors, we must be ready to take part in God’s work on behalf of the people for whom we pray.”[Corrie ten Boom]
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Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, January 13, 2016
Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, January 13, 2016 "The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid?
The Lord protects me from danger—so why should I tremble?"[Psalm 27:1 NLT]
PRAISES:
Missionaries
We give praise to God for Nazarene missionaries who dedicate their lives to telling people around the world about Christ. May the Lord watch over them with His protection and richly bless them, their families, and all their efforts.
Thailand Praises
Missionaries in Thailand, Tomo and Ceny Hirahara, say, “We praise the Lord for the Christmas evangelism events with people living with HIV. Four people prayed to receive Christ and our key contacts tell us that some of their family and friends also received Christ. Pray for us as we follow-up with the new believers and those who were baptized.
PRAY FOR:
GLOBAL MINISTRY REQUESTS
Ebola Update—West Africa
Pray for the residents, health officials and leaders of Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea. Though the Ebola outbreak has dwindled, it’s still a critical time for these countries as they monitor any potential new cases. Ebola survivors, orphans, and those grieving the loss of loved ones still need our prayers and support.
Third Africa Conference
Pray for the upcoming regional conference on the West Africa Field at the end of March. This is the third and final event in the series of conferences across the continent. Pray for God’s guidance as preparations are made, wisdom for the speakers, provision and protection for those who will attend.
January Missionary Prayers
Below are prayer requests from missionaries who are part of our January Prayer Focus. Thank you for praying for:
Jörg Eich, serving on the Eurasia Region in Compassionate Ministries
Nepal: The border with India has been closed resulting in fuel shortages. A consequence of this is that relief activities have slowed significantly and winter preparations are largely on hold as agencies are unable to import supplies, distribute relief items, or assess areas of need.
The church is growing as a result of many earthquake related projects. More workers are needed and the office systems need to be updated.
Bangladesh: A fast response is needed in Bangladesh due to recent waves of cold weather. Leadership would like to buy blankets. Pray that God will meet all the needs of people suffering through the cold waves. Click here if you would like to respond financially to the need for blankets.
Tomo and Ceny Hirahara, serving in Thailand
Pray for:
Bible lessons and discipleship with families in their homes
Continuous relationship building and ministry to people in the community
Involvement in village activities with a kids football team
John and Karen Jones-Porter*, serving in Swaziland
Pray for us as we will be working at the Southern Africa Nazarene University
Pray for us as we hope to minister to AIDS orphans near the university
Pray for us to follow where God leads us in this new ministry.
*Please note that in the January 6 edition of PML, Karen’s name was left off of the list of monthly missionaries even though John’s was included. We apologize for this error. Many long-time NMI leaders will know Karen from the years she worked assisting Dr. Nina Gunter in the NMI Office in Kansas City.
Scott and Gail Dooley, serving in Papua New Guinea
Finance: Papua New Guinea is facing a huge national budget crisis. We do not know how the budget at Kudjip Nazarene Hospital will be affected. We trust the Lord will remain faithful just as He always has.
Ministry. Many national staff who have worked at the hospital a long time gave their lives to Christ this past year—30 were baptized. A number of community people have given their lives to the Lord through our health infrastructure projects as well, and we are visiting local Kuma men in prison after the tribal fight. All of these are spiritual victories and in each one we see ways that Satan is fighting back.
Infrastructure. We are also waiting on a current infrastructure proposal with Incentive Fund (Australian Aid funded) for continuing our vision for the station/hospital.
Trino and Anna Jara, serving in Armenia, Pray for us and our future plans. We are praying to add a child to our family. We hope 2016 will be the year!
Pray for our ministry in the country in which God and His church have entrusted us to work. There are several challenges; church legal registration, property transfers/registration; pastoral and leadership training
Ask God to give two new places to start our ministry of reconciliation and restoration in 2016.
Click here for more requests from the Jaras in Printable PML.
Todd and Connie Aebischer, serving on the Asia-Pacific Region
Please pray for:
Our kids, their marriages, their studies, but most of all, that God would continue to reveal Himself to each of them personally. (Jessica & Cale (baby Noor), Courtney and Landen, David and Dwayne).
For renewed vision and passion for what God is calling us to in 2016. We are currently partnering in the two church plants, weekday discipling, and Bible studies. We continue to pray that God would continue giving us "one" and then giving us the time in the days to disciples the "ones."
Wisdom in leadership. Changes in the structure of Asia-Pacific Regional Communications and World Mission Communication are stretching me (Todd) way outside of my comfort zones. Greatly appreciate prayer that I would be sensitive to the Lord’s guidance.
Click here for more requests from Todd and Connie in Printable PML.
Janet Miller—UPDATE
Janet Miller—UPDATE Please continue to pray for Janet Miller, 78, who has been missing since Christmas Eve. Police in Georgia continue to search but Janet has not been found. She is the aunt of East Ohio District NMI President Mark Miller. Pray for Janet’s safe return. Pray for Mark and his family as they wait for news.
HEALTH-RELATED REQUESTS
John Anderson
Retired missionary John Anderson has suffered six falls in the past three weeks, with the last fall breaking three ribs. John is going into a nursing care facility today. Pray for him, that God will heal his body. Pray for his wife, Doris, as she cares for her husband. Together, John and Doris served in India for 32 years.
Thank you for praying.
"Darkness is my point of view, my right to myself; light is God’s point of view."[Oswald Chambers]
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NMI Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, January 13, 2016 "The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid? The Lord protects me from danger—so why should I tremble?"[Psalm 27:1 NLT]
"Nazarene News: Responding to Flint water crisis" The Global Nazarene Communications Network of Lenexa, Kansas, United States Volumen 1603 for Friday, 22 January 2016 - This week in the Church of the Nazarene...
"Refugee response team issues urgent call for help buying shoes"
After walking hundreds of miles through the frozen January mud of the Balkans and with hundreds of miles still ahead, some refugees are barefoot. Volunteers on the Central Europe refugee response team receive hundreds of requests a day for shoes.
"Refugee response team issues urgent call for help buying shoes"
Central Europe Field, Eurasia Region
While 12 tons of clothing has been donated and distributed to the thousands of migrants passing through Red Cross transit camps, travelers at the borders of Macedonia, Croatia, and Serbia desperately need shoes. After walking hundreds of miles through the frozen January mud of the Balkans and with hundreds of miles still ahead, some are barefoot; others have insufficient footwear for the winter.
Nazarene camp volunteers are putting out an urgent call for the global church to help supply shoes for the refugees.
Chris and Karen Lewis, Nazarene volunteers for the Central Europe refugee response team, reported that while they are currently able to purchase about 50 pairs of new shoes a week, there are requests from up to 1,000 people per week.
“Because the camp’s need for shoes is so great, when Nazarene Compassionate Ministries–Central Europe delivers a box of shoes, there are cheers," they said. "We are known as ‘the Shoe People.’”
How to help
The volunteers have worked out a special rate with a reputable shoe company close to the camp, which also boosts the local economy. For 10 USD (7 GBP/9 euro), volunteers can supply a pair of boots to a refugee.
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries has established a fundraising page specifically for Central Europe’s shoe ministry along the Refugee Highway of the Balkans. One hundred percent of any donation goes directly to purchasing shoes. Click here to donate.
Please do NOT send shoes as shipping is extremely costly and retrieving the packages is time-consuming.
For a personal story of one teenage refugee in need of shoes, visit Engage magazine or the Central Europe Field blog, centraleuropenaz.org.[Nazarene Compassionate Ministries]
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"Michigan church responds to Flint water crisis"
Tens of thousands of people in Flint, Michigan, have lived with lead-contaminated water for nearly two years. The West Flint Church of the Nazarene is responding with thousands of bottles of water, needed for daily drinking, cooking, and even bathing.
"Michigan church responds to Flint water crisis"
Flint, Michigan
When numbers are reported about the global water crisis — almost one in every 10 people lacks access to safe drinking water — the U.S. is not the first country to come to mind. But for tens of thousands of people in Flint, Michigan, a water crisis is a daily reality.
Since April 2014, lead has contaminated the city’s entire water supply. A state decision to switch the water source from Lake Huron to the Flint River went terribly wrong. The water from the river is highly corrosive and eroded the water pipes that service the city’s household and other plumbing. The lead in the pipes leached into the water, causing toxic levels of lead contamination.
In the midst of the crisis, the West Flint Church of the Nazarene has been working to meet needs.
“The immediate need is bottled water,” said David Bowser, pastor of the West Flint church.
The church has already taken 2,200 cases of water to one of the most affected areas.
“Within two and a half hours, it had all been distributed,” Bowser said.
Government officials have warned people not to even give the contaminated water to their pets. Bottled water is necessary for drinking, cooking, and even bathing.
“A family could easily go through two to three cases of water a day and not even bathe,” Bowser said.
The West Flint church has been involved in Nazarene disaster response for many years, and Bowser believes that experience has prepared them to respond to the current emergency in their own community.
“When [Hurricane] Katrina hit, this church adopted New Orleans First Church of the Nazarene in the 9th ward and helped rebuild that church,” Bowser said. “For the last several years, this local church has been actively engaged in what we call ‘be the church,’ which is regular opportunities to serve in the areas where this water crisis is most affecting.”
City, state, and federal government officials are involved in decisions about a long-term fix, but in the meantime, “the church has to continue to respond,” Bowser said.
A permanent solution will take years. Even though the city has switched to a new water source, the damage done to the water pipes is irreparable. The cost to replace the entire plumbing infrastructure is estimated to be more than $1 billion.
Matthew Soulia, associate pastor at the West Flint church, says a major concern is the way the current water crisis has affected a community that had enough problems already.
“This is a severe, dangerous, and emergency situation,” Soulia said. “It’s also piling on some serious, systemic problems that Flint has been facing for decades — issues of struggling education, crime rates, blight, poverty. It’s like adding fuel to the fire. There are only small pockets within Flint that wouldn’t be considered poor. People have limited means and education and ability to respond [to the current crisis].”
Bowser says the West Flint church is poised to respond in part because of the relationships and connections they have been creating in under-served neighborhood and with other churches in the target areas.
“For four years, we’ve worked in this community,” Bowser said. “This church is missional and sees what it looks like not doing something to or for a community, but working with a community.”
Bowser says the West Flint Church of the Nazarene is committed to helping their neighbors during this crisis “for a long, long time.”
“We really are dealing with a third-world kind of dynamic that’s right here in our community,” Bowser said. “The poverty is overwhelming and the needs are so great, and we find ourselves fighting the battle along the lines of water.”
How to help
Pray. Pray for the families affected by the water crisis in Flint. Pray for West Flint Church of the Nazarene as they work to assist their neighbors over the coming months and years.
Give. The church is requesting support for the purchase of bottled water. You can donate to the Flint Water Crisis fund through Nazarene Compassionate Ministries by clicking here.
To send donations by mail:
In the U.S., make checks payable to "General Treasurer" and send them to:
Global Treasury Services
Church of the Nazarene
P.O. Box 843116
Kansas City, MO 64184-3116
Be sure to put 125778 in the Memo area.
In Canada, make checks payable to "Church of the Nazarene Canada" and send them to:
Church of the Nazarene Canada
20 Regan Road, Unit 9
Brampton, Ontario L7A 1C3
Be sure to put 125778 in the Memo area.
For other countries, please give through your local church or district, designating your gift to the Flint Water Crisis.[Nazarene Compassionate Ministries]
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"Costa Rica churches donates supplies for Cuba refugees"
Churches on the Costa Rica North and Central district pooled their resources to purchase personal hygiene products and clothing for hundreds of refugees from Cuba currently stranded in Costa Rica.
"Costa Rica churches donate supplies for Cuba refugees"
Costa Rica, Mesoamerica Region
Churches on the Costa Rica North and Central districts pooled their resources to purchase personal hygiene products and clothing for hundreds of refugees from Cuba currently stranded in Costa Rica.
Cuba refugees began making their way to the U.S. through several Central American countries late last year, but in November, Nicaragua closed its border, forcing many Cubans to remain in Costa Rica.
The Costa Rica government has established at least 37 locations where lodging and food is provided. There are approximately 8,000 Cuban refugees in Costa Rica who would like to travel to the U.S.
The Church of the Nazarene began ministering to the refugees shortly after they became stranded. Dhariana Balbuena, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries coordinator for Costa Rica, led a team from San Jose to La Cruz, which is close to the border with Nicaragua. The team worked with children and adults and left much-needed supplies, including 2,800 articles of personal hygiene and clothing for both children and adults.
Upala Centro Church of the Nazarene is located just 400 meters (less than a quarter of a mile) from one of the refugee centers. Pastor Jose Perfect, Rosa, and her daughter Estafania visit them regularly to encourage them, and the church is helping the refugees when it can.
After Costa Rica Ministry Coordinator David Webb visited the church and the multi-use building that houses the refugee center, the Costa Rica North and Central districts sent supplies to the refugees.
"We took some personal items that people had donated," said Rolando Morera, a member of Poas Church of the Nazarene. "We also shared with them the Evangecube. Later, we showed the movie The Power of the Cross and at the end of the movie, there were 12 people who accepted the Lord as their personal Savior. It was a special time of sharing between the local church and the refugees. Four people shared how very happy they felt now that Christ lives in their hearts, and they thanked the church for the time they had spent with them. Now Pastor Perfecto has begun to disciple these new believers."
A group of the men from Cuba — Joaquin, Leonardo, David, and Rodolfo — are attending the local church in Upala, along with a group of women who received the Lord.
This month the Cuban refugees hope to continue their journey toward the U.S. They will leave by plane for El Salvador, where they will take buses to Mexico and on to the U.S.[Church of the Nazarene Mesoamerica Region]
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"SANU creates continuing education centre, welcomes library & IT team"
Southern Africa Nazarene University recently welcomed a team of library and information technology personnel from six Nazarene higher education institutions to implement new library and student management systems. The new systems will allow the university to begin offering continuing education courses.
"SANU creates continuing education centre, welcomes library & IT team"
Manzini, Swaziland
Southern Africa Nazarene University recently welcomed a team of 13 library and information technology personnel from eight Nazarene higher education institutions to implement new library and student management systems. The team members are from the USA, Great Britain, Malawi, and South Africa.
During her welcoming remarks, SANU Vice Chancellor Winnie Nhlengethwa said the implementation of these two projects is a result of a dream of that began more than 10 years when Sharon Bull, library director at Northwest Nazarene University, spent her sabbatical studying the libraries of the Church of the Nazarene colleges, universities, and seminaries on the Africa Region. Among the findings in her research was the significant lack of library systems to support the cataloguing and tracking of items. Nhlengethwa went on to say the university is committed to offering quality Christian higher education that matches global standards to produce transformational leaders who can effectively impact communities across the globe.
Two years ago, Nazarene Education Commissioner Dan Copp committed to partner with Global Information Technology (IT) in identifying and supporting strategic software solutions for Nazarene institutions without adequate solutions such as student information systems and library systems. The International Board of Education procured both the library and student management systems software and supplies. The support is coupled with training of the librarians at SANU, Nazarene Theological College–Central Africa, and Nazarene Theological College–South Africa.
"The spirit of collaboration is a joy to watch," said Tammy Condon, IBOE administrative director. "By the end of the first week, the trainers are taking a backseat and it is the SANU, NTC–South Africa, and NTC–Central Africa librarians who are taking the initiative with the catalogue project, strategizing for their libraries, and dreaming the way forward for their schools, while the global library team is dreaming of how to deploy [the library system] on other regions globally."
Condon extended her appreciation to the vice chancellor for allowing SANU to pilot the Open Source Automated Library System and Open Community University Administrative System.
Karen and John Porter
In response to the demand for distance and part-time education, the university is working to establish a Continuing Education Centre. Karen Jones-Porter will join SANU as director for continuing education with her husband, John Porter. The couple forms a strategic team to drive the establishment and roll-out of the continuing education programme. John will also assist in the establishment of the University Advancement and Church Relations Department in the university.
Karen is currently an adjunct associate professor at NNU, teaching Master of Business Administration courses. She also teaches at Trevecca Nazarene University in the Master of Organizational Leadership programme. Karen has also been a director of Adult & Professional Programs at NNU from 2009 to 2012. She holds a Doctor of Management in organizational leadership, Master of Arts in missiology, Master of Business Administration, and a Bachelor of Science in cross-cultural communications. Karen brings extensive experience in the teaching and facilitation of online courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
John was a minister in the Church of the Nazarene for 47 years before retiring in 2015. He has served on the Trevecca Nazarene University Board, District Ministerial Credentials Board, and District Advisory Board. He has been a district SDMI chairperson and assistant to the district superintendent in addition to serving many other community organisations.]Southern Africa Nazarene University]
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"Southern Florida District Hispanic churches challenged to be engaged, plan for future"
More than 250 Hispanic pastors, mission presidents, and leaders met at the Ebenezer Church of the Nazarene in Miami Gardens for the annual Southern Florida District Hispanic Mission Congress.
"Southern Florida District Hispanic churches challenged to be engaged, plan for future
Miami Gardens, Florida
Alma Iverson of the West Palm Beach Maranatha Church shows off the tamales she prepared.
More than 250 Hispanic pastors, mission presidents, and leaders met at the Ebenezer Church of the Nazarene January 16 for the annual Southern Florida District Hispanic Mission Congress. Ministry mission education was provided for adults, youth, and children.
District Superintendent Brian Wilson was the principle speaker. Under a large tent while speaking Spanish, he challenged all Hispanic churches to become fully involved in local and world mission ministries.
“From the 21 countries where the official language is Spanish, the Hispanic church in the USA is currently a safe gathering place for the immigrant Hispanic Christian," Wilson said. "It is a place where we celebrate God’s blessings and reproduce Hispanic cultural values, traditions, language, and worship styles, but it is also a place of missional sending, where God challenges us to take responsibility for the welfare of others who are not like us.”
Southern Florida District Superintendent Brian Wilson brings the keynote address to the Hispanic Mission Congress.
Wilson offered three decadal challenges for Hispanic churches in Southern Florida: Learn to share space with other cultures as we minister in multicultural communities; develop a sense of missional responsibility for non-Hispanics here and around the world; pass the baton of church leadership to the second generation of Hispanics.
Retiring District Mission President Dennis Moore gave his farewell address to Hispanic pastors and leaders. He said that they and their youth could become the spiritual and guiding forces for the Church of the Nazarene over the next 20 years.
Ardee Coolidge, the district’s Missions Spanish language coordinator, and host pastor Jorge Diaz organized the praise teams, open-air tent, and elaborate outdoor food festival for the event.
“The food from numerous Latin American countries was unbelievable," Moore said of the afternoon International Food Festival. "The preparation and authentic kiosks reflect the determination and creativity of our Hispanic churches.”
Winners of the International Food Festival were chosen for the best food, juice, desserts, and decorations.
The top churches winning the festival competition were Pahokee Spanish in first place, Carol City Ebenezer in second place, and West Palm Beach Maranatha in third place.
“The Hispanic Mission Congress is a great event to encourage and educate our Hispanic churches about missions and how the Great Commission is of utmost importance in this 21st century,” Moore said.[Church of the Nazarene Southern Florida District via NCN News submissions]
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"Flags of the Nations: Guyana"
Each week, the Church of the Nazarene's Global Ministry Center proudly flies a flag of one of the many nations in which the denomination is present in ministry. This week's flag: Guyana, Mesoamerica Region. Click "read more" for information on the country, including what year the denomination entered Guyana and how many Nazarenes are there today.
"Flags of the Nations: Guyana
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: Guyana
The Church of the Nazarene officially entered Guyana in 1946.
Guyana had a population of 735,554 in 2014. That same year, Guyana reported 48 Churches of the Nazarene, 47 of which had been officially organized. Guyana has 4,335 total members.
Located on the Mesoamerica Region, Guyana has one Phase 3 district and one Phase 2 district. For more information about the Mesoamerica Region, visit mesoamericaregion.org.
* = The weekly highlighted flag is raised on the middle of three poles in compliance with U.S. government protocols. It flies to the left of the GMC host-nation United States flag, which flies above the host-state flag of Kansas. The Christian flag flies on the third pole.
The Global Ministry Center is the mission and service hub of the Church of the Nazarene.
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USA/Canada
"Nazarenes in the News"
Nazarenes in the News is a compilation of online news articles featuring Nazarene churches or church members. In the news this week: Ontario church members escape burning house ... Indiana compassionate ministry center assists with foot washing, shoe distribution.
"Nazarenes in the News"
Nazarenes in the News is a compilation of online news articles featuring Nazarene churches or church members.
CTV News photo
Ontario church members escape burning house
Thornbury, Ontario, Canada
(CTV News, January 20) An 11-year-old boy from the Blue Mountains is being praised for taking steps that fire officials say helped saved his family from their burning home.
The fire broke out at the Wilson’s farmhouse Monday morning while the family was sleeping. The sound of the smoke alarm woke up James, who then quickly ran through the house to alert his family.
“I saw the fire in the library, so I went out and yelled at the top of the stairs for everybody to get up,” said James.
James’ yelling prompted his mother to jump into action.
“I knew by the way he was calling something was wrong,” said Kerri Wilson.
Soon enough, they were helping everyone out of the burning house. There were 13 people in the house at the time, including two infants and two seniors.
For the rest of the story and video about the Church of the Nazarene members, click here.
Indy Star photo
Indiana compassionate ministry center assists with foot washing, shoe distribution
Indianapolis, Indiana
(Indy Star, January 15) Madi, a smiling 8-year-old student, swung her bare feet back and forth above the basin of water today, and giggled at her friend who sat nearby.
"Will this tickle?" she asked Katie Gilson, a staff assistant for Gov. Mike Pence.
"It might tickle a little," Gilson told the girl as she laughed and splashed her feet into the water.
Gilson washed Madi's feet with Dora the Explorer body wash that smelled like cherries and rubbed them dry with a blue cloth. Gilson then helped Madi put on a new pair of socks and a sparkly new pair of gym shoes.
State employees, including Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann, washed the feet of about 150 children and gave them new pairs of shoes and socks at (the Church of the Nazarene's) Shepherd Community Center on the east side.
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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"Madelyn Hurn remembered"
Madelyn Hurn, widow of retired General Superintendent Raymond Hurn, passed away January 11. She was 93.
"Madelyn Hurn remembered"
Olathe, Kansas
Madelyn Hurn, widow of retired General Superintendent Raymond Hurn, passed away January 11 at age 93.
She was born February 13, 1922, in Stafford, Kansas, the third of four children. Madelyn attended Bresee College, where she met her husband. The couple was married December 30, 1941, and began holding weekend revival meetings where Madelyn would play the Vibraharp and Raymond played trombone.
Madelyn supported Raymond through prayer ministry as he pastored churches in Hays, Kansas; Tulsa, Oklahoma; Atlanta, Georgia; Norman, Oklahoma; and Medford, Oregon. In 1959, Raymond was elected superintendent of the West Texas District. He served in the position for nine years until the couple moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where Raymond worked in the Department of Home Missions (now the USA/Canada Regional Office).
He went on to be elected general superintendent, serving from 1985 to 1993. The couple then retired to Aberdeen Village in Olathe, where Madelyn continued her ministry by visiting those who were ill or new to the community to ease their transition.
Raymond passed away in 2007. Madelyn is survived by two daughters, Connie Isbell and Jacque Oliver; grandchildren, Baraq Isbell (Suzie), Amy Condrey (Jeff), and Danielle Prince; and two great-grandchildren. Also surviving are many cousins, nieces, nephews, and their families.
A funeral was held January 15.
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"Approaching the end: Westphal's reach extends beyond PLNU basketball"
Point Loma Nazarene University women's head basketball coach Bill Westphal will retire at the end of the season after leading the program — and impacting lives — for more than 16 years.
"Approaching the end: Westphal's reach extends beyond PLNU basketball"
San Diego, California
Coaches often move from college program to college program quite frequently. Some coaches leave because they see greener pastures somewhere else; some coaches leave because of the chance to build something different and new; finally, other coaches are given no option but to leave because of the nature of collegiate sports and its need for immediate success. But, as with most rules, there is an exception. This is where we find Point Loma Nazarene University women's head basketball coach Bill Westphal. He has spent the last 17 years building one of the most successful programs in Point Loma's history, amassing a record of 350-176 and making the playoffs in each season.
As with all good things, however, they must come to an end at some point. Westphal announced prior to the 2015-2016 year this will be his final season at the helm of the PLNU women's basketball program. This marks the conclusion to the significant portion of Westphal's life spent in the world of basketball since his early childhood days, but he appears ready to let the game go.
"Golf, God, and grandkids," he says in his typical easy-going manner when asked what he is going to do when he retires. "Although, probably not in that order," he adds quickly with a wink.
Westphal began his basketball career at Aviation High in Redondo Beach, California. He was recruited to play his collegiate years at the University of Southern California (USC) and went on to tour the country with the original Athletes in Action basketball team. From there, Westphal decided to pursue his high school career goal and got into the world of coaching.
"It was really my high school basketball coach that got me to have the desire to coach," Westphal said. "I was a teacher's assistant for him my senior year of high school, and I asked him a ton of questions about basketball and coaching. He told me to get a physical education degree and then I could be a teacher and a coach just like he was, so that's what I did when I was at USC."
After the Athletes in Action stint, he accepted his first job as a high school teacher and coach.
Westphal then went on to coach at the college and professional levels, with his most successful seasons coming at the helm of the Grand Canyon University men's basketball team. He led the Lopes to a two-year mark of 55-15 and a birth in the NAIA national championship game both seasons. Those teams were also ranked No. 1 in the NAIA polls for multiple weeks during his tenure.
After years of coaching at all different levels and running one of the most successful basketball camps in the state of Arizona, the Westphal Brothers Basketball Camp, which he ran with his brother, NBA championship coach Paul Westphal, Bill decided to make the move out to a small college in San Diego called Point Loma.
He accepted the job of men's associate head coach in 1999, but then later went on to take over the women's program in 2000, where he has spent the last 16 years. He has made the playoffs in each one of his years at the helm of the women's basketball team, even doing so in the few years of the probationary period when PLNU was moving from the NAIA to the NCAA.
Westphal, though, is a reflective man. He does not dwell on his accomplishments nor does he share them often. He says he has learned many things over his career, most of which having to do more with life and less with basketball. When asked what the three most important lessons he has learned as a coach over the years were, he took a moment to think.
"The first thing I would have to say I have learned is that it is always about more than winning," Westphal said. "Win/loss records are nearly always forgotten, but relationships that are built throughout the season are lasting. The relationships I build with my players, the relationships they build between one another, and the relationship the team and the individual players build with Lord are always the most important things.
"A lot of my players come back to visit me from time to time and it is so exciting for me to hear about what they are doing now, where they are living, and their new families. I always love to see them interacting with their children; that is what matters."
Westphal lingers on the first lesson, eventually describing a journey he has been through his entire career, but especially at PLNU.
"I have spent my years coaching trying to discover what it means to be a grace-based coach," he said. "Every year, I discover a little bit more about what this looks like and how it should be implanted in this life. Now, I can't give you an exact definition of what a grace-based coach is because I am still discovering the answer to that myself, but I can tell what it is not. It is not being legalistic or dictatorial. A lot of the girls think I am too easy on them or don't push them as hard as I should, but I just tell them 'Well, you should have seen me 20 years ago. You would have hated me.' I used to think fear was the greatest motivator, but over time I have realized that is not the case at all. Love is the greatest motivator."
Madison West, a junior guard on the PLNU women's basketball team, affirmed this.
"Coach Westphal always tells us to live loved," she said. "For the last two seasons, he has always emphasized this. Often, during the season in the middle of the heat of league, he reminds us basketball is just a small portion of life; it is something he has realized over the years and thus emphasizes it with us. It all stems from a verse in 1 John 4:16 that he wants to live by and challenges us to live by. The verse talks about how God is love, and whoever lives in love, lives in God. So in everything we do, we should abide in God, therefore living loved."
Finally, Westphal arrived at the last of the three lessons, using a quote from basketball coach John Wooden.
"Your players are good enough if you are capable of showing them how," Westphal said. "Last year, our team started out 1-6 amidst great expectations. I tried different line-ups, different strategies, whatever. None of it seemed to be working over those 10 games. But I would sit in my office and tell myself my players are good enough as long as I can show them how. I didn't blame them or point out all of their mistakes, I just constantly worked to figure out how to show the team they were good enough."
He tinkered with the line-up until he found a formula that seemed to work and eventually received at an at-large bid to Regionals, where the Sea Lions upset the No. 1 team in the nation, Alaska–Anchorage, on their home floor, 64-63.
With a few more games before the end of the season, Westphal is going to give his team everything he has before he says goodbye for one final time. Regardless of the outcome of the season, wins and losses have never defined a successful season for Westphal. That, as he said, is always forgotten. What will not be forgotten is the impact Westphal has had on PLNU's campus and his players.
"Live loved," Madison West says. That, above everything else, is the legacy Westphal will leave once he retires.[Point Loma Nazarene University]
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"Olivet announces ONU Global"
Olivet Nazarene University announced the establishment of ONU Global, a program that oversees the university’s School of Graduate and Continuing Studies and administers non-traditional learning.
"Olivet announces ONU Global"
Bourbonnais, Illinois
Olivet Nazarene University announced the establishment of ONU Global, a program that oversees the university’s School of Graduate and Continuing Studies and administers non-traditional learning.
ONU Global has locations in Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan, offering more than 30 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. Students may complete programs on-ground, online, or a combination of both. With approval for online programming in 46 states, ONU Global offers 14 programs fully online.
Partnered with more than 200 organizations across the U.S., ONU Global has more than 150 learning locations, including five regional centers. ONU Global has a presence in Hong Kong along with partnerships in China, the Czech Republic, South Africa, Dubai UAE, and Israel. Students affiliated with partner organizations receive a tuition discount, access to professional development seminars, use of ONU facilities, and additional benefits.
“Thousands of students are currently enrolled in the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies, and many new students are starting every day, creating rapid growth in Olivet’s non-traditional programming,” said Ryan Spittal, vice president for strategic expansion. “The purpose of ONU Global is to continue expanding the missional impact and quality programming of Olivet. Over the next five years, we expect continued significant advances in our operation, including new programming and locations that expand opportunities for students.”
ONU Global offers programs in health care, education, business, engineering, criminal justice, and ministry. Spittal pointed out most ONU Global students are non-residential, non-traditional students.
“ONU Global provides a wide range of highly respected programs that are recognized in the industry for preparing students to compete in the job market and our constantly changing world,” Spittal said. “Olivet has become a leader in the Christian non-traditional learning environment, and ONU Global provides the opportunity for growing numbers of individuals to access Olivet programming.”
Additional information about ONU Global and Olivet’s School of Graduate and Continuing Studies is available at graduate.olivet.edu.[Olivet 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 January 18-22, 2015.
"In Memoriam: January 22, 2016"
The following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received January 18-22, 2016.
Clarence Barror, 82, of Plant City, Florida, passed away January 13. He was a retired minister, serving in Virginia, Ohio, and Florida. He is survived by his wife, Gloria (Collette) Barror.
Kenneth Dossey, 80, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away January 14. He was a retired minister, serving in Indiana.
Larry Hoffpauir, 89, of Lake Charles, Louisiana, passed away January 19. He was a retired minister, serving in Louisiana. He was preceded in death by his wife, Clonia Hoffpauir, in 2014.
Sergio Mayorga, 63, of Blue Island, Illinois, passed away January 18. He was a minister, serving at Blue Island Spanish Church of the Nazarene. He is survived by his wife, Heriberta Mayorga.
Betty (Moore) Mays, 81, of Minford, Ohio, passed away January 19. She was the widow of retired minister W. Earl Mays Sr., who served in Kentucky and Ohio. W. Earl Mays Sr. passed away in 1994.
Novice (Hinton) Morris, 86, of Mount Vernon, Ohio, passed away January 14. She was a retired Mount Vernon Nazarene University employee who served as assistant to five of the university's presidents. She was preceded in death by her husband, Cecil Morris. (story)
Christina (Taca) Nutt, 53, of Weatherford, Texas, passed away January 13. She was the wife of minister Randy Nutt, who previously served in Texas.
Gerald Radabaugh, 74, of Niles, Michigan, passed away January 19. He was a minister, previously serving in Michigan. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth (Mosey) Radabaugh.
Barbara Towler, 78, of Ontario, California, passed away September 10, 2015. She was the wife of retired minister Calvin Towler, who served in Oregon and California.
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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"GMC employment opportunities"
Located in Lenexa, Kansas, the Global Ministry Center is the administrative, mission, and service hub for the Church of the Nazarene's ministries in 159 world areas. The following positions are available:
"Human Resources"
People are our most valued resource. Our committed employees are involved in "Making Christlike Disciples in the Nations" in 159 world areas.
The Global Ministry Center Human Resources Office professionals strive to deliver the highest possible service to our employees, and are responsible for the recruitment, placement and retention of qualified individuals to staff the ministry and administrative positions of the GMC. The many employee services include compensation and benefit administration, payroll, employment, employee relations, training, counseling, organizational communication and events, and workplace programs.
*Volunteer opportunities for GMC ministries are available now. Email bsikes@nazarene.org for details.
Employment Opportunities
Information Technology — Software Developer (Full-time)
Office: General Secretary
Ministry: Information Technology
Title: Software Developer
Description: Members of the software development team are primarily responsible for facilitating the ministry of the Global Ministry Center through the analysis, design, implementation, and support of software solutions.
To obtain additional information, please call 913-577-0500 and ask for Human Resources.
Location of our Positions
The GMC is the administrative hub for the Church of the Nazarene denominational ministries in 159 world areas. The GMC is conveniently located in Lenexa, Kansas, with easy access to I-35 and I-435 and within short driving distance to Kansas City International airport. All GMC positions report to this location.
Our Non-Discrimination Policy
The Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center offers equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, disability, race, religion, creed, sex, or veteran status. The Global Ministry Center is an “at will” employer.
Our Faith-Based Organization
We are a faith-based organization. Acceptance of our Christian Code of Conduct is required and membership in the Church of the Nazarene is required for certain positions. The GMC and applicable remote work sites are smoke-, alcohol-, and drug-free Christian workplaces.
Application Processing
Our Human Resources Office receives and processes many employment applications annually for a limited number of positions. While we regret that we cannot respond to each applicant, we do contact those individuals possessing the skills, education/training, and experience that best match the requirements of the open position for which the application was submitted.
An application must be completed by all applicants and an application must be completed for each position for which one wishes to be considered. Applications are retained for one year. Resumés are not necessary for entry-level positions, but they are preferred for professional level positions.
Applying for Employment with the GMC
Application forms may be requested by calling 913-577-0500, emailing bsikes@nazarene.org, or obtained in person from Human Resources at the Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center, 17001 Prairie Star Parkway, Lenexa, Kansas, 66220, Monday through Friday from 8:00 to 4:30 U.S. Central Time. Completed applications may be mailed or emailed to the attention of the Human Resources Office.
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"Churches commit to address human trafficking on Freedom Sunday"
On February 14, Nazarene congregations around the globe are committing to stand against human trafficking through participation in Freedom Sunday. Last year, more than 200 congregations worldwide participated in the event through prayer, worship, preaching, and support of church-based anti-trafficking ministries.
"Churches commit to address human trafficking on Freedom Sunday"
Global Ministry Center
On February 14, Nazarene congregations around the globe are committing to stand against human trafficking through participation in Freedom Sunday. Last year, more than 200 congregations worldwide participated in the event through prayer, worship, preaching, and support of church-based anti-trafficking ministries.
This is the third year the Church of the Nazarene will join other denominations within the Wesleyan Holiness Consortium to observe Freedom Sunday. In 2014, the Church of the Nazarene's Board of General Superintendents endorsed the Wesleyan Holiness Consortium’s Declaration for Freedom, a document drafted in part by Nazarene Theological Seminary President Carla Sunberg and other Nazarene leaders. The Wesleyan Holiness Consortium chose the first Sunday of Lent for Freedom Sunday as a way to focus on the fast spoken of in Isaiah 58:6: “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?” (NIV).
While precise numbers are difficult to verify, expert estimates suggest at least 20 million children, women, and men are in bondage today through a criminal industry that profits approximately US$150 billion each year through slave labor. Human trafficking is a problem that affects nearly every country in the world.
Jamie Gates, director of the Center for Justice and Reconciliation at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, California, says the church has an integral role to play in the fight against human trafficking.
“It has mostly been the church who has been paying attention to human trafficking over the past few years,” he said. “A great example … was the [U.S.] Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000. It was church people that got that off the ground.”
This year, the university's Center for Pastoral Leadership and the Center for Justice and Reconciliation are partnering to encourage churches on their district to participate in Freedom Sunday through Freedom Jars. Inspired by a project started last year by Bakersfield, California, First Church of the Nazarene, the jars will be used to collect money to benefit PLNU’s Beauty for Ashes fund, which supports scholarships for survivors of trafficking.
“The Beauty for Ashes Scholarship Fund started as a dream … to help survivors find a new life,” said Kim Berry Jones, program director for PLNU’s Center for Justice and Reconciliation. “We welcomed our first survivor this January to campus. It’s exciting for all of us — she can’t believe it’s really happening, and we are honored to have her as a student at PLNU. … You can imagine the kind of tenacity it takes for someone to pursue a university education. We’ve been amazed at the resiliency of the survivors we are talking to who are currently considering applying to the university or are in the application process.”
On Freedom Sunday, congregations are encouraged to take a Freedom Offering, which will support church-based ministries, including a mobile intervention clinic in Moldova, ministries focused on at-risk children, church-based prevention education, scholarships for trafficking survivors, and a drop-in center in Mumbai, India.
Becky Sukanen, a Nazarene missionary to Moldova, is working with Pastor Sergey Talaly to reach out to victims of sex trafficking in Moldova through a mobile intervention clinic that will travel to different areas in the country to provide health care and referral services to women who are being prostituted.
“We started out with an a phone survey asking girls if they wanted out of the life and if they had any health concerns, spiritual concerns, etc.,” Sukanen said. “After research into it, we found … that there was a gap in services that the Church of the Nazarene could step up and provide. We also wanted them to get a chance to meet us face to face so that we could share Christ's love with each of them and start a long-term trust-building relationship with the girls as they start to realize their need to get out.
“It is my hope that we will be able to see men and women set free from sexual slavery, intervene on their behalf, and prevent this from happening in families that are at risk, all in Christ's loving name and all with long-term holistic healing and restoration in mind.”
In Ukraine, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries recently partnered with A21, an international anti-trafficking organization, to host training for children’s ministry leaders. According to Andriy Takhtay, NCM coordinator in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) Region, the event was an eye-opener for participants.
One of the children’s ministry leaders from Kyiv, Ukraine, reported, “After returning from the conference, I have surfed the pages of the children from our Sunday School in such social networks as Facebook. I realized that they unknowingly published a lot of information about themselves, which makes them potential victims. The very next meeting of the Sunday School, we talked about the danger of falling into trafficking and about precaution steps. Our kids not only removed all information about themselves that makes them vulnerable, but also told their friends about the possible danger.”
Stephen Gualberto, Church of the Nazarene field strategy coordinator for the Philippines and Micronesia, says human trafficking prevention and education through local churches will be a key focus in the Philippines beginning this year. The West Mindnao District in the Philippines recently hosted a forum on human trafficking for pastors from a variety of denominations in Zamboanga City, which is a gateway for trafficking people from the Philippines to Malaysia.
In Mumbai, India, the Sharon Bethel Church of the Nazarene is in the beginning stages of opening a drop-in center for children of women who are prostituted in a nearby red-light district. The church was inspired by God’s words in Jeremiah 29:11.
“Every woman in the red light area is God’s child, whether she is forced, trapped, or sold,” Sanjay Gawali said. “God never planned for them to be into prostitution, but He does have plans for these women to have a wonderful life without harm and destruction, and we [the church] could be a channel of help for these women to find prosperity in life, better than prostitution.”
Churches can sign up to participate in Freedom Sunday and download free resources, including a bulletin and prayer resources in both English and Spanish, at ncm.org/freedomsunday.[Nazarene Compassionate Ministries]
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Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, February 24, 2016 "The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him."[Psalm 24:1 NLT]
PRAISES:
The Rains Came
For several months we prayed for God to bring rain to Papua New Guinea (PNG). Reports from PNG say that they are receiving an abundance of rain, to the point of overflow. Thank you, Lord. Read more in the Asia-Pacific Region's news.
David Phillips
Missionary David Phillip, after having undergone cancer treatments for the past several months says that the latest CT scan was clear, he is done with chemo, there is no evidence of cancer, and he has been cleared to return to work. Praise the Lord! David and his wife, Naomi, serve in the Southeast Asia Field on the Asia-Pacific Region.
PRAY FOR:
GLOBAL MINISTRY REQUESTS
Cyclone Winston
A path of destruction and death was left in Fiji after Cyclone Winston blew through on February 19 and 20. The island nation of Tonga also sustained damage as the cyclone passed by. Pray for everyone who was affected by Cyclone Winston, one of the strongest in recorded history for the Southern Hemisphere. Read the latest updates on the aftermath of the storm in the Asia-Pacific Region's news article.
Nazarene World Week of Prayer 2016
The annual Nazarene World Week of Prayer (NWWP) begins this weekend on Sunday, February 28 and continues through Saturday, March 5. To get you started, below are requests from each world region and for the Persecuted Church. You will find more requests on the NMI website by clicking here.
- Africa Region—Pray for God to show the church in Africa how they can give witness to the gospel in major cities.
- Asia-Pacific Region—Chinese Ministries Field: Two training centers are offering classes to men and women who are called to serve the church. Pray for courage and perseverance for the students and instructors.
- Eurasia Region—Please pray for the refugees and the mitigation of their situation. Please pray for a cease-fire in Syria. Even though it is bitterly cold in Germany, 1,000 to 3,000 more refugees arrive daily. Their situation is heartbreaking and devastating. Please pray for these men, women, and children. Pray for safety for the refugees as they enter new places.
- Mesoamerica Region—Pray for more workers for the harvest. Pray that children and youth would respond to a cross-cultural call to serve and that their churches will train and send them to be world changers.
- Manuel Lima, Brazil sub regional director
- Luis Biazon, Brazil Central field strategy coordinator
- Rubens Rodrigues, Brazil North field strategy coordinator
- Wagner de Sousa, Brazil South field strategy coordinator
- USA/Canada Region—Pray for the Ethnic Facilitators and Strategic Readiness Teams as they pray, strategize, and implement a plan of action among their ethnic group in the USA/Canada Region.
- Persecuted Church—Zimbabwe: "Officials threatened to arrest us," said a Nazarene JESUS Film team member in Zimbabwe. "We were harassed and told to leave the area even though we had all the required documents and a letter of permission from the village head. We were told to be gone or our equipment would be confiscated. We complied and left the village. Please join with us in prayer for this community, that we might find favor to return and share God's love."
Pray with Verne Ward, director of Global Mission for these missionaries who are part of the March Prayer Focus:
- Fernando and Liliana Almeida, Portugal
- Dan and Melody Anderson, Uganda
- Scott and Emily Armstrong, Dominican Republic
- Andy and Judy Bennett, Papua New Guinea
- Roberta Bustin, Romania
- Phillip and Monica Carr, Senegal
- Filimao and Samantha Chambo, Africa Region
- Catie Combes, United Kingdom
- Craig and Brenda Dayton, Ecuador
- Friday and Mary Ganda, Burundi
- Don and Evie Gardner, Kenya
- Jay and Sherilyn Hartzler, Romania
- Donald Hunter, Papua New Guinea
- Lisa Lehman, Thailand
- Krystal Loeber, Portugal
- Anthony and Barbara Manswell, Trinidad
- John and Vicki Moore, Australia
- Keith and Ruth Ann Morris, Ecuador
- Daniel and Margarita Pesado, Spain
- Judy Ralph, Papua New Guinea
- Rod and Sarah Reed, Kenya
- Liliana Reza, Paraguay
- Scot and Jill Riggins, Philippines
- Carol Rittenhouse, Costa Rica
- Gary and Penney Sidle, Zambia
- Dee Sudnick, Philippines
- Kyle and Becky Sukanen, Ukraine
- Jordan and Rachel Thompson, Papua New Guinea
- Ted and Sarah Voigt, United Kingdom
- John Watton, Asia-Pacific Region
- David and Shelley Webb, Costa Rica
- Samuel and Lumae Yangmi, Thailand
Audrey Riggins
Audrey Riggins, the 17-month-old daughter of missionaries Scot and Jill Riggins, had an echocardiogram that revealed a small PDA (patent ductus arteriosus) and a slightly enlarged left side of the heart. Unfortunately, Audrey was congested so the procedure to correct the PDA has been postponed until March 8th. Please pray for little Audrey and the entire Riggins family, who serve in the Philippines
Mary Beth Giles
Pray for missionary Mary Beth Giles who will see a vascular surgeon on February 25 to discuss treatment options for an ongoing health issue. Ask God to give Mary Beth guidance and peace. She and her husband, Dave, minister in Poland.
BEREAVEMENT
Family of Berge Najarian
Retired missionary Berge Najarian passed away on February 19 due to complications following hip surgery. Please be in prayer for the Najarian family as they deal with the unexpected passing of Berge. He and his late wife, Doris, served in Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, Antigua, Grenada, and Zambia. Per Berge’s request, there will be no former service.
Thank you for praying.
Do not work so hard for Christ, that you make no time to pray to Christ. He is the lifeblood of all prayer, all work, all being, all communion[Ann Voskamp, A Holy Experiment]
Prayer Mobilization Line Wednesday, February 24, 2016 “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.”[Psalm 24:1 NLT]
PRAISES
The Rains Came
For several months we prayed for God to bring rain to Papua New Guinea (PNG). Reports from PNG say that they are receiving an abundance of rain, to the point of overflow. Thank you, Lord.
As missionary doctor Erin Meier says in her blog post, "If you are still praying for rain for us here in the Highlands of PNG, it would be ok to stop." Read more in the Asia-Pacific Region’s news.
David Phillips
Missionary David Phillips has undergone a series of chemotherapy treatments for the past sixmonths after he was diagnosed with stage 3c cancer. Good news! David reported this week that the latest CT scan was clear, he is done with chemo, and there is no evidence of cancer. Praise the Lord! Pray for David as he works to regain strength and overcome lingering numbness from the treatments. He and his wife, Naomi, thank everyone for their prayers!
The Phillips serve in the Southeast Asia Field on the Asia-Pacific Region.
PRAY FOR:
Cyclone Winston
A path of destruction and death was left in Fiji after Cyclone Winston blew through on February 19 and 20. The island nation of Tonga also sustained damage as the cyclone passed by. In Fiji, reports are that some Nazarene pastors were reached and they are ok, but communications have not been established with those on outer islands. Pray for everyone who was affected by Cyclone Winston, one of the strongest in recorded history for the Southern Hemisphere. Read more in the Asia-Pacific Region’s news article.
Nazarene World Week of Prayer 2016
The annual Nazarene World Week of Prayer (NWWP) begins this weekend on Sunday, February 28 and continues through Saturday, March 5. To get you started, below are requests from each world region and for the Persecuted Church. You will find more requests on the NMI website by clicking here.
• Africa Region—Pray for God to show the church in Africa how they can give witness to the gospel in major cities.
• Asia-Pacific Region—Chinese Ministries Field: Two training centers are offering classes to men and women who are called to serve the church. Pray for courage and perseverance for the students and instructors.
• Eurasia Region—Refugees, refugees, refugees! Please pray for the refugees and the mitigation of their situation. Please pray for a cease-fire in Syria. Even though it is bitterly cold in Germany, 1,000 to 3,000 more refugees arrive daily. Their situation is heartbreaking and devastating. Please pray for these men, women, and children. Pray for
safety for the refugees as they enter new places.
• Mesoamerica Region—Pray for more workers for the harvest. Pray that children and youth would respond to a cross-cultural call to serve and that their churches will train and send them to be world changers.
• South America Region—Pray for the new leadership in Brazil:
Manuel Lima, Brazil sub regional director Luis Biazon, Brazil Central field strategy coordinator Rubens Rodrigues, Brazil North field strategy coordinator Wagner de Sousa, Brazil South field strategy coordinator
• USA/Canada Region—Pray for the Ethnic Facilitators and Strategic Readiness Teams as they pray, strategize, and implement a plan of action among their ethnic group in the USA/Canada Region.
• Persecuted Church— Zimbabwe: "Officials threatened to arrest us," said a Nazarene JESUS Film team member in Zimbabwe. "We were harassed and told to leave the area even though we had all the required documents and a letter of permission from the village head. We were told to be gone or our equipment would be confiscated. We complied and left the village. Please join with us in prayer for this community, that we might find favor to return and share God's love."
NWWP is an annual event occurring during the week that includes the World Day of Prayer (the first Friday in March). During this week Nazarenes dedicate themselves to interceding for our church and our world. Encourage your congregation to join you in prayer during NWWP.
March Missionary Prayer Focus
Pray with Verne Ward, director of Global Mission for these missionaries who are part of the March Prayer Focus:
- Fernando and Liliana Almeida, Portugal
- Dan and Melody Anderson, Uganda
- Scott and Emily Armstrong, Dominican Republic
- Andy and Judy Bennett, Papua New Guinea
- Roberta Bustin, Romania
- Phillip and Monica Carr, Senegal
- Filimao and Samantha Chambo, Africa Region
- Catie Combes, United Kingdom
- Craig and Brenda Dayton, Ecuador
- Friday and Mary Ganda, Burundi
- Don and Evie Gardner, Kenya
- Jay and Sherilyn Hartzler, Romania
- Donald Hunter, Papua New Guinea
- Lisa Lehman, Thailand
- Krystal Loeber, Portugal
- Anthony and Barbara Manswell, Trinidad
- John and Vicki Moore, Australia
- Keith and Ruth Ann Morris, Ecuador
- Daniel and Margarita Pesado, Spain
- Judy Ralph, Papua New Guinea
- Rod and Sarah Reed, Kenya
- Liliana Reza, Paraguay
- Scot and Jill Riggins, Philippines
- Carol Rittenhouse, Costa Rica
- Gary and Penney Sidle, Zambia
- Dee Sudnick, Philippines
- Kyle and Becky Sukanen, Ukraine
- Jordan and Rachel Thompson, Papua New Guinea
- Ted and Sarah Voigt, United Kingdom
- John Watton, Asia-Pacific Region
- David and Shelley Webb, Costa Rica
- Samuel and Lumae Yangmi, Thailand
Audrey Riggins
Audrey Riggins, the 17-month-old daughter of missionaries Scot and Jill Riggins, had an echocardiogram that revealed a small PDA (patent ductus arteriosus) and a slightly enlarged left side of the heart. Unfortunately, Audrey was congested so the procedure to correct the PDA has been postponed until March 8th. Please pray for little Audrey and the entire Riggins family, who serve in the Philippines.
Mary Beth Giles
Pray for missionary Mary Beth Giles who will see a vascular surgeon on February 25 to discuss treatment options for an ongoing health issue. Ask God to give Mary Beth guidance and peace. She and her husband, Dave, minister in Poland.
BEREAVEMENT
Family of Berge Najarian
Retired missionary Berge Najarian passed away on February 19 due to complications following hip surgery. Please be in prayer for the Najarian family as they deal with the unexpected passing of Berge. He and his late wife, Doris, served in Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, Antigua, Grenada, and Zambia. Per Berge’s request, there will be no former service.
Thanks for praying!
"Do not work so hard for Christ, that you make no time to pray to Christ. He is the lifeblood of all prayer, all work, all being, all communion."[Ann Voskamp, A Holy Experiment]
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Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, February 17, 2016 "The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him."[Psalm 24:1 NLT]
PRAISES:
“A Glimpse” Television
Praise God that a new Nazarene television program has overcome significant challenges in getting main, secular stations to put it on the air began broadcasting February 15 on Arabic MTV. The program, “A Glimpse”, will be on the air through the Easter season giving viewers in Middle Eastern countries a look into the life of Jesus.
Pray for Middle East Broadcast Director Ayman Kafrouny and his team as they work on an Arabic subtitled version so MTV can use it in North America, Australia, and other parts of the world.
Chapel Factory
The Church of the Nazarene in Haiti is growing faster than churches can be built. In an effort to provide places of worship for Haitian Nazarenes, Work & Witness Haiti developed the Chapel Factory. Missionaries Darin and Tonya Kucey say, “Praise God for the beginning of the construction of the new Chapel Factory. We expect the construction to be done by March.” Pray with the team in Haiti for the completion of the Chapel Factory. Read more and find a link to videos about the Chapel Factory project in theNCN News article.
Refugee Response
Give praise and glory to God for the way three fields on the Eurasia Region are putting together a plan to reach out to refugees. Each field represents a phase in the journey of the refugees: the countries of origin, the countries of transition, and the destination countries. With help from Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, the Eurasia Region is responding to physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
PRAY FOR:
GLOBAL MINISTRY REQUESTS
Eurasia Prayers
Join with Eurasia Regional Director Arthur Snijders in prayer for:
The new volunteers and missionaries who are coming to our region, especially in the Central Europe Field
Missionaries who have aging parents back home and who are torn between calling and care for the family
The missionary volunteers in India. We are grateful for them and ask for prayers for their ministries.
February Missionary Prayers
Missionaries who are part of the February Prayer Focus have sent in the following requests. What a privilege it is to pray for:
Scot and Tyronza Pringle, serving in Papua New Guinea
Pray for our adult children, Keara and Gavin, and our niece, Taylor Brooke.
Pray for us that we will seek the Lord’s will in all things.
Darin and Tonya Kucey, serving in Haiti
Pray that the Lord would bring more teams to Haiti to help support the amazing growth in the country.
Please join us in asking the Lord to provide the financial means to attend the Mesoamerica Regional Missionary Retreat this May. The flights are the responsibility of the missionaries while the Region covers the cost of the accommodations.
Ask the Lord for stability and safety in Haiti during the coming political elections.
Pray for the Lord’s intervention in the spread of the Zika virus. Pray particularly for the protection of the Kucey family from this virus. Karissa continues to suffer from Zika’s “sister virus” chickengunya that she contracted two years ago.Click here to read more requests from Darin and Tonya.
Nazarene World Week of Prayer 2016
The annual Nazarene World Week of Prayer (NWWP) begins on February 28 and continues through March 5. Praise reports, answers to requests from last year’s NWWP, and new ways to pray for missionaries and ministries around the world can be found on the NMI website by clicking here. Encourage your congregation to join you in prayer during NWWP.
PML CORRECTION
In the February 10 edition of PML an error was made in the prayer request for the family of Carol Kratz Bennett. Carol’s first, late husband was James (Jim), not Eldon. Eldon is the name of Carol and Jim’s son. We apologize for this error and any confusion it caused. Thank you for your continued prayers for Carol’s family.
Thank you for praying.
The most eloquent prayer is the prayer through hands that heal and bless.[Billy Graham]
NMI Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, February 17, 2016 “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.”[Psalm 24:1 NLT]
PRAISES
“A Glimpse” Television
For months the broadcast team in the Middle East has been working on a new television program but they faced significant challenges in convincing the main, secular television stations to broadcast it. Arabic MTV said they would air the program (“A Glimpse”) but asked for a large sum of money to do so and that wasn’t in the budget said Ayman Kafrouny, Nazarene broadcast director in the Middle East. “But, as usual, God has His own ways to provide,” says Ayman. “On February 15 at 6:10pm, the first episode of “A Glimpse” was aired on MTV and will continue through the Easter season.” Praise God!
Pray for Ayman and his team as they work on an Arabic subtitled version so MTV can use it in North America, Australia, and other parts of the world.
Chapel Factory
The Church of the Nazarene in Haiti is growing faster than churches can be built and more than 1,000 church buildings are needed now. In an effort to provide places of worship for Haitian Nazarenes, Work & Witness Haiti developed the Chapel Factory. At the Chapel Factory, steel columns and trusses are built then delivered to a local congregation who has prepared the land that will house their new building.
Missionaries Darin and Tonya Kucey say, “Praise God for the beginning of the construction of the new Chapel Factory the first week of December. We expect the construction to be done by March.” Pray with the team in Haiti for the completion of the Chapel Factory and for the new congregations as they wait for their new buildings.
Refugee Response
Give praise and Glory to God for the way three fields on the Eurasia Region are putting together a plan to reach out to refugees. Each field represents a phase in the journey of the refugees: the countries of origin, the countries of transition, and the destination countries. With help from Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, the Region is responding to physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
PRAY FOR:
Eurasia Prayers
Join with Eurasia Regional Director Arthur Snijders in prayer for:
• The new volunteers and missionaries who are coming to our region, especially in the Central Europe Field
• Missionaries who have aging parents back home and who are torn between calling and care for the family
• The missionary volunteers in India. We are grateful for them and ask for prayers for their ministries.
February Missionary Prayers
Missionaries who are part of the February Prayer Focus have sent in the following requests. What a privilege it is to pray for:
Scot and Tyronza Pringle, serving in Papua New Guinea
Pray for our adult children, Keara and Gavin, and our niece, Taylor Brooke.
Pray for us that we will seek the Lord’s will in all things.
Darin and Tonya Kucey, serving in Haiti
• Tonya has started more advanced language classes. Please pray that God would give added grace as she progresses in the goal of speaking Creole.
• Pray for Cory as he works two jobs to try and help with expenses while studying at Olivet Nazarene University. He is walking by faith that the Lord will provide for his tuition and living expenses. He has enough to cover his first semester.
• Pray that the Lord would bring more teams to Haiti to help support the amazing growth in the country.
• Thank you for praying for Ryan and his final semester at St. Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. He graduated with his Business Degree January 23rd. Please continue to pray for him as he will be making decisions regarding his future.
• Please join us in asking the Lord to provide the financial means to attend the Mesoamerica Regional Missionary Retreat this May. The flights are the responsibility of the missionaries while the Region covers the cost of the accommodations.
• Ask the Lord for stability and safety in Haiti during the coming political elections.
• Pray for the Lord’s intervention in the spread of the Zika virus. Pray particularly for the protection of the Kucey family from this virus. Karissa continues to suffer from Zika’s “sister virus” chickengunya that she contracted 2 years ago. Prayer for healing would be appreciated for her.
• Seek the Lord with us to locate effective strategy for the significant growth in the Church of the Nazarene in Haiti and the additional demand for construction of churches.
• Pray for wisdom and direction in the area of health, fitness and nutrition. Tonya has continued to struggle with various health issues and would covet additional prayer for her physical restoration.
• Join us in asking the Lord for his guidance and direction for discipling the new followers of Christ through the JESUS Film.
• Pray for our Work & Witness staff—Colson, Fatil, Asnet, Wilio, and Michel—as well as the 35 other contracted masons, welders, painters, etc.
• Ask the Lord for his blessing on the other Nazarene missionaries in Haiti and ministries:
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, Haiti Water Project, Haiti Hot Lunch Program, the 43 JESUS Film teams and the Seminary.
• Pray for revival in Haiti.
• Petition the Lord for his protection upon the Kucey family as they live and travel throughout the country; that no weapon forged against them will prosper.
• Pray for Christ’s covering over the Kucey marriage and ministry.
• Ask the Lord to increase His level of love in the lives of Darin, Tonya and Karissa for Haiti and its people.
• Pray for the teams scheduled to come in 2016 and for the Lord to send more teams to Haiti to help with the tremendous needs here.
• Please pray for Karissa and all aspects of her life—spiritually, physically, mentally, emotionally, and academically.
Nazarene World Week of Prayer 2016
The annual Nazarene World Week of Prayer (NWWP) focuses on the work of God through Nazarene missionaries and ministries. NWWP begins on February 28 and continues through March 5. Praise reports, answers to requests from last year’s NWWP, and new ways for missionaries and ministries around the world can be found on the NMI website and some will be included in the e-mail and printable editions of PML next week. Encourage your congregation to join you in prayer during NWWP.
PML CORRECTION
In the February 10 edition of PML an error was made in the prayer request for the family of Carol Kratz Bennett. Carol’s first, late husband was James (Jim), not Eldon. Eldon is the name of Carol and Jim’s son. We apologize for this error and any confusion it caused. Thank you for your continued prayers for Carol’s family.
Thanks for praying!
“The most eloquent prayer is the prayer through hands that heal and bless.”[Billy Graham]
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Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, February 10, 2016 "The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid?
The Lord protects me from danger—so why should I tremble?"[Psalm 27:1 NLT]
PRAISES:
Visa Renewed!
The missionary family whose visa renewal had been rejected applied to enter an appeal. Last week they received word that their visa has been renewed for another year. Praise God!
PRAY FOR:
GLOBAL MINISTRY REQUESTS
Papua New Guinea Challenges
An urgent request has been received from one of the team members in Papua New Guinea asking for strength, wisdom and guidance as the team carries out challenging tasks ahead.
Click here to read more in the Printable PML.
Victims of Taiwan Earthquake
A powerful earthquake struck southern Taiwan on February 6. The Church of the Nazarene has 43 churches in the country. Leaders say, that to the best of their knowledge, no Nazarenes were injured. Pray for everyone who has been affected by the quake.
Endless Possibilities
After a recent World Mission Broadcast training in the Democratic Republic of Congo, missionaries Gavin and Jill Fothergill write, “From 5-minute devotional thoughts, to 30-minute shows highlighting music and relevant topics, our possibilities are endless in sharing the Gospel. In Lubumbashi alone, we have 14 radio stations.” Please keep this growing ministry in your prayers.
January Missionary Prayers
Missionaries who are part of the January Prayer Focus have sent in the following requests. What a privilege it is to pray for:
In-Kwon and Jeong-Seok Kim, serving in Tonga
Our home assignment in New Zealand and Korea starts in April. Please pray that we will effectively share our mission report to many churches. Pray that God will provide Bill and Shirley with wisdom and strength as they look after the Mango Tree Centre while we are away.
Our youngest son, David, suffers from frequent migraines. Please pray for his healing.
The Zika Virus is epidemic in Tonga and lives are threatened. Please pray for God to protect the Tongan people from the Zika Virus as well as Chikungunya and Dengue Fever.
Nate and Becky Strawser, serving in the United Kingdom
Family:
Pray for our son who is having some difficulties at school.
Pray for time together as a whole family.
Ministry:
Pray for the “Blend” coffee shop ministry. Pray for those we work with as well as those we hope to minister to.
Pray for Jubilee House, a refuge for women and children escaping domestic abuse. Pray for the core team of volunteers and upcoming meetings with local businesses, as we try to recruit financial partners within our local community.
Pray for the preparations for our fundraising event in May.
Josh and Shannon Herndon, serving in Spain
Please pray that the process of obtaining visas to move to our new work in Greece is successful, painless, and quick, if it is the Lord's will.
Please pray for open doors of ministry in in Greece, especially in partnering with the Greek Orthodox Church.
Please pray for the economic situation in Greece, the refugee crisis that continues to pass through Greek borders, and the human trafficking problem that persists in that part of the world.
Click here to read more requests from Josh and Shannon. Click here to read more about their upcoming move to Greece in the NCN News article.
Sean and Rachael Dundar, serving in Ireland
Please pray for:
Our continued transition into this new culture
A successful semester of classwork
Bethany Lisburn Church of the Nazarene, its growth and prosperityClick here to read more requests from the Dundars in Printable PML.
General Superintendents
Please pray for the General Superintendents who are traveling this month:
Jerry D. Porter
J. K. Warrick
Eugénio Duarte
David W. Graves
David A. Busic
Gustavo A. Crocker
GLOBAL CONCERNS – BODY OF CHRIST
Drought
After a year of unusually low rainfall, the drought in Zimbabwe has become so severe that officials declared a state of disaster across much of the country, the BBC reported February 5. Additionally, Ethiopia is experiencing its worst drought in decades, with more than 10 million people needing emergency aid. (Out of Africa Newsletter)
BEREAVEMENT
Family of Carol Kratz Bennett
Retired missionary Carol Kratz Bennett passed away on January 29, 2016. Carol, along with her first late husband, Eldon, served in Brazil for 29 years. A memorial service will be held at Bethany First Church of the Nazarene in Oklahoma on March 19. Pray for the Bennett family during this time.
Thank you for praying.
Until God opens the next door, praise Him in the hallway![Author unknown]
NMI Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, February 10, 2016 “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.”[Psalm 24:1 NLT]
PRAISE:
Renewed!
God heard and answered your prayers for the missionaries whose visa renewal applications were denied. The family received a registered letter from the government saying that they have been granted a one-year extension. The letter also said that the extension was based on the excellent service they are providing to their community. Praise the Lord! Thank you, Jesus, for answering our prayers and that this missionary family can continue the work you’ve called them to for another year.
PRAY FOR:
Papua New Guinea Challenges
An urgent request has been received from one of the team members in Papua New Guinea asking for strength, wisdom and guidance as the team carries out challenging tasks ahead. Due to the sensitivities of the situation, details are limited but fortunately God knows and we ask you to pray for:
• A smooth transition of activities to complete the important tasks at hand in the midst of tribal and other significant challenges, and the ability to sustain the ministry project from start to finish.
• Team unity, peace of mind, heart and body for all the people involved.
• Integrity of everyone involved, that the team may stand firm, regardless of how huge the pressure might be to compromise.
May our team in Papua New Guinea continue their mission of exemplifying Christ in everything they do.
Victims of Taiwan Earthquake
A powerful earthquake struck southern Taiwan on February 6. The Church of the Nazarene has 43 churches in Taiwan and connection has been established with the district superintendent and Nazarene Youth International coordinator. They say, to the best of their knowledge, no Nazarenes were injured. Searchers continue to sift through the rubble to find survivors. Pray for everyone who has been affected by the quake, for those who lost family and friends, and for aid workers.
Leaders on the Asia-Pacific Region say, “Through generous donations previously made to the Nazarene Compassionate Ministries Asia-Pacific Disaster Relief Fund, we have resources on hand and are poised to respond as critical needs are identified.”
Endless Possibilities
After a recent World Mission Broadcast radio training in the Democratic Republic of Congo, missionaries Gavin and Jill Fothergill say, “From five-minute devotional thoughts, to 30-minute shows highlighting music and discussing relevant topics, our possibilities are endless in sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ. In Lubumbashi alone, we have 14 radio stations. Of those, about 5 will broadcast Christian music and messages. We are excited to see where the Lord leads and what opportunities present themselves." Please keep this growing ministry in your prayers.
January Missionary Prayers
Missionaries who are part of the January Prayer Focus have sent in the following requests. What a privilege it is to pray for:
In-Kwon and Jeong-Seok Kim, serving in Tonga
• Our home assignment begins in April and it will be in New Zealand and Korea. Please pray that we will effectively share our mission report to many churches. Pray that God will provide Bill and Shirley with wisdom and strength as they look after the Mango Tree Centre while we are away.
• Please pray that our Bible classes and home church ministry will help the disabled people of Tonga to live a life with Christ.
• Our youngest son, David, suffers from frequent migraines. Please pray for his healing.
• Please pray that God will send the Mango Tree Centre a therapist missionary to be in charge of rehabilitative therapy.
• The Zika Virus is epidemic in Tonga and lives are threatened. Please pray for God to protect the Tongan people from the Zika Virus as well as Chikungunya and Dengue Fever.
Nate and Becky Strawser, serving in the United Kingdom
Family:
• Pray for our son who is having some difficulties at school.
• Pray for time together as a whole family.
Ministry:
• Pray for the “Blend” coffee shop ministry. Pray for those we work with as well as those we hope to minister to.
• Pray for Jubilee House, a refuge for women and children escaping domestic abuse. Pray for the core team of volunteers and upcoming meetings with local businesses, as we try to recruit financial partners within our local community.
• Pray for the preparations for our fundraising event in May.
Josh and Shannon Herndon, serving in Spain
• Please pray that the process of obtaining visas to move to the new work in Greece is successful, painless, and quick, if it is the Lord's will.
• Please pray that hearts in Greece will be open to hearing the message of Christ.
• Please pray for open doors of new ministry in our new assignment in Greece, especially in partnering with the Greek Orthodox Church.
• Please pray for the economic situation in Greece, the refugee crisis that continues to pass through Greek borders, and the human trafficking problem that persists in that part of the world.
• Please pray for ministry in Spain as we prepare to do the final sports camp outreach here in March.
• Please pray for our family as we prepare to make the transition to a new country, a new culture, a new language and a new school for our children.
• Please pray for leadership on the Eurasia field, as they continue to make tough decisions in a region that spans many different countries, cultures, and time zones.
Sean and Rachael Dundar, serving in The United Kingdom
Please pray for:
• Our continued transition into this new culture
• A successful semester of classwork
• Bethany Lisburn Church of the Nazarene, its growth and prosperity
• The United Kingdom and all of Europe during the refugee crisis. Pray that the church will be the hands and feet of Christ to the refugees.
• The ministries of the church and our outreach to those in the community
General Superintendents
Please pray for the General Superintendents who are traveling this month:
Jerry D. Porter
J. K. Warrick
Eugénio Duarte
David W. Graves
David A. Busic
Gustavo A. Crocker
GLOBAL CONCERNS – BODY OF CHRIST
Drought
After a year of unusually low rainfall, the drought in Zimbabwe has become so severe that officials declared a state of disaster across much of the country, the BBC reported February 5.
Additionally, Ethiopia is experiencing its worst drought in decades, with more than 10 million people needing emergency aid. (Out of Africa Newsletter)
HEALTH-RELATED REQUESTS
Family of Carol Kratz Bennett
Retired missionary Carol Kratz Bennett passed away on January 29, 2016. Carol, along with her first late husband, Eldon, served in Brazil for 29 years. A memorial service will be held at Bethany First Church of the Nazarene in Oklahoma on March 19. Pray for the Bennett family during this time.
Thanks for praying!
Until God opens the next door, praise Him in the hallway![Author unknown]
---------------------
Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, February 3, 2016 "The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid?
The Lord protects me from danger—so why should I tremble?"[Psalm 27:1 NLT]
PRAISES:
JESUS Film Praises
Give praise as you read just a few of the many testimonies from the JESUS Film Harvest Partners ministry:
"The church in Dulag had closed in 2009 for many reasons," said a Filipino team member. "Yet through the JESUS Film ministry, it is being rekindled back to life. The church now makes an impact in the community bringing hope through medical missions, and other compassionate ministries.
"I am giving everything I have to God," said Christine, mother of two, in Benin (Africa). "I am happy to have seen the JESUS Film. From what I saw and what I have learned, Christ gave His life to save humanity. I am glad He protects us and gives us His peace and hope, so we can love and serve Him in all we do."
"I told the Lord, if He wanted me to see the film, my grandson had to get well," shared a grandmother in Panama. "God is so good! I called my daughter before leaving my house, and she told me my grandson was better. I am a new believer today after seeing the film."
Click here to read more about JESUS Film Harvest Partners
PRAY FOR:
GLOBAL MINISTRY REQUESTS
Help for Migrants
The refugee crisis in Europe continues. According to the United Nations, there are more than one million Syrian migrants in Lebanon and about 70 percent of them are below the "extreme" poverty line. The lack of earning power is causing food insecurity among refugees. In the midst of this, Nazarenes are responding by giving generously. Thanks to a partnership with Heart For Lebanon, the funds are greatly increased. For every bag bought, they add two more. Please continue to pray for the refugees and those extending a helping hand. ncm.org/refugees
Deployment, Commissioning, Retirement
Recently, a new missionary deployed to her field of service and a family is set to depart on February 7 to their area of ministry. Pray for these servants as they make the transition into missionary life.
In three weeks, seven missionary families will travel to interview with members of the General Board and the Board of General Superintendents to be considered for global recognition. This recognition is called being commissioned and it is a formal acknowledgement by the Church of the Nazarene of missionaries who have proven themselves in ministry and received recommendation from the region where they currently serve. Pray for these who are preparing to travel to the meetings and as they stand before the church to declare their deep desire to continue serving the Lord as Nazarene missionaries.
Also at this year’s General Board meetings, two families will be recognized for their years of service as they prepare to retire. Pray for the soon to be “retirees” as they transition out of missionary service to the next chapter of their lives.
Global Women and Girls Fund
In an effort to support women and their families through self-help groups, small business creation, vocational training, small-scale farming, literacy education, and other programs, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries is helping women and girls see themselves as people who are valuable, capable, and equal because they are made in God’s image. Partnering with local churches around the world, NCM also creates schools that give opportunity for education, life skills, and spiritual guidance in areas that do not traditionally value the importance of education for girls. Pray for the Nazarene who administer these valuable ministries and for the women and girls who participate…may they experience God’s love abundantly.
Janet Miller—UPDATE
NMI East Ohio District President Mark Miller and his family appreciate the prayers of the church as the search for his aunt, Janet Miller, continues. She went missing onDecember 24, 2016, and at this point, police say there is nothing more they can do. The family is understandably discouraged. Pray for God to reveal the whereabouts of Janet and for peace for the family as the wait continues.
HEALTH-RELATED REQUESTS
Harmon Schmelzenbach Sr.–UPDATE
Harmon Schmelzenbach Sr.’s son, Harmon Jr., writes: “These past few days have seen significant improvement with dad’s situation. Our family is deeply aware and appreciative of the great army of prayer warriors who have been lifting him before God’s throne! Thank you so very much.”
Praise God for this good news and keep praying for Harmon's complete recovery.
Harmon Sr., and his wife, Beverly, are retired missionaries who served in South Africa, Namibia, Swaziland, Kenya, Ethiopia, and the United States. Harmon Jr., and his family serve on the Asia-Pacific Region.
BEREAVEMENT
Family of Paul Alfred Lehman
It is never easy for missionaries to be literally half-a-world-away when family losses occur. Paul Lehman passed away on January 27. A funeral service was held on January 30 in Michigan. Paul was the grandfather of missionary Lisa Lehman who serves in Thailand. Pray for Lisa and her family as they grieve Paul’s passing.
Family of Vipul Kharat
Pastor Vipul Kharat was on holiday in his hometown of Buldana, India, when he passed away unexpectedly. Vipul served as pastor of the All Nations Church of the Nazarene in Auckland, New Zealand for the past 23 years. Pray for Vipul’s wife, Suzanne, their son, Sameer, and the congregation at the All Nations Church.
Thank you for praying.
We never know how God will answer our prayers, but we can expect that He will get us involved in His plan for the answer. If we are true intercessors, we must be ready to take part in God’s work on behalf of the people for whom we pray.[Corrie ten Boom]
NMI Prayer Mobilization Line for February 3, 2016 “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.”[Psalm 24:1 NLT]
PRAISE:
JESUS Film Praises
Give praise as you read just a few of the many testimonies from the JESUS Film Harvest
Partners ministry:
• "The church in Dulag had closed in 2009 for many reasons," said a Filipino team member. "Yet through the JESUS Film ministry, it is being rekindled back to life. The church now makes an impact in the community bringing hope through medical missions, and other compassionate ministries. "Pray for this church to continue to be a place of hope and help!
• "I am giving everything I have to God," said Christine, mother of two, in Benin. "I am happy to have seen the JESUS Film. From what I saw and what I have learned, Christ gave His life to save humanity. He suffered, even for bad men, in order to save us who are lost. I am glad He protects us and gives us His peace and hope, so we can love and serve Him in all we do." Praise God for Christine's witness.
• "I told the Lord, if He wanted me to see the film, my grandson had to get well," shared a grandmother in Panama. "God is so good! I called my daughter before leaving my house, and she told me my grandson was better. I am a new believer today after seeing the film." Praise God for working miracles.
PRAY FOR:
Help for Migrants
The refugee crisis in Europe continues. According to the United Nations, there are more than one million Syrian migrants in Lebanon and about 70 percent of them are below the "extreme" poverty line. The lack of earning power is causing food insecurity among refugees. In the midst of this, Nazarenes are responding by giving generously with part of the funds given going to purchase food for refugee families. Thanks to a partnership with Heart For Lebanon, those funds are greatly increased. For every bag bought, they add two more. Your support is making a difference!
Please continue to pray for the refugees and those extending a helping hand.
Deployment, Commissioning, Retirement
• Recently, a new missionary deployed to their field of service and a family is set to depart on February 7 to their area of ministry. Pray for these servants as they make the transition into missionary life.
• In three weeks, seven missionary families will travel to interview with members of the General Board and the Board of General Superintendents to be considered for global recognition. This recognition is called being commissioned and it is a formal acknowledgement by the Church of the Nazarene of missionaries who have proven themselves in ministry and received recommendation from the region where they currently serve. Pray for these who are preparing to travel to the meetings and as they stand before the church to declare their deep desire to continue serving the Lord as Nazarene missionaries.
• Also at this year’s General Board meetings, two families will be recognized for their years of service as they prepare to retire. Pray for the soon to be “retirees” as they transition out of missionary service to the next chapter of their lives.
Global Women and Girls Fund
In an effort to support women and their families through self-help groups, small business creation, vocational training, small-scale farming, literacy education, and other programs, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries is helping women and girls see themselves as people who are valuable, capable, and equal because they are made in God’s image. Partnering with local churches around the world, NCM also creates schools that give opportunity for education, life skills, and spiritual guidance in areas that do not traditionally value the importance of education for girls. Pray for the Nazarene who administer these valuable ministries and for the women and girls who participate…may they experience God’s love abundantly.
Janet Miller—UPDATE
NMI East Ohio District President Mark Miller and his family appreciate the prayers of the church as the search for his aunt, Janet Miller, continues. She went missing on December 24, 2016, and at this point, police say there is nothing more they can do. The family is understandably discouraged. Pray for God to reveal the whereabouts of Janet and for peace for the family as the wait continues.
HEALTH-RELATED REQUESTS
Harmon Schmelzenbach Sr.–UPDATE
The Schmelzenbach family greatly appreciates ongoing prayer for Harmon Sr. as evaluations of current treatment continues. Harmon and his wife, Beverly, are retired missionaries who served in South Africa, Namibia, Swaziland, Kenya, Ethiopia, and the United States.
BEREAVEMENT
Family of Paul Alfred Lehman
It is never easy for missionaries to be literally half-a-world-away when family losses occur. Paul Lehman passed away on January 27. A funeral service was held on January 30 in Michigan. Paul was the grandfather of missionary Lisa Lehman who serves in Thailand. Pray for Lisa and her family as they grieve Paul’s passing.
Family of Vipul Kharat
Pastor Vipul Kharat was on holiday in his hometown of Buldana, India, when he passed away unexpectedly. Vipul served as pastor of the All Nations Church of the Nazarene in Auckland, New Zealand for the past 23 years. He was a third generation Nazarene, being a grandson of Rev. Waman H. Kharat, one of the first Indians to be ordained an elder in the church of the Nazarene in November 1937 by General Superintendent J.B. Chapman. Pray for Vipul’s wife, Suzanne, their son, Sameer, and the congregation at the All Nations Church.
Thanks for praying!
“We never know how God will answer our prayers, but we can expect that He will get us involved in His plan for the answer. If we are true intercessors, we must be ready to take part in God’s work on behalf of the people for whom we pray.”[Corrie ten Boom]
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Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, January 13, 2016
Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, January 13, 2016 "The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid?
The Lord protects me from danger—so why should I tremble?"[Psalm 27:1 NLT]
PRAISES:
Missionaries
We give praise to God for Nazarene missionaries who dedicate their lives to telling people around the world about Christ. May the Lord watch over them with His protection and richly bless them, their families, and all their efforts.
Thailand Praises
Missionaries in Thailand, Tomo and Ceny Hirahara, say, “We praise the Lord for the Christmas evangelism events with people living with HIV. Four people prayed to receive Christ and our key contacts tell us that some of their family and friends also received Christ. Pray for us as we follow-up with the new believers and those who were baptized.
PRAY FOR:
GLOBAL MINISTRY REQUESTS
Ebola Update—West Africa
Pray for the residents, health officials and leaders of Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea. Though the Ebola outbreak has dwindled, it’s still a critical time for these countries as they monitor any potential new cases. Ebola survivors, orphans, and those grieving the loss of loved ones still need our prayers and support.
Third Africa Conference
Pray for the upcoming regional conference on the West Africa Field at the end of March. This is the third and final event in the series of conferences across the continent. Pray for God’s guidance as preparations are made, wisdom for the speakers, provision and protection for those who will attend.
January Missionary Prayers
Below are prayer requests from missionaries who are part of our January Prayer Focus. Thank you for praying for:
Jörg Eich, serving on the Eurasia Region in Compassionate Ministries
Nepal: The border with India has been closed resulting in fuel shortages. A consequence of this is that relief activities have slowed significantly and winter preparations are largely on hold as agencies are unable to import supplies, distribute relief items, or assess areas of need.
The church is growing as a result of many earthquake related projects. More workers are needed and the office systems need to be updated.
Bangladesh: A fast response is needed in Bangladesh due to recent waves of cold weather. Leadership would like to buy blankets. Pray that God will meet all the needs of people suffering through the cold waves. Click here if you would like to respond financially to the need for blankets.
Tomo and Ceny Hirahara, serving in Thailand
Pray for:
Bible lessons and discipleship with families in their homes
Continuous relationship building and ministry to people in the community
Involvement in village activities with a kids football team
John and Karen Jones-Porter*, serving in Swaziland
Pray for us as we will be working at the Southern Africa Nazarene University
Pray for us as we hope to minister to AIDS orphans near the university
Pray for us to follow where God leads us in this new ministry.
*Please note that in the January 6 edition of PML, Karen’s name was left off of the list of monthly missionaries even though John’s was included. We apologize for this error. Many long-time NMI leaders will know Karen from the years she worked assisting Dr. Nina Gunter in the NMI Office in Kansas City.
Scott and Gail Dooley, serving in Papua New Guinea
Finance: Papua New Guinea is facing a huge national budget crisis. We do not know how the budget at Kudjip Nazarene Hospital will be affected. We trust the Lord will remain faithful just as He always has.
Ministry. Many national staff who have worked at the hospital a long time gave their lives to Christ this past year—30 were baptized. A number of community people have given their lives to the Lord through our health infrastructure projects as well, and we are visiting local Kuma men in prison after the tribal fight. All of these are spiritual victories and in each one we see ways that Satan is fighting back.
Infrastructure. We are also waiting on a current infrastructure proposal with Incentive Fund (Australian Aid funded) for continuing our vision for the station/hospital.
Trino and Anna Jara, serving in Armenia, Pray for us and our future plans. We are praying to add a child to our family. We hope 2016 will be the year!
Pray for our ministry in the country in which God and His church have entrusted us to work. There are several challenges; church legal registration, property transfers/registration; pastoral and leadership training
Ask God to give two new places to start our ministry of reconciliation and restoration in 2016.
Click here for more requests from the Jaras in Printable PML.
Todd and Connie Aebischer, serving on the Asia-Pacific Region
Please pray for:
Our kids, their marriages, their studies, but most of all, that God would continue to reveal Himself to each of them personally. (Jessica & Cale (baby Noor), Courtney and Landen, David and Dwayne).
For renewed vision and passion for what God is calling us to in 2016. We are currently partnering in the two church plants, weekday discipling, and Bible studies. We continue to pray that God would continue giving us "one" and then giving us the time in the days to disciples the "ones."
Wisdom in leadership. Changes in the structure of Asia-Pacific Regional Communications and World Mission Communication are stretching me (Todd) way outside of my comfort zones. Greatly appreciate prayer that I would be sensitive to the Lord’s guidance.
Click here for more requests from Todd and Connie in Printable PML.
Janet Miller—UPDATE
Janet Miller—UPDATE Please continue to pray for Janet Miller, 78, who has been missing since Christmas Eve. Police in Georgia continue to search but Janet has not been found. She is the aunt of East Ohio District NMI President Mark Miller. Pray for Janet’s safe return. Pray for Mark and his family as they wait for news.
HEALTH-RELATED REQUESTS
John Anderson
Retired missionary John Anderson has suffered six falls in the past three weeks, with the last fall breaking three ribs. John is going into a nursing care facility today. Pray for him, that God will heal his body. Pray for his wife, Doris, as she cares for her husband. Together, John and Doris served in India for 32 years.
Thank you for praying.
"Darkness is my point of view, my right to myself; light is God’s point of view."[Oswald Chambers]
---------------------
NMI Prayer Mobilization Line for Wednesday, January 13, 2016 "The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid? The Lord protects me from danger—so why should I tremble?"[Psalm 27:1 NLT]
PRAISE:
Missionaries
We give praise to God for Nazarene missionaries who are dedicating their lives to telling people around the world about Christ. May the Lord watch over them with His protection and richly bless them, their families, and all their efforts.
Thailand Praises
Missionaries Tomo and Ceny Hirahara say, “We praise the Lord for the Christmas evangelism events with people living with HIV. Four people prayed to receive Christ and our key contacts tell us that some of their family and friends also received Christ as Savior.” Pray for us as we followup with the new believers and those baptized. (See below for additional ways to pray for the ministry of Tomo and Ceny.)
PRAY FOR:
Ebola Update—West Africa
Pray for the residents, health officials and leaders of Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea. Though the Ebola outbreak has dwindled, it’s still a critical time for these countries as they monitor any potential new cases. Ebola survivors, orphans, and those grieving the loss of loved ones still need our prayers and support.
Third Africa Conference
Pray for the upcoming regional conference on the West Africa Field at the end of March. This is the third and final event in the series of conferences across the continent. Pray for God’s guidance as preparations are made, wisdom for the speakers, provision and protection for those who will attend.
January Missionary Prayers
Below are prayer requests from missionaries who are part of our January Prayer Focus. Thank you for praying for:
Jörg Eich, serving on the Eurasia Region in Compassionate Ministries
• Nepal: The most significant humanitarian challenge concerns closure of the border with India and the resulting fuel shortages. A consequence of this is that relief activities have slowed significantly and winter preparations are largely on hold as agencies are unable to import supplies, distribute relief items or assess areas of need.
• Also, as the church is growing as consequence of the many earthquake related projects being implemented where there was no church before, NCM-Nepal team needs to hire more people. These people need training (to be done by Nazarene leadership in Nepal) and the organization in the office needs to be up-dated.
• Bangladesh: A fast response is needed in Bangladesh due to recent waves of cold weather. Leadership would like to buy blankets. Pray that God will meet all the needs of people suffering through the cold waves.
Tomo and Ceny Hirahara, serving in Thailand
Pray for:
• Bible lessons and discipleship with families in their homes
• Continuous relationship building and ministry to people in the community
• Involvement in village activities with a kids football team
• The health issues of family in Japan and the Philippines
• Our upcoming home assignment to Japan and Philippines (See praise report from the Hiraharas above) John and Karen Jones-Porter*, serving in Swaziland
• Pray for us as we will be working at the Southern Africa Nazarene University
• Pray for us as we hope to minister to AIDS orphans near the university
• Pray for us to follow where God leads us in this new ministry.
*Please note that in the January 6 edition of PML, Karen’s name was left off of the list of monthly missionaries even though John’s was included. We apologize for this error.
Many long-time NMI leaders will know Karen from the years she worked assisting Dr. Nina Gunter in the NMI Office in Kansas City.
Scott and Gail Dooley, serving in Papua New Guinea
• Finance: Papua New Guinea is facing a huge national budget crisis. K50 million has been cut from Christian Health Services and they projected a 40% cut to our funding. We have been pleading with National Department of Health and Christian Health Services to make as many changes as they can to prioritize services. We still do not know the actual figures for this year but we will undoubtedly face difficult decisions and even more than usual be very reliant on church/donations. We trust the Lord will remain faithful just as He always has.
• Ministry. We have had a great spiritual focus this past year. For internal discipleship, many staff that have been here a long time truly gave their lives to Christ. Thirty staff were baptized last year. We pray that they will continue to feel a call not only to stay if this crisis changes pay, but also to really make it a ministry. We have also had an increased emphasis with follow up of patients and trying to connect them back to local churches after making a decision for the Lord in the hospital. A number of community people have given their lives to the Lord through our infrastructure projects as well, and we are visiting local Kuma men in prison after the tribal fight. All of these are spiritual victories and in each one we see ways that Satan is fighting back. Pray that we remain focused on making disciples here.
• Infrastructure. We are also waiting on a current infrastructure proposal with Incentive Fund (Australian Aid funded) for continuing our vision for the station/hospital.
Trino and Anna Jara, serving in Armenia,
• Pray for us and our future plans. We are praying to add a child to our family. We hope 2016 will be the year!
• Pray for our ministry in the country in which God and His church have entrusted us to work. There are several challenges; church legal registration, property transfers/registration; pastoral and leadership training
• Pray for our appointment with the General Board this coming February in the Netherlands
• Ask God to give two new places to start our ministry of reconciliation and restoration in 2016.
• Pray for our pastors and leaders and that they will overcome any fear to preach the Gospel among their people.
• Pray for our small church in Yerevan. We need urgently to find a larger place for our ministries.
• Pray for our regional and other global assignments—we need His guidance and wisdom to continue doing our job without neglecting our family and time of rest.
• Pray for the global child development program. We need many sponsors willing to bless thousands of needy children!
Todd and Connie Aebischer, serving on the Asia-Pacific Region, please pray for:
• Our kids, their marriages, their studies, but most of all, that God would continue to reveal Himself to each of them personally. (Jessica & Cale (baby Noor), Courtney and Landen, David and Dwayne).
• For renewed vision and passion for what God is calling us to in 2016. We desire not to just "do our job" but to do "the job" that God would have us doing. That we would be light in the midst of the world that we are living. We are currently partnering in the two church plants (that we have talked about) and weekday discipling and Bible studies. We continue to pray that God would continue giving us "one" and then giving us the time in the days to disciples the "ones."
• Language study. Even though we can manage just fine in English here in the Philippines, we are truly burdened to become fluent in Tagalog, so that we can be relevant to and engage with those who live around our home who are not comfortable speaking English.
• Wisdom in leadership. Changes in the structure of APRC and WMC are stretching me (Todd) way outside of my comfort zones. Greatly appreciate prayer that I would be sensitive to the Lord’s guidance.
Janet Miller—UPDATE
Please continue to pray for Janet Miller, 78, who has been missing since Christmas Eve. Police in Georgia continue to search but Janet has not been found. She is the aunt of East Ohio District NMI President Mark Miller. Pray for Janet’s safe return. Pray for Mark and his family as they wait for news.
HEALTH-RELATED REQUESTS
John Anderson
Retired missionary John Anderson has suffered six falls in the past three weeks, with the last fall breaking three ribs. John is going into a nursing care facility today. Pray for him, that God will heal his body. Pray for his wife, Doris, as she cares for her husband. Together, John and Doris served in India for 32 years.
Thanks for praying!
“Darkness is my point of view, my right to myself; light is God’s point of view.”[Oswald Chambers]
---------------------
Missionaries
We give praise to God for Nazarene missionaries who are dedicating their lives to telling people around the world about Christ. May the Lord watch over them with His protection and richly bless them, their families, and all their efforts.
Thailand Praises
Missionaries Tomo and Ceny Hirahara say, “We praise the Lord for the Christmas evangelism events with people living with HIV. Four people prayed to receive Christ and our key contacts tell us that some of their family and friends also received Christ as Savior.” Pray for us as we followup with the new believers and those baptized. (See below for additional ways to pray for the ministry of Tomo and Ceny.)
PRAY FOR:
Ebola Update—West Africa
Pray for the residents, health officials and leaders of Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea. Though the Ebola outbreak has dwindled, it’s still a critical time for these countries as they monitor any potential new cases. Ebola survivors, orphans, and those grieving the loss of loved ones still need our prayers and support.
Third Africa Conference
Pray for the upcoming regional conference on the West Africa Field at the end of March. This is the third and final event in the series of conferences across the continent. Pray for God’s guidance as preparations are made, wisdom for the speakers, provision and protection for those who will attend.
January Missionary Prayers
Below are prayer requests from missionaries who are part of our January Prayer Focus. Thank you for praying for:
Jörg Eich, serving on the Eurasia Region in Compassionate Ministries
• Nepal: The most significant humanitarian challenge concerns closure of the border with India and the resulting fuel shortages. A consequence of this is that relief activities have slowed significantly and winter preparations are largely on hold as agencies are unable to import supplies, distribute relief items or assess areas of need.
• Also, as the church is growing as consequence of the many earthquake related projects being implemented where there was no church before, NCM-Nepal team needs to hire more people. These people need training (to be done by Nazarene leadership in Nepal) and the organization in the office needs to be up-dated.
• Bangladesh: A fast response is needed in Bangladesh due to recent waves of cold weather. Leadership would like to buy blankets. Pray that God will meet all the needs of people suffering through the cold waves.
Tomo and Ceny Hirahara, serving in Thailand
Pray for:
• Bible lessons and discipleship with families in their homes
• Continuous relationship building and ministry to people in the community
• Involvement in village activities with a kids football team
• The health issues of family in Japan and the Philippines
• Our upcoming home assignment to Japan and Philippines (See praise report from the Hiraharas above) John and Karen Jones-Porter*, serving in Swaziland
• Pray for us as we will be working at the Southern Africa Nazarene University
• Pray for us as we hope to minister to AIDS orphans near the university
• Pray for us to follow where God leads us in this new ministry.
*Please note that in the January 6 edition of PML, Karen’s name was left off of the list of monthly missionaries even though John’s was included. We apologize for this error.
Many long-time NMI leaders will know Karen from the years she worked assisting Dr. Nina Gunter in the NMI Office in Kansas City.
Scott and Gail Dooley, serving in Papua New Guinea
• Finance: Papua New Guinea is facing a huge national budget crisis. K50 million has been cut from Christian Health Services and they projected a 40% cut to our funding. We have been pleading with National Department of Health and Christian Health Services to make as many changes as they can to prioritize services. We still do not know the actual figures for this year but we will undoubtedly face difficult decisions and even more than usual be very reliant on church/donations. We trust the Lord will remain faithful just as He always has.
• Ministry. We have had a great spiritual focus this past year. For internal discipleship, many staff that have been here a long time truly gave their lives to Christ. Thirty staff were baptized last year. We pray that they will continue to feel a call not only to stay if this crisis changes pay, but also to really make it a ministry. We have also had an increased emphasis with follow up of patients and trying to connect them back to local churches after making a decision for the Lord in the hospital. A number of community people have given their lives to the Lord through our infrastructure projects as well, and we are visiting local Kuma men in prison after the tribal fight. All of these are spiritual victories and in each one we see ways that Satan is fighting back. Pray that we remain focused on making disciples here.
• Infrastructure. We are also waiting on a current infrastructure proposal with Incentive Fund (Australian Aid funded) for continuing our vision for the station/hospital.
Trino and Anna Jara, serving in Armenia,
• Pray for us and our future plans. We are praying to add a child to our family. We hope 2016 will be the year!
• Pray for our ministry in the country in which God and His church have entrusted us to work. There are several challenges; church legal registration, property transfers/registration; pastoral and leadership training
• Pray for our appointment with the General Board this coming February in the Netherlands
• Ask God to give two new places to start our ministry of reconciliation and restoration in 2016.
• Pray for our pastors and leaders and that they will overcome any fear to preach the Gospel among their people.
• Pray for our small church in Yerevan. We need urgently to find a larger place for our ministries.
• Pray for our regional and other global assignments—we need His guidance and wisdom to continue doing our job without neglecting our family and time of rest.
• Pray for the global child development program. We need many sponsors willing to bless thousands of needy children!
Todd and Connie Aebischer, serving on the Asia-Pacific Region, please pray for:
• Our kids, their marriages, their studies, but most of all, that God would continue to reveal Himself to each of them personally. (Jessica & Cale (baby Noor), Courtney and Landen, David and Dwayne).
• For renewed vision and passion for what God is calling us to in 2016. We desire not to just "do our job" but to do "the job" that God would have us doing. That we would be light in the midst of the world that we are living. We are currently partnering in the two church plants (that we have talked about) and weekday discipling and Bible studies. We continue to pray that God would continue giving us "one" and then giving us the time in the days to disciples the "ones."
• Language study. Even though we can manage just fine in English here in the Philippines, we are truly burdened to become fluent in Tagalog, so that we can be relevant to and engage with those who live around our home who are not comfortable speaking English.
• Wisdom in leadership. Changes in the structure of APRC and WMC are stretching me (Todd) way outside of my comfort zones. Greatly appreciate prayer that I would be sensitive to the Lord’s guidance.
Janet Miller—UPDATE
Please continue to pray for Janet Miller, 78, who has been missing since Christmas Eve. Police in Georgia continue to search but Janet has not been found. She is the aunt of East Ohio District NMI President Mark Miller. Pray for Janet’s safe return. Pray for Mark and his family as they wait for news.
HEALTH-RELATED REQUESTS
John Anderson
Retired missionary John Anderson has suffered six falls in the past three weeks, with the last fall breaking three ribs. John is going into a nursing care facility today. Pray for him, that God will heal his body. Pray for his wife, Doris, as she cares for her husband. Together, John and Doris served in India for 32 years.
Thanks for praying!
“Darkness is my point of view, my right to myself; light is God’s point of view.”[Oswald Chambers]
---------------------
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